Mississippi River Gateway Cruise

1-Night Four Seasons Pre-Cruise Package – New Orleans

Be the first to experience this unprecedented offering, which includes an overnight stay at the newly opened, Four Seasons New Orleans in central downtown and close to major attractions. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, this landmark tower has been meticulously restored into a five-star hotel. Celebrate the spirit of the Big Easy before beginning your amazing journey along the Mississippi River.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Call 1-800-460-4518 for pricing and availability.

1- Night Four Seasons Pre-Cruise Package – St. Louis

Enjoy a 1-night stay at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, a resort-style hotel on the bank of the Mississippi River and located in the heart of downtown's entertainment district. This Pre-Cruise Package includes breakfast at the Four Seasons Cinder House Restaurant, concierge luggage service, and a Discover St. Louis city excursion which concludes at the ship the morning of your cruise.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. Enjoy a premium hotel stay, close to major attractions, where you can explore the area at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Call 1-800-460-4518 to reserve your space.

New Orleans City Excursion

New Orleans is a city full of history, intrigue, and colorful characters. Begin your journey through the “Big Easy” with a private tour guide, who will give you a local’s look at the area’s most famous attractions. Explore the most popular areas including the French Quarter, the colorful garden district, and the famous stately mansions which still remain in period form. There will be plenty of time for you to enjoy the local flavors, like chicory coffee, sweet beignets, and famous New Orleans Jazz music. 

Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in New Orleans, LA

A Walk Through The Capital

Experience the sights, sounds, and wonders of Baton Rouge, the Capital City of Louisiana. Led by a local expert guide, admire iconic and historical landmarks, while exploring many of the well-known downtown neighborhoods on foot. Enjoy fascinating stories of the area’s culture, politics, history and legends, while embracing the rich art, architecture, and nature on the route.  

Baton Rouge Spirits Experience & Tasting

The Baton Rouge region hosts a growing craft industry that is gaining popularity across the U.S.  On this guided exploration, you will visit a local brewery and distillery for a tour and tasting while learning about the process of creating these libations.

The Battle for Baton Rouge

Led by an expert historian, explore locations that were critical to the Battle of Baton Rouge. Visit the historic Magnolia Cemetery and stand upon the very ground where the most intense fighting of the battle took place. Next, explore the Port Hudson State Historic Site, view a film about the battle and siege, admire original Civil War artifacts, and witness a live firing of an original Civil War cannon.

Baton Rouge Shuttle Exploration

Enjoy this narrated coach ride and the many wonders that Baton Rouge has to offer. On a self-guided exploration, visit the Old State Capitol, discover the diversity of Louisiana history, industry, and culture at the Capitol Park Museum, visit the New State Capitol with its observation deck overlooking the city, and explore the world-class LSU Museum of Art. 

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Housed in a historic railroad depot on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (LASM) offers educational entertainment for visitors of all ages. LASM features exhibitions of internationally renowned artists, innovative programming in the state-of-the-art Pennington Planetarium, and an Ancient Egypt Gallery. 

Cajun Pride Swamp Excursion

Enjoy a narrated boat ride in the Manchac Swamp, a privately owned wildlife refuge, in a comfortable, covered boat, with walking room and open viewing from any seat. Swamp creatures are unafraid and responsive to our captain’s voice. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you will be able to get within a few feet of our “jumping gators” and other animals.

Rosedown Plantation & Garden Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

St. Francisville boasts some of the most beautiful plantations in the South. Immerse yourself in southern culture and hospitality while visiting one of these magnificent properties: The Rosedown Plantation. Local guides will share stories of the families who lived there and you will explore one of the few and largest privately-maintained formal gardens of the 19th century. 

USS Kidd

Known as the “Pirate of the Pacific,” this Fletcher-class destroyer is a memorial to the men and women that served in the American armed forces. Take a step back in time on this self-guided exploration to see artifacts and aircraft from World War II. This is an experience that will leave you speechless. 

Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens - Complimentary

Explore this early 19th-century antebellum mansion, reflecting all that is charming about the South. Expect gracious hospitality, historic tours of the house, and a lovingly restored garden. View the antiques found throughout, which include Waterford Crystal gasoliers, original pieces that belonged to the Quitman family, and period pieces that only add to the elegance of Monmouth. Wander around the meticulously nurtured gardens, amidst blooming magnolias, roses, azaleas and angel statuary, accompanied by the gentle humming of cicadas. Enjoy a southern cocktail in our courtyard while you take in the beauty and history of Natchez.

Natchez Views & Brews

Natchez Brewing Company is located in historic downtown Natchez, known as the oldest established city on the Mississippi River and a central hub during steamboat era. Their beer is crafted with a passion for local flavor and a love for tradition. Enjoy a step-by-step demonstration of the brewing process in the production area, from grain to glass. Learn about the ingredients, equipment, and styles of beer and sample the varieties of your choice.

Great River Outdoor Adventure

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventure at the Double C Ranch, perfect for nature-lovers and wildlife-enthusiasts. Aboard your private sport utility vehicle, guided by a local professional, enjoy breathtaking views as you travel through scenic hardwood forest, cattle fields, farmlands, and pine plantations. Back at the ranch, watch in awe during live tomahawk throwing, bullwhip popping, archery, and lasso throwing demonstrations. After, get some pointers on form and technique and prepare to shine and surprise yourself as you give it a try! Take home a survivor certificate and photos to share

Tombs & Tales

Explore the Historic Natchez Cemetery. Established in 1822, the occupants of this important cemetery tell tales of the history, grandeur, mystery, and tragedy of Natchez. Surrounded by majestic live oaks and set on the bluffs high above the Mississippi River, the beautiful grounds offer stunning panoramic views. Enjoy a guided walking excursion through the oldest section of the cemetery and hear fascinating stories about the residents buried there.

J.N. Stone House Tour & Concert

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the fourth-generation owner, Joseph Stone, whose family has owned the home for over 135 years. Mr. Stone will guide you on a personal tour of his unique antebellum-style home and explain the many different purposes it has served over the years. Here, you can explore his eclectic collection of period-specific artwork and one-of-a-kind antiques. The afternoon concludes in the music hall with refreshments as Mr. Stone performs an exclusive classical piano concert.

Historic Longwood Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

Longwood is just one of the elegant historic houses that graces the historic district of Natchez. This octagonal house epitomizes the rise and fall of the South. As the Civil War began, the workmen stopped construction and the house was never completed. View the finished first floor with original family furnishings and the upper five stories that are still a work in progress.

Frogmore Plantation

Our onboard experts tell many stories about southern life on a plantation; today you will learn what life was really like. Our insightful local guide will accompany you from the ship to the cotton and will be your escort as you explore the 1,800-acre cotton plantation. In intimate groups, owners Lynette and Buddy Tanner will delve into plantation life, including the housing, music, and relationships between the owners and workers. You will have the opportunity to pick cotton directly from the field, participate in a live gospel performance, and witness the progress in cotton technology from Eli Whitney’s original gin to their modern 900 bales-per-day computerized plantation.

Natchez Shuttle - Complimentary Excursion

Explore downtown Natchez on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. The shuttle will make regularly scheduled stops at Rosalie House, the Natchez Visitors Center, and the downtown shopping district.

Vicksburg National Military Park- Complimentary Excursion

A park ranger will guide you through the National Military Park which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. View the restored ironclad gunboat, USS Cairo, and the battlefield where the Siege of Vicksburg took place. Stop at the impressive Illinois Monument, modeled after the Roman Pantheon. The exploration concludes at the Visitors Center where life-sized exhibits and artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg are on display. 

