riverboat cruise louisville ky

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Belle of Louisville Riverboats

401 W. River Rd. Louisville, KY 40202

Phone: (502) 574-2992 Fax: (502) 574-3030

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Bourbon on the River 401 W. River Rd. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Bourbon on the River

Celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month from the Bourbon City’s very own historic steamboat, the Belle of Louisville. This bourbon-infused event features...

Harbor History 401 W. River Rd. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Harbor History

On this longer narrated journey, you’ll learn more about our beautiful city, its history and connection to the river, factors that determined Louisville’s...

Riverboat Gamblers, Rogues and Ne'er-Do-Wells 401 W. River Rd. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Riverboat Gamblers, Rogues and Ne'er-Do-Wells

Party aboard the historic Belle of Louisville like it's 1899! Celebrate our 110th birthday with us while we experience the magic of the steamboat era. Take a...

301 South 4th Street Louisville, Kentucky 40202

1.888.LOUISVILLE (1.888.568.4784)

The Belle of Louisville is a national historical landmark and an icon of our waterfront. Whether you’re boarding the steamboat for your first or tenth river cruise, it’s always a memorable experience.

To board the Belle of Louisville is to do more than see the city and the Ohio River from a unique perspective. You are embarking on a piece of American history. Steamboat travel and transportation revolutionized our river, our city, and our nation. The geography of the area played a central role in Louisville’s founding and why it became the Bourbon Capital of the World.

At over 100 years old, the steamboat is steam-powered and paddlewell-propelled. No matter what you’re boarding for — sightseeing, a four-course dinner, live music, or a unique event — you are in for a special treat. Also, check out the Belle’s sister, the Mary M. Miller, the newest riverboat addition to our waterfront.

Book a Trip

For more details on how to book your next trip or to view the calendar of family-friendly programming and unique river cruises, visit the Belle of Louisville or call 502.574.2992 .

Address: 401 W. River Road (4th & River Road)

PARK FEATURES

Self-Guided Tours Accessibility Big Four Bridge Belle of Louisville Boat Docks Playgrounds Lincoln Memorial Picnic Areas Public Art Rowing Swing Garden

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The Belle of Louisville is a Louisville staple. Here's how to ride in the iconic riverboat

The Belle of Louisville is more than a century old, and it's one of the more than 90 landmarks  designated by the Metro Historic Landmarks and Preservation Districts Commission. Citizens and tourists can still ride in this piece of Louisville history.

Here's what you need to know about the Belle of Louisville and the Mary M. Miller, another vessel people can ride.

How old is the Belle of Louisville?

The Belle of Louisville turns 110 years old in October . The company behind the historic riverboat is celebrating in different ways, including with a special rate on their annual pass—at $110 for a limited time, according to its website.

Where is the Belle of Louisville docked?

All the boats from the Belle of Louisville Riverboats, which includes three vessels— the Belle of Louisville , the Mary M. Miller and the Mayor Andrew Broaddus —are docked at the Fourth Street Wharf.

How much do tickets for the Belle of Louisville cost?

Tickets depend on the cruise being taken, including the sunset and moonlight cruises , which range between $21.99 and $34.99; the steamboat supper , which ranges between $36.99 and $62.99; and the Louisville Distilled aboard the Mary M. Miller, which ranges between $14.99 and $24.99.

What to wear for the Belle of Louisville

Each cruise has a clothing section, but most of them say people should dress casually and recommend looking at the forecast before going aboard.

"Jackets may be needed," the website states. "Flat shoes are encouraged due to uneven walking surfaces and stairs on the wharf and boat."

Where do I park for the Belle of Louisville?

The Belle of Louisville Riverboats does not have a parking lot, but there are lots, garages and streets near where people can park. One of the options is the Parc Wharf Lot at 131 W. River Road, which can be prepaid , or the Riverfront Parking Garage at 141 Sixth Street.

Is there food on the Belle of Louisville?

Yes, there is food on the Belle of Louisville and the Mary M. Miller.

