Pittsburgh has a long history of steel manufacturing and was a key trading hub on the Ohio River, helping it grow into a wealthy city in the 18th and 19th centuries. After checking into your hotel, take some time to explore the city at your own pace. Discover the stories of well-known figures like Heinz and Carnegie, who once called this lively city home.

The ship docks near the well-known spot where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet to form the Ohio River. As you cruise, enjoy the beautiful and constantly changing scenery, just as early explorers did centuries ago.

Cruise along this scenic riverside route on a journey filled with sweeping views of the Ohio River and charming small towns along the way. As you wind through lush forests, gently rolling hills, and quiet valleys, delight in a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. Pass through vibrant riverfront communities and admire glimpses of historic buildings and local marinas, each telling its own unique story. Approaching Marietta, the city’s rich heritage as one of the oldest settlements in the Northwest Territory comes into view, with its well-preserved architecture and welcoming small-town atmosphere.

This picturesque, charming town rests at the confluence of the Muskingum River and the Ohio River and has five National Register Historic Districts with buildings that date back to the town’s founding in 1788. Explore the first settlement in the Northwest Territory on the north side of the Ohio River. Hear stories of the compelling events that unfolded here which were spotlighted in the recent book entitled, The Pioneers by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough. 

The Castle Historic House Museum Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Explore this beautifully preserved, 1855 Gothic-Revival house which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Castle was once home to some of Marietta's most prominent citizens and the site of many prestigious functions. Hear fascinating stories about its history and learn about of one of the oldest regions in the Northwest Territory.
Activity Level: Medium | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Marietta Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Explore the captivating museums of Marietta at your leisure with the convenient shuttle, making stops at:
Campus Martius and Ohio River Museum - Explore America’s migration west, its earliest native inhabitants, and Marietta’s pioneers. Discover the golden age of the steamboat and learn more about the ecology of the Ohio River system. Outside the museum, visitors can take an escorted exploration of the WP SNYDER JR – the last intact, steam-powered “pool-type” stern-wheeled towboat in the United States.  
Children’s Toy & Doll Museum - Get a glimpse into what entertained and educated children in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explore nine rooms, displaying antique and vintage doll collections, including Kewpie dolls, Barbie dolls and GI Joe model dolls, miniature houses, as well as larger models of fairy tale homes such as the Ole’ Woman in the Shoe model and a Hansel and Gretel Gingerbread Doll House. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

From the ship’s landing, gaze upon the quaint town of Maysville, nestled into the hillside. After floating down the Mississippi River to sell their commodities in New Orleans, early flatboat travelers returned along the Natchez Trace Pathway to rejoin the Ohio River in this idyllic town, steeped in American history.

Learn the importance of this location to the Underground Railroad efforts to smuggle runaway slaves across the river, as well as the influence that Harriet Beecher Stowe’s visit to Maysville had on her novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Hear stories of area explorers, such as Simon Kenton, and hometown singer and movie star Rosemary Clooney.

Old Washington Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Step back in time while you tour the historic town of Old Washington. Starting at the 1790s Visitor Center, your costumed guide lead you through this historic Kentucky village, taking you along flagstone sidewalks graced with authentic frontier log cabins and early 19th-century homes. 
Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Discover Maysville - Complimentary Excursion
Discover small-town charm during a narrated exploration of historic Maysville. Begin at the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center, which brings the stories of explorers, artists, and movie stars to life through award-winning dioramas and a collection of artifacts. 

Visit The Russell Theater, opened in 1930 by Colonel J. Barbour Russell, a flamboyant, well-known Maysville businessman who made his early fortune in the grocery business. The structure is constructed entirely of steel, concrete, brick, and terra cotta in Spanish Colonial style with a Moorish influence. This Theatre is atmospheric, and one of only two in Kentucky. “What the Roxy is to New York,” Russell boasted, “The Russell will be to Maysville.” 

