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Get your free welcome guide, get the latest scoop from the red stick blog, mississippi river cruises begin sailing with stops in baton rouge.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact Info, Karron Alford Director of Marketing & Technology [email protected]

After a year of cancellations, Louisiana’s capital city prepares to welcome passengers this week  

Baton Rouge (March 22, 2021)—Mississippi River Cruises have set sail as current CDC provisions are allowing U.S. based river cruises to return to the waterways. On Tuesday, March 23, Baton Rouge is set to welcome passengers aboard one of American Cruise Lines modern riverboats. This will be followed by the arrival of American Queen Steamboat Company’s arrival on March 27.

American Jazz, the first riverboat to arrive, is scheduled to dock around 7 a.m. on Tuesday, March 23 with an estimated departure time of 5 p.m. Visit Baton Rouge staff members will be there to welcome the passengers that morning. American Duchess, a paddlewheel riverboat with the American Queen Steamboat Company will arrive early on Saturday, March 27. As with all incoming river cruises, times of arrival and departure are subject to change.

Just over a year ago, downtown Baton Rouge’s City Dock saw less traffic as river cruises came to a sudden halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two companies, American Cruise Lines and American Queen Steamboat Company welcomed their last pre-pandemic riverboats on March 10 and March 11, 2020. In total, Baton Rouge saw a total of 145 riverboat docking cancellations due to the pandemic.

Paul Arrigo, Visit Baton Rouge’s President and CEO says, “The return of the riverboats to our city falls in line with was the data shows us at it relates to the willingness people have to travel. We feel that now with the COVID-19 vaccine being administered we’re in a better position to safely welcome our visitors.”

Between the two companies, American Queen Steamboat Company and American Cruise Lines, there are a total of seven riverboats scheduled to dock in downtown Baton Rouge throughout the year with an estimated 100 riverboat arrivals this year. The companies are following strict guidelines that may include limited capacity on the riverboats and changes to the passenger’s schedules and tours while docked in Baton Rouge.

Alexa Paolella, American Cruise Lines Manager of Public Relations adds, “American Cruise Lines is delighted to begin operating again on the Mississippi River. American Jazz , our brand new modern riverboat, departed on Sunday, March 21, from New Orleans on a 7 night cruise to Memphis. This follows our resumption of cruises in the Southeastern U.S. on March 13. We appreciate the support of the communities we visit and are proud to be back to work with our local business partners in each port of call. We look forward to visiting and supporting the wonderful towns along the Mississippi River.”

Among those looking forward to the riverboats returning are local business owners and while they’ve been waiting for their arrival; they’ve expressed that timing had to be right to make sure that this is for the long term.

Gabe Vicknair, Assistant Executive Director of the Downtown Development District says, “We are extremely excited to hear the news of the return of the riverboats and are eager to welcome them back. This will be a long awaited and a welcomed boost for downtown businesses.”

Included in through use of this link are images of American Cruise Lines modern riverboats, two of which are debuting this 2021 on the Mississippi for the first time, American Jazz on 3/21/21, and American Melody later this year. Assistance with securing additional images and video are available upon request by contacting, Karron Alford, [email protected] .

About Visit Baton Rouge

The mission of Visit Baton Rouge is to increase visitation to and awareness of the Baton Rouge Area, therefore enhancing economic impact. For more information, log onto www.VisitBatonRouge.com to access all Baton Rouge press releases, log onto VisitBatonRouge.com/media/press-releases .

Karron Alford Staff Photo

Karron Alford

Mississippi River Cruises

4 best mississippi river cruises for 2024-2025, america’s heartland, heart of the delta, new orleans & southern charms, america’s great river, mississippi river travel guide, top 10 mississippi river's cruise ports, the best times to take a mississippi river cruise, upper mississippi vs. lower mississippi river cruises, top things to see and do on a mississippi river cruise.

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How to Choose the Perfect Mississippi River Cruise for You

Culture and history of the mississippi river, faqs: mississippi river, recommended mississippi river ships, viking mississippi, top mississippi river travel destinations.

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Best Mississippi River cruises for seniors, history buffs and Americana lovers

Donna Heiderstadt

Mississippi River cruises have surged in popularity in recent decades. They are especially appealing to mature travelers looking to enjoy guided tours of top cities and small towns in several Southern and Midwestern states.

Add in regionally inspired cuisine enjoyed aboard a luxurious river ship, plus the camaraderie of other culturally curious travelers, and cruising the most celebrated river in the United States promises satisfaction on multiple levels.

Two major cruise lines sail the Mississippi, which stretches 2,340 miles from New Orleans to Minneapolis-St. Paul: American Cruise Lines and Viking . Each line offers several similar itineraries ranging from eight to 22 days, but the ships themselves differ. Some are retro-inspired paddlewheelers, others sleek modern riverboats. The onboard dining and entertainment, as well as the excursions in port, also vary across the lines.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

We've rounded up the best Mississippi River cruises for seniors, history buffs and Americana lovers, so you can find your perfect U.S. river cruise itinerary based on your interests and travel preferences.