"Both boats have full bars with a broad selection of liquors, beer and wine, as well as soft drinks available for purchase," the website states.

People are not allowed to bring outside food or drinks, except for baby formulas and baby bottles.

Explore The Ohio River Aboard Kentucky’s Favorite Historic Riverboat

Louisville's historic riverboats, the Belle of Louisville and Mary M. Miller, offer memorable cruises along the Ohio River.

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The Ohio River makes up a portion of our state's border and it has always been a significant part of Kentucky's history and purpose. Along the riverfront, there are many small towns, as well as smaller cities and even a few big cities that are home to a large section of our population. The largest of the Kentucky cities on the river is Louisville and this vibrant town is filled with things to do. One of the most favorite activities for all ages, locals, and visitors is a ride on the historic riverboat in Kentucky, the Belle of Louisville or its fleet companion, the Mary M. Miller. There are a variety of trips available on both boats and these outings are some of the most memorable in the state.

The beautiful Belle of Louisville is a grand example of the history of our region and the Ohio River. Built in 1914, it is the only remaining riverboat of its kind and we are lucky enough to have it right here on the banks of Kentucky.

This historic riverboat was first known as the Idlewild and then the Avalon before it was purchased through an auction in 1962 and renamed the Belle of Louisville. Although the Belle was originally launched in Pittsburgh and has traveled all over, it has spent a bulk of its time in Louisville.

Today, the Belle, as well as the Mary M. Miller riverboat, are both popular destinations for outings on the river. Locals love to ride to celebrate special occasions or to soak in the beauty of the riverfront along the banks of the Ohio.

For visitors to the area, this is also a popular activity. Both riverboats offer a variety of rides, including sunset and moonlight cruises, sightseeing, and cruises that offer breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

You'll likely want to spend most of your time on the outer decks of the boat, but the interior is also very nice. It's spacious and set up well for any type of cruise.

This is the Mary M. Miller, the other option when cruising along the Ohio. Both this picturesque boat and the Belle make for unforgettable opportunities to tour the area, learn the history, and see our state like never before.

If you have yet to take a ride on this historic riverboat in Kentucky, keep it in mind for the next special occasion. Whether you're looking for a romantic sunset cruise, a fun-filled family outing, or a place to celebrate a big event on the water, the Belle of Louisville and the Mary M. Miller are two favorite destinations in the Bluegrass. Have you been aboard a historic riverboat in Kentucky? We'd love to hear about your experience in the comments!

For more information on the Belle of Louisville and everything that is currently offered, visit its website and also follow along on Facebook .

And for another boat tour in Kentucky that's totally different and very unique, check out this excursion that takes you right up to a waterfall.

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Waverly Hills Sanatorium In Kentucky Is Among The Most Haunted Places In The Nation

Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, Kentucky, is a renowned haunted location offering year-round tours and ghost hunts.

If you're a fan of ghostly tales and haunted places in Kentucky then every season is creepy season in the Bluegrass State. While fall and October specifically do seem to have their fair share of ghosts and ghouls, many of these supposedly haunted spots can be visited all year long. Perhaps the most popular ghostly residence in Kentucky is Waverly Hills Sanatorium. This historic building in Louisville is well-known, especially by those who enjoy ghost hunts, and it's even known around the world as one of the most haunted places in the U.S.

Waverly Hills Sanatorium is a historic former hospital in Louisville that came close to being demolished. A historical society saved it and has offered tours, ghost hunts, and other events for several years.

The building (and its ghostly residents) has gained much notoriety over the years thanks to famous ghost hunters, tv shows, and word of mouth from visitors. If you enjoy history, haunting tales, and meeting ghosts, a tour should be on your bucket list.

The building has been maintained and stabilized to allow visitors to take guided tours, both paranormal and historical. You can even arrange a private investigation and bring along equipment.

This image was captured during a visit. It looks like Casper the friendly ghost was perhaps a former patient or employee of the hospital.

If you do book a private investigation, you have the option of staying in a building that's original to the property.

