Discover what makes the Mississippi River legendary on this 11-day adventure. As you board your classic paddlewheeler, be greeted by our gracious crew, dedicated to making your journey incredible.
Explore the French Quarter of New Orleans, brimming with art, music, and culture. Led by our local guides, experience the spirit of Baton Rouge and enjoy the grand historic homes of Natchez. Step onto a Civil War battlefield in Vicksburg, before traveling to Memphis to visit the iconic Sun Studio, where many famous musicians started their careers. Peruse the fascinating museums and art galleries in Paducah known as “Quilt City,” and take a tram ride to the top of the famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
At the end of your enriching day, retreat to the comfort of the ship and share a delicious meal in the company of our onboard expert, who doesn’t just lecture, but also spends quality time with guests.
Ask about our Current Savings and our Complimentary Pre-cruise Packages which include a premium hotel stay and transportation to the ship.
Pre-Cruise
On our Mississippi River Gateway cruise, we offer a variety of convenient Pre-Cruise options, providing you will a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. For cruises starting in New Orleans, choose from our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package or our Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay.
For cruises departing from St. Louis, choose from our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package or our Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay in Alton, IL, close to the docking location.
Pre-Cruise Packages and Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.
Day 1 - New Orleans, LA
Welcome to New Orleans, world-renowned for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene, and unique cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African and American influences. This vivacious city is the perfect destination to begin your Mississippi River experience. Once on board, enjoy a special welcoming reception, a chance to mingle with fellow guests as you set sail for an incredible journey.
Day 2 - Baton Rouge, LA
Meaning “red stick,” Baton Rouge’s 1699 French name references an ancient geographical marker and reflects the city’s long history. As Louisiana’s state capital, the city still echoes with tales of the characters who lived here, most notably Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. Learn about his dramatic career at the magnificent 1852 Old State Capitol Museum and visit Long’s 1932 State Capitol building, an architectural marvel of granite and marble.
Explore many of the well-known downtown neighborhoods, while embracing the rich art, architecture, and nature along the route. If you feel adventurous, take a narrated boat ride through a Louisiana swamp.
Day 3 - Natchez, MS
In Natchez, grand homes sparkle like jewels, adorning the bluffs that tower above the river. Since 1716, when the French first built a fort here among the Natchez Indians, the town has grown to boast elaborate mansions built by planters in the 1800s to flaunt their wealth.
With no Civil War fighting here, Natchez still features hundreds of antebellum homes and buildings. Each of these architectural treasures has its own story to tell, creating a charming downtown that embodies the essence of southern charm and hospitality.
Explore on your own or enjoy an array of curated, guided explorations. Tour the elaborate townhomes, visit a working cotton farm to learn about the crop’s importance in history and today, and discover the historic Under-The-Hill Saloon. Drift through quaint shops, nibble on local delights, and enjoy the expansive views of the majestic river valley from the bluff-top park.
Day 4 - Vicksburg, MS
Vicksburg is a place of drama. During the Civil War, the struggle to control Vicksburg proved to be a major turning point. The well-fortified connection between river and rail transportation was known as “The Gibraltar of the West.” A narrated exploration of the well-preserved National Military Park battlefield enlivens this powerful story and highlights its significance.
President Abraham Lincoln summarized Vicksburg’s importance clearly when he said, “Vicksburg is the key. The war can never be brought to a close until that key is in our pocket… They can defy us from Vicksburg… As valuable as New Orleans will be to us, Vicksburg will be more so.”
Several other excursion options are available, including exploring museums and historic sites with local expert guides or on your own. Walk aboard an enormous Army Corps of Engineers towboat. Stroll along the charming series of murals painted along the adjacent floodwall and read panels detailing the Vicksburg stories they illustrate.
Day 5 - Day of River Cruising
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 guests in the lounges or enjoy a cocktail on your private balcony.
