Ohio River Cruise

Explore Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a city shaped by steel manufacturing and river trade during the 18th and 19th centuries. Settle into your hotel, then spend time discovering the city at your own pace. Visit historic sites and learn about prominent figures such as Andrew Carnegie and H.J. Heinz, whose businesses and contributions influenced Pittsburgh’s development.

Board the ship, settle into your cabin, and begin your Ohio River journey. As the vessel leaves Pittsburgh, watch the river curve through the landscape and the city fade from view.

Follow the Ohio River past small towns, forested hills, and quiet valleys. Spot riverfront communities, historic buildings, and local marinas along the banks while enjoying the changing scenery. Experience a relaxed pace as the route moves away from the city and into the river corridor.

As the birthplace of West Virginia, Wheeling blends rich Appalachian heritage with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, creating a destination steeped in history and small-town charm. Stroll cobblestone streets and discover the city's remarkable past on a guided walking experience featuring historic homes, notable attractions, and the iconic 1849 Wheeling Suspension Bridge, one of the nation's oldest suspension bridges. Along the way, hear captivating stories of the people and events that shaped this important Ohio River community.

For a nostalgic look at American childhood, visit the Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum. Housed in a former school building, the museum features an impressive collection of vintage toys, model trains, dolls, games, miniatures, and interactive exhibits spanning generations. Together, these experiences offer a unique perspective on Wheeling's history, architecture, and enduring traditions, making it one of the Ohio River's most memorable ports of call.

Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Take a step into your past and relive those fond memories of childhood with a visit to the Kruger Toy and Train Museum. This two-story building is home to over dozen rooms dedicated to specific collections such as transportation, trains, games from the 1920's to the present, miniatures, dolls and dollhouses (including the nation's largest interactive dollhouse), K-Land, and many more. It is also home to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Caboose C-2019.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Reflections of History - Complimentary Excursion
Journey through the rich legacy of American glassmaking in the heart of the Ohio Valley. With over 4,000 breathtaking pieces—from delicate Victorian art glass to vibrant carnival and depression glass—the collection captures over a century of craftsmanship and creativity. Stand in awe of the museum’s showpiece: the Sweeney Punch Bowl, the world’s largest piece of cut lead crystal, standing five feet tall and weighing 225 pounds. It’s a one-of-a-kind marvel you won’t forget. Whether you're a history lover, art admirer, or casual explorer, the Oglebay Institute Glass Museum offers a uniquely beautiful experience for all. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Walking Experience of Wheeling's History & Architecture - Complimentary Excursion
Explore over 250 years of Wheeling’s rich history on this leisurely 1.5-mile guided experience along the Ohio River. Highlights include the 1887 Victorian home of Dr. Robert W. Hazlett, 1846 antebellum duplex under renovation, and a walk across the iconic 1849 Wheeling Suspension Bridge. Led by a member of Friends of Wheeling, this experience offers fascinating stories of local architecture and preservation—enhanced with wireless headsets for a seamless listening experience. 
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: No

Nestled at the confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers, Marietta offers a fascinating glimpse into America’s early days. Founded in 1788 as the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, this enchanting river town preserves its pioneering spirit through its historic architecture and a wealth of notable landmarks

Guests can delve into Marietta’s remarkable past on a guided Earthworks Walking Exploration, viewing ancient Native American earthworks and learning about the mysteries, discoveries, and ongoing research surrounding these extraordinary sites. 

The journey continues with the Harmar Heritage Walking Experience, featuring the former site of Fort Harmar and the famous Henry Fearing House. Guests will uncover stories of frontier life, early military heritage, treaty negotiations, and the settlers who helped shape the Northwest Territory.   

The Castle Historic House Museum Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Explore this beautifully preserved, 1855 Gothic-Revival house which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Castle was once home to some of Marietta's most prominent citizens and the site of many prestigious functions. Hear fascinating stories about its history and learn about of one of the oldest regions in the Northwest Territory.
Activity Level: Medium | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Marietta Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Explore the captivating museums of Marietta at your leisure with the convenient shuttle, making stops at:
Campus Martius and Ohio River Museum - Explore America’s migration west, its earliest native inhabitants, and Marietta’s pioneers. Discover the golden age of the steamboat and learn more about the ecology of the Ohio River system. Outside the museum, visitors can take an escorted exploration of the WP SNYDER JR – the last intact, steam-powered “pool-type” stern-wheeled towboat in the United States.  
Children’s Toy & Doll Museum - Get a glimpse into what entertained and educated children in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explore nine rooms, displaying antique and vintage doll collections, including Kewpie dolls, Barbie dolls and GI Joe model dolls, miniature houses, as well as larger models of fairy tale homes such as the Ole’ Woman in the Shoe model and a Hansel and Gretel Gingerbread Doll House. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

As you cruise along the grand Ohio River, experience the serene beauty of America's heartland. Witness the gentle sweep of greenery along the banks, interspersed with quaint towns that can be seen from the top deck. With a full day dedicated to scenic cruising, guests can embrace the laid-back pace of river travel while enjoying the ship’s amenities, savoring regional cuisine, and taking part in engaging entertainment and educational programming. Participate in a variety of onboard activities designed to enrich your journey, from historical presentations to lively discussions that bring the river’s stories to life.

