American Queen pitches 'Field of Dreams Experience'

The new 'Field of Dreams Experience' premium shore excursion is available beginning with the American Countess's arrival at Dubuque, Iowa, on July 22. Starring the iconic baseball diamond in nearby Dyersville, made famous by the 1989 film starring Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones and the late Ray Liotta, the Field of Dreams Experience is available on eight nine-day voyages between Alton (St. Louis) and Red Wing (Minneapolis) through October.

Additional ports include Hannibal, Missouri; Bettendorf, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Burlington, Iowa.

'Our guests always enjoy strolling in the footsteps of Mark Twain’s classic characters in Hannibal and spotting bald eagles near Red Wing,' said Isis Ruiz, chief commercial officer, American Queen Voyages. 'Adding the Field of Dreams Experience premium excursion in Dubuque promises to create even more memorable moments on this popular Upper Mississippi River itinerary.'

Filming locations

At Dubuque a local guide will point out many iconic locations from 'Field of Dreams,' including the local elementary school, University of Dubuque and Central Avenue, which was transformed into Boston for the film. Departing the city with countryside views of cornfields and farmlands weaving through the Iowa bluffs, tour participants will arrive at the 'If You Built It' exhibit to explore the story that inspired the film and view behind-the-scenes photos that delve into the making of the movie.

At the actual 'Field of Dreams' baseball diamond and farm from the film, participants may walk the bases like Shoeless Joe Jackson, emerge from the corn and take a break on the bleachers for an Instagram moment.

'Dubuque has played an important part in the rich history of riverboating in the US and we are proud to be hosting American Queen Voyages’ paddlewheelers this season,' said Keith Rahe, president and CEO, Travel Dubuque.

Tour priced at $99

The Field of Dreams Experience is priced at $99 and will be available on Upper Mississippi River itineraries operated by the American Queen, American Duchess and American Countess, embarking July 18 and 30, Aug. 28, Sept. 10, 11, 24 and 26 and Oct. 16.

To recreate the ballpark dining experience at home for the upcoming 'Field of Dreams' game with the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds on Aug. 11, Chef Regina Charboneau, American Queen Voyages' culinary ambassador, is sharing favorite hot dog recipes here.