mississippi queen boat cruise

American Queen

Discover the heritage and culture of America with a cruise onboard the elegant American Queen, an authentic paddlewheel steamboat. Luxurious amenities display the opulence of the American Victorian era while also featuring every modern convenience. Each stateroom features lush bedding and fine linens as well as in-room bottled water and fresh fruit. Onboard cuisine is gourmet and something to satisfy every craving is available 24 hours a day, from grand meals in the Dining Saloon to American favorites in the Front Porch of America. Complimentary wine and beer are available with dinner. There is always something to enjoy onboard during your leisure time. Enjoy a swim or a workout in the pool or athletic club or borrow a book in the Mark Twain Gallery; after a day of exploring, enjoy nightly entertainment that includes everything from showboat style performances to calliope concerts to swing dancing.

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American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi)

Queen of the Mississippi River Cruises 2024, 2025 - Small Ship, Itineraries, Dates, Prices, Amenities

Sail American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) From $CALL per person Built in 2015, American Heritage, formerly Queen of the Mississippi, will receive a total ship redesign in time for the 2022 cruise season.From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, American Heritage...

American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Salling Calendar

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American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Highlights

• Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom
• Complimentary room service
• Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a desk, and spacious seating area

American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Quick Facts

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About American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines has spearheaded most of the growth in U.S. river cruising with plans to build five modern U.S. river ships in the next few years. American Cruise Lines will have nine U.S. river ships and its coastal cruisers when all ships are completed. Each of the new ships will have a four-story glass atrium and large, windowed lounge areas and will be fully stabilized for smooth sailing. They are being built wider, faster, and quieter than traditional American Cruise Lines paddle wheelers. The larger-than-average staterooms will range from 250-square-foot singles for solo travelers to 900-square-foot grand suites. All staterooms will be outside-facing with private balconies. Their ships cruise to destinations within the United States like the Mississippi River, Columbia River, Alaska, New England, and more.

American Cruise Lines has a new schedule of cruises and departure dates for 2024-2025, with 13 small ships carrying 100 to 200 passengers, including 4 new Modern Riverboats. Since 1973, they have been known for the finest American ships on the river.

American Cruise Lines Itinerary Where does American cruise lines go? All American ships will cruise the country, coast to coast, including the Mississippi River, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, Puget Sound, Alaska, New England, the Hudson River, and the Southeast Coast. Cruises within the United States

American Jazz and American Melody, the 3rd and 4th modern riverboats, debuted in 2020. American Jazz began operating Mississippi cruises in late August, and American Melody was out in late 2021. There is a 3-day cruise from Portland, Oregon, along the breathtaking scenery of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Departure dates are available online.

Independence Class of Coastal Ships includes the American Independence, American Spirit, and the American Star. Each offers private balconies, multiple lounges with panoramic views, spacious sun decks, and single seating in the dining room. From small towns to southern ports like Norfolk, Virginia's Chesapeake Bay; Beaufort and Wilmington, North Carolina; and St. Simons Island, Georgia, to name a few.

The American Riverboats include the Serenade, American Symphony, Melody, American Jazz, American Song, and American Harmony. These boats offer one of the largest staterooms in the industry, private balconies with breakfast room service, spacious sun decks, floor-to-ceiling windows with sliding glass doors, and elevator service to all decks. River boat cruises in the USA

A new on-board program is an immersive Art Cruise program on select itineraries across the country. This program features an artist in residence on board who will offer daily classes in watercolor and mixed-media instruction. American Cruise Line will elevate the standard for U.S. riverboat cruising on the new American Harmony, which will offer a glass atrium, several inviting lounges, and the largest staterooms of their fleet.

Mississippi River Cruises Embarking on a Mississippi River cruise with American Cruise Lines promises an exceptional voyage through America's history. The mighty river has witnessed the triumphs and struggles of many Colonial pioneers and entrepreneurs, shaping the country's narrative along its vast length. This maritime corridor extends from New Orleans, Louisiana, to the Twin Cities of Minnesota, offering a unique perspective on America's heartland.

The state-of-the-art river cruise fleet of contemporary riverboats and classic paddlewheelers venture even further, venturing through the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers. Each route provides a distinctive insight into the American South and Midwest.

Travelers can immerse themselves in the fascinating stories and picturesque towns, from Hannibal, MO, the birthplace of Mark Twain, to Vicksburg, which played a significant role in the Civil War. For music lovers, Memphis and Nashville are must-visit destinations to experience the heart of American music while indulging in delectable Creole cuisine.