Best cruise for Civil War history: Lower Mississippi (round-trip New Orleans)

mississippi river cruises baton rouge

The Deep South attracts history buffs with its Civil War battlefields and cemeteries and 18th- and 19th-century mansions guarded by regiments of live oaks. Both cruise lines offer a Lower Mississippi river cruise, sailing round-trip from New Orleans, but only one features multiple excursions geared to those with a keen interest in the 19th-century conflict.

On American Cruise Lines' eight-day New Orleans to New Orleans itinerary , cruisers can visit Vicksburg, Mississippi, where the National Military Park commemorates the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. In Louisiana's capital, Baton Rouge, a guided excursion explores critical locations in the Civil War's Battle of Baton Rouge and Port Hudson.

Other ports bring to life the pre-war South. In Oak Alley, Louisiana, guests can tour a Greek Revival mansion on a sugar plantation built and maintained by slaves. While no Civil War fighting took place in Natchez, Mississippi, the city is home to hundreds of lavish mansions from the era and the Historic Natchez Cemetery, which dates to 1822.

This itinerary is offered on five American Cruise Lines ships, ranging from the 150-passenger classic paddlewheeler American Heritage to the 180-passenger modern riverboat American Serenade. American Cruise Lines is known for its regionally inspired cuisine, served with complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner, plus complimentary cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and hosted entertainment in the main lounges.

Some excursions and a pre-cruise hotel stay in the Big Easy are included in the cruise fare. You can book additional day tours for an extra cost.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

If you're especially passionate about Civil War history, look for American Cruise Lines' special Civil War-themed cruises on limited dates, which allow a deeper dive into the period. These include an eight-day Lower Mississippi itinerary from Memphis to New Orleans (or vice versa).

In addition to visiting monuments and museums, you'll enjoy onboard lectures and presentations and interaction with other Civil War buffs. These sailings are aboard 180-guest American Serenade and American Symphony.

Best cruise for music: Lower Mississippi (New Orleans to Memphis)

mississippi river cruises baton rouge

If you love the musical genres of the South, a Mississippi River cruise from New Orleans to Memphis (or vice versa) should be your choice.

From Crescent City, the birthplace of American jazz, to Memphis, known as the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n Roll, this itinerary celebrates the region's homegrown rhythms. Both cruise lines offer itineraries between New Orleans and Memphis, but Viking features more excursions and onboard experiences tailored to music lovers.

Viking's 12-day Heart of the Delta itinerary includes a two-night pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans (beginning with 2024 itineraries). This allows ample time to enjoy the city's street musicians and jazz clubs.

In Baton Rouge, you can visit the Capitol Park Museum, which showcases exhibits dedicated to Louisiana's musical heritage and Mardi Gras traditions. While in Natchez, Mississippi, classical music (played on a 1903 Steinway piano) and Southern cuisine are the stars of the excursion to Lansdowne and Joseph Stone House.

The port call in Greenville, Mississippi, is steeped in the blues with a chance to visit a museum dedicated to hometown legend B.B. King. The grand finale of the cruise is two nights in Memphis, where you can enjoy all things blues, barbecue and Elvis Presley.

Viking is a newcomer to the Mississippi River, and all sailings are aboard the 386-guest Viking Mississippi. The riverboat debuted in 2022 and features a modern Scandinavian design.

Passengers can enjoy a sun terrace with an aft infinity pool and an Explorer's Lounge with panoramic forward views of the Mississippi. The Restaurant serves both Southern regional cuisine and global favorites, and the ship welcomes local musicians onboard for evening entertainment.

Related: First impressions of a US river cruise on American Queen

Best cruise for art and architecture: Upper Mississippi

mississippi river cruises baton rouge

An Upper Mississippi cruise between St. Louis, Missouri, and St. Paul, Minnesota, provides access to some of the top architectural landmarks and artistic treasures of the American Heartland — from Eero Saarinen's soaring Gateway Arch to Frank Lloyd Wright's inimitable Taliesin.

Both cruise lines offer Upper Mississippi sailings from July through September. Viking and American Cruise Lines' itineraries and excursions are our picks for fans of American art and architecture.

Viking River Cruises' American Heartland itinerary sails from St. Louis to St. Paul (or vice versa) and runs eight days in 2023 and 12 days with pre- and post-cruise stays in 2024. You'll explore architectural gems aboard Viking Mississippi, itself an example of sleek, Scandinavian-inspired nautical architecture.

Highlights include St. Louis, where you'll admire Saarinen's circa-1965 Gateway Arch, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis featuring a 41-million-piece mosaic and the Renaissance Revival-style City Hall. From Dubuque, Iowa, you can head to Spring Green, Wisconsin, to visit Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright's private home, studio and school from 1911 to 1959.