Antebellum Vicksburg Experience

Experience what life was like in the 19th century on this one-of-a-kind adventure into Vicksburg’s oldest neighborhood. Visit Christ Episcopal Church (circa 1839). View the beautiful Tiffany windows of the present as you meet the rector who will recreate the stories of the past: cannon balls going off, services held every day during the siege, and the wounded in the basement. Explore two centuries of American architecture on a short walk along the brick streets to one of the neighborhood antebellum mansions. Here, with an exclusive private-guided tour by the owner, you will feel at home as you listen to first-hand family stories of the house and people who lived here 175 years ago. Feel 19th century history come alive as you sit in the parlor and enjoy special southern-inspired refreshments. 

Historic Vicksburg Comes to Life

Led by our local expert guide, this walking exploration of Vicksburg brings to life the history of this river city from 1820 to the present. Hear engaging stories of the citizens who once called Vicksburg home. Stroll along its brick streets and admire native flora as well as the variety of architecture styles found among the antebellum homes, churches, and museums.

New Orleans to St. Louis

As we make our way from historic New Orleans to St. Louis, revel in the sights and sounds of the spectacular Mississippi River. Spend time chatting with other passengers in the lounges or enjoy a cocktail on your private balcony.

Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum & Music Hall of Fame

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum was the first exhibition ever to have been developed by the Smithsonian Institution with another museum. The exhibition tells the story of musical pioneers who overcame racial and socio-economic barriers to create music that would influence American culture and the world. Visit the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Explore the museum and exhibition which introduces guests to some of the greatest musicians of all time, each who contributed the city’s musical legacy. Enjoy never-before-seen memorabilia, rare video performances and interviews, interactive exhibits, and more.

Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, and Grand Heartland cruises.

Memphis City Experience - Complimentary Excursion*

Relax and let your guide show you the highlights of this fascinating City on the Bluff.  Memphis is located on the Mississippi River at the northern end of the Mississippi Delta where the Blues was born, with a history linked to cotton and music. On this narrated excursion, view Mud Island, a Mississippi River Educational Park; Cotton Row, where 60% of the nation’s cotton was once traded; National Civil Rights Museum, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated; and The Pinch District, Memphis' first neighborhood which was a melting pot of immigrants, mostly Irish immigrants who came to America to escape the Potato Famine.

For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.

Signature Graceland Experience

No trip to Memphis is complete without a trip to the home of the “King of Rock n’ Roll,” Elvis Presley. The full Graceland experience will take you from Elvis’ humble beginnings through his rise to super stardom. See where Elvis lived, relaxed, and spent time with his family and friends. Explore the famous “Jungle Room” where the star recorded one of his final albums. Visit the many onsite museums where you can view Elvis' many jumpsuits and gold records, as well his collection of automobiles and custom jets.

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.

Historic Hayride

Travel through the quaint town of New Madrid on a beautiful hayride pulled by a John Deere Tractor. Begin on the picturesque, newly completed river-way before continuing on to the Historical Museum. Continue through town viewing the Higgerson School, Hunter Dawson State Historic Site, and the River Walk Gallery. Guests have the option of visiting any sites of their interest.

Paducah Exploration Shuttle

Discover downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums, including the Paducah Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads. Stop at the River Discovery Center, which celebrates Paducah’s maritime legacy, and the National Quilt museum, where you can view exhibits by talented quilters. Explore the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Civil War Museum & Tilghman House, an 1852 Greek revival home, which tells the story of Paducah’s influence during the Civil War. Take time for shopping and walking along the riverfront to view the many wall murals which chronicle Paducah’s past.

River Discovery Center

Paducah’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers makes it unique.  The city is home to some of the nation’s largest barge and towing companies. At the River Discovery Center, learn all about the inland waterways and the impact they have on the daily lives of local residents. You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits. 

Paducah City Excursion & National Quilt Museum

Let our local guide take you through the quaint city of Paducah. This tour has been carefully divided into three distinct sections to make sure you experience all that Paducah has to offer. First, tour the downtown as our local expert guide points out the areas’ many historical sites. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront where you will witness more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting elements of Paducah’s past. End the tour at the National Quilt Museum, the world's largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

Day of Cruising the Ohio River

Sit back and enjoy the gentle sounds of the paddlewheel as it churns the placid waters of the Ohio River. One of the highlights of this cruise is the chance to watch the ever-changing scenery as it passes by and experience the river as early explorers did centuries ago.