A top-rated cruising destination, and American Cruise Lines' modern fleet of small ships provides an unparalleled experience to explore it in style. Join us on this unforgettable journey through America's vibrant history and culture. You also get well-crafter, guided shore excursions to many fascinating destinations, such as New Orleans, Memphis, Martha's Vineyard, Hilton Head Island, and Glacier Bay, to name a few.

Pacific Northwest - Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise along the Columbia and Snake River Cruises in the Pacific Northwest and enjoy the summer days, warm temperatures, and beautiful skies. River Cruise aboard American modern American Riverboats and classic Paddlewheelers. On your scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens Johnston Ridge Observatory, learn about the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. Explore this fascinating destination, located at the very place where the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped for two nights amidst a thriving community of Native Americans. Northwest Pioneers Cruise from Portland to Clarkston, bear witness to Mount St. Helens and Astoria, and cruise the Columbia River Gorge on American riverboats. National Parks and Legendary Rivers is the first ever land and river cruise package. Enjoy an 8-day river cruise and a 7-day land tour of three National Parks. As you embark on your journey, enjoy a welcome aboard reception with evening cocktail hour, hor d'oeuvres, and entertainment.

New England Cruises The beautiful islands of New England and Maine harbors are picturesque any time of year. Quaint Island villages and small coastal towns such as Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are at the top of everyone's summer vacation list. Enjoy some of the best lobster and seafood you will ever taste from Maine; see scenic mountains from Arcadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine. Treat yourself to a breathtaking fall foliage cruise from New York City and sail on the Hudson River. Florida River Cruise There are two options for cruising Florida's Rivers. The Great Rivers of Florida Cruise starts and ends in Jacksonville and explores charming towns and diverse wildlife in northern Florida. Visit Green Cove Springs, known for its healing mineral springs; travel along the St John's River; journey to the heart of the Ocala National Forest; and see ruins in St Augustine. Florida Gulf Coast and the Keys is roundtrip from St. Petersburg, which is on the west coast of Florida. Journey to Ft. Meyers beach, the culture of Key West, guided tour of Everglades National Park in Marco Island, and a visit to Punta Gorda. Departure Dates are now available for all 2024 river cruise dates. Southeast River Cruise Historic South and the Golden Isles Cruise from Charleston to Jacksonville. Visits to Jekyll Island "Millionaire's Village," Amelia Island, Hilton Head beaches, and Savannah's historic districts.

Special Cruises The Great United States Cruise was announced for 2024. It will be 60 days starting on August 24, 2024, covering 20 states on three ships. Cruising the nation's legendary rivers and coastlines. The Great United States Cruise departs from Portland, Oregon, and Prices start at $51,000 per person, and there is limited availability. Sail aboard the finest American ships with American Cruise Lines.

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

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“The American Queen is the largest, most opulent paddlewheel ever built in the entire world, so, you know, we call it a floating time capsule.”

John Waggoner Founder & CEO American Queen Steamboat Company

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a graceful and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Built in 1995 as the third sister vessel to the Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen , the paddlewheeler is a six-deck recreation of a classic Mississippi riverboat.

She was built by McDermott Shipyard, 90 miles west of New Orleans in Morgan City, Louisiana for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company at a cost of $80 million. The vessel was christened in New Orleans on June 2, 1995 with a four foot tall container of Tabasco sauce instead of the traditional champagne bottle. She is 418 feet long and 89 feet wide and has 222 state rooms for a capacity of 436 guests and a crew of 160. The American Queen Steamboat Company purchased the vessel in April 2011 and continues to offer paddlewheel cruises traversing the Mississippi as well as the Ohio and Tennessee rivers.

The American Queen, with her bright red paddle wheel, towering fluted stacks and abundant fretwork, looks as though she just sailed out of the Victorian era. Glistening mahogany woodwork, flowery carpets, Tiffany glass and antiques enhance her interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree, a steam-powered calliope and open verandas evoke memories of the stately riverboats that preceded her and inspired her design.

“What we try to do as philosophy is keep things like it was in the 1900s. This is just how it was when Mark Twain was onboard,” says John Waggoner, Founder and CEO of the American Queen Steamboat Company.

As history plays such a large part of the experience, Riverlorians, the resident history and culture experts, are onboard every cruise to impart the legends and lore of the river on which passengers are cruising. Passengers are invited to attend an enlightening lecture, relive a tale from Mark Twain or enjoy a recounting of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.

“We want you to experience the thump-thump-thump-thump-thump of the paddlewheel. We want you to stand on the stern. We want you to get muddy Mississippi water spraying your face, and we want you to sit in a rocking chair, and watch the river go by and relax,” says Waggoner.