Day 6 - Memphis, TN
Welcome to Memphis, a historic city which rises picturesquely up the hillside from the river, adorned with grand oak trees, lush parks, and historic sites that commemorate everything from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. Immerse yourself in its rich musical legacy as you stroll along legendary Beale Street, where music flows from every doorway, and savor the rich flavors and aromas of the city’s famous BBQ.
Choose from an array of customized excursions. Perhaps take a narrated motorcoach excursion to get an overview of this dramatic city. Or indulge in the glamour of the Peabody Hotel. Explore the home, life, and career of Elvis Presley or make your pilgrimage to Sun Studio, where he recorded his earliest smash-hits.
The comfort of your ship awaits at the nearby Beale Street Landing, docked along an impressive, recently renovated city park. Be entertained on board by local musicians as you savor a nightcap.
Day 7 - New Madrid, MO
Originally founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodriguez, early settlers of New Madrid were required to become citizens of Spain in order to reside here. Today, New Madrid is a living monument to early American history with sites including the Kochtitsky Home, the Trail of Tears, and Veterans Park.
Day 8 - Paducah, KY
Residing at the confluence of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah will make you feel as if you stepped back in time. As you walk the streets of this Chickasaw village site, discover Paducah’s rich history. View the Wall-to-Wall Mural Program, a collection of over 50 murals that covers a number of subjects including Native American history, the Civil War, and area landmarks such as the Old Carnegie Library. Led by our expert guide, tour this enchanting city with a stop National Quilt Museum.
Day 9 - Day of River Cruising
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 10 - St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is known as the “Gateway to the West." Admire the scenic riverfront, highlighted by the majestic Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Enjoy St. Louis’ many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and the Missouri History Museum.
Day 11 - St. Louis, MO
End your journey in this unique city with frontier-town roots and Midwest modesty. On your travels home, reflect upon your many wonderful adventures, or choose to explore more in the Gateway to the West.
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.
Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after breakfast 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.
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 hotel, 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.
Travel through three centuries of history, legends, and romance as you encounter “The City That Care Forgot!” on this exciting excursion. Exploring the highlights of New Orleans, you will see many of the major sights and attractions including the famous French Quarter, homes of former Kings and Queens of Mardi Gras, stately mansions, and the exclusive Garden District.
Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in New Orleans, LA
Led by an expert Civil War historian, explore locations that were critical to the Battle of Baton Rouge and Port Hudson. Visit the historic Magnolia Cemetery and stand upon the very ground where the most intense fighting of the battle of Baton Rouge took place. Next, explore Port Hudson, the location of the longest military siege in U.S. history. View a film about the battles and siege, and admire original Civil War artifacts from Port Hudson. Be treated to an interpretive program conducted by Louisiana State Park Rangers.
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. The art galleries showcase changing fine art exhibitions and selections from a permanent collection. The Ancient Egypt Gallery houses ancient artifacts and a Ptolemaic-era mummy that rests in a re-created rock-cut tomb. The Irene W. Pennington Planetarium features sky shows, large-format films, visual music shows, and galleries devoted to space science.
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 as you explore 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 along the route.
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 and was named for Medal of Honor recipient Isaac C. Kidd Sr., who was killed aboard his flagship USS Arizona during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Take a step back in time on a self-guided exploration as you view artifacts and aircraft from World War II.
Enjoy a narrated boat ride in the Manchac Swamp, a privately owned wildlife refuge. Relax 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.” Other animals to be on the lookout for include nutria, ibis, turtles, herons, raccoons, egrets, and more.
St. Francisville boasts some of the most beautiful estates in the South. Immerse yourself in southern culture and hospitality while visiting one of these magnificent properties, Rosedown. Local guides will regale you with stories of the families who lived there and give insight into the culture of the South. Enjoy exploring one of the few and largest privately-maintained formal gardens of the 19th century.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nineteen historical buildings, dating from 1790’s to 1900, are a restored tribute to Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins, a modern 1,800-acre working cotton estate with a computerized farm and gin. Before beginning your exploration, meet the owner who will explain the farming and ginning operations. Participate in picking cotton and removing the seeds and tour a rare, steam engine gin listed on the National Register of Historic Properties.
