Embark on a Mississippi River cruise and experience a voyage like no other. Winding through ten U.S. states, this legendary waterway is more than just a river—it's a living tapestry of American history, music, culture, and cuisine. From the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans to the quiet charm of river towns in Minnesota, the Mississippi offers a front-row seat to the diverse stories of the United States.
Whether you're sipping sweet tea on the sundeck of a paddlewheeler or exploring antebellum mansions and Civil War battlegrounds, every mile of the Mississippi reveals a different chapter of America. Lush wetlands, dramatic bluffs, and bustling port cities unfold along the banks, creating a dynamic and ever-changing backdrop for your cruise experience.
Ideal for travelers seeking immersive cultural encounters, rich regional flavors, and slow-paced luxury, a Mississippi River cruise is a journey into the past, the present, and the ever-flowing rhythm of the American South and Midwest.
The headwaters of the Mississippi begin in Minnesota, a land of serene lakes and rolling bluffs. River Cruises in Saint Paul offer a blend of urban sophistication and historic charm. Stop in Red Wing, known for its pottery and boots, and admire the scenic beauty of Winona, with its Victorian architecture and art museums nestled amid river bluffs.
Across the river, La Crosse welcomes cruisers with warm Midwestern hospitality. Stroll through historic downtown, visit the Riverside Museum, and enjoy sweeping views from Grandad Bluff. The confluence of rivers and cultures in this area gives rise to a rich blend of Native American heritage and European traditions.
As the river descends into Iowa, the Mississippi carves a path through history-rich river towns. Dubuque dazzles with its Art Deco architecture and the historic Fenelon Place Elevator, located on a hilltop. In Davenport and Burlington, you’ll discover cultural museums and Mississippi River lore. Muscatine, once the global hub for pearl buttons, blends historic industry with modern charm.
Illinois offers a unique blend of natural beauty and history along its riverbanks. Alton and Grafton are gateways to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. Chester, birthplace of Popeye, is full of quirky charm, while Cairo sits at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers, boasting Civil War-era architecture and historical significance.
The mighty Saint Louis marks a key hub on the Mississippi River, famous for the Gateway Arch and vibrant blues music. Hannibal, the boyhood home of Mark Twain, offers immersive literary heritage, while Cape Girardeau charms visitors with its historic riverfront and murals depicting local history.
Helena, in eastern Arkansas, plays a pivotal role in the history of Delta blues. A visit here often includes stops at the Delta Cultural Center and the King Biscuit Time radio studio, where live blues performances continue to energize the airwaves.
Memphis is where music, soul, and history converge. Visit the home of Elvis at Graceland, stroll along Beale Street, and pay your respects at the National Civil Rights Museum. Memphis is a highlight on many Upper and Lower Mississippi itineraries, combining vibrant nightlife with powerful stories.
In the state of Mississippi, river cruises unveil the heart of the South. Tunica and Cleveland are rich in Delta blues history. Greenville offers beautiful antebellum homes, while Vicksburg immerses you in Civil War history with its national military park. Natchez, with its lavish mansions and gardens, exudes Southern elegance and hospitality.
Louisiana is where the Mississippi comes to life in technicolor. New Orleans is a vibrant finale or departure point, with its jazz clubs, Creole cuisine, and historic French Quarter. En route, explore Oak Alley and Houmas House plantations, the gothic charm of St. Francisville, and the lively energy of Baton Rouge, the state capital and cultural melting pot.
Perfect for a long weekend, short cruises often run between New Orleans and Baton Rouge or from Saint Louis to Hannibal. Guests can enjoy immersive visits to iconic plantations, guided city tours, and onboard entertainment, including jazz nights and storytelling sessions.
Popular itineraries include the Lower Mississippi from Memphis to New Orleans, where you’ll witness the full charm of Southern culture. Or sail the Upper Mississippi from Saint Louis to Saint Paul for stunning views of river bluffs, small-town charm, and Midwestern hospitality.
For the whole Mississippi experience, choose an extended journey from New Orleans to Saint Paul, traversing all ten states. These cruises offer the most profound immersion, combining river lore, expert lectures, and visits to over a dozen historic towns and cities.
Mississippi River cruise ships typically accommodate between 150 and 250 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Many vessels feature Victorian-style paddlewheelers or modern riverboats with wraparound balconies, spacious lounges, and sweeping views of the riverbanks.
Dining on board reflects the region's culinary diversity—from gumbo and jambalaya to Midwestern comfort fare. Guests enjoy locally sourced ingredients, regional wine pairings, and themed culinary events that bring Southern hospitality to the table.
Each stop along the river offers guided excursions, including battlefield tours, plantation visits, art museums, and music halls. Onboard experts—from historians to naturalists—provide lectures and discussions that enrich every moment of the journey.
"Cruising the Mississippi is more than a vacation—it's a soulful passage through time, culture, and the beating heart of America."
