The dramatic landscapes of the Upper Mississippi River have long inspired artists, writers, and steamboat passengers. It was here that literary great Mark Twain used the majestic river and its scenic bluffs as the settings in his most popular works. Visit his boyhood home in Hannibal, where the characters of Huck Finn, Tom Sawyer, and Becky Thatcher come to life.
Explore the beautiful gardens and historic homes of La Crosse. Get close to nature in Red Wing as you witness a variety of bald eagle nests. Enjoy a guided tour of the Black Hawk State Historic Site which celebrates the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki Indians who once called Davenport home.
Just as it was in Mark Twain’s day, every cruise on the Mississippi River is unique due to fluctuating river conditions that can have an impact on our itinerary. The river has a mind of its own and our sailing schedules must adapt to it. This is part of the adventure and American Cruise Lines will always work to provide a seamless travel experience.
Ask about our Current Savings and our Complimentary Pre-cruise Packages which include a premium hotel stay and transportation to the ship.
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From St. Louis to St. Paul, explore historic landmarks and immerse yourself in the diverse blend of arts and entertainment. Explore destinations such as Hannibal, Davenport, and La Crosse, each offering its own fascinating story and unique culture.
Reverse itineraries available. Please contact your Cruise Specialist for more information. Excursions subject to change.
On our Upper Mississippi Cruise, we offer two convenient Pre-Cruise Package options, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Choose from our Four Seasons Premium Pre-Cruise Package in St. Louis or our Complimentary Pre-Cruise Package in Alton, IL, close to the docking location.
Four Seasons St. Louis Premium Pre-Cruise Package
Begin your journey in St. Louis and embrace the pioneering spirit of this city, known world-wide as the “Gateway to the West.” Enjoy a stay in the heart of downtown’s entertainment center at the 5-star Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, set along the banks of the legendary Mississippi River and featuring epic views of the iconic Gateway Arch.
On the morning of your cruise, enjoy breakfast at the Four Seasons, followed by our guided Discover St. Louis shore excursion, which takes you through downtown, the riverfront, and a variety of historic neighborhoods. The exploration ends conveniently at the ship for a seamless boarding process.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.
Complimentary Pre-Cruise Package in Alton, IL
Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and enjoy a 1-night hotel stay in Alton, within a few miles of the ship’s docking location. The evening of your arrival, enjoy a Welcome Reception featuring local culinary specialties, complimentary cocktails, regional wines, and local craft beers.
On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after a complimentary breakfast to begin your Historic Alton Exploration shore excursion. Learn about the history of this city known for its limestone bluffs along the Mississippi River as well as for its role preceding and during the American Civil War. Complimentary transfer to the ship the morning of embarkation are included for your convenience.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.
Alton is an idyllic town, known for its scenic limestone bluffs along the river and its rich Civil War history. The National Great Rivers Museum, located at the Melvin Price Lock and Dam, tells the stories of the Mississippi River’s history, the people that rely on the River, and its many ecosystems. Hometown of jazz musician Miles Davis and Robert Wadlow, the tallest known person in history (8’11”), Alton is an inspiring and picturesque destination and the perfect place to begin your Upper Mississippi journey.
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.
Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO and on the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland itineraries.
Enjoy a narrated tour of downtown St. Louis, the riverfront, Citygarden, and the historic neighborhoods of Soulard and Lafayette Square. Delight in a visit to St. Louis' 1,371 acre Forest Park, known as a natural oasis in an urban environment. Stop at the Cathedral Basilica, where you explore the interior if this stunning church which rivals the cathedrals in Rome, Italy.
Please Note: This tour is only offered on cruises ending in St. Louis and on the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland itineraries.
Explore Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” and experience the boyhood adventures of Mark Twain. Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn come to life in this charming Missouri town, where you can run your hand along Aunt Polly’s fence, explore Injun Joe’s Cave, and get reacquainted with one of the world’s most beloved authors. The downtown area is a thriving haven for artisans filled with specialty shops unique to Hannibal.
As you arrive in Hannibal, the boyhood home of famous author Mark Twain, relive the author’s experiences that heavily influenced his writings. Visit the actual home that Mark Twain grew up in, which is surrounded by the legendary whitewashed fence of Tom Sawyer. The vivid stories told by Mark Twain come to life at this interactive museum. Visit the Becky Thatcher House, the Huck Finn Home, and the Tom and Huck Statue at the foot of Cardiff Hill. Stop at the Interpretive Center, home to 15 original Normal Rockwell paintings.
