America’s Great River

Explore the culture and wildlife along the Mississippi at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. A Smithsonian-affiliated institution and one of only a handful in the nation to be accredited by both the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums, the facility showcases the cultural and natural history of the Mississippi, from its headwaters at Minnesota’s Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico. Acclaimed for its interactive displays, it has five aquariums and numerous exhibits. Upon arrival, you will receive a map, then set out to explore at your leisure. You may choose to see a working wetland and the restored dredge boat that William M. Black built in 1934 for the US Army Corps of Engineers. Or investigate the animal exhibits that include North American river otters, an American alligator and more. Afterward, you will walk back to your ship.

Discover the artistic and architectural treasures of Dubuque on an enriching tour. Your exploration of Dubuque begins with a stroll along the city's Riverwalk to view its many sculptures, followed by a trip to St. Luke’s Methodist Church for a look at its 105 Tiffany stained-glass windows. Created by Louis Comfort Tiffany in New York, these meticulously crafted windows are the fifth largest collection in the United States. From here, view the photography of Edward Curtis at the Dubuque Museum of Art, which includes a behind-the-scenes tour and a private showing of his masterpiece, "The North American Indian." Learn how Curtis lived among Native American tribes in the early 1900’s, capturing their authentic ways of life. At the conclusion of your visit to the museum, get a glimpse of Dubuque's colorful murals before returning to your ship.

Experience the charm of small town America along a quaint Midwestern mainstreet. Boasting half a mile of more than 125 independently owned shops and restaurants, Main Street is the vibrant center of Galena, a small town nestled in a rural corner of Northwestern Illinois. During your visit, you will have free time to explore its many attractions, from candy and ice cream shops to spas and wine tasting rooms. Admire the street’s original 19th-century buildings, featuring architecture as diverse as the businesses that occupy them. Nearby, you may also wish to visit other notable Galena sights, including the Old Blacksmith Shop, Belvedere Mansion and Ulysses S. Grant Home, a former residence of the 18th president of the United States.

Delve deeper into the impact of the Mississippi on America’s cultural, economic, natural and conservation history. Nestled in Dubuque’s Ice Harbor, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium honors river life and history. Your guided tour includes a visit to exclusive conservation spaces, where you will see how rare and endangered species are being preserved. Continue your tour on the deck of the 1934 William M. Black, built for the US Army Corps of Engineers, and explore portions of the engine room and crew quarters. Watch a 19th century belt-driven machine in operation and learn about the history of racing boats on the Mississippi. Other exhibits provide insight into the various Native American communities that have thrived along the river. You will also have an opportunity to explore the contributions of many European immigrants to river art, music, literature and more.

Explore the home and landscape that most completely embody Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture. Taliesin served as the architect’s private residence, studio and school from 1911 until his death in 1959. A National Historic Landmark in Spring Green, Wisconsin, the estate is among the eight Wright buildings collectively named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. It is an exemplar of the innovative architectural style that made Wright’ work so ahead of his time. You will learn about Wright’s profound influence on 20th-century architecture as you explore his personal residence and learn how he used his own home as a laboratory for experimenting with new ideas. During the tour, enjoy a locally sourced lunch in a historic Wright-designed space.

Get a glimpse into traditional Midwestern farm life at the Stonefield Historic Site in rural Wisconsin. Journey to the village of Cassville and explore the Site’s distinctive areas and buildings, which include the Wisconsin State Agricultural Museum and a 1901 progressive farmstead. Tour the home of Wisconsin’s first governor, Nelson Dewey, an 1890s-era Gothic Revival house that still has its original Ice and Smoke Houses intact. At the Stonefield Farming Village, meet with a “farm wife” to discuss how the farm worked in the 1900s, and discover how farming techniques have advanced in modern times. Enjoy free time to shop and explore the area on your own, before returning to your ship.

Tour the real-life Field of Dreams and a historic local brewery. Enjoy a scenic drive through Iowa farmland to the set of the film Field of Dreams. While there, see the Lansing family farmhouse and learn how it became part of an American film classic. Sit on the porch swing, step back in time and see movie props that are still a part of the home today. During your visit, you will also speak with a “ghost player,” a senior baseball player who entertains local audiences at the field to this day. Your next stop will be the Textile Brewing Company, originally built in 1906 as a gasoline engine factory, converted later into a sewing factory to employ local women. At the brewery, guests will hear about the history of the building and sample two of the company’s famous beers.

Gain insight into the lives of bees during a visit to the Convivium Urban Farmstead. Travel to the farmstead, nestled in Dubuque’s “food desert,” an area with limited access to affordable and nutritious food. After a warm welcome by the farm manager or co-founder, set out on a guided tour of the thriving community gardens. Brimming with fresh produce, it helps feed hundreds of those in need on a weekly basis. Sample delights such as peaches, mint and tomatoes before delving into the intriguing world of bees at the Learning Center. Discover the different roles in a hive and the process of honey production. Weather permitting, you will also visit off-site hives and witness bees in their natural habitat, learning about bee conservation and their vital role in agriculture. Cap your experience with a sweet honey treat as a memento, before returning to your ship.