The nation's space exploration and research program had its start in Huntsville, when Dr. Wernher von Braun and a team of German scientists began working at the Redstone Arsenal at the close of World War II. Today, visitors can learn about their work at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
When you've had enough of space technology, travel back to the 19th century with a visit to the Historic Huntsville Depot. The 1860s train station served as a prison during the Civil War. (Graffiti left by POWs is still visible.) Trolley tours of downtown Huntsville, which was the first English settlement in Alabama, begin at the depot. Don't miss Alabama Constitution Village, a historical re-creation of life and work at the meeting place of Alabama's first Constitutional Convention in 1819.
If it's at all possible, make the drive to the northeast corner of the state to see Russell Cave National Monument (near Bridgeport, 60 mi/100 km northeast), an archaeologically important—and fascinating—cave. It was occupied for 10,000 years (8000 BC to AD 1650), mainly as a shelter in the winter (phone 256-495-9220; http://www.nps.gov/ruca). You can also see a frozen waterfall at Cathedral Caverns in Grant, 30 mi/50 km southeast of Huntsville (phone 256-728-8193). Bird-watchers flock to Lake Guntersville State Park (near Guntersville, 30 mi/48 km southeast), where bald eagles have been known to winter. Huntsville is 80 mi/130 km north of Birmingham.
From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, the modern American Heritage features a serene color palette, luxurious textiles and linens, comfortable furniture, and sophisticated artwork and flourishes, celebrating the Mighty Mississippi River. Experience the breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom balcony.
Oct 24, 2029 - Huntsville, AL
The nation's space exploration and research program had its start in Huntsville, when Dr. Wernher von Braun and a team of German scientists began working at the Redstone Arsenal at the close of World War II. Today, visitors can learn about their work at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
When you've had enough of space technology, travel back to the 19th century with a visit to the Historic Huntsville Depot. The 1860s train station served as a prison during the Civil War. (Graffiti left by POWs is still visible.) Trolley tours of downtown Huntsville, which was the first English settlement in Alabama, begin at the depot. Don't miss Alabama Constitution Village, a historical re-creation of life and work at the meeting place of Alabama's first Constitutional Convention in 1819.
If it's at all possible, make the drive to the northeast corner of the state to see Russell Cave National Monument (near Bridgeport, 60 mi/100 km northeast), an archaeologically important—and fascinating—cave. It was occupied for 10,000 years (8000 BC to AD 1650), mainly as a shelter in the winter (phone 256-495-9220; http://www.nps.gov/ruca). You can also see a frozen waterfall at Cathedral Caverns in Grant, 30 mi/50 km southeast of Huntsville (phone 256-728-8193). Bird-watchers flock to Lake Guntersville State Park (near Guntersville, 30 mi/48 km southeast), where bald eagles have been known to winter. Huntsville is 80 mi/130 km north of Birmingham.
Oct 25, 2029 - Mississippi River Cruising
The Mississippi River is the third longest river system in the world - stretching approximately 2,350 miles from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico. To enable travel upstream from St. Louis, 29 locks and dams have been built between there and Minneapolis. The Mississippi River is the reason the Twin Cities St. Paul and Minneapolis exist. Used by Native Americans for trade, food, and water long before Europeans visited the “New World,” the Mississippi River and its watershed is a major contributor to the ecology, culture, politics and economy North America. Congress established Mississippi National River and Recreation Area in 1988. The park’s boundaries enclose about 54,000 acres and 72 miles of river - a significant and representative stretch of the Mississippi. They contain the only gorge and waterfall on the main course of the entire 2,350 miles of river. From visitor centers to trails, from industrial centers to Mississippi River backwaters, this park has a bit of something for everyone.
Oct 26, 2029 - Florence, AL
Deeply enriched with history, blues, culture, and natural beauty, Florence is filled with character alongside the Tennesse River. Here, where you can walk along part of the Trail of Tears, is where you will find the Rosenbaum House--the Alabama structure designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Experience the "Muscle Shoals Sound" resonating in the air of the birthplace of W.C. Handy, known as the "Father of the Blues." A festive town, you can join in on the celebration during one of the many festivals held in Florence, including the Alabama Renassaince Faire, the Trail of Tears Celebration, Frontier Days Celebration, and the Arts Alive Celebration. Guests can scour the wilderness by fishing in the many rivers and lakes of the area, taking in the scenery of the many parks and trails, or golfing at one of the public or private on a warm afternoon.
Oct 27, 2029 - Savannah, TN
Oct 28, 2029 - River Cruising
Relax and enjoy your day as you cruise along the river and take in the magnificent scenery.
Oct 29, 2029 - Paducah
Paducah is a thriving, artistic city on the banks of the Ohio River. The city supports its artisans through incentive programs, offering the opportunity to create a truly unique community. Along the riverfront, the Market District hosts many opportunities for dining, shopping and museum going. You can also see giant murals along 2nd Street, painted by Robert Dafford. In the Lowertown Art District, visit a plethora of art galleries, independent coffee houses and unique "fusion" dining. For a look at the region's crafts, visit the William Clark Market House Mueum or the annual Quilt Show, which occurrs every April. Every May, Lowertown hosts a fine art and music festival, highlighting local artists and musicians in a lively, all day event.