On this second day of cruising, let the river carry you through ever-changing landscapes, creating a peaceful and immersive backdrop to your exploration. 
From the sun deck or the comfort of your private balcony, keep watch for great blue herons, bald eagles, ospreys, turtles basking along the shoreline, and white-tailed deer grazing at the water's edge. The Ohio River's diverse ecosystems provide a haven for native wildlife, adding another layer of natural splendor to your journey.

The dramatic bridges spanning the Ohio River provide a striking welcome to Cincinnati, a vibrant city with a storied past as an early shipbuilding and shipping metropolis. Known as the “Queen City,” Cincinnati blends old-world allure, cultural attractions, and a proud sporting legacy. 

Experience the excitement of America’s favorite pastime with a private behind-the-scenes look at the Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds. Explore the clubs, seating bowl, dugouts, and more before visiting the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum to celebrate the legends of the game. Delve into the history of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, where powerful exhibits illustrate the stories of courage, resilience, and determination that helped enslaved individuals seek freedom.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center - Complimentary Excursion
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center celebrates the brave men and women who came together to create a secret network through which the enslaved could escape to freedom. Their examples of courage, cooperation, and perseverance, is relevant to this day, as you continue to deal with contemporary issues of equality and diversity. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Cincinnati City Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Explore both sides of the river on this fantastic, all-encompassing excursion. Begin in the heart of the city at Fountain Square. Along your journey, view the Contemporary Arts Center, Procter and Gamble’s International Headquarters, and the Taft Museum in beautiful Lytle Park. Learn about Cincinnati’s most well-known landmarks including Union Terminal, Music Hall, Washington Park, Smale Riverfront Park, Bicentennial Commons, the new TQL Stadium, and the Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ball Park – home of the Bengals and Reds.

Enjoy the old-world charm of Mount Adams with its “shot-gun” row homes and charming district of shops and restaurants. View picturesque Eden Park, home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, and Krohn Conservatory. 

Cross the Ohio River to Kentucky’s historic Riverside Drive with its antebellum homes. Explore the entertainment district at Newport on the Levee and the World Peace Bell – the largest free-swinging bell in the world.  While in Kentucky, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Cincinnati skyline. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Cincinnati Art Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Explore the Cincinnati Art Museum, located in scenic Eden Park. Featured is a diverse, comprehensive art collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years. In addition to displaying its own encyclopedic collection, the museum also hosts a variety national and international traveling exhibitions each year.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

A quaint town located on the banks of the Ohio River, Madison is one of the oldest and most charming cities in the state, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features over 130 preserved buildings that showcase a mix of Greek Revival, Victorian, and Federal styles.

Experience Madison aboard a vintage-style trolley, enjoying fascinating stories, local landmarks, and a special visit to one of the town’s treasured churches. Later, uncover Lanier, the “Crown Jewel” of Madison’s Historic District. Explore this 1844 Greek Revival mansion, learn about James F.D. Lanier’s legacy, and be treated to refreshing lemonade on the home’s grand porch or expansive lawn.

In the afternoon, step aboard a jet boat for an adventure on the Ohio River. As you cruise this picturesque waterway, the captain and crew will share local insights and help you spot wildlife along the way.

Madison Local Loop – Complimentary Excursion
Take the opportunity to explore history, shopping, and the culture of USA Today's Best Small Town in the Midwest. Don't miss the opportunity to walk on Main Street to find unexpected historical buildings, galleries, and boutiques. With more than 133 blocks of outstanding architecture, Madison’s downtown business district is one of the country’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts. Madison’s founders brought with them their own history, which is displayed in the architecture of the homes and buildings that make up this historic gem. Travel America says, “Madison is an outdoor museum of architecture.”
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Louisville, a vibrant waterfront city nestled along the Ohio River, has played an important role in America’s history. For generations, the river shaped Louisville’s destiny, as boats were forced to stop where the Ohio’s rocky rapids interrupted their journey.

Step into the world of horseracing at the legendary Churchill Downs, home to the Kentucky Derby, the oldest continuously held horse race in the nation. For a slice of Americana, visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where the iconic baseball bats are crafted.

No visit to Louisville would be complete without experiencing its famed bourbon heritage. Explore a local distillery as the aroma of aging spirits fills the air. Sip the refined flavors of Kentucky bourbons, each taste telling a story of craftsmanship and Bluegrass country.

Kentucky Derby Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the world-famous Churchill Downs Racetrack. Walk through a portion of the grandstands where thousands of people roar with excitement on Derby Day. Your guide lead you to the rail of the legendary dirt track where every Derby winner has raced, from Aristides to Secretariat and more. Have your camera ready for pictures of the historic track. Hear stories of the early days of the Kentucky Derby through its transformation into the event it is today. Enjoy a viewing of the epic film, The Greatest Race, a 360-degree, 18-minute media experience that make your heart race and your emotions soar. Be treated to Mint Juleps and Derby Pie Bites as you listen to a special presentation by an actual Kentucky Derby Jockey who can answer any questions you may have about this iconic event.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Enjoy breakfast on board the ship as you prepare for your travels home. Reflect on the memorable experiences and new friendships made along the way. From the rich culture of Louisiana and Mississippi to the musical heritage of Tennessee and the storied landscapes of Kentucky, you have experienced what defines one of America’s great river regions.