Day Fresh Brewery Exploration

Enjoy a guided exploration of the Anheuser-Busch InBev campus. Admire stunning views of the property as you learn about the company’s history, brewing methods, and the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to sip - from its beginnings as quality ingredients to the crisp taste of the finished product. After, visit the Clydesdale Paddock and Stables, the Beechwood Aging Cellars, historic Brewhouse, and the Bevo packaging facility. Receive a Day Fresh beer as a keepsake.

Discover St. Louis - Complimentary Excursion

This narrated exploration provides you with a wonderful overview of the city, including downtown St. Louis and the riverfront, Citygarden Sculpture Park, the historic neighborhoods of Soulard and Lafayette Square, Forest Park, and The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, a stunning church which rivals the cathedrals in Rome, Italy.  

Note: This excursion is only offered on select cruises ending in St. Louis, MO and on the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland itineraries.

Missouri History Museum

Enjoy a guided tour through two of the museum’s most popular exhibits; The 1904 World’s Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward, an event that attracted over 200,000 visitors to the opening day, and Seeking St. Louis, delve into the history of the Gateway City from its founding through the new millennium.

Note: This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO and on the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland itineraries.

Day Fresh Brewery Exploration

Enjoy a guided exploration of the Anheuser-Busch InBev campus. Admire stunning views of the property as you learn about the company’s history, brewing methods, and the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to sip - from its beginnings as quality ingredients to the crisp taste of the finished product. After, visit the Clydesdale Paddock and Stables, the Beechwood Aging Cellars, historic Brewhouse, and the Bevo packaging facility. Receive a Day Fresh beer as a keepsake.

Missouri Botanical Garden

Departure day. End your day by relaxing at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most popular public gardens.

1-Night Four Seasons Pre-Cruise Package – New Orleans

Be the first to experience this unprecedented offering, which includes an overnight stay at the newly opened, Four Seasons New Orleans in central downtown and close to major attractions. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, this landmark tower has been meticulously restored into a five-star hotel. Celebrate the spirit of the Big Easy before beginning your amazing journey along the Mississippi River.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Call 1-800-460-4518 for pricing and availability.

1- Night Four Seasons Pre-Cruise Package – St. Louis

Enjoy a 1-night stay at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, a resort-style hotel on the bank of the Mississippi River and located in the heart of downtown's entertainment district. This Pre-Cruise Package includes breakfast at the Four Seasons Cinder House Restaurant, concierge luggage service, and a Discover St. Louis city excursion which concludes at the ship the morning of your cruise.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. Enjoy a premium hotel stay, close to major attractions, where you can explore the area at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Call 1-800-460-4518 to reserve your space.

Day Fresh Brewery Exploration

Enjoy a guided exploration of the Anheuser-Busch InBev campus. Admire stunning views of the property as you learn about the company’s history, brewing methods, and the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to sip - from its beginnings as quality ingredients to the crisp taste of the finished product. After, visit the Clydesdale Paddock and Stables, the Beechwood Aging Cellars, historic Brewhouse, and the Bevo packaging facility. Receive a Day Fresh beer as a keepsake.

Missouri Botanical Garden

Departure day. End your day by relaxing at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most popular public gardens.

Day Fresh Brewery Exploration

Enjoy a guided exploration of the Anheuser-Busch InBev campus. Admire stunning views of the property as you learn about the company’s history, brewing methods, and the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to sip - from its beginnings as quality ingredients to the crisp taste of the finished product. After, visit the Clydesdale Paddock and Stables, the Beechwood Aging Cellars, historic Brewhouse, and the Bevo packaging facility. Receive a Day Fresh beer as a keepsake.

