Upper Mississippi River Cruise

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 hotel, concierge luggage service, and a Discover St. Louis city excursion which concludes at the ship the morning of your cruise.

1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay. 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.

Alton Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

Explore the best sites in Alton on this convenient shuttle. Visit the Audubon Center at Riverland, situated within a picturesque migratory bird sanctuary. Stop at the Alton Visitor Center to find out more about the city and the Great Rivers & Road region and try your luck at the Argosy Casino located directly across the street. Enjoy artist demonstrations and browsing unique handmade pottery at Mississippi Mud Pottery, before viewing a stunning works at Jacoby Arts Center. Savor delicious local favorites and ice cold beer in a fun, casual setting at Fast Eddie's Bon Air, a legendary establishment located just blocks from the Mississippi River.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO, or Alton, IL.

St. Louis Gateway Arch Experience

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.

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: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis/Alton, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River and Grand Heartland itineraries.
 

The Lewis & Clark Experience - Complimentary Excursion

Walk in the footsteps of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they made their historic journey into the West at the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site. Featured here is a museum dedicated to the planning and journey of the two explorers and their Corps of Discovery. Explore five exhibit rooms, view the film "At Journey's Edgen," and admire an impressive 55-foot full scale replica of their "cutaway" keelboat.

Continue to the Lewis & Clark Confluence tower which rises 180 feet above the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. A variety of viewing platforms are available for visitors to view the Mississippi and Missouri rivers from above and to witness where Lewis & Clark began their journey westward. The indoor visitor center has interactive exhibits which tell the story of the history, wildlife, and communities along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO, or Alton, IL.

Explore the Great River Road - Complimentary Excursion

As you travel along The Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, one of the most scenic drives in the Midwest, admire the rolling waters of the Mighty Mississippi River framed by magnificent limestone bluffs. Next, enjoy the best view in the Midwest on the brand-new Grafton Sky Tour, a combination lift and fixed-grip gondola. As you soar high above Grafton, view the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers like never before. After, explore the Grafton Winery, aptly named “the Vineyards.” Settled among orchards and sprawling farmland, this 11,000-square-foot facility is a full production winery overlooking a picturesque lake and 4 acres of vineyards where Chardonnel, Vidal, and Vinoles grapes are grown. Enjoy an exploration of the Vineyards followed by a private wine tasting.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO, or Alton, IL.

Hannibal Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

Explore downtown Hannibal on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. Our convenient shuttle will also take you to the following:

Hannibal History Museum - Through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and historic photos, learn the story of Hannibal's remarkable past.

Jim’s Journey, The Huck Finn Freedom Center - Explore Hannibal's first African American history museum which pays tribute to Mark Twain's most complex yet locally under-represented literary figures.

Karlocks Kars and Pop Culture Museum Visit this former produce warehouse built in 1860 which now houses classic cars and pop culture memorabilia, including vintage toys, collectables, classic pinball machines and jukeboxes, movie and music memorabilia, and much more.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home &Museum - Enjoy a guided exploration of the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. This is truly a piece of Americana.

Mark Twain Cave - Explore this national landmark and Missouri’s oldest show cave.

Hannibal City Exploration and Rockcliffe Mansion

Step back in time and relive the adventures of Mark Twain’s days in Hannibal. Your guide will share the history of Hannibal and will show you sites of historical importance. While on your excursion, visit Rockcliffe Mansion – this American “castle” has a breathtaking view overlooking the Mississippi and is on the National Register of Historic Homes.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum - Complimentary Excursion

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.

A Walk With Mark Twain

Join Richard Garey as Mark Twain and stroll 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 and then enjoy a special performance of “Mark Twain Himself” at the Planter’s Barn Theater.

Lee County Agri-tourism Excursion - Complimentary Excursion

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.

Historic Fort Madison Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

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.

Davenport City Exploration & Isabel Bloom Art Experience - Complimentary Excursion

Isabel Bloom was an artist raised in Davenport, best known for her concrete sculptures of animals and children. During this guided factory exploration, her legacy comes to life with behind-the-scenes access to every step in the making of each Isabel Bloom sculpture. View some of her original art and photos and learn how her innovations still influence the art world today. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions, preview new designs, and offer opinions on future sculptures. 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.

Skybridge Walk & Figge Art Museum

Enjoy a scenic view of the city and the Mississippi River as you walk along the Davenport Skybridge, a pedestrian cable-stayed bridge that stands 50 feet tall, 575 feet long and features 99 columns. Follow the bridge to The Figge Art Museum, one of the oldest art institutions in the country, to admire the vast collection of European, American, Spanish, Haitian, and contemporary art.

