See the iconic Mississippi River on the largest paddlewheeler in the world

Picture hopping aboard one of the largest steamboats in the world and travelling back in time to the golden age of cruising for a holiday dripping with opulence and history as you float down the Mississippi River. 

With vibrant towns such as Memphis and Vicksburg dotted along the mighty Mississippi River, step into a Mark Twain story where the sights, sounds and smells promise to take you on an adventure. 

The rich history and charms of the Bayou will hold you captive as you float towards New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, where your tastebuds will be delighted by the Creole cuisine as you stroll through the historical French Quarter, filled with elaborately designed balconies and quaint shops. 

Adorned with ornate Victorian-style decor and featuring multiple decks providing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, the American Queen offers a truly unique and nostalgic experience. No detail has been spared, with the Queen of the River filled with fascinating facts that make her even more special.

10 things that make the American Queen unique

Beyond the elegant combination of bygone era meeting modern amenities and comforts, this river beauty is riddled with lesser-known amazing bonuses that enhance your travel experience.  

1. American Queen Voyages is the only cruise line to offer a Riverlorian enrichment program, providing standout information, stories and discussions on the places along the Mississippi River travelled.
2. The paddlewheel is authentically built.
3. The cuisine onboard is from local vendors, bought locally and partnered with local businesses.
4. The Grand Saloon was modelled after Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC.
5. There are authentic Tiffany Lamps on the vessel in the Mark Twain Gallery and in some guest staterooms/suites.
6. At one point, the American Queen was an official post office with the necessary cancellation stamp.
7. The large marble-top table in the Captain’s Bar is valued at $80,000 (USD) and is the most expensive artifact onboard.
8. The calliope onboard was hand built for the American Queen by Dave Morecraft of Peru, Indiana. Morecraft is the only builder of steam calliopes left in America today.
9. We offer non-denominational church services in the Grand Saloon.
10. Priscilla Presley is the godmother of the American Queen.

A unique way to explore the Great South

As the Mississippi River carries you from town to town, the uniqueness of the American Queen steamboat’s captivating allure matches the uniqueness of every town you pass through.

Onboard, the paddlwheeler allows you to immerse yourself in each destination through delicious onboard culinary offerings. 

“Our new culinary programming focuses on food ‘of the place’, where guests can expect delicious culinary options that connect them to the region, made with high-quality and locally sourced ingredients,” American Queen Voyages representative, Claudette Grant, said.

Although a cruise down the might Mississippi River is the perfect holiday for history bluffs no matter what time of the year, Grant reveals that one of the best timse to cruise on the American Queen is in the winter when the weather has cooled down, and the river towns we visit transform into a winter wonderland. 

“Each town is adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations, making it a truly magical time to sail. 

One great way to enhance your cruise experience is by combining it with the Christmas season. During these cruises, we lean into the holiday experience with delicious gingerbread cookies, hot cocoa, Christmas carols, and holiday decorations,” she said. 

This Mississippi River experience aboard the American Queen is only made better with award-winning, Broadway-caliber entertainment offered every night in the Grand Saloon (resembling a 19th-century style opera house), including cabaret shows. 

Curious to learn more?

Immerse yourself in the charms of a bygone era and experience the wonders of the incredible Mississippi River and the Great South yourself.

Call the team at Travel at 60, the over-60 travel experts (for the cost of a local call anywhere within Australia) on 1300 414 198, or visit the website to secure your spot on the world’s largest paddlewheeler.