It's actually a nice accommodation with modern furnishings. But don't be fooled - this is one of the creepiest areas of the property.

Waverly Hills Sanatorium often offers a haunted house event (event is cancelled for 2021), a Christmas light display and it's always offering its tours. Be sure to follow along on the website and Facebook page, linked below, to find out more information and to plan a visit.

If you were to do a search for "haunted places near me," this place would most certainly appear near the top of the list!

Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville is basically a haunted house all year long. Tours and overnight stays are available throughout the year and be sure to keep an eye on the Waverly Hills Sanatorium website and the The Waverly Hills Sanatorium Facebook page for details on upcoming events.

Have you ever been to this creepy haunted sanatorium in KY? If so, what was your favorite part? Would you agree that it is among the most haunted places in Kentucky? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

And for more places to enjoy paranormal activity in Kentucky, check out this creepy list of 15 spooky destinations .

Thinking about taking a Kentucky vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club .

If you’re still in the mood for more Bluegrass State adventures, take a look at this video:

Most People Don’t Know The Story Behind This Hidden Tunnel In Kentucky

Nada Tunnel, a historic 900-foot tunnel in Kentucky, offers a unique and scenic entrance to Red River Gorge.

Known as "The Gateway to Red River Gorge," Nada Tunnel is a historic 900-foot tunnel that is without a doubt the most fascinating way to enter the gorge. If you’re driving along KY-77 in Powell County, you’ll encounter this hidden tunnel, which looks like a hole carved into the face of a mountain, with the greenery of the surrounding trees ready to swallow your car. Turn on your headlights, make sure oncoming cars aren’t moving through the tunnel, and get ready to drive through this remarkable piece of Kentucky. Bone up on your Nada Tunnel history, and the spooky stories that have been told about this dark, hidden tunnel in Kentucky .

Construction of the tunnel began in 1910. Dynamite, drills, and various other tools were used to blast through the face of the limestone rock.

The tunnel was completed in 1911. Its initial purpose was to allow locomotives to transport timber from logging operations in the Gorge to a sawmill in Clay City, about 15 miles away.

These next few Nada Tunnel photos show a darker side to this historic tunnel.

During its construction, one man was killed when he put a stick of frozen dynamite next to a fire to thaw it, and it exploded. Due to the tunnel’s rugged nature and unique appearance, there are a few different creepy stories and legends associated with Nada Tunnel. Many say it’s haunted by the ghost of the man who was killed in the dynamite blast. Others say a rock climber fell to his death while attempting to scale the cliffs above the tunnel entrance.

Both of these stories are attributed to the legend that sometimes at night, an eerie green orb can be seen floating at the entrance of Nada Tunnel. Is Nada Tunnel haunted?

Some say that unidentifiable moaning sounds can be heard in the tunnel, seemingly coming from inside the rock walls. However, if you are on foot or on a bike, it is not advisable to enter the tunnel, even if you do want to try to hear these ghostly noises. The tunnel has no interior lighting, and it’s very narrow, so don’t get hit by a car and become the next ghost of Nada Tunnel.

If you’re looking for the Red River Gorge tunnel and planning on entering the Gorge through Nada Tunnel, be advised that the tunnel can only let one car through at a time. Be sure to stop at the entrance and check for the headlights of oncoming cars, and turn your lights on as well. The tunnel is 12 feet wide and 13 feet high, so if you’re driving a larger vehicle, be careful.

The entirety of Red River Gorge is a captivating look back into Kentucky’s history, with little shreds of evidence of life from previous centuries everywhere.

Nada Tunnel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, transports you back to the early 20th century and reminds you of the manpower and hard labor that went into its construction. We love these Nada Tunnel pictures.

To get to Nada Tunnel, take exit 33 off the Bert T. Comb Mountain Parkway. From there, take KY-11 N for 1.5 miles. Turn right on KY-77 N and continue for about two miles until you eventually reach the tunnel. Once you make it through the Nada Tunnel in Kentucky, there are tons of trailheads and beautiful scenery on the other side. Welcome to Red River Gorge! Grab some maps from AllTrails+ and enjoy your outdoor adventures.