This American Queen inspires crowds of onlookers in each port in which she docks. In true royal fashion, she glides gracefully along the river and courteously greets onlookers with the wave of her flags as she passes by.

American Queen Steamboat Company

Cruising The Mighty Mississippi

Cruising the Mighty Mississippi

American Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC.comAmerican Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC

7 best Mississippi River cruises

Mississippi River cruises have surged in popularity in recent decades. They are especially appealing to mature travelers looking to enjoy guided tours of top cities and small towns in several Southern and Midwestern states.

Add in regionally inspired cuisine enjoyed aboard a luxurious river ship, plus the camaraderie of other culturally curious travelers, and cruising the most celebrated river in the United States promises satisfaction on multiple levels.

Two major cruise lines sail the Mississippi, which stretches 2,340 miles from New Orleans to Minneapolis-St. Paul: American Cruise Lines and Viking . Each line offers several similar itineraries ranging from eight to 23 days, but the ships themselves differ. Some are retro-inspired paddlewheelers, others sleek modern riverboats. The onboard dining and entertainment, as well as the excursions in port, also vary across the lines.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

We've rounded up the best Mississippi River cruises for seniors, history buffs and Americana lovers, so you can find your perfect U.S. river cruise itinerary based on your interests and travel preferences.

Best cruise for Civil War history: Lower Mississippi (round trip from New Orleans)

The Deep South attracts history buffs with its Civil War battlefields and cemeteries and 18th- and 19th-century mansions guarded by regiments of live oaks. Both cruise lines offer a Lower Mississippi river cruise, sailing round-trip from New Orleans, but only one features multiple excursions geared to those with a keen interest in the 19th-century conflict.

On American Cruise Lines' eight-day New Orleans to New Orleans itinerary , cruisers can visit Vicksburg, Mississippi, where the National Military Park commemorates the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. In Louisiana's capital, Baton Rouge, a guided excursion explores critical locations in the Civil War's Battle of Baton Rouge and Port Hudson.

Other ports bring to life the pre-war South. In Oak Alley, Louisiana, guests can tour a Greek Revival mansion on a sugar plantation built and maintained by slaves. While no Civil War fighting took place in Natchez, Mississippi, the city is home to hundreds of lavish mansions from the era and the Historic Natchez Cemetery, which dates to 1822.

This itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on four American Cruise Lines ships, ranging from the 150-passenger classic paddlewheeler American Heritage to the 180-passenger modern riverboat American Serenade. American Cruise Lines is known for its regionally inspired cuisine, served with complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner, plus complimentary cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and hosted entertainment in the main lounges.

Some excursions and a pre-cruise hotel stay in the Big Easy are included in the cruise fare. You can book additional day tours for an extra cost.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

If you're especially passionate about Civil War history, look for American Cruise Lines' special Civil War-themed cruises on limited dates, which allow a deeper dive into the period. These include a nine-day Lower Mississippi itinerary from Memphis to New Orleans (or vice versa).

In addition to visiting monuments and museums, you'll enjoy onboard lectures and presentations and interaction with other Civil War buffs. These sailings are aboard 150-passenger American Heritage and 180-guest American Melody, American Serenade, American Splendor and American Symphony.

Best cruise for music: Lower Mississippi (New Orleans to Memphis)

If you love the musical genres of the South, a Mississippi River cruise from New Orleans to Memphis (or vice versa) should be your choice.

From Crescent City, the birthplace of American jazz, to Memphis, known as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n Roll, this itinerary celebrates the region's homegrown rhythms. Both cruise lines offer itineraries between New Orleans and Memphis, but Viking features more excursions and onboard experiences tailored to music lovers.

Viking's 12-day Heart of the Delta itinerary includes a two-night pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans. This allows ample time to enjoy the city's street musicians and jazz clubs.

In Baton Rouge, you can visit the Capitol Park Museum, which showcases exhibits dedicated to Louisiana's musical heritage and Mardi Gras traditions. While in Natchez, Mississippi, classical music (played on a 1903 Steinway piano) and Southern cuisine are the stars of the excursion to Lansdowne and Joseph Stone House.

The port call in Greenville, Mississippi, is steeped in the blues with a chance to visit a museum dedicated to hometown legend B.B. King. The grand finale of the cruise is two nights in Memphis, where you can enjoy all things blues, barbecue and Elvis Presley.

Viking is a newcomer to the Mississippi River, and all sailings are aboard the 386-guest Viking Mississippi. The riverboat debuted in 2022 and features a modern Scandinavian design. Itinerary departures are available in 2024 and 2025.