Relive the adventures of Mark Twain’s time in Hannibal during this historical trolley tour. Your experienced guide will share the history of Hannibal and take you to places of significance, including the Rockcliffe Mansion, an amazing 13,500 square foot American castle built to overlook the mighty Mississippi River. This excursion will also highlight many of the exciting places which inspired Mark Twain’s famous tales.
Join your local guide strolling through the streets of Hannibal, the hometown that inspired Mark Twain’s famous literary novels. Learn about its history through the author’s own words and observations.
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Founded as an active military outpost in 1808, Fort Madison was one of three posts established by the U.S. Army to maintain control over the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. Today, Fort Madison offers visitors a vibrant cultural scene, bucolic landscapes, and an active agri-tourism industry which celebrates the American heartland. Explore its many historic districts, where you can admire the well-preserved Victorian and Post Renaissance architecture. Enjoy the area’s museums, unique boutiques, antique shops, as well as the local breweries and wineries.
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Enjoy an exploration of two working farms in rural Lee County.
Stop at the Hinterland Dairy Farmstead Cheese, a working farm where a farmer will tell you about its history, how production works, as well as other insights about life at the farm. Explore the brand new state-of-the-art cheese production facility and learn about the process of cheese making from start to finish. Stop at the onsite shop featuring all Iowa-made products and of course, the cheese!
Visit the Harvestville Farm, a 5th generation family farm. Explore the farm, enjoy a trip through the corn maze, browse through the retail barn, and even take a wagon ride through the acreage. You will have an opportunity to pick up some homemade treats and goods that are either made right there on the farm or by a local vendor.
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Step back in time to when the Mississippi River reached to the railway line, when breweries and distilleries reigned supreme, and where a garment district attracted the likes of Chicago gangsters who came to buy their “Hesse” suits during the roaring 20s. Stop at Fort Madison, an active military outpost from 1808 to 1813 and the only known War of 1812 battlefield in the state of Iowa. Visit the Iowa Territorial Prison, the longest continually used penitentiary in the United States, operational from January of 1839 to August of 2015. View the original 1839 cell block which still stands in testament to the frontier justice that was handed out throughout the heartland.
Voted one of the Most Livable Small Cities in America, Davenport is often described as a lively, active city with a hometown feel and features the largest agricultural exhibit in the world. Music enthusiasts will enjoy Davenport’s many music festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, The Mississippi Valley Fair, and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival which is dedicated to native Jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke.
Enjoy a stop at the John Deere Pavilion and Store. The company’s rich heritage is chronicled in exhibits, interactive touch screen displays, and equipment dating back nearly 175 years, including antique tractors and giant modern combines. Continue on a narrated city tour of Davenport and learn about the Rock Island Arsenal, Davenport native Bix Biederbecke’s contribution to Jazz, Rock Island’s 1920’s “Crime Lord” John Looney, the area’s beautiful college campuses, and the city’s Native American history.
Enjoy a guided tour of the Hauberg Indian Museum. Located in the Black Hawk State Historic Site, this museum interprets the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki Indians who once called it home. During the tour, view full-size replicas of Sauk winter and summer homes, dioramas with life-size figures of the Sauk and Meskwaki Indians, and traditional artifacts, including authentic trade goods and jewelry.
A “Masterpiece on the Mississippi,” Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. Take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway or try your luck in one of Dubuque's state-of-the-art casinos. View colorful Victorian mansions, stroll through the whimsical downtown area, and visit the national Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.
Step back in time and experience the elegance of Victorian-era Dubuque during a tour through the town’s many historic attractions. Learn about the architecture, families, and events that made 19th-century Dubuque such a unique treasure. Your guide will lead you through Dubuque's beautiful historic sites, including the Mathias Ham House and The Old Jail Museum.
Take an entertaining and informative journey along the mighty Mississippi at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. The museum’s interactive exhibits will give you an inside look at the Mississippi River's past, present, and future. On this guided tour, learn about the lives of the pioneers, explorers, and artists who once lived along the Mississippi River. Get close to nature, as you make your way through six large aquariums.