Davenport Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

This convenient shuttle will transport you from the ship to the center of town and back. At your leisure, explore the many unique treasures of downtown Davenport. Peruse the many independently owned boutiques which feature unique, hand-crafted works of local artists. Visit the largest whiskey bar in the state and discover the areas many art museums and galleries. Running daily on a continuous loop.

Delight in Dubuque

Delight in an exploration of some of the highlights of Dubuque. First, stop at Steeple Square Event Center, one of the oldest catholic churches in Dubuque which was renovated into a vibrant community gathering space. Next, arrive at Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden for a guided exploration of the beautiful landscapes. Visit the Convivium Urban Farmstead, a center which celebrates the efforts of local gardeners with onsite cooking and gardening classes as well as a restaurant that serves local produce. Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator, the shortest steepest railway in the United States. Don’t forget the camera, it’s a great opportunity to get a photo of the ship at dock in the Port of Dubuque from above the bluffs.

Dubuque Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

This convenient shuttle will transport you from the ship to the center of town and back. At your leisure, explore the many districts of downtown Dubuque, including Cable Car Square, the Historic Millwork District, and Historic Old Main District, once a hideaway for notorious gangster Al Capone. Visit the Summer Farmers Market which has been located in the Upper Main district since 1845. Running daily on a continuous loop.

Field of Dreams Experience

Travel to the Field of Dreams Movie Site, built by Universal Studios and known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.” Released in 1989, Field of Dreams, staring Kevin Costner, was a movie that inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for “Best Picture of the Year.” Explore this famous site, including the baseball field, the magical corn, and the farm house in which the movie was made. After, visit the gift shop for some take-home movie memorabilia.

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium - Complimentary Excursion

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 exploration, 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.

Downtown Winona Walking Experience - Complimentary Excursion

Take a guided walk through Winona's historic downtown to admire great architecture, hear surprising stories, and play a fun game or two. 

Winona Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

Running on a continuous loop, this guided exploration shuttle takes you from the ship to Winona's hot spots including history and art museums, historic places with beautiful architecture and stained glass, and to the heart of Downtown so you can shop, eat, and stroll at your leisure.

Winona Boat Exploration

This narrated Winona boat exploration not only entertains but educates about the famed waterway, the history of Winona and its relation to the Mississippi River. Bring your camera and binoculars to view local wildlife like eagles, deer, turtles, snakes, and beaver on this mesmerizing river cruise.

Discover Winona- Complimentary Excursion

Enjoy a guided, in-depth exploration of the historic and intriguing sites around greater Winona. Stops include the Winona County History Center, Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Garvin Heights lookout with amazing views of this stretch of the Mississippi River Valley, and more.

National Eagle Center - Complimentary Excursion

Start this amazing interactive program on board with an expert interpreter and an actual live bald eagle. In the afternoon, visit the National Eagle Center, offering additional up close viewing of non-releasable bald and golden eagles. Learn about the ecology, biology, and natural history of these magnificent creatures.

Twin Cities Discovery - Complimentary Excursion

There's no better way to experience the “City of Lakes,” Minneapolis, and the capital city of St. Paul, than on this carefully curated excursion. Though they are referred to as Twin Cities, they are actually more different than alike. Since its industrial days, Minneapolis has been transformed into cosmopolitan city with a skyline of sleek, high-rise towers, known today as a center for art and culture. Saint Paul, though the state capital, moves at a slower pace and has prided itself on architectural preservation, boasting some of the Midwest's last remaining Victorian Romanesque blocks. Led by our knowledgeable guide, explore all these cities have to offer.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Paul/Red Wing, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River cruise.

Red Wing City Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

Travel back in time as you explore 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 true vintage pieces on site such as stoneware, dinnerware, folk art, and more! Stop at the Sheldon Theatre, among the oldest operating theatres in Minnesota and host to thousands of large national touring acts, international artists, and local performers alike.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Paul/Red Wing, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River cruise.

Red Wing Museum Shuttle – Complimentary Excursion

Learn about the fascinating history of Red Wing on this convenient shuttle to the city’s best museums. Visit the Marine Museum, located along the river near the site of the original factory where Red Wing boats and motors were made and launched. Explore their many exhibits which depict one of oldest of the city’s manufacturing industries.

Visit the Goodhue County Museum. Established in 1869, this museum is home to the first county historical society in Minnesota. View exhibits detailing Goodhue County’s rich and vibrant history spanning centuries. Every day, thousands of people travel across the Mississippi River between Red Wing and Wisconsin. But the journey hasn’t always been so easy! Learn about the evolution of Red Wing’s river crossings.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Paul/Red Wing, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River cruise.

Explore More in St. Paul

Why not spend another day in St. Paul’s to explore the enchanting art galleries, world class museums, and enjoy world-class live entertainment. 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.

