Posted in Iowa Explore, Trips March 30, 2016 by

Everyone From Iowa Should Take This One Awesome Vacation Before They Die

Sure, everyone has to go on a cruise at least once in their life. But who said what kind of cruise? Ditch the overpriced cruise ship vacation and opt for something a little off the beaten path; something different, unique, but more fun than you could ever imagine – a riverboat cruise down the Mighty Mississippi!

The beautiful, Victorian-style Riverboat Twilight gives guests a unique cruise experience on the Mississippi River. During the cruise, guests will have a chance to enjoy the natural scenery of the area, including the abundant wildlife, while seeing plenty of historic sites along the way.
All photos by Michaela Kendall.
The Riverboat Twilight disembarks out of the Port of Dubuque for either a day trip to Guttenberg, or out of Le Claire for a two day trip to Dubuque.
One low fare covers all your meals and snacks (served in the lovely dining area shown below), as well as your entertainment, activities, and accommodations. If you do the two-day cruise you will stay at the Grand Harbor waterpark resort in Dubuque.
Although drinks at the bar aren't included, you won't want to miss the Bloody Marys served up onboard.
Musician, singer and songwriter L.A. Suess of Galena, Illinois, is one of the performers on the Riverboat Twilight. During Suess's performance, he sings, plays the harmonica, banjo, guitar and mandolin, giving guests a unique and unforgettable show.
Also unforgettable is the spectacular view along the river. Throughout the cruise, the captain/tour guide points out Bald Eagle nests along the riverbank, and narrates historical points of interest to passengers on board.
Along the way, the boat passes along through many old lock and dams.
While on the river, guests are free to roam the boat, soaking up the sun on the top deck, or picking up a souvenir at the gift shop on the bottom deck.
Guests can even go up to the captain's quarters and see what it's like to drive a riverboat.
After the boat docks at the location, whether it's Guttenberg or Dubuque, passengers are free to disembark and explore the city.
In Guttenberg, there is a charming little park that overlooks the river. On a sunny day, this is a great spot for a picnic.
There are many cute little shops that line the street of Guttenberg, and some fun ones to visit are Kann Imports, the Picket Fence Cafe and the Clayton Meat Market.
Two day cruises on the Riverboat Twilight begin as early as May 29, and day cruises begin on September 2. Cruises run until the end of October.

For more information, or to book your own river adventure, check out the Riverboat Twilight’s website, here.

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