Step into 19th-century America in La Crosse, located on the banks of three legendary rivers. Riverboats depart from the city’s Riverside Park which features international friendship gardens with landscape styles from around the world. Visit the Riverside Museum which traces the rich history of La Crosse or Dahl Auto Museum with an expansive collection restored classic cars. Explore Grandad Bluff Park with walking trails which offer spectacular views of the city.
Take a narrated tour of this wonderful city. Discover the historic downtown with its late 19th and early 20th-century buildings, as well as the well-preserved residential neighborhoods. Gain insight into LaCrosse’s development, from the boomtown riverboat days and roaring ‘20s to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Visit the Hixon House, an authentic Victorian home and designated Historic Landmark, which has retained 90% of its original furnishings.
Cruise along the scenic Mississippi River on a classic paddlewheeler, as your tour guide highlights current and historical facts about the area and tests your knowledge with trivia along the way.
Witness some of the most beautiful views in the Midwest, including native wildlife and steep bluffs on the river. Learn about the locking process while cruising past the Lock & Dam No. 7 in Dresbach, MN.
Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the upper Mississippi River, Red Wing's beauty has inspired artists, writers, and musicians for over 150 years, delivering a diverse blend of arts, entertainment, and activities for your pleasure. Enjoy a show at the historic Sheldon Performing Arts Theatre or observe the beauty of nature at one of Red Wing’s 38 parks.
Travel back in time, as you tour the beautiful city of Red Wing. Led by our local expert guide, view some of the most impressive Victorian homes of the period, as well as the historic St. James Hotel. Visit the Pottery Museum of Red Wing and admire the numerous vintage pieces of artisan-crafted stoneware, art pottery, dinnerware, and folk art.
Witness bald and golden eagles like never before, face-to-face! The National Eagle Center offers a unique viewing opportunity that brings visitors within a few feet of these majestic creatures with no barrier in between. This is an experience like no other and one you will never forget.
Your amazing cruise into the Heartland will disembark in Red Wing, MN. From there, we will transport to you to the St. Paul Airport. Or if you choose, stay an extra day or two in this thrilling river town. St. Paul’s enchanting art galleries, world class museums, and entertaining stage performances will capture your imagination. History buffs will enjoy a walking tour of Summit Avenue, which showcases gorgeous historic mansions built in the late 1800’s. End the day by visiting Mounds Park, where visitors are treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
Our 8-day Upper Mississippi cruise is an enriching experience, embodying hometown Americana, abounding wildlife, and the breathtaking scenery that has inspired the country’s most legendary writers, artists, and musicians.
Some of the beautiful sites you will visit along the way:
Guest Favorites Include:
We carefully select onboard experts and performers to host enrichment programs that bring the local history, nature, and culture of the Mississippi River to life.*
*Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change.The Upper Mississippi and the surrounding bluffs and floodplains provide food and shelter for a variety of mammals, migrating birds, and fish. Throughout your journey you may see:
Aboard one of our modern riverboats, there are many options for spectacular viewing.
Our team of master chefs takes great pride in offering you a customized menu, featuring premium locally sourced and regionally inspired cuisine.
Sample Dinner Menu
The American River Cruise revolution continues with American Harmony, the second in American Cruise Lines’ highly anticipated series of contemporary riverboats. These, the first modern riverboats ever in the U.S., have introduced many pioneering innovations to America’s waters.
With a capacity of just 190 guests, American Harmony has the modern amenities and contemporary styling that today’s traveler has come to expect. Featured are expansive lounges with large glass windows, offering astounding views. This new ship also features a five-story, glass-enclosed atrium with a large domed skylight, which serves as the central gathering point for the entire ship.
Our new suite design allows for unprecedented comfort while traveling, beginning with the new Grand Suites featuring 800 square feet of private space. These spacious suites include two glass walls and a wraparound private balcony. Complimentary room service during select mealtimes is available for every stateroom, but the Grand Suites offer ample space to host small cocktail parties or private dinner events.
Experience the American Harmony for yourself on our Lower Mississippi Itineraries.
The luxurious Grand Suite measures over 800 sq. ft. and offers 270◦ of panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Sliding glass doors lead out to a wrap-around balcony complete with a private dining area, the perfect place to enjoy breakfast room service or watch the sun set. Each Grand Suite features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration.