Have you ever learned this Nada Tunnel history? What did you think? Let us know in the comments section!

Looking for more fun tunnels to visit? Make sure to read all about the Cumberland Gap Tunnel .

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kentucky/cumberland-gap-tunnel-ky/

Another natural wonder in Kentucky that could tell a story or two is the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. There is one phenomenon that you don't want to miss - the spectacular moonbow that only occurs under certain conditions under the full moon:

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Louisville KY (Kentucky)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Canada and USA Rivers

Local Time 2024-09-16 05:15

Port Louisville KY cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Louisville KY, Kentucky. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Louisville KY is an Ohio River cruise port and the largest city in Kentucky USA. By population (around 970,000, metro around 1,2 million) the city is ranked USA's 29th largest. Kentucky's 2nd-largest city is Lexington.

The river shipping traffic between Ohio River and Caribbean Sea (Gulf of Mexico) is only obstructed by the Falls of Ohio. However, town's early growth was influenced by exactly this obstruction as riverboats were unloaded here and moved downriver before reaching Ohio Falls. To bypass the Falls, in 1830 was opened the Louisville-Portland Canal (length 3 km / 2 mi).

The town was founded in 1778 and named after King Louis XVI (1754-1793) - France's last King before the monarchy fell during the French Revolution (1789-99). The town was incorporated as city in 1828 and developed greatly after the opening (mid-19th-century) of the Louisville- Nashville Railroad (length 9700 km / 6000 mi) connecting 13 US states. Louisville KY is best-known as the hometown of the boxer Muhammad Ali (1942-2016), also for its skyline (downtown business district's skyscrapers / 15 of which have height over 91 m / 300 ft), large nature parks, Victorian-style architecture (downtown's West Main Str's buildings with cast iron facades), vehicle manufacturing (2 Ford plans), bourbon whiskey production (producing ~1/3 of USA's bourbon), museums and art galleries, annual festivals, Kentucky Derby (horse race in May). The annual Great Steamboat Race (also held in May) features some of USA's largest stern-paddlewheel riverboats, including American Queen, Belle of Louisville, Belle of Cincinnati.

Port Louisville by cargo shipping tonnage is currently ranked USA's 7th-largest inland port.

As cruise port, Louisville KY is included in the schedule of USA's largest river cruise company - ACL-American Cruise Lines . The riverport is also regularly visited by ships of AQV/AQSC-American Queen Voyages/Steamboat Company .

Next tables show some of the Louisville-inclusive itineraries as port sequences and prices per person (double occupancy rates).

(ACL ship Queen of the Mississippi/American Heritage ) 11-day itinerary between homeports St Louis and Pittsburgh, from ~USD 3500 pp

(ship American Duchess / AQSC) 8-day itinerary between homeports Pittsburgh and Louisville, from ~USD 2000 pp

(ship American Queen / AQSC) 8-day itinerary between homeports Louisville and Pittsburgh, from ~USD 1500 pp

The only fully COVID-vaccinated US river cruise line is AQSC-American Queen Steamboat Company

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AQSC-American Queen Steamboat Company announced its newest themed cruise onboard American Duchess, “Racing on the River”, cruising from...

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7 Reasons A Stay On The World’s Largest Steamboat Is My Favorite U.S. Cruise

• Cruises and Sailing
• River Cruises
• Types of Travel

I have been on several cruises and travel adventures around the world, but recently, I’ve felt the need to focus on discovering great destinations closer to home. The U.S. is filled with countless experiences that travelers can unlock, and a river cruise offers the chance to see so many things in an efficient, hassle-free, and fun way.

Our summer cruise on the Ohio River took us from Pittsburgh to Louisville, and the itinerary included stops in Marietta, Ohio; Huntington, West Virginia; Augusta, Kentucky; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Madison, Indiana, before reaching Louisville.