After a day in Redwing, Minnesota, known for its pottery studios, you'll end your journey in the Twin Cities, home to the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art in Minneapolis and well-preserved Victorian buildings in St. Paul.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

American Cruise Line's eight-day Upper Mississippi river cruise covers much of the same ground, with a few differences. Sailings are available on the 150-passenger paddlewheeler American Heritage as well as on three sleek new 180-guest riverboats, American Melody, American Serenade and American Symphony.

Beyond the landmarks of St. Louis, highlights include Davenport, Iowa, where you can visit the Smithsonian-affiliated Putnam Museum, and Dubuque, Iowa, known for its colorful Victorian mansions. (An excursion to the Field of Dreams featured in the 1989 Kevin Costner movie is also available.)

Winona, Minnesota, boasts some of the state's most architecturally significant buildings, many featuring the beautiful stained glass for which the city is known. Then it's off to Red Wing, Minnesota, where you can explore the Pottery Museum before completing your journey in the Twin Cities.

Best extended cruise: Complete Mississippi

mississippi river cruises baton rouge

Want it all? You can visit up to 20 ports in as many as nine states on a 22-day Mississippi River journey from New Orleans to St. Paul. These itineraries are offered by both American Cruise Lines and Viking, and are perfect for seniors with plenty of time to explore.

American Cruise Lines offers the 22-day Complete Mississippi Cruise aboard three 180-passenger modern river ships: American Melody, American Serenade and American Symphony.

After a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, passengers journey through all aspects of American history. You'll visit ports known for ornate mansions (Oak Alley and St. Francisville, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi), Civil War battles (Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Vicksburg, Mississippi), music (Memphis and Greenville, Tennessee) and architecture (St. Louis and Dubuque, Iowa). You'll also call on historic Missouri trading posts, such as New Madrid (a Spanish outpost) and Cape Girardeau (a French river port).

Viking River Cruises' 22-day Grand Mississippi Voyage , available in 2024 aboard the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi, also embarks in New Orleans and visits 16 ports in nine states as it cruises north to St. Paul, Minnesota.

During this sailing, you'll overnight in Memphis, so there's time to fully savor barbecue, the blues and Elvis Presley's Graceland. A port call in Paducah, Kentucky, lets you explore the National Quilt Museum and colorful street murals.

You can enjoy excursions in Missouri's most famous big city (St. Louis) and small town (Hannibal) and then visit three ports in Iowa known for their historic architecture and agriculture (including a tour of the John Deere Pavilion). Learn about the Norwegian heritage of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and get to know the eagles and pottery of Red Wing, Minnesota, before disembarking in St. Paul.

Bottom line

History buffs and Americana lovers will find plenty to enjoy on a Mississippi River cruise. Your ship will stop in major cities and lesser-known towns, offering excursions to historic sites and evenings spent enjoying locally inspired cuisine and regional music.

The two cruise lines sailing America's most legendary river offer itineraries for every interest on ships designed with mature travelers in mind. Whether you want to visit Civil War sites, see top architectural landmarks, or enjoy our country's best-loved musical genres, one or more of the lines will offer a Mississippi River itinerary that will help you do it — in comfort and style as you make new friends on board.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Mississippi river cruises set to dock in baton rouge for first time in a year.

BATON ROUGE - On Tuesday morning the American Jazz, a river cruise ship, will dock in downtown Baton Rouge, becoming the first ship to bring passengers to the capital city since the COVID-19 pandemic brought cruise liners to a halt.

American Jazz is expected to dock Tuesday at 7 a.m., and the American Duchess riverboat is scheduled for Saturday. Both ships will have fewer passengers amid coronavirus restrictions, but business owners downtown are thrilled to welcome them.

"It's fun dealing with them," Fred Taylor of Poor Boy Lloyd's said. "I like to pick on them and play with them, and they enjoy it too."

From March 2020 through the end of the year, 145 river cruise dockings were canceled in Baton Rouge, according to Visit Baton Rouge.

With many downtown employees still working from home, Taylor says the passengers from these ships will provide a much-needed boost like they had before the pandemic took hold.

"Last year we had nothing," Taylor said. "This is only a plus. A cruise ship is [a] plus. Anything we get from them is a plus."

Taylor acknowledges the past year has been difficult for the po'boy shop but is choosing to see the return of cruise liners as a step forward.

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"We [are] all trying to catch up now," Taylor said. "Everybody [is] trying to catch up right now, and it important, right now, to have something positive."

Including the American Jazz and the American Duchess, 100 riverboat cruises are expected to stop in Baton Rouge during 2021. Tourism officials, like Paul Arrigo of Visit Baton Rouge, say this group of passengers, spend at least tens of thousands of dollars a year in museum and attraction tickets, meals, and merchandise. They're hoping these first ships to return will begin to pour dollars into businesses, who need them badly.