Each Owner’s Suite offers the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular 645 sq. ft. of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. This spacious suite features a full-size bathroom, as well as a separate bedroom and living area. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors let light pour in and allow private panoramic views from every vantage point. An expansive private balcony is a perfect place to savor a calm afternoon or to enjoy breakfast as the sun rises over the riverbank.
With a generous 405 sq. ft. of relaxing space, each Veranda suite includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.
Located on the fourth deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. At 350 sq. ft., there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views from every angle.
AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the third deck and offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. At 316 sq. ft., these staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk and full-size bathrooms.
AAL staterooms can be found on the second deck and offer a luxurious 300 sq. ft. of living space. Each room is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery. These staterooms are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.
AAR staterooms on the main deck offer complete comfort with approximately 275 sq. ft. of living space. Enjoy a full-size bathroom, large picture window, and door leading out to a furnished private balcony. These staterooms also feature a large sitting area, ideal for getting together with friends.
Perfect for the solo traveler, our Single staterooms offer all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 250 sq. ft., these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.
Built in 2015, Queen of the Mississippi offers an authentic paddlewheeler experience with all the comforts of home.
Guests can enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, hotel-style bathrooms, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as the Queen of the Mississippi makes its way down the legendary river.
At a generous up to 445 sq. ft., the Owner Suites of Queen of the Mississippi offer the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the Mississippi River. With a spacious seating area and full-size bathrooms, each suite is a private sanctuary where you can unwind after a day of exploration in the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. Each of these suites features large sliding glass doors leading out to a private balcony, where you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a desk, and spacious seating area.
Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature scenic views of the passing landscape. At 328 sq. ft., you will enjoy all of the modern comforts that are expected of a premium hotel. These staterooms also offer full-size bathrooms and a walk-out private balcony where the grandness of the Mississippi can be appreciated.
Our AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the fourth deck and at 304 sq. ft. offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.
AAL staterooms can be found on the third deck of the Queen of the Mississippi. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with plush seating, a full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery.
AAR staterooms can be found on the second deck of the Queen of the Mississippi. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with a full-size bathroom and a large private balcony with sliding glass doors.
These 290 sq ft staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, all are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space.
Perfect for the solo traveler, our Single staterooms offer all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 230 sq. ft., these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.
A comfortable getaway, our Single staterooms offer individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 sq. ft., all have interior entrances and large viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.
Launched in 2016, America is one of the finest paddlewheeler ever built, introducing features never before seen on the Mississippi.
America embodies a casual ambiance and relaxed atmosphere while providing panoramic views of the passing scenery. With only 185 guests, fellow guests will quickly become new friends.
Each Owner’s Suite on America offers the finest accommodations on the Mississippi River with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular up to 445 sq. ft. of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors lead to an expansive private balcony offering private panoramic views throughout the room. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a spacious seating area, desk, and full-size bathroom.
Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing Mississippi landscape. At 328 sq. ft., there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor- to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views of the Mississippi from every angle. These staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk, and full-size bathrooms and are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.
AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the fourth deck and at 304 sq.ft offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.
AAL staterooms can be found on the third deck of America. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathrooms, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery.
AAR staterooms can be found on the second deck of the America. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with full-size bathrooms and a private balcony complete with an outdoor seating area.
These 290 sq. ft. staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, these staterooms are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space.
Perfect for the solo traveler, our Single staterooms offer all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 230 sq. ft., these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.
A comfortable getaway, our Single suites offer individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 sq. ft., these staterooms have interior entrances and large opening viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.
Few American authors are as beloved as Samuel Clemens, better known by his pen name, Mark Twain. On this special theme cruise, explore the river that served as his inspiration, complete with a true-to-life Mark Twain impersonator, and a stop in Hannibal, MO, Twain's hometown. The characters and locations of his literary classics The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn come to life during our exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the town, including a look at Huck Finn's house and the Becky Thatcher home.
With ideal temperatures and spectacular scenery, fall is the perfect time to cruise the Mississippi River. From St. Louis to St. Paul, explore idyllic American towns and witness the beauty of the landscape during peak foliage season. Enjoy customized, award-winning excursions to the area’s most captivating destinations, including a visit to the boyhood home of literary great Mark Twain.
* Prices displayed are per person based on double occupancy.
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