I had been on voyages on the Mighty Mississippi River and even a couple in the Pacific Northwest on the Columbia and Snake rivers that traverse through Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. These itineraries are fairly well known, but I was fascinated to see what an Ohio River cruise was all about. I was happy to accept an invite from American Queen Voyages to review this special itinerary.

As it turns out, it’s filled with memorable experiences and a range of fun ways to spend your days. The best part about our trip, though, was how we got there. American Queen owns a special charm and an incredible river cruise program that makes it a favorite way to cruise within the U.S. Here’s why.

1. An Itinerary With Small Towns And Big Cities

Pittsburg, pennsylvania.

American Queen Voyages offers a pre-cruise hotel stay in Pittsburgh, and it was nice to explore the City of Bridges for a day. We had lunch at the famous Primanti Brothers, diving into our hearty sandwiches — complete with fries stuffed onto the pastrami between slices of Italian bread. And we washed it down with a couple of Iron City beers.

The embarkation pier for the riverboat sits at the doorstep of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ football stadium, making for a scenic sail away from the confluence of the three rivers (Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela).

Cincinnati, Ohio

The cruise also features a stop in Cincinnati and wraps up in Louisville, so travelers have opportunities to explore these interesting big cities and all they have to offer. We went for a bike ride on the riverfront, explored the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, and had lunch and craft beers at Moerlein Lager House.

Louisville, Kentucky

In Louisville, cruisers can explore city highlights like the famed Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby track) or the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory before catching flights back home.

These big cities are nice, but it’s the small towns that really make this trip shine. Residents gather along the banks of the river to cheer our arrival or give us a friendly sendoff each day. Each riverside destination, no matter how small, loves to show off its slice of American history and regional attractions, such as quirky museums, pretty churches, and, of course, its local shops and eateries.

Marietta, Ohio

In Marietta, Ohio, attractions included Mound Cemetery, one of the oldest in the original Northwest Territory, the Ohio River Museum, and the Childen’s Toy & Doll Museum.

Huntington, West Virginia

When I went ashore in Huntington, West Virginia, the hop-on, hop-off bus loop took us to the Touma Medical Museum, a delightful little open-air railroad museum (a yard filled with colorful old rail cars), Ritter Park Rose Garden, and the Marshall University Campus, which features a wonderful grounds filled with statues, sculptures, trees, and flowers.

Augusta, Kentucky

In Augusta, Kentucky, AQV passengers were able to walk just a few hundred steps from our spot on the river to explore the Rosemary Clooney Museum. This is the former home of actress, singer, and aunt to superstar George Clooney. Highlights of this charming town also include Bates Garden, the 1811 Jail, and Baker-Bird Winery.

Madison, Indiana

There was another railroad museum to see in Madison, Indiana, and the town also lists the Schroeder Saddletree Factory, the Broadway Fountain, and Lanier Mansion as top attractions for visitors to check out.

2. Enriching Entertainment

While each port stop features a variety of things for cruisers to explore, this fancy riverboat offers a daily program with a mix of musical performances, trivia competitions, movies, bingo, and variety shows. 

Music, trivia, and enrichment talks are held in American Queen’s majestic Grand Saloon theater space. During our cruise, we saw Phil Westbrook several times, as the singer and piano man performed a tribute to Frank Sinatra as well as entertained passengers at the intimate Captain’s Bar just outside the main J.M. White Dining Room.

We also dropped by the theater for shows by guitarist Logan Reeves and a song and dance variety production on TV theme songs from the American Queen Ensemble and the Steamboat Syncopators house band. The shows draw on plenty of nostalgia but definitely favor an era more familiar to cruisers 70 and older. However, the overall mood is quite fun.

A hip vibe can be found nightly at the Engine Room Bar, where the ship’s musicians get the crowd dancing with a great mix of blues and rock tunes.

3. Regionally Inspired Cuisine

The American Queen chefs kept us well-fed. Meals are served in the main dining room and in the casual eatery called the Front Porch, which offers wonderful views as you cruise on the river. When the weather is nice, it’s worth having at least one dinner outside there to enjoy the sunset and sailing.