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 hotel, concierge luggage service, and a Discover St. Louis city excursion which concludes at the ship the morning of your cruise.

1-Night Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay. 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.

Explore More in St. Paul

Why not spend another day in St. Paul’s to explore the enchanting art galleries, world class museums, and enjoy world-class live entertainment. 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.

National Eagle Center - Complimentary Excursion

Start this amazing interactive program on board with an expert interpreter and an actual live bald eagle. In the afternoon, visit the National Eagle Center, offering additional up close viewing of non-releasable bald and golden eagles. Learn about the ecology, biology, and natural history of these magnificent creatures.

Twin Cities Discovery - Complimentary Excursion

There's no better way to experience the “City of Lakes,” Minneapolis, and the capital city of St. Paul, than on this carefully curated excursion. Though they are referred to as Twin Cities, they are actually more different than alike. Since its industrial days, Minneapolis has been transformed into cosmopolitan city with a skyline of sleek, high-rise towers, known today as a center for art and culture. Saint Paul, though the state capital, moves at a slower pace and has prided itself on architectural preservation, boasting some of the Midwest's last remaining Victorian Romanesque blocks. Led by our knowledgeable guide, explore all these cities have to offer.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Paul/Red Wing, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River cruise.

Red Wing City Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

Travel back in time as you explore 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 true vintage pieces on site such as stoneware, dinnerware, folk art, and more! Stop at the Sheldon Theatre, among the oldest operating theatres in Minnesota and host to thousands of large national touring acts, international artists, and local performers alike.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Paul/Red Wing, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River cruise.

Red Wing Museum Shuttle – Complimentary Excursion

Learn about the fascinating history of Red Wing on this convenient shuttle to the city’s best museums. Visit the Marine Museum, located along the river near the site of the original factory where Red Wing boats and motors were made and launched. Explore their many exhibits which depict one of oldest of the city’s manufacturing industries.

Visit the Goodhue County Museum. Established in 1869, this museum is home to the first county historical society in Minnesota. View exhibits detailing Goodhue County’s rich and vibrant history spanning centuries. Every day, thousands of people travel across the Mississippi River between Red Wing and Wisconsin. But the journey hasn’t always been so easy! Learn about the evolution of Red Wing’s river crossings.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Paul/Red Wing, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River cruise.

Downtown Winona Walking Experience - Complimentary Excursion

Take a guided walk through Winona's historic downtown to admire great architecture, hear surprising stories, and play a fun game or two. 

Winona Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

Running on a continuous loop, this guided exploration shuttle takes you from the ship to Winona's hot spots including history and art museums, historic places with beautiful architecture and stained glass, and to the heart of Downtown so you can shop, eat, and stroll at your leisure.

Winona Boat Exploration

This narrated Winona boat exploration not only entertains but educates about the famed waterway, the history of Winona and its relation to the Mississippi River. Bring your camera and binoculars to view local wildlife like eagles, deer, turtles, snakes, and beaver on this mesmerizing river cruise.

Discover Winona- Complimentary Excursion

Enjoy a guided, in-depth exploration of the historic and intriguing sites around greater Winona. Stops include the Winona County History Center, Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Garvin Heights lookout with amazing views of this stretch of the Mississippi River Valley, and more.

Delight in Dubuque

Delight in an exploration of some of the highlights of Dubuque. First, stop at Steeple Square Event Center, one of the oldest catholic churches in Dubuque which was renovated into a vibrant community gathering space. Next, arrive at Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden for a guided exploration of the beautiful landscapes. Visit the Convivium Urban Farmstead, a center which celebrates the efforts of local gardeners with onsite cooking and gardening classes as well as a restaurant that serves local produce. Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator, the shortest steepest railway in the United States. Don’t forget the camera, it’s a great opportunity to get a photo of the ship at dock in the Port of Dubuque from above the bluffs.

Dubuque Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

This convenient shuttle will transport you from the ship to the center of town and back. At your leisure, explore the many districts of downtown Dubuque, including Cable Car Square, the Historic Millwork District, and Historic Old Main District, once a hideaway for notorious gangster Al Capone. Visit the Summer Farmers Market which has been located in the Upper Main district since 1845. Running daily on a continuous loop.

Field of Dreams Experience

Travel to the Field of Dreams Movie Site, built by Universal Studios and known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.” Released in 1989, Field of Dreams, staring Kevin Costner, was a movie that inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for “Best Picture of the Year.” Explore this famous site, including the baseball field, the magical corn, and the farm house in which the movie was made. After, visit the gift shop for some take-home movie memorabilia.

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium - Complimentary Excursion

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 exploration, 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.