Be seated in the hand-hewn log cabin and listen to narration and the vocalist’s songs highlighting the history of southern plantations, including the Constitution, Emancipation Proclamation, and accurate statistics of the enslaved and planter families. After an enlightening overview of the historical Frogmore owners, explore the cotton fields and authentic cabins to learn the origin of southern cuisine, the day-to-day operations and how their labor force evolved into sharecropping, a way of life for 100 years. Enjoy a complimentary beverage as you browse an original plantation store.
Join us for a candlelight exploration of one of Natchez oldest houses. Built in 1798, the house gives up her dark secrets by candlelight. Chilling tales of former inhabitants bring the long dead back to life in this informative and entertaining excursion, combining historical lore with tales of the macabre. Will a spectral visitor be in attendance? Come find out! Enjoy a welcome reception, featuring locally distilled rum punch and an assortment of dessert items.
Nestled behind a wrought-iron fence and framed by large Mississippi oaks sits Dunleith, a 40-acre antebellum mansion built in 1856. On a guided exploration, sip complimentary mimosas as you learn about the fascinating history and unique architecture of this magnificent estate, which includes an original 1790’s carriage house, dairy barn, poultry house, greenhouse, and a three-story brick dependency. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1974, the Main House features Greek revival design, 26 Tuscan columns built of brick and stucco, and porches that surround the entire building on the first and second floor.
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.
This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.
Explore this early 19th-century antebellum mansion set in twenty-six acres of manicured gardens. Wander around the meticulously nurtured gardens and amidst blooming magnolias, roses, azaleas, and Monmouth’s signature collection of angel statuary, accompanied by the gentle humming of cicadas. Stroll further down a stone pathway to an elegant, purple wisteria-clad pergola.
Admire two garden ponds nearby that are framed with beautiful large bald cypress trees. Across the romantic wooden pond bridge, view the Monmouth Cemetery, protected by a centuries old iron fence. After, enjoy a mint julip in the comfort of the Quitman Study and Lounge where you can view a variety of historic artifacts.
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.
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) and view its beautiful Tiffany windows amidst the Gothic revival architecture. The Rector will tell the stories and history of this church, including how the surrounding cannonball fire rang out all around during the siege of Vicksburg. Next, take a short walk alongside the neighborhood’s brick streets to Duff Green Mansion (circa 1856). Owner, Harley Caldwell, invites you into her home as a guest of honor. Imagine that you are part of a dinner party hosted by Duff Green and his wife, Mary, back in the 1800’s as you listen to Harley discuss the history of the house and what was happening in Vicksburg at this time. This is the one mansion where the ropes are gone and you can sit on the furniture and touch things. You will feel at home here with a dose of Vicksburg’s good old fashioned Southern hospitality.
A knowledgeable guide will lead 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.
The museum exhibits examine earlier modes of transportation, the Siege of Vicksburg and many other elements of the city’s history. Inside the museum, you will find railroad memorabilia, a collection of model Civil War gunboats, original war-themed paintings by Herb Mott, a detailed diorama of the Siege of Vicksburg, models of architecture styles employed throughout Vicksburg’s past.
This unique museum celebrates the history of one of the nation's most beloved beverages. Built in 1890, the building is the location of where Coca-Cola was bottled for the first time in 1894 and features the type of equipment that Joseph Biedenharn used at the time. View Coca-Cola memorabilia, peruse the gift shop, and treat yourself to an ice-cold Coca-Cola or Coke float.
Built in 1858, this museum is a national historic landmark showcasing Vicksburg’s cultural heritage over the past 71 years. The museum’s collection includes the original Teddy Bear given to a local child by Theodore Roosevelt, a sash worn by both George Washington and Jefferson Davis during their presidential inaugurations, a vast collection of Civil War artifacts, Native American and pioneer implements, and much more.