The menu includes items like chicken fried steak, frog legs, and a variety of steak and fish preparations. The cuisine is more hearty than healthy, but you can find some fresh fruits and salads in the mix at the lunch buffets. We were always tempted by the mouth-watering selection of homemade pies and slices of chocolate cake set out each day at lunch. There always is a delicious soup, gumbo, or chili available, too.

If you need a snack, you can swing by the Front Porch for a bag of fresh popcorn, a couple of cookies, or a soft-serve ice cream cone or dish.

4. Set Your Own Pace

As a person who loves his daily workouts, I’m happy that a river cruise on American Queen makes it easy. Not only is there a well-equipped gym, but the ship carries a fleet of bikes. Colleen and I started several days with a run along the riverside trails through small towns or by grabbing a couple of bikes to go exploring independently.

In general, river cruising allows travelers the chance to explore on their own in a hassle-free way. It’s so easy to stroll onto and off of the ship at your leisure, and the towns and cities are mere steps away. You can go set your own schedule for the day if you’re not interested in rigorously following the ship excursion program.

Pro Tip: Ask crew members for their insight on nice places to eat or go shopping — or for their favorite places to get a coffee or craft brew. We received great insight from lead butler Adam, who is a coffee connoisseur and loves to find and frequent local cafes along all the river towns he visits.

5. Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours

American Queen Voyages provides a wonderful service in its hop-on, hop-off bus routes in each city and on each river itinerary that it operates. Passengers walk off the ship and straight onto waiting buses with clear signage at each stop along the route at the attractions in town.

Cruisers love being able to have peace of mind that they will see a nice mix of highlights in each port without worrying about transportation. You can get off at each spot or pick and choose what you are interested in on the loop.

6. Plenty Of Space Onboard

American Queen itself is an attraction. Built in 2012 and carrying up to 417 passengers, this is the largest steamship ever built. The décor takes you back in time to a golden era of steamship travel. The Grand Saloon resembles a 19th-century opera house with private boxes wrapped around the theater and hanging over the main level and the stage adorned with a large red curtain.

Chandeliers fill the main restaurant, rocking chairs line the railings on the front porch, and gingerbread ornamentation accents the staircases and stateroom patios of the bright white ship. The signature big red paddlewheel churns at the stern of the ship helping to power the voyage along the river.

American Queen features a large Mark Twain Gallery that serves as a reading room (with a small computer area). It’s outfitted with vintage lamps and antique chairs and all kinds of mementos of a bygone time, including river ship models, paintings, books, vases, and other collectibles.

There are two parlors at the very front of the ship ahead of the Main Twain Gallery, and these spots also are carefully decorated and ideal for working on puzzles, reading, or enjoying the river views while relaxing with friends.

7. Scenic Sailing

I found the periods of sailing from town to town one of the most relaxing and satisfying parts of this river cruise. It was fabulous to watch the world floating by, with the pretty evening sunsets, flowing waters, and subtle bends in the river. We would pass under a variety of bridge styles and see trains on adjacent tracks and tugboats pushing coal barges.

Cruisers also enjoyed the process of watching our big riverboat pass through the locks along the way.

Pro Tip: Make sure to head up to the top deck for sail aways each day. Crowds gather along the banks of the river to wave you off and wish you well on the journey. And one of the musicians will come out to play some tunes on the boat’s steam calliope. It’s a fun spectacle!

Related Reading:

• 9 Reasons You’ll Love A Princess Cruise In The Western Caribbean
• 7 Things People Always Forget To Take On A Cruise Plus 8 Things They Should Leave At Home
• I Just Sailed On Royal Caribbean With My Grandchildren — Here Are My 10 Key Tips

John loves to explore the world while prioritizing fitness and active adventures. He specializes in cruise travel, with more than 100 sailings of all types under his belt. His passion is deep exploration and connection. He loves talking sports and craft beer with people in every destination he visits. John has been a writer and travel journalist for more than 20 years, regularly contributing to top travel magazines and websites.

