America’s Great River

Get acquainted with Red Wing and learn about America’s national symbol at the National Eagle Center. Red Wing is set among scenic bluffs and a majestic harbor, which you will see en route to the eagle interpretive center in Wabasha. Your guide will point out the many sites you may wish to visit on your own during your free time. There are 26 museums and many eye-catching, historic and architectural gems. The waterfront features three parks: Colvill, Bay Point and Levee Parks. And the downtown area abounds in art and craft galleries, cafés and shops. Arriving at the National Eagle Center, you will see majestic American bald eagles and golden eagles up close, and learn about the ecology, biology and natural history of these magnificent raptors.

Learn about the city’s famed stoneware industry at the Pottery Museum and enjoy a hands-on lesson. Red Wing’s stoneware and pottery industry began in 1861, when a local potter named John Paul, a German immigrant, discovered some large, glacially deposited clay pit beds northwest of the city. From this emerged several production companies including Red Wing Pottery and Red Wing Stoneware, some of whose historic pieces are on display at the Pottery Museum of Red Wing. During your visit, a local artist will offer a presentation explaining the history and techniques for making salt-glazed products, a kiln tour, demonstrations and a hands-on lesson.

See how cider is produced and learn about Midwestern agriculture at a small artisanal orchard. Upon your visit to Maiden Rock Winery & Cidery, enjoy a welcome presentation that explores the history of apple production, followed by a cider tasting with cheese and crackers. As your tour continues to the orchard, you will learn about the process of growing and grafting apples specific to the Lake Pepin area, one of North America’s ideal microclimates for the cultivation of apples. Get a glimpse into the techniques that are used to make Maiden Rock’s fresh-pressed cider, which has won awards in the state for several years. You will also have the opportunity to roam the orchard on your own or browse the gift shop before returning to your ship.

Explore the history of Red Wing at the Pottery Museum and the Goodhue County History Center. At the Pottery Museum of Red Wing, view exhibits featuring both common and rare stoneware, art pottery and dinnerware from local pottery factories, displayed in a timeline that shows how the art and use of pottery has changed over time. You will also have access to the museum’s treasure trove of historical photographs, depicting the history of local pottery companies and illustrating how the ware was manufactured. From here, journey to the Goodhue County History Center, which features over a dozen exhibit spaces, a full-service research library and gift shop. Home to the Goodhue County Historical Society, the center serves as the steward for county history by collecting, preserving, and promoting the area’s natural and cultural history through education and outreach.

Visit a Scandinavian-inspired community known for its vibrant artisan culture and culinary traditions. Drive by motorcoach through rolling farmland, wooded bluffs and sweeping river vistas to Lavender Bluff Farm. Take a stroll past fragrant lavender fields, learn about the farm’s sustainable practices and enjoy a refreshing beverage. After time to browse the farm store, continue to the Stockholm Pie & General Store where you will sample a selection of seasonal pies from its award-winning bakery. Walk through the village, calling at local galleries and specialty stores, and meet with shop owners who will explain the range of Nordic textiles and artwork, gourmet foods and handcrafted home décor on offer. After time to explore more on your own, return to your awaiting ship.