Charms of the South-The Lower Mississippi | Nov 5-13

Nov 5 | Travel to Memphis, TN

Upon arrival at the Memphis airport, you will be met by your Universal Travel staff member and assisted with your transfer to the Peabody hotel, located in downtown Memphis. At the hotel, you will have time to visit with the AQSC’s friendly staff in the lobby area. They will assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving premium experiences. After some time to freshen up, enjoy a welcome to Memphis dinner with your fellow travelers.

Overnight: Downtown Memphis, Peabody Hotel -(D)

Nov 6 | Memphis Panoramic City Tour | Graceland & Embarkation After a leisurely breakfast begins your journey along the Mississippi River with a panoramic tour of  Memphis. The tour ends at the home of “The King” – Graceland! An interactive audio tour will guide you through the mansion before you have free time to explore the recently opened Entertainment Complex. The multitude of exhibits feature everything from Elvis’ wardrobe to his automobiles. Stop for a bite to eat at one of the Elvis-themed restaurants before continuing to Beale Street, the heart and soul of Memphis and the official home of the Blues. Enjoy some free time before transferring a short distance to the pier, where you embark on the beautiful American Queen, your luxurious floating hotel for the next 7 nights.

Overnight: American Queen -(B,D)

Nov 7 | Cleveland (Terrene Landing), MS

The Mississippi  Delta is more than a geographical region. It is a way of life – a true cultural experience based on  agriculture, music, and history.  In the heart of the Delta lies the town of Cleveland. Named for President Grover Cleveland, the town began formation in 1869. Bolivar County has deep roots in the civil rights movement. Amzie Moore, a civil rights pioneer, opened a gas station, beauty shop, and grocery store on Highway 61 in Cleveland. His business also served as headquarters for the area’s civil rights efforts. Often called the “Birthplace of the Blues,” Cleveland brims with musical history and avenues to learn about it. The blues are very much alive in this Delta community, and one of the best places to experience the heritage and culture that is the blues is just outside             Cleveland at Dockery Farms, home to world-famous Delta blues musician Charley Patton.

Overnight: American Queen -(B,L,D)

Nov 8 | Vicksburg, MS

Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. As a major battle site during the Civil War, this Southern town carries a history unlike any other. Learn about the historic conflicts of the city, taste its cuisine, visit the many museums, and pick out the perfect souvenir.

Overnight: American Queen -(B,L,D)

Nov 9 | Natchez, MS

It seems as if history fell asleep and awoke unscathed by the changing of times in this magical port. This charming river town was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi River, and the first inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers who shared the land. It’s known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of history found on every street corner. Enjoy unique shops, restaurants, museums, and historic homes, all of which inspired Hugh Bayless to include Natchez in his book “The 100 Best Towns in America.”

Overnight: American Queen -(B,L,D)

Nov 10 | St. Francisville, LA

Established in 1809, St. Francisville is the oldest town in the Florida Parishes of Louisiana. Near where St. Francisville is located currently, there was a settlement called Bayou Sara in the 1790’s. When this settlement was destroyed by flooding and fires, many of the structures and artifacts were hauled up the bluff into St. Francisville, where they stand today. The town is now a testament to the lifestyle of a bygone era, with its plethora of charming antebellum-period homes and striking architecture. With over 140 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside, and bustling Main Street shops, this quaint town, situated on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, has a style all its own.

Overnight: American Queen -(B,L,D)

Nov 11 | Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge grants a strikingly different experience from those of the small-town stops throughout your journey. In this energetic port, history-facing museums and landmarks fraternize with forward-looking art and industry to offer a personalized encounter to each visitor. Allow the flowing, carefree words of denizens to dance through your eardrums during a meander through the city streets. Choose to hop on one of the cruise lines deluxe motorcoaches and explore the diversity this city has to offer, or take a walk down the river path alongside the boat.

Overnight: American Queen -(B,L,D)

Nov 12| Nottoway, LA

American Queen Steamboat Company features an exclusive port at Nottoway. While the boat is docked, visit the sugarcane estate, the largest standing antebellum mansion in the South. Nottoway is an intricate building with impressive detail. Original furnishings mingle with era-appropriate antiques to create an atmosphere that does justice to the home’s original ambiance. It is fascinating history and luxurious aesthetic packaged in Southern hospitality, an experience that you will not want to pass up.

Overnight: American Queen -(B,L,D)

Nov 13| New Orleans | Home

Early this morning the Queen docks in New Orleans. After a leisurely breakfast and disembarkation, board your private motor coach for a panoramic city tour followed by a walking tour in the French Quarter. Of course, when on Bourbon Street, a must stop is at Pat O’Brien’s, where an included drink (Hurricane or Mint Julep)  awaits you! After some free time in the French Quarter, you will transfer to the New Orleans airport for your flight home. Fond memories of your Charms of the South Cruise will last forever –(B)