Passengers can enjoy a sun terrace with an aft infinity pool and an Explorer's Lounge with panoramic forward views of the Mississippi. The Restaurant serves both Southern regional cuisine and global favorites, and the ship welcomes local musicians onboard for evening entertainment.

Related: Meet the only line that cruises from Washington, DC. Here's where it'll take you

Best cruise for art and architecture: Upper Mississippi

An Upper Mississippi cruise between St. Louis, Missouri, and St. Paul, Minnesota, provides access to some of the top architectural landmarks and artistic treasures of the American Heartland — from Eero Saarinen's soaring Gateway Arch to Frank Lloyd Wright's inimitable Taliesin.

Both cruise lines offer Upper Mississippi sailings from July through September. Viking and American Cruise Lines' itineraries and excursions are our picks for fans of American art and architecture.

Viking River Cruises' American Heartland itinerary sails from St. Louis to St. Paul (or vice versa) and runs 12 days with pre- and post-cruise stays in 2024 and 2025. You'll explore architectural gems aboard Viking Mississippi, itself an example of sleek, Scandinavian-inspired nautical architecture.

Highlights include St. Louis, where you'll admire Saarinen's circa-1965 Gateway Arch, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis featuring a 41-million-piece mosaic and the Renaissance Revival-style City Hall. From Dubuque, Iowa, you can head to Spring Green, Wisconsin, to visit Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright's private home, studio and school from 1911 to 1959.

After a day in Redwing, Minnesota, known for its pottery studios, you'll end your journey in the Twin Cities, home to the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art in Minneapolis and well-preserved Victorian buildings in St. Paul.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

American Cruise Line's nine-day Upper Mississippi river cruise covers much of the same ground, with a few differences. Sailings are available on the 150-passenger paddlewheeler American Heritage as well as on three sleek new 180-guest riverboats, American Melody, American Serenade and American Symphony. They're offered between June and late September/early October in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

Beyond the landmarks of St. Louis, highlights include Hannibal, Missouri, where you can visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, and Dubuque, Iowa, known for its colorful Victorian mansions. (An excursion to the Field of Dreams featured in the 1989 Kevin Costner movie is also available.)

Winona, Minnesota, boasts some of the state's most architecturally significant buildings, many featuring the beautiful stained glass for which the city is known. Then it's off to Red Wing, Minnesota, where you can explore the Pottery Museum before completing your journey in the Twin Cities.

Best extended cruise: Complete Mississippi

Want it all? You can visit 18 ports in six states on a 23-day Mississippi River journey from New Orleans to St. Paul. These itineraries are offered by both American Cruise Lines and Viking, and are perfect for seniors with plenty of time to explore.

American Cruise Lines offers the 23-day Complete Mississippi Cruise in 2024, 2025 and 2026, with sailings available on three 180-passenger modern river ships: American Melody, American Serenade and American Symphony.

After a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, passengers journey through all aspects of American history. You'll visit ports known for ornate mansions (Oak Alley and St. Francisville, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi), Civil War battles (Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Vicksburg, Mississippi), music (Memphis and Greenville, Tennessee) and architecture (St. Louis and Dubuque, Iowa). You'll also call on a historic Missouri trading post in Cape Girardeau (a French river port).

Viking River Cruises' 22-day Grand Mississippi Voyage , available in 2024 aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi, also embarks in New Orleans and visits 16 ports in nine states as it cruises north to St. Paul, Minnesota.

During this sailing, you'll overnight in Memphis, so there's time to fully savor barbecue, the blues and Elvis Presley's Graceland. A port call in Paducah, Kentucky, lets you explore the National Quilt Museum and colorful street murals.

You can enjoy excursions in Missouri's most famous big city (St. Louis) and small town (Hannibal) and then visit three ports in Iowa known for their historic architecture and agriculture (including a tour of the John Deere Pavilion). Learn about the Norwegian heritage of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and get to know the eagles and pottery of Red Wing, Minnesota, before disembarking in St. Paul.

Bottom line

History buffs and Americana lovers will find plenty to enjoy on a Mississippi River cruise. Your ship will stop in major cities and lesser-known towns, offering excursions to historic sites and evenings spent enjoying locally inspired cuisine and regional music.

The two cruise lines sailing America's most legendary river offer itineraries for every interest on ships designed with mature travelers in mind. Whether you want to visit Civil War sites, see top architectural landmarks or enjoy our country's best-loved musical genres, these two lines will offer a Mississippi River itinerary that will help you do it — in comfort and style as you make new friends on board.

