American Eagle offers the best qualities of expedition adventure cruising with the refinement, luxury, stability, and land proximity of river cruising. The design of the ship allows rare access into small ports and the ability to travel on almost any river or waterway in the U.S. With land never out of sight, American Eagle is a practical alternative to ocean expeditions, allowing for more time to explore each port in depth. American Eagle evokes a sense of pride and appreciation for U.S. history. The choice of color palettes, furnishings, and artwork will reflect the culture of New England, Chesapeake Bay, and the Southeast.
Day 1 Albany, NY
Located about 140 miles from New York City, on the west bank of the Hudson River, lies Albany, the capital of New York state. This historic city was inhabited by Dutch settlers as early as the 17th century. It is this rich past that makes Albany an excellent destination for those interested in the early history of the United States. Travelers may enjoy a visit to one of the city's many museums such as the Albany Institute of History and Art or the USS Slater exhibit. Plan your trip during the early part of May to experience the Tulip Festival, held annually to celebrate the city's Dutch heritage.
Day 2 Hudson River
Day 3 Catskill
Catskill is a town in the southeastern part of Greene County, New York, USA. The Catskills are made up of four counties: Delaware, Greene, Sullivan and Ulster and each county has its own unique charm and character attracting many visitors to its mountain village and rural communities. Catskill Mountain is a 600,000 acre park where public and private lands have been settled since 1678 by the natives. Visitors have an array of outdoor activities to choose from amidst the mountains, meadows, forests, lakes, and rivers.
Day 4 West Point
Looking out on the Hudson River and set into the beauty of the Hudson Highlands, West Point's scenery and architecture alone make it an interesting visit. Founded in 1802, West Point serves as an educational center for America's military. Such leaders as Washington, Jefferson, Grant, Lee, Eisenhower, among others, are all part of West Point's history. Visit the West Point Museum to see their collection of antique weaponry and other objects, some that predate West Point itself. You can also visit Fort Putnam, a restoration of a fort integral in the War of Independence. Other points of interest include the Old Cadet Chapel (1837) and the West Point Cemetery.
Day 5 New York City
New York City is a captivating, awesome, and glamorous empire. There are countless museums, theaters, restaurants, parks and towering skyscrapers. It is a shopping capital of the world. In midtown Manhattan are most of the designer boutiques; Fifth and Madison Avenues are locations of such world-renowned department stores as Bergdorf Goodman, Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue. FAO Schwartz is one of the largest toy stores in the world. New York is also a world-class culinary experience - with pockets of ethnic restaurants: Chinatown, Little Italy, Little India and Little Brazil. The famous Statue of Liberty sculpture symbolizing the American Dream can be reached by ferry from Battery Park. Once the first stop for over 12 million immigrants, Ellis Island now houses the Museum of Immigration, including the American Immigrant Wall of Honor. The Art Deco Empire State Building is one of the world's best-loved skyscrapers with two observation decks. Also take time to visit the Chrysler Building, Radio City Music Hall, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Day 6 Sleepy Hollow
The picturesque landmark of Sleepy Hollow in Mount Pleasant on the Hudson River is immortalized in author Washington Irving's stories, particularly "The Headless Horseman," who is rumored to be buried in the village's Old Dutch Church burying grounds.
River cruisers also appreciate a visit to Sunnyside (Irving's home) and Phillipsburg Manor (with its re-creation of 17th- and 18th-century life).
Don't miss Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate, which is open for tours. It has gardens, beautiful interiors, an impressive collection of modern art and vistas of the Hudson River Valley.
Day 7 Kingston
Kingston features rich history and architecture, and a thriving arts community. Visitors will find many fine dining options, and unique shops to enjoy. The city is home to a number of festivities including the Kingston Jazz Festival and the Artists Soapbox Derby. On an entertaining note, the uptown historic district celebrates and re-creates the burning of the town by the British every other year.
Day 7 Hyde Park, NY
Day 8 Hudson River
Day 9 Albany, NY
Located about 140 miles from New York City, on the west bank of the Hudson River, lies Albany, the capital of New York state. This historic city was inhabited by Dutch settlers as early as the 17th century. It is this rich past that makes Albany an excellent destination for those interested in the early history of the United States. Travelers may enjoy a visit to one of the city's many museums such as the Albany Institute of History and Art or the USS Slater exhibit. Plan your trip during the early part of May to experience the Tulip Festival, held annually to celebrate the city's Dutch heritage.