Discover St. Louis - Complimentary Excursion

This narrated exploration provides you with a wonderful overview of the city, including downtown St. Louis and the riverfront, Citygarden Sculpture Park, the historic neighborhoods of Soulard and Lafayette Square, Forest Park, and The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, a stunning church which rivals the cathedrals in Rome, Italy.  

Note: This excursion is only offered on select cruises ending in St. Louis, MO and on the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland itineraries.

Missouri History Museum

Enjoy a guided tour through two of the museum’s most popular exhibits; The 1904 World’s Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward, an event that attracted over 200,000 visitors to the opening day, and Seeking St. Louis, delve into the history of the Gateway City from its founding through the new millennium.

Note: This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO and on the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland itineraries.

Day of Cruising the Ohio River

Sit back and enjoy the gentle sounds of the paddlewheel as it churns the placid waters of the Ohio River. One of the highlights of this cruise is the chance to watch the ever-changing scenery as it passes by and experience the river as early explorers did centuries ago.

Paducah Exploration Shuttle

Discover downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums, including the Paducah Railroad Museum, featuring equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America’s railroads. Stop at the River Discovery Center, which celebrates Paducah’s maritime legacy, and the National Quilt museum, where you can view exhibits by talented quilters. Explore the Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Civil War Museum & Tilghman House, an 1852 Greek revival home, which tells the story of Paducah’s influence during the Civil War. Take time for shopping and walking along the riverfront to view the many wall murals which chronicle Paducah’s past.

River Discovery Center

Paducah’s location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers makes it unique.  The city is home to some of the nation’s largest barge and towing companies. At the River Discovery Center, learn all about the inland waterways and the impact they have on the daily lives of local residents. You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits. 

Paducah City Excursion & National Quilt Museum

Let our local guide take you through the quaint city of Paducah. This tour has been carefully divided into three distinct sections to make sure you experience all that Paducah has to offer. First, tour the downtown as our local expert guide points out the areas’ many historical sites. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront where you will witness more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting elements of Paducah’s past. End the tour at the National Quilt Museum, the world's largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

Historic Hayride

Travel through the quaint town of New Madrid on a beautiful hayride pulled by a John Deere Tractor. Begin on the picturesque, newly completed river-way before continuing on to the Historical Museum. Continue through town viewing the Higgerson School, Hunter Dawson State Historic Site, and the River Walk Gallery. Guests have the option of visiting any sites of their interest.

Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum & Music Hall of Fame

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum was the first exhibition ever to have been developed by the Smithsonian Institution with another museum. The exhibition tells the story of musical pioneers who overcame racial and socio-economic barriers to create music that would influence American culture and the world. Visit the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Explore the museum and exhibition which introduces guests to some of the greatest musicians of all time, each who contributed the city’s musical legacy. Enjoy never-before-seen memorabilia, rare video performances and interviews, interactive exhibits, and more.

Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, and Grand Heartland cruises.

Memphis City Experience - Complimentary Excursion*

Relax and let your guide show you the highlights of this fascinating City on the Bluff.  Memphis is located on the Mississippi River at the northern end of the Mississippi Delta where the Blues was born, with a history linked to cotton and music. On this narrated excursion, view Mud Island, a Mississippi River Educational Park; Cotton Row, where 60% of the nation’s cotton was once traded; National Civil Rights Museum, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated; and The Pinch District, Memphis' first neighborhood which was a melting pot of immigrants, mostly Irish immigrants who came to America to escape the Potato Famine.

For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.

Signature Graceland Experience

No trip to Memphis is complete without a trip to the home of the “King of Rock n’ Roll,” Elvis Presley. The full Graceland experience will take you from Elvis’ humble beginnings through his rise to super stardom. See where Elvis lived, relaxed, and spent time with his family and friends. Explore the famous “Jungle Room” where the star recorded one of his final albums. Visit the many onsite museums where you can view Elvis' many jumpsuits and gold records, as well his collection of automobiles and custom jets.

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 460-4518 for information.

For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.