Whether you're drawn to the rhythm of jazz in New Orleans, the literary spirit of Mark Twain’s Hannibal, or the historic echoes of Civil War battlefields, a Mississippi River cruise connects you to America’s past and present in a deeply authentic way. Let the river guide you through a journey of discovery, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
Are you getting ready for an river cruise and have some questions? We’ve gathered the most common queries to make your planning smoother. Whether it’s about destinations, excursions, or what to expect on board, we’ve got you covered.
The best times are typically in the Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October). These seasons offer the most pleasant weather, avoiding the peak heat and humidity of the summer months, especially on the Lower Mississippi. Summer cruises are available but can be very hot. Some lines also offer themed holiday cruises in late fall and early winter.
Dining is a central experience and generally focuses on American and regional cuisine. Expect to find:
• Multi-course meals in a main dining room.
• Regional specialties like Southern, Creole, and Cajun dishes on Lower Mississippi itineraries.
• A mix of buffet-style and à la carte service.
• Most cruise lines include all meals, and many also include complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.
The passenger demographic tends to be older, typically 55 and above. The cruises' focus on history, culture, and scenic, leisurely travel appeals most to mature adults and retirees.
Yes, most modern paddlewheelers and riverboats are significantly more accessible than expedition-style vessels.
• Key features often include elevators serving all decks and a number of ADA-compliant staterooms.
• Gangways are generally wide and stable.
• However, some shore excursions to historic sites or towns with cobblestone streets may present challenges. It is essential to verify specific accessibility details with the cruise line.
Experiences are rich in American history and culture.
• Lower Mississippi (e.g., New Orleans to Memphis): Focus on antebellum plantations, Civil War history (like the Vicksburg National Military Park), and the birthplaces of jazz and blues music.
• Upper Mississippi (e.g., St. Louis to St. Paul): Known for dramatic bluffs, charming 19th-century river towns, Mark Twain's legacy in Hannibal, Missouri, and navigating the river's impressive lock and dam system.
While not a primary wildlife destination like the Amazon, the Mississippi River Valley is home to diverse fauna.
• Birds: Bald eagles are very common on the Upper Mississippi. You can also see pelicans, herons, egrets, and a wide variety of waterfowl.
• Mammals: White-tailed deer are often spotted along the banks.
• Reptiles: Alligators may be seen in the bayous and tributaries of the Lower Mississippi.
Inclusions are generally comprehensive. Most fares cover:
• Your stateroom accommodation.
• All onboard meals and snacks.
• A selection of shore excursions in each port.
• Onboard entertainment and lectures.
• Port fees and taxes.
• Many lines also include complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks.
Gratuities and airfare are often extra.
Yes, most cruise lines include at least one complimentary excursion in each port.
• These are often narrated bus tours of the port town or city, allowing you to hop on and off at key sites.
• Other options include guided visits to historic plantations, museums, and Civil War battlefields.
• More specialized "premium" excursions, like swamp tours or in-depth culinary experiences, are usually available for an additional fee.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on virtually all modern river cruise ships, and it is often complimentary. However, the connection relies on cellular and satellite signals, so it can be slower than a land-based connection and may be intermittent in more remote sections of the river.
The dress code is generally relaxed and described as "country club casual."
• Daytime: Casual wear like shorts, slacks, and comfortable tops is appropriate.
• Evening: Smart casual is the norm. For men, this means collared shirts and slacks; for women, dresses, skirts, or pantsuits. Most cruises have a Captain's Dinner where a jacket for men is recommended.
Tipping policies vary by cruise line.
• Some lines may include all gratuities in the cruise fare.
• For others, it's customary to provide tips for the ship's crew at the end of the voyage. The cruise line will provide recommended guidelines, often around $18-$25 per person per day, which is then distributed among the hotel and dining staff.
Packing should focus on comfort and layers.
• Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions.
• Casual daywear.
• A few smarter outfits for evenings.
• A jacket, sweater, or wrap for air-conditioned interiors or cool evenings.
• Rain gear, such as a light jacket or umbrella.
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
• Binoculars for viewing scenery and wildlife.
Mosquitoes and other insects can be present, especially during shore excursions in the humid summer months. However, they are generally a nuisance rather than a significant health risk. The ships themselves are well-screened and air-conditioned. It is advisable to pack and use a personal insect repellent for time spent on shore.
These cruises are primarily designed for and marketed to adults. While children may be allowed onboard, there are typically no dedicated kids' clubs, activities, or entertainment programs. The historical and cultural focus of the itineraries is generally not engaging for young children.
The river is typically divided into two main cruising regions:
• The Lower Mississippi (New Orleans to Memphis) is defined by its Deep South culture, music history, and antebellum estates.
• The Upper Mississippi (St. Louis to St. Paul) is characterized by its natural beauty, locks and dams, and the small-town Americana that inspired Mark Twain.
Onboard entertainment is a key feature and often includes:
• Nightly live music performances, with genres reflecting the cruise region (e.g., Dixieland Jazz, Blues, Rock 'n' Roll, Country).
• An onboard historian or "Riverlorian" who gives lectures on the culture, nature, and history of the places visited.
• Calliope concerts on authentic paddlewheelers.
• Cooking demonstrations and guest speakers.
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