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Tunica Queen Riverboat - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Mississippi River Cruises

Stretching for 2,350 miles down the United States, from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the "Mighty Mississippi" offer a different type of cross-country journey for the curious explorer—one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture.

Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private verandas, spacious public areas and our signature, clean Scandinavian design, reimagined for the Mississippi River.

NEW! Mississippi Delta Explorer

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America’s Heartland

New Orleans & Southern Charms

America’s Great River

NEW! Upper Mississippi Explorer

Grand Mississippi Voyage

NEW! The Big Easy to the Gateway City

NEW! Mississippi River Odyssey

Heart of the Delta

Highlights of mississippi river cruises.

A Mississippi River cruise offers the rare opportunity to sail through America's heartland on the world’s #1 river cruise line. Explore picturesque towns and boom cities; take in views of pastoral farms and towering bluffs; and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture with an included excursion in every port. Here are a few highlights Viking reveals to you:

• Festive French Quarter and Creole cuisine in New Orleans
• Cajun heritage in Baton Rouge
• Civil War history at Vicksburg National Military Park
• Memphis BBQ, Graceland and appreciation of the Delta Blues
• Steamboat sailings with diverse wildlife sightings
• Mark Twain's boyhood home and America’s literary history
• Up close look at America’s national symbol, the bald eagle
• Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the pioneering spirit of the Midwest
• Norwegian cultural experience at Vesterheim
• Intricate locks and dams of the Upper Mississippi

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Reservations

The Delta Queen will offer 3-10 night cruises operating throughout the Mississippi River and its tributaries following a multi-million dollar refurbishment including new boilers and many other safety upgrades.

Please sign up below to be among the first to receive updates on the project and notifications when reservations open.  Use the selections below to let us know which routes you’d be most interested in cruising aboard the Legendary Delta Queen.

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Advanced public reservations are taken online. Bookings open four weeks in advance of cruise date.

Sightseeing Cruise

Go sightseeing aboard an authentic paddlewheel boat on the Mississippi River.

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 hours
• Users Ages: All ages
• Clock Start time: 11:00 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
• Calendar Start time: Please refer to our calendar for updated start times.
• Info Booking: Public reservations can be booked online four weeks in advance

Sightseeing on the Mississippi River

Welcome aboard the authentic  La Crosse Queen  paddlewheeler on the upper Mississippi River! On our sightseeing tours, while the  La Crosse Queen  paddles the main channel of the river, your guide will explain facts and trivia of the historical and present day river, as well as point out local points of interest. Watch for eagles and other wildlife as we cruise past steep bluffs adjacent to the  Great River Road  — designated by AAA as one of the most scenic areas in America! Then as you near Lock & Dam No.7 in Dresbach, Minnesota, we will explain the locking process to you! Beer, wine, cocktails, soda, and concessions are available for purchase. We can provide a luncheon for groups of 30 and more, just inquire!

Check out the schedule here or call us directly at (608)-784-8523 for more information.

Related Cruises

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Mississippi River Private Charters

Celebrate a special occasion with a private paddlewheel boat cruise on the Upper Mississippi River!

• Most Popular
• Clock 6:00 p.m.
• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Saturday Dinner Cruise

Feast on a delicious chicken and prime rib dinner while relaxing on this Mississippi River tour!

• Clock Wednesday's and Friday's at 5:30 p.m. & Saturday's and Sunday's at 3:30 p.m.
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Pizza Cruise

Enjoy an afternoon on the Mighty Mississippi River while eating free pizza on this fun boat tour!

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Mississippi River Dinner Jazz Cruise

Step on board and cruise with us into the night where the sleepless activity of America's busiest port buzzes. The sounds of a lively jazz band fill the air as you enjoy a lavish Creole buffet in elegantly appointed dining rooms. See details

Historical River Cruise

View the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and be entertained by a historian narrator with a detailed description of New Orleans landmarks, history, vessel information, and river lore. See details

Weekend Jazz Brunch

Enjoy delicious brunch delicacies as you cruise down the Mighty Mississippi River while listening to the lively sounds of a traditional New Orleans Jazz band See details

Valentine's Day River Cruise

Mother's Day Bubbly Brunch

Fourth of July Celebration Cruise

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See the sights & sounds of the river

“Amazing and worth a visit. Took the Christmas dinner cruise and had two hours of fun. Nice meal from an attentive staff to excellent music from their in house band. Sights of the Mississippi at night against the lights of Memphis was awesome and highly recommended.” Luke F.

“This Place is just absolutely Beautiful, It is peaceful and calming and nothing was better then to have My First Cruise on this bus and dance with 2 little girls that I met there and they were really week and I would love to go back!” Nijah H.

