Step aboard this 19th century riverboat, which is solely propelled by its enormous paddlewheel, and enjoy some leisure time as you cruise the Mississippi River at a lazy 7 mph. In addition to wildlife viewing along the shorelines, you'll also be treated to professional storytelling, gourmet meals and live piano and banjo music. Select lodges, such as historic Starved Rock Lodge in Utica, Illinois serve as the overnight accommodations.
The Spirit of Peoria
100 Water Street
Peoria, Illinois 61602
309-637-8000
spiritofpeoria.com
Lounge on one of this riverboat's three decks while learning about the history of the Mississippi River and its inhabitants, or cool off in one of its air-conditioned dining saloons. Live performances by a variety of artists give guests a musical description of the history and lifestyle of the Midwest. A tour of the National Mississippi River Museum is included, and overnight rooming is reserved at the Grand Harbor Hotel in Port of Dubuque, Iowa.
Riverboat Twilight
River Cruises
406 Franklin Street
Scales Mound, IL 61075
815-845-2333
riverboattwilight.com
Journey through the heart of America and experience its old-world charm and history while enjoying all the modern-day conveniences aboard this luxurious cruise ship. The Niagara Prince is home for this 14-day excursion from Chicago to New Orleans, which offers meals, live entertainment and guest speakers. Shore stops include Alton, Illinois and a trip to its specialty shops on "Antique Row," and a tour of Bellingrath Gardens and its Spanish moss-hung oaks in Mobile, Alabama.
USA River Cruises/Southern & Midwest Cruises
3407 N.E. 97th Street
Vancouver, WA 98665
360-546-5151
usarivercruises.com