"At a time when need it, at the locations that we need," Arrigo said, "Certainly the attractions, the museums, and the hotels have felt the pandemic as negatively as any other industry. Certainly now bringing that back to these museums and attractions is big news."

Ahead of the American Jazz's docking, Taylor is looking forward to once again teasing out-of-town guests, but he's also optimistic this will be the beginning of a return to normal for his iconic eatery.

"We missed out on parades, we missed runs, we missed events down here," Taylor said, looking back on 2020. "This is only a plus, and hopefully, thank God, something's coming back. I don't know."

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

American Cruise Lines' Serenade ship in Chattanooga.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

The River Lounge, including plush chairs, coffee tables and a piano in the back.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

mississippi river cruises baton rouge

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking River Cruises

Viking cruise ship under a bridge on the Mississippi River.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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  • The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

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Mississippi River cruising

Highlights of the Mississippi River

At a glance.

American Cruise Lines

This 5-day Highlights of the Mississippi River cruise adventure begins and ends in New Orleans, a melting pot of French, African, and American culture. Here you can enjoy exclusive access to its vibrant music scene and the best in Cajun and Creole cuisine.

Travel to the magnificent Houmas House Plantation and enjoy its beautiful gardens and unique collection of Louisiana art. Be greeted with colorful Mardi Gras beads in Baton Rouge, before taking a one-of-a-kind guided tour through this fascinating city. Sip a cool Mint Julep on the west lawn of the Oak Alley Plantation in 19th-century fashion.

Highlights of the Mississippi River Highlights

  • New Orleans, LA
  • Oak Alley, LA
  • Baton Rouge, LA
  • Houmas House, LA

Highlights of the Mississippi River Details

--> day-to-day itinerary.

Couple registering during a pre-cruise

Pre-Cruise: Complimentary Package New Orleans, LA

Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Package, 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 Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Day 1: New Orleans, LA

Welcome to New Orleans. This vibrant city, also known as the Big Easy, is the perfect destination to begin your Mississippi River voyage. Arrive the day before your cruise and and explore the most popular attractions and cultural highlights of New Orleans at your leisure. With complimentary transportation to the ship, we will make your tour is as worry-free as possible.

Houmas House

Day 2: Houmas House, LA

Explore the Houmas House and its history as you stroll along the gardens, ponds, and the majestic live oak alley that adorn the grounds. Discover the southern splendor of “The Sugar Palace,” with its 16 rooms filled with period antiques and Louisiana artwork.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Day 3: Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge features all the history you would expect in a state capital, but with an added downhome flavor that makes it truly unique. Led by our private guide, enjoy a tour of the cities’ most famous attractions, including the Old and New State Capitol and the interactive Louisiana State Museum.

Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana

Day 4: Oak Alley, LA

Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane homestead, Oak Alley Plantation is named after its most distinguishing feature, a row of 300-year-old oak trees. This leafy canopy forms a quarter-mile path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is breathtaking.

Day 5: New Orleans, LA

Welcome back to New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, and where art and culture abound around every corner of this unique city. The open-air artist colony proudly displays local works on the iron fence in Jackson Square, while the city’s 45 museums carefully preserve its rich history. Stay an extra day or even a few nights to enjoy the famed French Quarter.

Highlights of the Mississippi Itinerary Map

--> Dates & Rates

Dates and rates are effective the date the information was updated on this site. Dates and rates may have changed by the cruise line prior to an update here. Contact Sunstone Tours & Cruises for the latest dates & rates.

Prices displayed are per person based on double occupancy.

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ACL-American Heritage

American Heritage

The 150-passenger American Heritage 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.

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American Splendor

The 185-passenger American Splendor 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. Fellow guests will quickly become new friends.

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American Symphony

American Symphony

The 175-passenger American Symphony is the newest modern riverboat sailing the Mississippi River. She is one of the most sophisticated and elegant riverboats available on U.S. waters.

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Cruising the Mississippi River – Baton Rouge

Cruising the Mississippi River – Baton Rouge

Continuing our adventure of sailing down the Mississippi River with Viking Cruises , we arrived in the early morning in the capital of Louisiana, Baton Rouge. Why is it called that – well, there is no fully agreed answer, but here are four possibilities:

1️ Native Americans have for centuries called the region “Istrouma” which means red stick. French speaking explorers simply adopted the meaning of this indigenous word. 2️ The settlers learned from the local aboriginal people that a red painted pole did serve as the boundary marker between the hunting grounds of two distinct tribes, namely the Houmas and the Bayogoulas. 3️ The main landmark of the place was a large post that the Native Americans used to dry game and fish and on which the flow of blood had stained the wood a crimson red. 4️ Red cypresses stripped of their bark embellished the landscape with their reflection in clear waters. The French called the site “Bâton Rouge”. The name lost its accent under the English period (1763-1779). La Grande Louisiane française (cheminsdelafrancophonie.org)

So, now you know!