Pittsburgh to Louisville

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Enjoy Old-Fashioned cocktails and see the 120-foot Louisville Slugger
• Explore the birthplace of baseball and its distinctive chili recipe
• Discover the diversity of art and live entertainment in Maysville
• Visit Marietta, Ohio and find a mix of museums and historic sites
• River Cruises
• Village Visits
• North America
• United States
• Pennsylvania
• Point Pleasant
• West Virginia

Full Itinerary

Day 1: hotel stay in pittsburgh, pa, day 2: pittsburgh, pa | embark.

• Accommodation
• 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Wheeling, WV

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 4: Marietta, OH

Day 5: huntington, wv, day 6: augusta, ky, day 7: cincinnati, oh, day 8: madison, in, day 9: louisville | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

American Queen

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $250 per person, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 71 days prior to departure by MasterCard, Visa, Discover, Diners Club or check

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• American Queen Steamboat Company - Terms and Conditions 2022 - American Queen Voyages

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
• 8 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Unlimited Wifi
• Gratuities to Onboard Crew
• Port Taxes & Fees
• Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar every morning
• In-Room Dining
• Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
• Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment
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Kentuckiana residents weigh in on design for 10th Street floodwall mural

We asked: What would you like to see on the 10th Street floodwall mural? Here’s what you said.

Earlier this year , Louisville Metro’s Office of Arts + Creative Industries announced a plan to paint a mural on a section of floodwall in the Portland neighborhood. One local artist will be selected to paint the 6,000-square-foot mural. With the city set to choose an artist for the project soon, we’re sharing what some Kentuckiana residents told us they want to see in the design.

The Louisville riverboats

Out of the 34 people who responded to the survey, about 41% said they want to see the Belle of Louisville and Mary M. Miller pictured in the floodwall mural’s design.

The Belle of Louisville and Mary M. Miller are the two steamboats that take locals and out-of-town visitors down the Ohio River for tours of some historical landmarks along Louisville and Southern Indiana’s waterfronts.

The Belle has been sailing the Ohio for 109 years. It operates with the original technology and engine, according to its website . Officials estimate the engine inside the riverboat was built in the late 19th Century.

The Belle — originally named the Idlewild — served as a ferry boat between Tennessee and Arkansas. From the 1930s until the 1960s, the steamboat traveled throughout Canada, the Gulf of Mexico, and the U.S. until it was purchased by a Jefferson County judge.

Now named a National Historic Landmark, the Belle of Louisville has been a part of the city’s waterfront for the last 62 years.

Some locals, like Middletown resident LuAnn Hayes, said the 10th Street Floodwall should honor The Belle.

“I am proud to serve as a volunteer on this iconic riverboat,” Hayes said in her response to the survey. “Guests from all over the country and world delight in their cruise experience on this historic symbol of Louisville's past. The floodwall mural would be the perfect place to honor this grand, old lady!”

Louisville’s second-oldest steamboat — the Mary M. Miller — is named after the first female licensed steamboat captain in the U.S., who earned that designation in 1884.

This followed immense pushback from the Steamboat Inspection Service, now named the Bureau of Navigation.

An homage to Louisville’s French history

France’s influence is embedded in Louisville’s history, including the city’s namesake King Louis XVI. About 15% of residents who answered the survey want the 10th Street floodwall to reflect that connection.

“Some sort of French Quarter type thing with little balconies, and flowering vines would look neat,” said former Portland resident Heather Harmon.

Other Louisvillians wanted the floodwall to capture some of the city's historical moments, like when Revolutionary War general and Frenchman Marquis de Lafayette arrived in Louisville in 1825 . Lafayette stopped in Louisville on a tour of the 24 states at the time, celebrating the nascent country’s 50th anniversary. He also traveled to other cities in the commonwealth, such as Frankfort and Shelbyville.

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect the Belle of Louisville's engine is believed to have been built in the late 19th.

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