“Spent my bday last year on the river and I really enjoyed myself. The food and music were both great. Any couples looking for something new to do in Memphis on a Friday or Saturday night give the dinner cruise a chance.” Omar D.

“We had a good time and the young man who was are first mate was very knowledgeable and did a great job, he was funny!” David C.

“Our group did the evening cruise and had a phenomenal time out on the river. The food was okay, the band was great, and the views out on the river were fantastic. Definitely a fun non-Beale Street option!” Robert L.

“Awesome time, band was great, food and drinks were great!! I highly recommend checking it out. We did the dinner cruise.” S.G.

“My Fiancé and I had a really great time on the Dinner Cruise. The employees were wonderful, the Music was great, and the food was also very good! We will definitely go on another cruise!!” Theresa R.

“Staff was outstanding and so friendly. The ambitious was great. Can't say enough about the entertainment, the kept the audience so involved it was the most fun my wife and I have had in years. Thank you!!” Jimmy H.

“Tour guide is so funny and knows a lot of the history. This is a fun tour where you learn why you Don't swim in the Mississippi!” ML A.

Enjoy Dinner and Music on the River

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Information About American Q ueen Voyages

American q ueen voyages has made the difficult decision to shut down..

Despite great efforts by our team, crew and partners, American Queen Voyages (AQV) unfortunately has been unable to rebound from the effects of the pandemic. The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, AQV has become financially unsustainable.

We are therefore shutting down the business, and all future AQV cruises have been cancelled.

We are deeply proud of our crew and the outstanding travel experiences and service we have provided to our guests. As we reflect on the journey we have shared over the years, we are filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving our guests, partners and agents and for being part of our incredible local communities.

It has been an honor to bring joy to so many lives, and we are deeply touched by the relationships we have formed and the memorable experiences we have created.

We sincerely regret any inconvenience this decision causes. Our goal is to ensure a smooth process for all AQV stakeholders.

or visit www.AQVrefunds.com

Why is American Queen Voyages shutting down?

Despite our best efforts, demand for overnight cruises has not recovered following the pandemic, and AQV has become financially unsustainable.

We thank you for your support and deeply regret any inconvenience this causes you.

I have an American Queen Voyages overnight cruise booked. Should I still expect to go?

All future AQV cruises have been cancelled. We sincerely regret any inconvenience this may cause.

Will I receive a refund? How long will that take?

You should expect to be fully refunded for your cruise deposits.

For information about the refund process, please CLICK HERE or visit www.AQVrefunds.com .

Where can I go for additional assistance?

Please call toll-free (888) 202-5784, or (747) 288-6437 for calls originating outside of the U.S. or Canada.

Vendor, Supplier, Partner and Port Services FAQ

What does this mean for vendors, suppliers, partners and port services.

You have played an important role in enabling AQV to provide outstanding travel experiences and service to our guests.

As AQV is no longer operating, our goal is to facilitate an orderly wind-down of our relationship with you.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience, and we thank you for your support.

I have an outstanding invoice. How can I submit that?

Please CLICK HERE or call toll-free (888) 504-8055, or (747) 263-0163 for calls originating outside of the U.S. or Canada.

Love Exploring

Revealed: The Most Scenic River Cruises In North America

Posted: January 11, 2024 | Last updated: January 11, 2024

Rolling on the river

Viking Mississippi Holiday Season cruise, USA

It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas markets cruise, and as much as we love the ones in Germany and Austria, nothing beats a festive float down the Mississippi. Highlights on  this cruise , which snakes from Memphis to New Orleans, include stop-offs at Natchez, whose many historic buildings are festooned with Christmas lights, and Vicksburg, whose independent boutiques are great places to pick up presents. This is also a great cruise for twitchers – a huge number of bird species flock to this stretch of the Mississippi for winter. 

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M.S. Dixie II Lake Tahoe cruise, California, USA

Say hello to one of America’s most spectacular lake cruises. Your mode of transport for this sail across Lake Tahoe will be the M.S Dixie II – the lake’s biggest boat. The sunset dinner cruises are popular with couples, although we recommend the scenic daytime tours, which are a great way to explore North America’s largest alpine lake. This high-altitude body of water spreads into two states (California and Nevada), contains enough water to cover California with 14 inches of water and is deeper than the Empire State Building is tall.  

Le Petit Navire Lachine Canal tour, Québec, Canada

If crowded cruise liners and transatlantic crossings don’t appeal, consider this leisurely sail along Canada’s 14-kilometer Lachine Canal, which slices through the southern section of Montréal, a city famous for its historic architecture. Don’t know your dingle from your dewater? You’ll gain a wonderful insight into the construction of this historic waterway as you pass through its locks, and you’ll also enjoy fantastic views of Montréal’s skyline. Your mode of transport is rather special too – a carbon-neutral, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat. 