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
Established in 1991, the National Civil Rights Museum is located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum’s mission is to share the history of the American Civil Rights Movement, a tumultuous and inspiring period of change. Explore interactive exhibits and historic collections to learn how this significant era continues to shape equality and freedom today.
Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.
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, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.;
Explore Sun Studio, well-known in the music industry as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll and the most famous recording studio in the world. Founded by rock pioneer Sam Phillips in 1950, this National Historic Landmark is where superstar musicians like Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and countless others started their recording careers.
Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.
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. 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) 894-8570 for information.
Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises. For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.
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.
Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises. For cruises starting in Memphis, this tour is only offered as part of the 2-day Pre-Cruise Package.
Visit Edge Motor Museum to discover the stories behind some of the world’s most iconic cars. Each automobile in the museum is selected based on its historical and cultural significance and is either owned by the museum or on-loan from an individual, estate, or organization. Learn about the cultural, economic, political, and technological trends prevalent when they were made, as well as how these cars reflect the eras in which they were designed, built, sold, and driven.
Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in Memphis, as well as the Complete Mississippi, Grand Heartland, and Mississippi River Gateway cruises.
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.
This narrated exploration of Historic New Madrid will take you to the center of town to enjoy this quaint town at your leisure. Stops include the New Madrid Historical Museum, the Higgerson School Historic Site, the Hunter-Dawson Home State Historic Site, and the Riverwalk Gallery.
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, ride 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.
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.
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.
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.
Relive the story of the Native Americans, explorers, pioneers, and rebels who made America possible. Featuring over 200 years of history within six themed exhibit areas, this innovative and interactive museum celebrates America’s pioneering spirit and explains the westward expansion of the U.S., with an emphasis on St. Louis’ role in that era.
Shaped by the inspired design of Finnish-America architect Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch monument celebrates the expansion West and the pioneers who made it possible. Since its completion in 1965, millions of visitors have taken a trip to the top to enjoy stunning views. Begin your adventure with our new, interactive pre-boarding exhibits featuring 60s-era animation and Gateway Arch trivia. Then, be transported 630 feet to the top of America’s tallest man-made monument. Or, if you prefer, enjoy the movie Monument to a Dream.
Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis/Alton, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River and Grand Heartland cruises.
Explore the most popular exhibits at the Missouri History Museum including “The 1904 World’s Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward” and “Many Memories: 100 Years on the Stage.” Time will also be allowed for the Seeking St. Louis galleries on display. Self-guided exploration will allow you to view the exhibits at your leisure and give you time to shop.
Note: This excursion is only available on cruises ending in St. Louis/Alton as well as the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland.
Explore this magnificent museum’s varied collection of original works of art, spanning five millennia and six continents. Admire ancient, Asian, European, and contemporary pieces, and stroll through the impressive outdoor sculpture garden.
Why not spend an extra day in this vibrant metropolis in the heartland of America? Ask your onboard Hotel Manager for recommendations on area hotels, attractions, and more.
Pre-Cruise
On our Mississippi River Gateway cruise, we offer a variety of convenient Pre-Cruise options, providing you will a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. For cruises starting in New Orleans, choose from our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package or our Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay.
For cruises departing from St. Louis, choose from our Four Seasons Hotel Pre-Cruise Package or our Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay in Alton, IL, close to the docking location.
Pre-Cruise Packages and Hotel Stays must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.
Day 1 - St. Louis, MO
End your journey in this unique city with frontier-town roots and Midwest modesty. On your travels home, reflect upon your many wonderful adventures, or choose to explore more in the Gateway to the West.
Day 2 - St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is known as the “Gateway to the West." Admire the scenic riverfront, highlighted by the majestic Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Enjoy St. Louis’ many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and the Missouri History Museum.
