Mississippi River cruises offer travelers a unique and immersive way to experience the heartland of America while exploring historic cities, charming towns, and scenic landscapes along one of the world’s most iconic rivers.

Mississippi River Cruise Highlights

  • Historic River Cities: Cruises on the Mississippi River typically include stops at historic cities such as New Orleans, Memphis, St. Louis, and Natchez, among others. Passengers have the opportunity to explore these cities’ rich history, culture, and architecture through guided tours, visits to museums and landmarks, and cultural experiences.
  • Scenic Views: Cruising the Mississippi River provides passengers with scenic views of rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque river towns. Whether sailing past the bluffs of the Upper Mississippi or the bayous of the Lower Mississippi, passengers can enjoy breathtaking vistas from the comfort of the ship’s deck.
  • Southern Hospitality: Cruises on the Mississippi River offer passengers a taste of Southern hospitality and charm. Onboard amenities often include live music, regional cuisine, and cultural performances that showcase the flavors and traditions of the South. Passengers can also enjoy lectures and presentations that provide insights into the region’s history, music, and cuisine.
  • Antebellum Plantations: Many Mississippi River cruises include visits to antebellum plantations and historic estates that offer a glimpse into the region’s plantation-era past. Passengers can tour beautifully preserved mansions, gardens, and slave quarters while learning about the history of the Old South and the legacy of slavery.
  • Riverboat Experience: Some cruises on the Mississippi River are conducted aboard authentic paddlewheel riverboats that evoke the nostalgia and romance of a bygone era. These riverboats feature period decor, live entertainment, and outdoor observation decks that allow passengers to soak in the sights and sounds of the river.
  • Culinary Experiences: Cruising the Mississippi River often highlight the region’s culinary traditions, with onboard dining experiences that showcase Southern cuisine and local specialties. Passengers can enjoy dishes such as gumbo, barbecue, fried catfish, and pecan pie, as well as regional wines and spirits.
  • Themed Cruises: Some cruises on the Mississippi River offer themed itineraries focused on specific interests such as music, history, or cuisine. These themed cruises may include special events, guest speakers, and curated excursions that cater to passengers’ interests and preferences.

My wife and I had a great, relaxing time on this 23-day cruise. We learned a lot of history about the Mississippi River and the cities around it.

— David and Martha M.

Mississippi River Cruise Itineraries

Mississippi River cruising

Historic Mississippi River Cruise

On this 8-day Historic Mississippi River Cruise sailing roundtrip from New Orleans aboard one of several brand new riverboats, this remarkable journey honors the festive culture and deep roots of a region where music speaks universally, and history is evident at every twist and turn of the river.

Houmas House, Louisiana

Lower Mississippi River Cruise

On this 8-day Lower Mississippi River cruise sailing between New Orleans, Louisiana and Memphis, Tennessee, embark on a voyage along the Lower Mississippi River, one brimming with excitement and discovery, stretching from the vibrant streets of New Orleans, Louisiana, to the soulful rhythms of Memphis, Tennessee.

The Arch in St. Louis with springtime cherry blossoms

Upper Mississippi River Cruise

On this 9-day Upper Mississippi River Cruise, set off on an exhilarating journey on the Upper Mississippi River, where every moment resonates with the essence of hometown Americana and the breathtaking beauty that has captivated the imaginations of our nation’s most revered writers, artists, and musicians.

The Grand Ole Opry with a guitar in the foreground

Music Cities Cruise

On this 9-day Music Cities Cruise, embark on a remarkable journey from Memphis to Nashville, where the mighty currents of the Mississippi River, the commanding Ohio River, and the tranquil waters of the Cumberland River guide you through breathtaking landscapes.

Churchhill Downs

Ohio River Cruise

On this 9-day Ohio River Cruise sailing between Louisville, KY to Pittsburgh, PA, celebrates America’s heartland, inviting you to experience the remarkable history and natural beauty that graces the banks of the iconic Ohio River.

Pittsburg, with multiple river meeting and a gondola in the foreground

Grand Ohio River Cruise

On this 16-day Grand Ohio River Cruise, experience two of America’s greatest rivers through the heartland. Enjoy the idyllic countryside of the Ohio River and the wonder of the mighty Mississippi that inspired Mark Twain.

Viking Mississippi in New Orleans

New Orleans & Southern Charms

On this 8-day New Orleans & Southern Charms Mississippi River cruise roundtrip New Orleans aboard 386-guest Viking Mississippi, explore historic estates, and visit notable Civil War sites.

Plantation House

Mississippi Delta Explorer

On this 8-day Mississippi Delta Explorer Mississippi River cruise aboard the 386-guest Viking Mississippi, discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi, and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history.

American Cruise Lines ship sailing the Mississippi River

Complete Mississippi River Experience

This epic 23-day Complete Mississippi River Experience cruise begins in New Orleans and travels north, visiting new ports of call each day before concluding in Minneapolis. American Cruise Lines’ onboard experts bring the stories of the River to life and provide context to each shore experience we provide along the way.