American Cruise Lines Alaska Inside Passage cruise, Alaska, USA

Alaska’s Inside Passage is an inland route weaving between islands on the Pacific Northwest coast and along glacier-lined fjords. Inside Passage cruises offer a different perspective on Alaska to coastal cruises, relying on smaller ships to reach more remote ports of call. Highlights of this cruise include the Strait of Georgia, where you’ll sail between Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and the glacier-fed waters of Frederick Sound – a brilliant whale watching spot.

Now check out the fabulous cruising facts you won't believe

Northwest Pioneers Cruise, Oregon and Washington, USA

As much as we love the mighty Mississippi, this brilliant river cruise , which wiggles through Oregon and Washington, is a fantastic reminder that there are plenty of other breathtakingly beautiful waterways to explore. On this adventure, you’ll sail along the Columbia River – the largest in America’s Pacific Northwest – and Snake River, which is the Columbia River’s largest tributary. It’s a great way to see some of America’s most underrated destinations, including the town of Astoria, which is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.

American Cruise Lines Puget Sound and San Juan Islands Cruise, Washington, USA

This seven-day cruise provides a brilliant insight into one of America’s most wildlife-rich regions: Washington state’s Puget Sound, America’s second largest estuary; and the San Juan Islands, a cluster of 172 islands and reefs where you’re likely to spot wildlife including whales and eagles. Don’t miss the chance to explore Port Townsend, sandwiched between Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and famous for its Victorian-era architecture. 

Viking America’s Heartland cruise, Upper Mississippi, USA

This is one of the best Mississippi cruises for anyone keen to learn about the people who shaped this part of the US, whether it’s the Norwegians who migrated here during the 1800s or the farmers who made this region one of America’s top culinary destinations. Stops include the Missouri city of St Louis, once known as the Gateway to the West; Hannibal, which was the setting for Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn;  and the Iowan city of Dubuque, home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Viking Heart of the Delta cruise, USA

An eight-day cruise between Memphis and New Orleans, Viking’s Heart of the Delta cruise takes in the Mississippi’s best bits, including many listed monuments and buildings. For history buffs, highlights will include St Francisville, where there’s a whopping 140 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Natchez, which has more listed buildings than any other American city. If you’re short on time, put Stanton Hall, which was built in the 1850s, at the top of your list – this Greek revival-style property is famous for its ornate mirrored parlors.  

James River Batteau Company Batteau River tour, Virginia, USA

Short on time? Opt for this scenic river tour . Your mode of transport for this float along Virginia’s James River will be one of the beautiful wooden boats which have sailed this waterway for years. The two-hour tour along the river, which is Virginia’s longest, is a great way to see its wildlife – bald eagles, river otters and ospreys are regularly spotted. It’s a rather relaxed affair, and passengers are encouraged to cool off with a swim in the river. 

Discover the beloved cruise ships that will never sail again

American Queen Voyages Clarkston to Portland cruise, USA

A brilliant cruise for history fans, this 10-day Snake River and Columbia River cruise starts in Clarkston and finishes in Vancouver, Washington – the route undertaken by explorers Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark in the early 1800s. It’s also a route lined with natural wonders, including Columbia Gorge, which slices through the Cascade Mountains, and Idaho’s Hell’s Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon and can be explored on a high-speed boat ride. The Columbia River stretch is where you’re most likely to see bison, elk and deer too. 

American Queen Voyages Memphis to Nashville cruise, USA

This nine-day Memphis to Nashville   cruise is a fantastic way to check out some of the southern state’s prettiest towns, whether it’s Paducah in Kentucky, famed for its arts and craft museum or Clarksville, Tennessee. The latter is famous for its breweries, distilleries and wineries, while historic sites include the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town’s famous former residents, including Wilma Rudolph – the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. 

American Queen Voyages Mighty Mississippi Red Wing to New Orleans, USA

Can’t get enough of the Mighty Mississippi? Take a deep dive on  this 16-day cruise between Red Wing and New Orleans. It’s a fantastic way to discover the landscapes which surround America’s second longest river. The Minnesotan city of Winona, for example, is built on a sandbar and dates back to 9,500BC. The excursions on this cruise are fantastic too. Our favorite? In the town of Hannibal, Missouri, you’ll get the chance to make your very own clay pot out of Mississippi mud. 