Davenport City Exploration & Isabel Bloom Art Experience - Complimentary Excursion

Isabel Bloom was an artist raised in Davenport, best known for her concrete sculptures of animals and children. During this guided factory exploration, her legacy comes to life with behind-the-scenes access to every step in the making of each Isabel Bloom sculpture. View some of her original art and photos and learn how her innovations still influence the art world today. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions, preview new designs, and offer opinions on future sculptures. 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.

Skybridge Walk & Figge Art Museum

Enjoy a scenic view of the city and the Mississippi River as you walk along the Davenport Skybridge, a pedestrian cable-stayed bridge that stands 50 feet tall, 575 feet long and features 99 columns. Follow the bridge to The Figge Art Museum, one of the oldest art institutions in the country, to admire the vast collection of European, American, Spanish, Haitian, and contemporary art.

Davenport Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

This convenient shuttle will transport you from the ship to the center of town and back. At your leisure, explore the many unique treasures of downtown Davenport. Peruse the many independently owned boutiques which feature unique, hand-crafted works of local artists. Visit the largest whiskey bar in the state and discover the areas many art museums and galleries. Running daily on a continuous loop.

Lee County Agri-tourism Excursion - Complimentary Excursion

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.

Historic Fort Madison Exploration - Complimentary Excursion

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.

Hannibal Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

Explore downtown Hannibal on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. Our convenient shuttle will also take you to the following:

Hannibal History Museum - Through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and historic photos, learn the story of Hannibal's remarkable past.

Jim’s Journey, The Huck Finn Freedom Center - Explore Hannibal's first African American history museum which pays tribute to Mark Twain's most complex yet locally under-represented literary figures.

Karlocks Kars and Pop Culture Museum Visit this former produce warehouse built in 1860 which now houses classic cars and pop culture memorabilia, including vintage toys, collectables, classic pinball machines and jukeboxes, movie and music memorabilia, and much more.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home &Museum - Enjoy a guided exploration of the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. This is truly a piece of Americana.

Mark Twain Cave - Explore this national landmark and Missouri’s oldest show cave.

Hannibal City Exploration and Rockcliffe Mansion

Step back in time and relive the adventures of Mark Twain’s days in Hannibal. Your guide will share the history of Hannibal and will show you sites of historical importance. While on your excursion, visit Rockcliffe Mansion – this American “castle” has a breathtaking view overlooking the Mississippi and is on the National Register of Historic Homes.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum - Complimentary Excursion

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.

A Walk With Mark Twain

Join Richard Garey as Mark Twain and stroll 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 and then enjoy a special performance of “Mark Twain Himself” at the Planter’s Barn Theater.

Alton Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion

Explore the best sites in Alton on this convenient shuttle. Visit the Audubon Center at Riverland, situated within a picturesque migratory bird sanctuary. Stop at the Alton Visitor Center to find out more about the city and the Great Rivers & Road region and try your luck at the Argosy Casino located directly across the street. Enjoy artist demonstrations and browsing unique handmade pottery at Mississippi Mud Pottery, before viewing a stunning works at Jacoby Arts Center. Savor delicious local favorites and ice cold beer in a fun, casual setting at Fast Eddie's Bon Air, a legendary establishment located just blocks from the Mississippi River.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO, or Alton, IL.

St. Louis Gateway Arch Experience

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.

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: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis/Alton, as well as on the Complete Mississippi River and Grand Heartland itineraries.
 

The Lewis & Clark Experience - Complimentary Excursion

Walk in the footsteps of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they made their historic journey into the West at the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site. Featured here is a museum dedicated to the planning and journey of the two explorers and their Corps of Discovery. Explore five exhibit rooms, view the film "At Journey's Edgen," and admire an impressive 55-foot full scale replica of their "cutaway" keelboat.

Continue to the Lewis & Clark Confluence tower which rises 180 feet above the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. A variety of viewing platforms are available for visitors to view the Mississippi and Missouri rivers from above and to witness where Lewis & Clark began their journey westward. The indoor visitor center has interactive exhibits which tell the story of the history, wildlife, and communities along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO, or Alton, IL.

Explore the Great River Road - Complimentary Excursion

As you travel along The Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, one of the most scenic drives in the Midwest, admire the rolling waters of the Mighty Mississippi River framed by magnificent limestone bluffs. Next, enjoy the best view in the Midwest on the brand-new Grafton Sky Tour, a combination lift and fixed-grip gondola. As you soar high above Grafton, view the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers like never before. After, explore the Grafton Winery, aptly named “the Vineyards.” Settled among orchards and sprawling farmland, this 11,000-square-foot facility is a full production winery overlooking a picturesque lake and 4 acres of vineyards where Chardonnel, Vidal, and Vinoles grapes are grown. Enjoy an exploration of the Vineyards followed by a private wine tasting.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Louis, MO, or Alton, IL.