Day 3 - Day of River Cruising
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 4 - Paducah, KY
Residing at the confluence of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River, Paducah will make you feel as if you stepped back in time. As you walk the streets of this Chickasaw village site, discover Paducah’s rich history. View the Wall-to-Wall Mural Program, a collection of over 50 murals that covers a number of subjects including Native American history, the Civil War, and area landmarks such as the Old Carnegie Library. Led by our expert guide, tour this enchanting city with a stop National Quilt Museum.
Day 5 - New Madrid, MO
Originally founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodriguez, early settlers of New Madrid were required to become citizens of Spain in order to reside here. Today, New Madrid is a living monument to early American history with sites including the Kochtitsky Home, the Trail of Tears, and Veterans Park.
Day 6 - Memphis, TN
Welcome to Memphis, a historic city which rises picturesquely up the hillside from the river, adorned with grand oak trees, lush parks, and historic sites that commemorate everything from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. Immerse yourself in its rich musical legacy as you stroll along legendary Beale Street, where music flows from every doorway, and savor the rich flavors and aromas of the city’s famous BBQ.
Choose from an array of customized excursions. Perhaps take a narrated motorcoach excursion to get an overview of this dramatic city. Or indulge in the glamour of the Peabody Hotel. Explore the home, life, and career of Elvis Presley or make your pilgrimage to Sun Studio, where he recorded his earliest smash-hits.
The comfort of your ship awaits at the nearby Beale Street Landing, docked along an impressive, recently renovated city park. Be entertained on board by local musicians as you savor a nightcap.
Day 7 - Day of River Cruising
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 guests in the lounges or enjoy a cocktail on your private balcony.
Day 8 - Vicksburg, MS
Vicksburg is a place of drama. During the Civil War, the struggle to control Vicksburg proved to be a major turning point. The well-fortified connection between river and rail transportation was known as “The Gibraltar of the West.” A narrated exploration of the well-preserved National Military Park battlefield enlivens this powerful story and highlights its significance.
President Abraham Lincoln summarized Vicksburg’s importance clearly when he said, “Vicksburg is the key. The war can never be brought to a close until that key is in our pocket… They can defy us from Vicksburg… As valuable as New Orleans will be to us, Vicksburg will be more so.”
Several other excursion options are available, including exploring museums and historic sites with local expert guides or on your own. Walk aboard an enormous Army Corps of Engineers towboat. Stroll along the charming series of murals painted along the adjacent floodwall and read panels detailing the Vicksburg stories they illustrate.
Day 9 - Natchez, MS
In Natchez, grand homes sparkle like jewels, adorning the bluffs that tower above the river. Since 1716, when the French first built a fort here among the Natchez Indians, the town has grown to boast elaborate mansions built by planters in the 1800s to flaunt their wealth.
With no Civil War fighting here, Natchez still features hundreds of antebellum homes and buildings. Each of these architectural treasures has its own story to tell, creating a charming downtown that embodies the essence of southern charm and hospitality.
Explore on your own or enjoy an array of curated, guided explorations. Tour the elaborate townhomes, visit a working cotton farm to learn about the crop’s importance in history and today, and discover the historic Under-The-Hill Saloon. Drift through quaint shops, nibble on local delights, and enjoy the expansive views of the majestic river valley from the bluff-top park.
Day 10 - Baton Rouge, LA
Meaning “red stick,” Baton Rouge’s 1699 French name references an ancient geographical marker and reflects the city’s long history. As Louisiana’s state capital, the city still echoes with tales of the characters who lived here, most notably Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. Learn about his dramatic career at the magnificent 1852 Old State Capitol Museum and visit Long’s 1932 State Capitol building, an architectural marvel of granite and marble.
Explore many of the well-known downtown neighborhoods, while embracing the rich art, architecture, and nature along the route. If you feel adventurous, take a narrated boat ride through a Louisiana swamp.
Day 11 - New Orleans, LA
Welcome to New Orleans, world-renowned for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene, and unique cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African and American influences. This vivacious city is the perfect destination to begin your Mississippi River experience. Once on board, enjoy a special welcoming reception, a chance to mingle with fellow guests as you set sail for an incredible journey.
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