Adventure Life Rivers of Adventure and Wine cruise, Oregon, USA

Your transport for this food and wine-themed cruise along the Columbia River is the Wilderness Legacy, a beautiful vessel designed to resemble a Victorian steamer. During the cruise, which starts and finishes in Portland, you’ll visit some of Oregon’s most important historical sites, but it’s the food and wine-themed stops that really set it apart. In the Hood River Valley, you can sign up for cycle rides between local vineyards, and in the Washington city of Walla Walla, you’ll visit a local chocolatier, olive oil producer, and brewery.  

American Queen Voyages St Louis to Cincinnati cruise, USA

Get more bang for your buck from your river cruise by signing up for American Queen Voyages’ exploration of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Stop-offs on this spectacular paddle steamer cruise include the Illinois city of Alton, which has a rich history and became a base for abolitionists in the 1800s, and Henderson in Kentucky. It’s another cruise with fantastic excursions, our favorite of which is a jet boat ride along a stunning section of the Ohio River near Carrollton, Kentucky. 

American Queen Voyages Montréal to Detroit cruise, Canada and US

An 11-day cruise between two very different cities, this Montréal to Detroit sailing provides plenty of opportunities for urban explorations – you’ll visit Montréal, Québec City , Toronto and Cleveland, as well as quaint riverside towns such as Gananoque, in the heart of the Thousand Islands archipelago in Eastern Ontario. This particular cruise offers fantastic value for money – the cost of your sailing covers a wide range of excursions, including visits to Toronto’s CN Tower and catamaran tours of Niagara Falls.

St Lawrence Cruise Lines, Canada’s Capital North cruise, Canada

This Ottawa River cruise is a great way to explore two very different regions of Canada – more specifically Ontario and Québec. The six-day sailing is packed with fascinating stop-offs, including the wildlife-filled Thousand Islands, which straddle the border between America and Canada, and Fort Wellington, built in 1812. Love a lock? For many passengers, the highlight of this river cruise is the famous Carillion Lock, an enormous 182-tonne structure which has a flow rate of 2,000 cubic meters of water per second. 

Pearl Seas Cruises Great Lakes and Georgian Bay cruise, US and Canada

Sign up for this 11-night cruise from Toronto to Milwaukee and you’ll get the chance to see four of the most beautiful Great Lakes, with time to visit attractions lining the route. For many, the highlight is Georgian Bay, where 30,000 islands form the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, and where you’ll be able to check out destinations such as traffic-free Mackinac Island by horse-drawn buggy. There are plenty of big hitters too – you’ll take a guided tour of Niagara Falls and visit the legendary Henry Ford Museum in Windsor, Ontario. 

Le Boat Rideau Canal Cruise, Ontario, Canada

For something completely different, consider hiring your own river boat for a bespoke exploration of Canada’s Rideau Canal. The waterway, which is the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest engineering feats, and the UNESCO-listed canal is lined with historic sites. Your mode of transport? A luxury river boat kitted out with a kitchen, spacious bathrooms and sun deck. They’re surprisingly easy to drive too, thanks to powerful thrusters which make navigating locks a breeze. 

American Cruise Lines Hudson River cruise, New York, USA

This New York round trip  takes in the Hudson River’s best bits, busting the myth that its most spectacular section weaves through the Big Apple. You’ll explore it on the American Star, which has room for just 100 passengers and offers several stop-offs in the beautiful Catskill Mountains area. The cruise is especially popular with fans of architecture, who come to admire historic buildings such as the Vanderbilt Mansion (the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt). 

Viking Great River cruise, Mississippi, USA

This is another fantastic option for history buffs – a Mississippi River cruise filled with visits to some of America’s most important historic sites. In Red Wing, Minnesota, you’ll learn how New Englanders joined forces with German and Irish migrants to farm the fertile landscape, and in Burlington, Iowa, you’ll discover how the arrival of both steamboats and the railroad transformed this once sleepy town, filled with listed buildings. Don’t miss the chance to stand under the famous Gateway Arch in St Louis, Missouri – a crossroads for nineteenth-century explorers. 

US Mailboat Cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee on the M/V Sophie C, New Hampshire, USA

Another fantastic option for anyone short on time, this cruise takes place on America’s oldest floating post office – a beautiful vessel which launched on Lake Winnipesaukee in 1945. During the two-hour cruise, you’ll visit several of Lake Winnipesaukee’s 253 islands, many of which were once home to indigenous people such as the Pennacooks. Don’t forget to send a postcard home – you’ll be able to post it on the boat, complete with an M/V Sophie C stamp.  

Craving a cruise? Check out our guide to the world’s most beautiful cruise ships

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