In 1953, Rosemary Clooney, a Maysville native, premiered her movie, The Stars Are Singing.  Today, the lobby is dedicated to memorabilia of that night and other items of interest to Clooney fans. After nearly being torn down, The Russell Theater was saved by volunteers who donated countless hours restoring and preserving this heart of Maysville, which is listed individually on the National Register of Historic Places.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

The dramatic bridges that span the Ohio River provide an impressive scenic welcome to your visit to Cincinnati. As an early shipbuilding and shipping metropolis, the town became known as the “Queen City.”  Your adventures ashore reveal the highlights of this vibrant cultural center which include major sports franchises, a delightful zoo, and a botanical garden, as well as numerous theaters and museums, including the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum.

Admire the eclectic architecture as you stroll along its charming streets and enjoy the diverse attractions, ranging from the abundant gardens of the Krohn Conservatory to the architectural wonders of St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica. Get a taste of local cuisine by trying Cincinnati Skyline Chili or stopping for a scoop at Graeter’s ice cream shop, founded in 1868.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center - Complimentary Excursion
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center celebrates the brave men and women who came together to create a secret network through which the enslaved could escape to freedom. Their examples of courage, cooperation, and perseverance, is relevant to this day, as you continue to deal with contemporary issues of equality and diversity. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Cincinnati City Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Explore both sides of the river on this fantastic, all-encompassing excursion. Begin in the heart of the city at Fountain Square. Along your journey, view the Contemporary Arts Center, Procter and Gamble’s International Headquarters, and the Taft Museum in beautiful Lytle Park. Learn about Cincinnati’s most well-known landmarks including Union Terminal, Music Hall, Washington Park, Smale Riverfront Park, Bicentennial Commons, the new TQL Stadium, and the Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ball Park – home of the Bengals and Reds.

Enjoy the old-world charm of Mount Adams with its “shot-gun” row homes and charming district of shops and restaurants. View picturesque Eden Park, home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, and Krohn Conservatory. 

Cross the Ohio River to Kentucky’s historic Riverside Drive with its antebellum homes. Explore the entertainment district at Newport on the Levee and the World Peace Bell – the largest free-swinging bell in the world.  While in Kentucky, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Cincinnati skyline. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

A quaint town located on the banks of the Ohio River, Madison is one of the oldest and most charming cities in the state, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features over 130 preserved buildings that showcase a mix of Greek Revival, Victorian, and Federal styles.

With several local sites linked to the abolitionist movement, Madison’s rich history includes a significant role in the Underground Railroad. The town also celebrates its heritage during the Madison Regatta, one of the oldest hydroplane races in the U.S.

Considered an outdoor museum of architecture, stroll through the vibrant downtown which abounds with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Take time to admire the town’s natural beauty, with scenic views of the river and surrounding hills serving as a picturesque backdrop. 

An impressive waterfront town arching up the hillside, Louisville has a long history of commerce and revelry. The town grew at a portage around the treacherous Falls of the Ohio, now inundated behind the Ohio River’s Markland Dam. The historic importance of river commerce to the town is represented by the “Belle of Louisville” day excursion boat just down the banks, still operating after more than a century. Explore the impressive Churchill Downs to learn about the city’s renowned Kentucky Derby, the oldest continuously held horse race in the country.

Or stop by the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory to see how the famous baseball bats are made. A visit to the local distillery lift your spirits as you savor samples and learn about the history of Kentucky bourbons.

Kentucky Derby Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the world-famous Churchill Downs Racetrack. Walk through a portion of the grandstands where thousands of people roar with excitement on Derby Day. Your guide lead you to the rail of the legendary dirt track where every Derby winner has raced, from Aristides to Secretariat and more. Have your camera ready for pictures of the historic track. Hear stories of the early days of the Kentucky Derby through its transformation into the event it is today. Enjoy a viewing of the epic film, The Greatest Race, a 360-degree, 18-minute media experience that make your heart race and your emotions soar. Be treated to Mint Juleps and Derby Pie Bites as you listen to a special presentation by an actual Kentucky Derby Jockey who can answer any questions you may have about this iconic event.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Enjoy breakfast onboard the ship as you prepare for your journey home. Reflect upon the memorable experiences and the new friendships forged during your time with us.

Thank you for cruising, hoping your voyage was filled with delightful moments that you carry with you. Safe travels home, and look forward to welcoming you aboard again soon.