New Orleans to St. Louis

As we make our way from historic New Orleans to St. Louis, revel in the sights and sounds of the spectacular Mississippi River. Spend time chatting with other passengers in the lounges or enjoy a cocktail on your private balcony.

Vicksburg National Military Park- Complimentary Excursion

A park ranger will guide you through the National Military Park which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. View the restored ironclad gunboat, USS Cairo, and the battlefield where the Siege of Vicksburg took place. Stop at the impressive Illinois Monument, modeled after the Roman Pantheon. The exploration concludes at the Visitors Center where life-sized exhibits and artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg are on display. 

Antebellum Vicksburg Experience

Experience what life was like in the 19th century on this one-of-a-kind adventure into Vicksburg’s oldest neighborhood. Visit Christ Episcopal Church (circa 1839). View the beautiful Tiffany windows of the present as you meet the rector who will recreate the stories of the past: cannon balls going off, services held every day during the siege, and the wounded in the basement. Explore two centuries of American architecture on a short walk along the brick streets to one of the neighborhood antebellum mansions. Here, with an exclusive private-guided tour by the owner, you will feel at home as you listen to first-hand family stories of the house and people who lived here 175 years ago. Feel 19th century history come alive as you sit in the parlor and enjoy special southern-inspired refreshments. 

Historic Vicksburg Comes to Life

Led by our local expert guide, this walking exploration of Vicksburg brings to life the history of this river city from 1820 to the present. Hear engaging stories of the citizens who once called Vicksburg home. Stroll along its brick streets and admire native flora as well as the variety of architecture styles found among the antebellum homes, churches, and museums.

Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens - Complimentary

Explore this early 19th-century antebellum mansion, reflecting all that is charming about the South. Expect gracious hospitality, historic tours of the house, and a lovingly restored garden. View the antiques found throughout, which include Waterford Crystal gasoliers, original pieces that belonged to the Quitman family, and period pieces that only add to the elegance of Monmouth. Wander around the meticulously nurtured gardens, amidst blooming magnolias, roses, azaleas and angel statuary, accompanied by the gentle humming of cicadas. Enjoy a southern cocktail in our courtyard while you take in the beauty and history of Natchez.

Natchez Views & Brews

Natchez Brewing Company is located in historic downtown Natchez, known as the oldest established city on the Mississippi River and a central hub during steamboat era. Their beer is crafted with a passion for local flavor and a love for tradition. Enjoy a step-by-step demonstration of the brewing process in the production area, from grain to glass. Learn about the ingredients, equipment, and styles of beer and sample the varieties of your choice.

Great River Outdoor Adventure

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventure at the Double C Ranch, perfect for nature-lovers and wildlife-enthusiasts. Aboard your private sport utility vehicle, guided by a local professional, enjoy breathtaking views as you travel through scenic hardwood forest, cattle fields, farmlands, and pine plantations. Back at the ranch, watch in awe during live tomahawk throwing, bullwhip popping, archery, and lasso throwing demonstrations. After, get some pointers on form and technique and prepare to shine and surprise yourself as you give it a try! Take home a survivor certificate and photos to share

Tombs & Tales

Explore the Historic Natchez Cemetery. Established in 1822, the occupants of this important cemetery tell tales of the history, grandeur, mystery, and tragedy of Natchez. Surrounded by majestic live oaks and set on the bluffs high above the Mississippi River, the beautiful grounds offer stunning panoramic views. Enjoy a guided walking excursion through the oldest section of the cemetery and hear fascinating stories about the residents buried there.

J.N. Stone House Tour & Concert

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the fourth-generation owner, Joseph Stone, whose family has owned the home for over 135 years. Mr. Stone will guide you on a personal tour of his unique antebellum-style home and explain the many different purposes it has served over the years. Here, you can explore his eclectic collection of period-specific artwork and one-of-a-kind antiques. The afternoon concludes in the music hall with refreshments as Mr. Stone performs an exclusive classical piano concert.