This was scheduled to be a busy day! We docked alongside an old riverboat that had been used for years as a Casino and so the exit from the boat was through dingy passageways alongside the remains of the casino slot machines. Not the nicest welcome to Baton Rouge, but at least we were in the city itself! The morning was a walking tour of Baton Rouge, an optional tour, and in the afternoon, we had an Airboat ride in the swamps planned.

Both turned out to be great! After a short coach ride to the waterfront by the Planetarium (or by Rising Cain’s River Center depending on what is important to you!), during which we were told to take water to support ourselves on our 3-mile stroll through the capital. On arrival, we donned our QuietVox listening devices and started the walk. The guide was very knowledgeable and interesting (our group was about 20 people I guess) and she maintained a good pace as we walked first along the waterfront to this intriguing sculpture donated by the Rotary Club in 2018:

Sing the River musical reflective sculpture presented by Rotary Club in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana. Prints available in my online store

At this point we headed into the historical commercial district. I noticed this strange arrangement along the street:

mississippi river cruises baton rouge

I thought a very poignant illustration of homelessness and how people who are homeless are still capable of trying to look after themselves. I have no idea if that is what I was seeing here, to be honest, but it made for an interesting photograph.

We headed towards 3rd Street with its collection of historic buildings, from the Cafe Mimi with one of the original Coca Cola neon signs to the Kress department store that was the scene of a famous Civil Rights sit-in in 1960.

Original design of historic retro Coca Cola sign on rooftop in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana

Incidentally, the facade doesn’t curve like this – the street is narrow and the only way to capture the entire building is to take a series of images as you pan across the scene. When they are all stitched together, you get a dramatic version such as the one above!

As we headed closer to the Capitol building, I also noticed some great Art Deco pieces in some of the office buildings:

Art Deco style decoration using Magnolia flower on government building in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana. Prints in my online store

The state capitol building is the tallest state capitol building in the USA with a height of 450 feet (137m) and was completed in 1931. It is often thought of as Huey Long’s memorial due to the influence he had on its construction. Although there was some work going on in the grounds, I thought this view showed off the area and the tower at its best. As you can see, the skies had cleared by this time, bathing us in very pleasant sunshine.

Tall tower of the State Capitol building in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana. Prints available in my online store

I had to keep my eye on the group as I always seemed to be the last to leave any area, but we were off next to Spanish Town, one of the older residential areas of the city:

Famous historic Spanish Town residential area in Baton Rouge

Then on again to see the First Baptist Church and on to the Governor’s Mansion, built for Huey Long and completed in 1930. It is designed after the White House in Washington DC, which is rumored to be because he wanted to become accustomed to that building for when he became President.

Old Governors Mansion built for Huey Long in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana

Baton Rouge has a fine range of historic buildings but also some dramatically designed modern ones. This the Library in downtown:

Famous River Center Branch Library in the River Center area of Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana

And on we went, finally ending up back where we started by the Old Capitol Building of Louisiana. This was finished in 1852 and was designed to be a medieval castle on the banks of the Mississippi instead of mimicking the design of the US Capitol in Washington DC.

Old State Capitol Building incorporating Museum of Political History in Baton Rouge, the state capital of Louisiana. Prints available in my online store

Waiting for the time for the coach to depart back to the boat, I took another look at the USS Kidd warship beached on the side of the Mississippi. I’m told that normally the water in the river swirls around the boat itself and shows just how low the water was that fall.

USS Kidd warship beached on the riverbank of the Mississippi in low water in Baton Rouge, LA.

And with that, we were whisked back to the boat for quick lunch before departing, once again, for the Airboat ride in the swamps of the Bayou!

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Vicksburg and the Civil War National Park

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The Alaska and Inside Passage Cruise with Viking

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Ten States. One River.

Louisiana

Contact Info:

State Tourism Office The Louisiana Office of Tourism P.O. Box 94291 Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9291 Phone: 225.342.8100 louisianatravel.com

The long journey of the Mississippi River ends in Louisiana. Perhaps the most storied of the 10 Mississippi River states, a trip along Louisiana’s segment of the Great River Road is an unforgettable trip. Running along both sides of the Mississippi River southward toward the Gulf of Mexico, the road passes through historic river towns such as Tallulah, Vidalia, Morganza, Plaquemine, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge and New Orleans. In each of these distinct communities, you’ll find historic sites telling the story of the region, including  former plantations, historic sites and museums. The highlight of the Great River Road in Louisiana is New Orleans, one of America’s oldest cities and a piece of living history. Explore the architecture, incredible music, rich culture and dazzling culinary variety of the French Quarter. Below New Orleans, the road runs along low ground as the landscape flattens and the Mississippi River’s water’s join with the Gulf. It’s a driving experience you don’t want to miss. 

