Mississippi River Cruises

Cruising the Mississippi River and its tributaries with American Cruise Lines is an extraordinary journey through history. From Colonial pioneers to entrepreneurs, much of America’s story has been forged – or fought – along their length. The Mississippi River is navigable from New Orleans, Louisiana to the Twin Cities of Minnesota, and forms a maritime corridor through the U.S. heartland.  American Cruise Lines’ modern fleet of brand new contemporary riverboats and traditional paddlewheelers go even further, with cruises exploring the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers, each offering its own unique view of the American South and Midwest.

From Mark Twain’s hometown of Hannibal, MO to exploring Civil War history in Vicksburg; experiencing the heart of American music in Memphis and Nashville while enjoying the exciting flavors of creole cuisine, the Mississippi River region is a premier cruising destination. Explore it today aboard the most modern fleet of small ships.

For a limited time, receive Free Airfare & Savings up to $1,200 on select Historic Mississippi River Cruises. 

​Historic Mississippi River Cruise

New Orleans, LA to New Orleans, LA

8 Days / 7 Nights
From
$3,920
$3,420
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Visit Oak Alley Plantation, Houmas House, and Natchez, and more as you enjoy this round-trip river cruise from New Orleans.
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Lower Mississippi River Cruise

Memphis, TN to New Orleans, LA

9 Days / 8 Nights
From
$4,125
$3,625
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Be treated to southern hospitality and vibrant onboard entertainment on your riverboat adventure between New Orleans and Memphis. Listen to the sounds of Graceland and learn about Civil War history in Vicksburg. Experience the culture of Louisiana, Tennessee, and Mississippi.
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Upper Mississippi River Cruise

St. Louis, MO/Alton, IL to St. Paul, MN

9 Days / 8 Nights
From
$4,530
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Surround yourself with the river landscapes that inspired Mark Twain - from St. Louis to Hannibal to St. Paul. Explore the scenic bluffs, gardens, and homes that define the region.
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Music Cities Cruise

Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN

9 Days / 8 Nights
From
$4,125
$3,625
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Tap your feet aboard American Melody and sail through the musical meccas of the country. Our soulful Memphis to Nashville river cruise combines history, music, and vibrant culture.
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Tennessee Rivers Cruise

Chattanooga, TN to Nashville, TN

9 Days / 8 Nights
From
$4,125
$3,725
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Cruise the Tennessee Valley aboard our newest modern riverboat. You'll make stops in Nashville, TN, Chattanooga, TN, Paducah, KY, and more. This journey includes the sounds of iconic music, the sights of Civil War history, and the smells of whiskey and bourbon.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Knoxville, TN to Nashville, TN

12 Days / 11 Nights
From
$7,030
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Cruise the Tennessee Rivers and discover The Great Smoky Mountains. On this 11-day land and cruise package, you will make stops in Nashville, TN, Chattanooga, TN, Paducah, KY, and more. Continue your journey with a personalized exploration of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
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Highlights of the Mississippi River Cruise

New Orleans, LA to New Orleans, LA

6 Days / 5 Nights
From
$2,955
$2,655
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Experience 'The Big Easy' like never before. From there, make your way to classic southern spots such as Houmas House, Oak Alley, and Baton Rouge.
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Complete Mississippi River Cruise

New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN

23 Days / 22 Nights
From
$16,640
$15,640
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The ultimate Mississippi cruise - traversing the entire length of the river - stopping at all of the most iconic ports in the region, including New Orleans, Memphis, Hannibal, Winona, and more.
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Grand Heartland Cruise

St. Paul, MN to New Orleans, LA

16 Days / 15 Nights
From
$9,675
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Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Upper Mississippi River and treat yourself to Blues and BBQ. Guests can choose their perfect itinerary whether aboard an American riverboat or authentic paddlewheeler.
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Mississippi River Gateway Cruise

New Orleans, LA to St. Louis, MO

12 Days / 11 Nights
From
$6,245
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Begin in the French Quarter of New Orleans and continue to Baton Rouge and Natchez. Explore the "Gateway to the West" via St. Louis, rock 'n' roll to Graceland, view Civil War landmarks, and stroll through the museums and art galleries of Paducah.
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Grand Ohio River Cruise

Pittsburgh, PA to St. Louis, MO

16 Days / 15 Nights
From
$7,935
$7,435
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Experience two of America’s greatest rivers on this 11-day adventure through the heartland. Enjoy the idyllic countryside of the Ohio River and the wonder of the mighty Mississippi that inspired Mark Twain.
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*Offer valid on New Bookings only

Featured Ports

New Orleans, LA

Vicksburg, MS

Memphis, TN

Hannibal, MO

What Sets Us Apart

Made For You: A Personalized Mississippi River Cruise

As you cruise the legendary Mississippi River, our dedicated crew will treat you with gracious hospitality and the utmost care. Enjoy the intimacy and comfort of small-ship cruising, where our crew will quickly learn your name and preferences as you travel with us. Our onboard experts don’t just lecture, they spend time with guests aboard and on shore, giving real insight and depth to each destination visited. Many even dine with our guests.

Unique Excursions, Local Guides

From New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN, enjoy well-customized excursions, led by engaging local guides who live and work in these great port cities of America’s Heartland. Get a backstage pass to Elvis’ Graceland and the legendary Sun Studio in Memphis. Explore the boyhood town of Mark Twain in Hannibal and be treated to a live show at the Grand Old Opry in Nashville.

Spacious Accommodations

Whether on board a modern riverboat or newly refurbished paddlewheeler, American Cruise Lines is proud to offer the largest staterooms in the industry, with full-size bathrooms, and private balconies offering the perfect vantage point from which to admire the scenic rolling river views. Guests can also look forward to discovering spacious lounges and quiet nooks to gather with fellow travelers.

Onboard Experience

Travel to the birthplace of jazz, blues, and rock–n-roll as our talented onboard musicians entertain you with songs born along the river. Dine on the finest Cajun and Creole and mouth-watering Memphis BBQ prepared by our team of master chefs. Enjoy a complimentary cocktail hour every evening, a time when you can share the day’s adventures with like-minded travelers, while enjoying a refreshing mint julip.