Oct 30, 2029 - River Cruising
Relax and enjoy your day as you cruise along the river and take in the magnificent scenery.
Oct 31, 2029 - Memphis
Memphis is known as the home of Elvis Presley and as birth place of the blues. Don't forget to travel down Beale Street and listen to some of the worlds best blues bands. Hike, bike, golf, go for a balloon ride and take tours through the history of Elvis Presley's life. Don't forget some great sites in Memphis such as: Alex Haley's Home, Beale Street, and the W.C. Handy Home. Take a trip to the Memphis Zoo or jump on exiting amusement park rides at Libertyland Amusement Park.
Nov 01, 2029 - River Cruising
Relax and enjoy your day as you cruise along the river and take in the magnificent scenery.
Nov 02, 2029 - Vicksburg
Vicksburg is situated on the banks of the Mississippi and it is filled to the brim with museums, casinos, small art galleries, festivals, shopping and more. As the site of 'The Siege of Vicksburg' during the Civil War, the city is abound with history and monuments. At the old Trinity church, you view six stunning Tiffany stained glass windows. On the way to the waterfront downtown, you will find the Riverfront Murals - 32 images telling the story of Vicksburg's history by artist Robert Dafford, windows to the city's growth. For a little pampering, indulge in one of the four luxurious spas throughout the city. There is always something to do in Vicksburg, for every age and every interest.
Nov 03, 2029 - Natchez
Natchez, perched 200 feet above the Mississippi River on the highest promontory north of the Gulf of Mexico, is the oldest civilized settlement on the river. The city boomed in the first half of the 19th century with the exportation of cotton by steamboat - cotton grown on plantations in Mississippi and across the river in the rich Louisiana lowlands. Enormous fortunes were made from the area's natural resources: the land and river. Cotton was king, money was plentiful and men spent it - particularly on dazzling mansions filled with the finest furnishings money could buy. Today with its tourism, industry and enormous wealth of natural resources - hospitality - Natchez is one of the most desirable small cities in the United States. Residents are proud to have the city included in Hugh Bayless' book, "The 100 Best Towns in America."
Nov 04, 2029 - St. Francisville
This quaint town allows you to discover history at your own pace.
Nov 05, 2029 - Baton Rouge
The state flower, the Magnolia, is found abundantly in Baton Rouge and all areas of the state. In addition to the wonderful aroma that wafts ever so subtly into the night air, there are many restaurants in the Greater Baton Rouge area with the hearty aromas and taste of South Louisiana cooking. The Gothic Revival castle, built in 1849 was reported to be the "ugliest" building on the Mississippi river by none other than Mark Twain. Restored in 1882 it was placed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks in 1976. A more recent restoration of the building was completed in early 1995 and the building is open again to the public.
Nov 06, 2029 - Oak Alley / Houmas House
Nov 07, 2029 - New Orleans
New Orleans is a happy, high-spirited city with the pulsing beat of Dixieland jazz. It delights visitors with its riverboats, Creole cuisine, quaint antique shops and narrow streets of the French Quarter. While here, be sure to take a ride on one of the picturesque trolley cars. Eccentric, elegant New Orleans is strongly connected to both the Mississippi River and the South, but its identity remains aloof from any regional or even national affiliation. It reminds some visitors of European cities, in part because French and Spanish colonial architecture adds an Old World backdrop to some streets. But the feeling of foreignness goes deeper: The celebrated New Orleans atmosphere, cuisine, music, traditions and lifestyle are rooted in an embrace of the decadent and assimilation of the unconventional. New Orleans welcomes all, but is familiar to none, and the result is a city which attracts the romantic, the spiritual, the wild and the inquisitive—all while successfully promoting itself as corporate America’s playground. No matter what is expected from a visit to New Orleans, no one goes home disappointed.
Nov 08, 2029 - New Orleans
New Orleans is a happy, high-spirited city with the pulsing beat of Dixieland jazz. It delights visitors with its riverboats, Creole cuisine, quaint antique shops and narrow streets of the French Quarter. While here, be sure to take a ride on one of the picturesque trolley cars. Eccentric, elegant New Orleans is strongly connected to both the Mississippi River and the South, but its identity remains aloof from any regional or even national affiliation. It reminds some visitors of European cities, in part because French and Spanish colonial architecture adds an Old World backdrop to some streets. But the feeling of foreignness goes deeper: The celebrated New Orleans atmosphere, cuisine, music, traditions and lifestyle are rooted in an embrace of the decadent and assimilation of the unconventional. New Orleans welcomes all, but is familiar to none, and the result is a city which attracts the romantic, the spiritual, the wild and the inquisitive—all while successfully promoting itself as corporate America’s playground. No matter what is expected from a visit to New Orleans, no one goes home disappointed.