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Mikoyan Gurevich MiG 3 172IAP For the Party of Bolsheviks with Nikolai Sheyenko May 1942 01

 Mikoyan Gurevich MiG 3 172IAP For the Party of Bolsheviks with Nikolai Sheyenko May 1942 01

Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-3

National origin:- Soviet Union Role:- Fighter Interceptor Manufacturer:- Mikoyan-Gurevich Designer:- First flight:- 29th October 1940 Introduction:- 1941 Status:- Retired 1945 Produced:- 1940-1941 Number built:- 3,422 Primary users:- Soviet Air Forces (VVS); Soviet Air Defence Forces (PVO); Soviet Naval Aviation Developed from:- Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-1 Variants:- Mikoyan-Gurevich I-211 Operational history MiG-3s were delivered to frontline fighter regiments beginning in the spring of 1941 and were a handful for pilots accustomed to the lower-performance and docile Polikarpov I-152 and I-153 biplanes and the Polikarpov I-16 monoplane. It remained tricky and demanding to fly even after the extensive improvements made over the MiG-1. Many fighter regiments had not kept pace in training pilots to handle the MiG and the rapid pace of deliveries resulted in many units having more MiGs than trained pilots during the German invasion. By 1 June 1941, 1,029 MIG-3s were on strength, but there were only 494 trained pilots. In contrast to the untrained pilots of the 31st Fighter Regiment, those of the 4th Fighter Regiment were able to claim three German high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft shot down before war broke out in June 1941. However high-altitude combat of this sort was to prove to be uncommon on the Eastern Front where most air-to-air engagements were at altitudes well below 5,000 metres (16,000 ft). At these altitudes the MiG-3 was outclassed by the Bf 109 in all respects, and even by other new Soviet fighters such as the Yakovlev Yak-1. Furthermore, the shortage of ground-attack aircraft in 1941 forced it into that role as well, for which it was totally unsuited. Pilot Alexander E. Shvarev recalled: "The Mig was perfect at altitudes of 4,000 m and above. But at lower altitudes it was, as they say, 'a cow'. That was the first weakness. The second was its armament: weapons failure dogged this aircraft. The third weakness was its gunsights, which were inaccurate: that's why we closed in as much as we could and fired point blank." On 22 June 1941, most MiG-3s and MiG-1s were in the border military districts of the Soviet Union. The Leningrad Military District had 164, 135 were in the Baltic Military District, 233 in the Western Special Military District, 190 in the Kiev Military District and 195 in the Odessa Military District for a total of 917 on hand, of which only 81 were non-operational. An additional 64 MiGs were assigned to Naval Aviation, 38 in the Air Force of the Baltic Fleet and 26 in the Air Force of the Black Sea Fleet. The 4th and 55th Fighter Regiments had most of the MiG-3s assigned to the Odessa Military District and their experiences on the first day of the war may be taken as typical. The 4th, an experienced unit, shot down a Romanian Bristol Blenheim reconnaissance bomber, confirmed by postwar research, and lost one aircraft which crashed into an obstacle on takeoff. The 55th was much less experienced with the MiG-3 and claimed three aircraft shot down, although recent research confirms only one German Henschel Hs 126 was 40% damaged, and suffered three pilots killed and nine aircraft lost. The most unusual case was the pair of MiG-3s dispatched from the 55th on a reconnaissance mission to PloieÅŸti that failed to properly calculate their fuel consumption and both were forced to land when they ran out of fuel. Most of the MiG-3s assigned to the interior military districts were transferred to the PVO where their lack of performance at low altitudes was not so important. On 10 July 299 were assigned to the PVO, the bulk of them belonging to the 6th PVO Corps at Moscow, while only 293 remained with the VVS, and 60 with the Naval Air Forces, a total of only 652 despite deliveries of several hundred aircraft. By 1 October, on the eve of the German offensive towards Moscow codenamed Operation Typhoon, only 257 were assigned to VVS units, 209 to the PVO, and 46 to the Navy, a total of only 512, a decrease of 140 fighters since 10 July, despite deliveries of over a thousand aircraft in the intervening period. By 5 December, the start of the Soviet counter-offensive that drove the Germans back from the gates of Moscow, the Navy had 33 MiGs on hand, the VVS 210, and the PVO 309. This was a total of 552, an increase of only 40 aircraft from 1 October. Over the winter of 1941-42 the Soviets transferred all of the remaining MiG-3s to the Navy and PVO so that on 1 May 1942 none were left on strength with the VVS. By 1 May 1942, Naval Aviation had 37 MiGs on strength, while the PVO had 323 on hand on 10 May. By 1 June 1944, the Navy had transferred all its aircraft to the PVO, which reported only 17 on its own strength, and all of those were gone by 1 January 1945. Undoubtedly more remained in training units and the like, but none were assigned to combat units by then.

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Mississippi river cruises.