Historic Longwood Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

Longwood is just one of the elegant historic houses that graces the historic district of Natchez. This octagonal house epitomizes the rise and fall of the South. As the Civil War began, the workmen stopped construction and the house was never completed. View the finished first floor with original family furnishings and the upper five stories that are still a work in progress.

Frogmore Plantation

Our onboard experts tell many stories about southern life on a plantation; today you will learn what life was really like. Our insightful local guide will accompany you from the ship to the cotton and will be your escort as you explore the 1,800-acre cotton plantation. In intimate groups, owners Lynette and Buddy Tanner will delve into plantation life, including the housing, music, and relationships between the owners and workers. You will have the opportunity to pick cotton directly from the field, participate in a live gospel performance, and witness the progress in cotton technology from Eli Whitney’s original gin to their modern 900 bales-per-day computerized plantation.

Natchez Shuttle - Complimentary Excursion

Explore downtown Natchez on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. The shuttle will make regularly scheduled stops at Rosalie House, the Natchez Visitors Center, and the downtown shopping district.

A Walk Through The Capital

Experience the sights, sounds, and wonders of Baton Rouge, the Capital City of Louisiana. Led by a local expert guide, admire iconic and historical landmarks, while exploring many of the well-known downtown neighborhoods on foot. Enjoy fascinating stories of the area’s culture, politics, history and legends, while embracing the rich art, architecture, and nature on the route.  

Baton Rouge Spirits Experience & Tasting

The Baton Rouge region hosts a growing craft industry that is gaining popularity across the U.S.  On this guided exploration, you will visit a local brewery and distillery for a tour and tasting while learning about the process of creating these libations.

The Battle for Baton Rouge

Led by an expert historian, explore locations that were critical to the Battle of Baton Rouge. Visit the historic Magnolia Cemetery and stand upon the very ground where the most intense fighting of the battle took place. Next, explore the Port Hudson State Historic Site, view a film about the battle and siege, admire original Civil War artifacts, and witness a live firing of an original Civil War cannon.

Baton Rouge Shuttle Exploration

Enjoy this narrated coach ride and the many wonders that Baton Rouge has to offer. On a self-guided exploration, visit the Old State Capitol, discover the diversity of Louisiana history, industry, and culture at the Capitol Park Museum, visit the New State Capitol with its observation deck overlooking the city, and explore the world-class LSU Museum of Art. 

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Housed in a historic railroad depot on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (LASM) offers educational entertainment for visitors of all ages. LASM features exhibitions of internationally renowned artists, innovative programming in the state-of-the-art Pennington Planetarium, and an Ancient Egypt Gallery. 

Cajun Pride Swamp Excursion

Enjoy a narrated boat ride in the Manchac Swamp, a privately owned wildlife refuge, in a comfortable, covered boat, with walking room and open viewing from any seat. Swamp creatures are unafraid and responsive to our captain’s voice. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you will be able to get within a few feet of our “jumping gators” and other animals.

Rosedown Plantation & Garden Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

St. Francisville boasts some of the most beautiful plantations in the South. Immerse yourself in southern culture and hospitality while visiting one of these magnificent properties: The Rosedown Plantation. Local guides will share stories of the families who lived there and you will explore one of the few and largest privately-maintained formal gardens of the 19th century. 

USS Kidd

Known as the “Pirate of the Pacific,” this Fletcher-class destroyer is a memorial to the men and women that served in the American armed forces. Take a step back in time on this self-guided exploration to see artifacts and aircraft from World War II. This is an experience that will leave you speechless. 

New Orleans City Excursion

New Orleans is a city full of history, intrigue, and colorful characters. Begin your journey through the “Big Easy” with a private tour guide, who will give you a local’s look at the area’s most famous attractions. Explore the most popular areas including the French Quarter, the colorful garden district, and the famous stately mansions which still remain in period form. There will be plenty of time for you to enjoy the local flavors, like chicory coffee, sweet beignets, and famous New Orleans Jazz music. 

Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in New Orleans, LA