When is peak fall foliage on the Upper Mississippi (St. Louis to St. Paul)?

Late September to mid October is typical, with standout color around Red Wing, Winona, La Crosse, and Dubuque. Timing can vary by year and latitude.

The Best Time to Book a Mississippi River Cruise

Q: Are July and August too hot for Lower Mississippi cruises?

Lower Mississippi (New Orleans to Memphis) is hottest and most humid in July and August. For cooler conditions, consider March to May or October to December. Upper Mississippi routes are usually milder in summer with long daylight hours and seasonal events.

Planning when to go? This guide compares weather, crowds, festivals, and foliage by month so you can choose the best month for your river cruise.

The best time to book a Mississippi River cruise depends on the type of travel experience you are seeking.

When To Cruise the Lower Mississippi River

If you are looking for a journey deeply rooted in Southern culture and tradition, Civil War history, and the origins of American Music including jazz, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll, then the Lower Mississippi River, which has the longest cruising season, is for you.

The best time to cruise the Lower Mississippi is in the spring from April to mid-June, the fall, or the holiday season, September through December, when temperatures are mild and humidity is lower than in the summer months. American Cruise Lines has cruises in this region that run round-trip from New Orleans, as well as from New Orleans to Memphis and the reverse.

On these itineraries, guests explore the grand estates of Natchez and Baton Rouge, the somber battlefields of Vicksburg, and the musical meccas of New Orleans and Memphis. The unique flavors of the region are another high spot, including the best Cajun and Creole cuisine you’ve ever tasted.

When To Cruise the Mid-Mississippi River

If music is your mojo, summer is a great time to experience the Mid-Mississippi River region on our Music Cities cruise from Memphis to Nashville. July through September is a time when the weather is blissfully warm, but not as oppressive as summertime on the Lower Mississippi River.

On this itinerary, you can explore Memphis, the birthplace of the blues and rock ’n’ roll, and be treated to fantastic onboard entertainment as you cruise the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, whose banks inspired the musical genres of bluegrass, country, and jazz. This toe-tapping itinerary also features an evening show at the iconic Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

When To Cruise the Upper Mississippi River

If breathtaking scenery and hometown Americana is for you, then you would be happy cruising the Upper Mississippi River in the summer months through early fall. In general, temperatures are slightly lower than they are on the Lower Mississippi River, with less humidity.

Throughout this journey from St. Louis to St. Paul, be surrounded by the beauty that is the Heartland. Nature lovers will enjoy the wildlife found along the Mississippi River farther north in Red Wing, including bald eagles, spotted turtles, otters, and more. Admirers of modern engineering will appreciate the series of more than 20 locks that only exist on the upper part of the river. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the boyhood home of Mark Twain in Hannibal. Other highlights of this itinerary include the idyllic small towns of Davenport, Dubuque, and Winona.

When To Cruise the Complete Mississippi River

If you want a gradually changing scenery and culture of the entire Mississippi River from New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN, then you should get on board our Complete Mississippi River experience. Begin your journey in the late spring or early summer to escape the oppressive heat of the Lower Mississippi River region during the mid-summer months and avoid the chillier temperatures of the Upper Mississippi River in the fall.

Book Your Mississippi River Cruise Vacation

When it comes to going on a cruise along the legendary Mississippi River and its tributaries, whether it be spring, mid or late summer, or fall, you will be treated to rich culture, incredible history and the spectacular scenery that served as an inspiration to countless artists, writers, and musicians.

No matter when you travel the Mississippi River, we can help you pack. Check out our What to Pack for Your Mississippi River Cruise blog.

Planning & FAQs

Which months offer the best mild weather across the Lower and Upper Mississippi River?

April to May and September to October are the most comfortable overall. Lower Mississippi River cruise itineraries typically have milder temperatures and lower humidity in spring and fall. The Upper Mississippi River cruise itineraries offer warm, pleasant days in late spring and early fall.

Are July and August too hot for a Lower Mississippi River cruise?

The Lower Mississippi River (New Orleans to Memphis) is the hottest and most humid in July and August. For cooler conditions, consider March to May or October to December. Upper Mississippi River routes are usually milder in summer with long daylight hours and seasonal events.

When is peak foliage visible on the Upper Mississippi River?

Late September to mid-October is typical, with standard color around Red Wing, Winona, La Crosse, and Dubuque. Timing can vary by year and latitude.

How do weather or river levels affect excursions and daily schedules?

Excursions run in most conditions, but high or low water, heat advisories, or storms may prompt time adjustments, alternative tours, or occasional port substitutions. The crew provides day-by-day updates and options.