Stretching for 2,350 miles down the United States, from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the "Mighty Mississippi" offer a different type of cross-country journey for the curious explorer—one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture.

Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private verandas, spacious public areas and our signature, clean Scandinavian design, reimagined for the Mississippi River.

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Heart of the Delta

New orleans, louisiana to memphis, tennessee, reduced cruise & airfares | $25 deposit.

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America’s Heartland

St. louis, missouri to twin cities, minnesota.

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New Orleans & Southern Charms

New orleans, louisiana to new orleans, louisiana.

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America’s Great River

St. paul, minnesota to new orleans, louisiana.

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NEW! Mississippi Delta Explorer

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NEW! Upper Mississippi Explorer

Memphis, tennessee to st. paul, minnesota.

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Grand Mississippi Voyage

New orleans, louisiana to st. paul, minnesota, free roundtrip airfare* & reduced cruise fares | $25 deposit.

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NEW! The Big Easy to the Gateway City

New orleans, louisiana to st. louis (alton), missouri.

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NEW! Mississippi River Odyssey

New orleans, louisiana to red wing, minnesota, highlights of mississippi river cruises.

A Mississippi River cruise offers the rare opportunity to sail through America's heartland on the world’s #1 river cruise line. Explore picturesque towns and boom cities; take in views of pastoral farms and towering bluffs; and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture with an included excursion in every port. Here are a few highlights Viking reveals to you:

  • Festive French Quarter and Creole cuisine in New Orleans
  • Cajun heritage in Baton Rouge
  • Civil War history at Vicksburg National Military Park
  • Memphis BBQ, Graceland and appreciation of the Delta Blues
  • Steamboat sailings with diverse wildlife sightings
  • Mark Twain's boyhood home and America’s literary history
  • Up close look at America’s national symbol, the bald eagle
  • Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the pioneering spirit of the Midwest
  • Norwegian cultural experience at Vesterheim
  • Intricate locks and dams of the Upper Mississippi

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The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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COMMENTS

  1. 3 Amazing Baton Rouge River Cruises for 2024-2025

    Baton Rouge river cruises cost from $3,999 to $30,999 for a 8 to 15 days trip. Adventure Life's Baton Rouge cruise specialists can help you plan the perfect trip. ... Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of the Mississippi River on this 12-day voyage from New Orleans to Memphis. Soak up the rich French and Acadian cultures that infuse ...

  2. 3 Best Baton Rouge Cruises & Riverboats for 2024-2025

    Build your ideal Mississippi River trip. Call 1.406.541.2677. Baton Rouge is a gorgeous city and the capital of Louisiana. While here, you can visit the Old Louisiana State Capital Museum, enjoy the LSU Rural Life Museum and the beautiful downtown area. Our southern Mississippi River cruises will usually stop at Baton Rouge and other cities ...

  3. Mississippi River Cruises Begin Sailing with Stops in Baton Rouge

    Baton Rouge (March 22, 2021)—Mississippi River Cruises have set sail as current CDC provisions are allowing U.S. based river cruises to return to the waterways. On Tuesday, March 23, Baton Rouge is set to welcome passengers aboard one of American Cruise Lines modern riverboats. This will be followed by the arrival of American Queen Steamboat ...

  4. Mississippi River Cruises

    American Cruise Lines offers the best Mississippi River Cruises. Riverboat Cruises with Beautiful Scenery, Historic Landmarks & Award Winning Amenities. Skip to Main Content. 800-460-4518 ... Begin in the French Quarter of New Orleans and continue to Baton Rouge and Natchez. Explore the "Gateway to the West" via St. Louis, rock 'n' roll to ...

  5. Paddle Wheeler and Riverboat Cruises and Tours

    In New Orleans, the deluxe 800-passenger paddle wheeler Creole Queen offers a daily Mississippi River Dinner Jazz Cruise with live music and a lavish Creole feast. After dinner, you can enjoy a signature Louisiana cocktail and take a stroll on the deck - or a spin on the dance floor. The renovated 2,500-passenger Riverboat Louis Armstrong ...

  6. Complete Mississippi River Experience

    Experience the mighty Mississippi River from the unique perspective of your personal boat captain who has spent a lifetime on the river - a modern-day Mark Twain! Witness the bustling activity around Baton Rouge and hear countless stories and amazing facts about the Mississippi River's round-the-clock towing industry.

  7. St. Louis to New Orleans Riverboat Cruise

    Grand Heartland Cruise. St. Paul, MN to New Orleans, LA. Expand Map View. 16 Days / 15 Nights. View Cruise Details. Cruise from New Orleans Cruise Port to St Louis On A Luxurious 12 Day Mississippi Riverboat. See The Country By Boat From The Bayou To the Gateway To the West.

  8. 4 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024-2025

    Right on the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge - with its population at 225,000 people - is a great destination as you cruise through the state of Louisiana. In fact, Baton Rouge is the Louisiana state capital and home to the Magnolia Mound Plantation (including the French Creole House), the LSU Rural Life Museum, and the retired WWII destroyer ...

