Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – American Song

Welcome to the City of Roses! Portland’s history and culture has forever been entwined with the two rivers that flow around and thru it: the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. If you’re planning to arrive early into Portland, talk to our agents about putting together a city tour, crossing many of Portland’s beautiful bridges, and even stopping at the International Test Garden featuring over 6800 rose bushes!

Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, close to where Lewis & Clark wintered at Fort Clatsop during their Corps of Discovery expedition. Just stepping off the boat you’ll have access to the city trolley – a quaint ride along the waterfront that will explain all the highlights of Astoria – and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, examining the history of crossing the bar and the actual ships and artifacts of ships that found the crossing too dangerous. Other options from here: Fort Clatsop Tour & Astoria Experience, or Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment.

There is nothing more magnificient or eye-catching than the beautiful Mount St. Helens. She is a local treasure, despite her grumblings and 1980 eruption. Everyone should take this complimentary excursion to Johnston Ridge Observatory. Make sure to watch the film, where you can hear Johnston call out: “Vancouver! Vancouver! This is it!” His last transmission before perishing in the eruption.

The Dalles, the last stop on the historic Oregon Trail, nestles along the Columbia River with a beautiful view of both Mount Hood and Mount Adams, each towering more than 11,000 feet above your cruise ship. To the pioneers of the 1800s, this rugged terrain was treacherous, but to today’s visitors, it is fascinating. Venture ashore on your own to explore the historic downtown, steps from the ship, featuring fascinating museums, intimate cafes, local pubs, and a collection of historic murals which embellish the streetscape. Or enjoy guided excursions to learn about the area’s rich history, view a unique art collection in a magnificent building perched on a bluff above the river, or spend an afternoon with expert sommeliers enjoying the bounty of the fertile Columbia Valley.

Enjoy a day cruising the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

The Hanford Reach Museum in Richland is an amazing option for your fun today. Or book the Pendleton Signature Tour: underground city tour, BBQ lunch at Hamley’s Restaurant, and visits to the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute and Pendleton Woolen Mills.

At the border lies Clarkston, WA and Lewiston, ID – I wonder how they got their names? There’s so much history and culture to explore here, including the complimentary excursion to the Nez Perce National Historic Park. But the Hells Canyon Jet Boat Signature Tour is always a hit. Be sure to sign up for this one in advance – it fills up!

Talk to our agents about travel arrangements, or lengthening your stay with a hotel in Spokane, WA.