  9. Best Mississippi River cruises for seniors, history buffs and Americana

    Viking River Cruises' American Heartland itinerary sails from St. Louis to St. Paul (or vice versa) and runs eight days in 2023 and 12 days with pre- and post-cruise stays in 2024. You'll explore architectural gems aboard Viking Mississippi, itself an example of sleek, Scandinavian-inspired nautical architecture.

  10. Mississippi River cruises set to dock in Baton Rouge for first ...

    On Tuesday morning the American Jazz, a river cruise ship, will dock in downtown Baton Rouge, becoming the first ship to bring passengers to the capital city since the COVID-19 pandemic brought ...

  11. Mississippi River Cruises

    Stretching for 2,350 miles down the United States, from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the "Mighty Mississippi" offer a different type of cross-country journey for the curious explorer—one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture. Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private ...

  12. Mississippi River cruises coming back to Baton Rouge; see more details

    American Cruise Lines American Jazz is set to visit Baton Rouge Tuesday. The ship left New Orleans on Sunday as part of a voyage up the Mississippi River to Memphis.

  13. The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

    Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul. Length: 22 days. Price: Starts at $14,935 per person. If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek ...

  14. Baton Rouge River Cruises

    River Cruises that visit Baton Rouge | River Cruise ship itineraries that stop in Baton Rouge. Travel Agents Competing To Offer The Best Cruise Deals. 1. Find your cruise & request quotes. 2. Compare personalized offers. ... 7 Night - Lower Mississippi River Cruise from Memphis, TN to New Orleans, LA

  15. Highlights of the Mississippi River

    From: $2,375. Time of Year: March - November. Request a Brochure Book this Trip. or call us toll-free 1-888-815-5428. This 5-day Highlights of the Mississippi River cruise adventure begins and ends in New Orleans, a melting pot of French, African, and American culture. Here you can enjoy exclusive access to its vibrant music scene and the best ...

  16. 7 Best Ports of Call When Cruising the Mississippi River

    Baton Rouge is an intriguing mixture of African-American and Caribbean cultures and a hot spot for Creole and Cajun cuisine. Visit Louisiana's Old State Capitol or new state capitol building -- or ...

  17. Cruising the Mississippi River

    Continuing our adventure of sailing down the Mississippi River with Viking Cruises, we arrived in the early morning in the capital of Louisiana, Baton Rouge.Why is it called that - well, there is no fully agreed answer, but here are four possibilities: 1️ Native Americans have for centuries called the region "Istrouma" which means red stick.

  18. Louisiana

    The Louisiana Office of Tourism. P.O. Box 94291. Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9291. Phone: 225.342.8100. louisianatravel.com. The long journey of the Mississippi River ends in Louisiana. Perhaps the most storied of the 10 Mississippi River states, a trip along Louisiana's segment of the Great River Road is an unforgettable trip.

  19. Ex-Addis cop admits guilt to fatal crash in high-speed chase

    The fatal wreck stemmed from a New Year's Eve police chase that began in Baton Rouge and spilled across the Mississippi River Bridge into West Baton Rouge Parish. Baton Rouge officers attempted ...

  20. How many bridges cross the Mississippi River in Louisiana

    File photo: December 1, 1935 The New Huey P. Long Bridge across the Mississippi River When this $13,000,000 structure is completed December 1, 1935.

  21. Search on for person seen swimming in Mississippi River

    Baton Rouge. New Orleans. Acadiana. Shreveport-Bossier. Gambit. Log in. Subscribe. Log out. ... The Lower Algiers-Chalmette ferry crosses the Mississippi River as it heads to Algiers in Friday ...

  22. Lyubertsy

    Main page; Contents; Current events; Random article; About Wikipedia; Contact us; Donate; Pages for logged out editors learn more

  23. Visit Lyubertsy: 2024 Travel Guide for Lyubertsy, Moscow

    5 /5 (455 reviews) You can learn about the history of Moscow with a trip to Red Square. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

  24. "MY HOUSE AND THE RIVER" by Paul Mauriat

    Our newest member is wrote: Hi! My name is Ilya Isaev, I am from Lyubertsy, Moscow region. I am the painter, and also I am little playing the fife. Music...

  25. Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-3

    Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-3. MiG-3s were delivered to frontline fighter regiments beginning in the spring of 1941 and were a handful for pilots accustomed to the lower-performance and docile Polikarpov I-152 and I-153 biplanes and the Polikarpov I-16 monoplane. It remained tricky and demanding to fly even after the extensive improvements made over ...

  26. Mississippi River Cruises

    Stretching for 2,350 miles down the United States, from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the "Mighty Mississippi" offer a different type of cross-country journey for the curious explorer—one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture. Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private ...

  27. The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

    Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul. ... hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.