At a glance
- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Start/End:
- St. Louis, MO to St. Paul, MN; or reverse
- From:
- $5,635
- Time of Year:
- June - October
Embark on a 9-day journey along the storied course of the Upper Mississippi River, either from St. Louis, MO/Alton, IL to St. Paul, MN, or in reverse. From the moment you board, you step into a living tableau of America’s heartland, the same waters and riverbanks that inspired generations of writers, artists, and musicians. As the boat glides gently through the river’s twisting, scenic course, you follow in the footsteps of legendary author Mark Twain, traversing the dramatic bluffs, lush bluffs, verdant forests, and labyrinth of river islands that once stirred his imagination.
Each day delivers a blend of tranquility and discovery. Lean back on your private balcony as riverbanks draped in untouched wilderness slide past, maybe spotting deer, birds, or other local wildlife. As the vessel navigates dams and locks, you’ll appreciate the melding of nature and human ingenuity, a quiet tribute to the river’s enduring role in shaping communities and history.
The itinerary brings you to charming river towns and historic cities, each with its own character and stories. In Hannibal, MO, Twain’s hometown, you’ll walk the same streets that inspired the misadventures of Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer, explore the author’s boyhood home and interactive museum, and feel the echoes of 19th-century Americana in the architecture and small-town charm. In Muscatine, IA, the only place the Mississippi flows east to west, you’ll discover its unique heritage, once home to the world’s largest button-manufacturing hub, while enjoying the relaxed rhythms of its riverfront and historic downtown. Then there’s Dubuque, IA, one of the oldest settlements on the western edge of the Mississippi, where Victorian mansions stand alongside a fascinating river museum & aquarium, and a funicular railway offers sweeping views of the city. As you move northward, you’ll reach Winona, MN, a town of scenic bluffs, cultural treasures including a marine art museum, and peaceful paddling routes, perfect for reconnecting with nature and yourself.
Onboard, luxury meets comfort at every turn. The small-ship ambience makes the voyage intimate and relaxing rather than flashy, ideal for travelers who appreciate elegance without excess. Elegant staterooms (many with private balconies) invite you to unwind after a day of excursions. Shared spaces on the ship, from a glass-enclosed dining room to sun decks, lounges, and a walking track, offer panoramic, ever-changing views of water and land. Dining is thoughtful and local: menus are built around regionally influenced cuisine, offering a taste of the heartland as you cruise. Each meal becomes part of the journey, subtle, rich, evocative, and grounded in the places you pass.
Throughout the cruise, curated programming enriches your experience: talks by experts, art- and cooking-classes, convivial mixology, maritime history, guided shore excursions, and leisurely moments to read, reflect, or simply watch the landscape glide by. In this sense, the Upper Mississippi River Cruise becomes more than a vacation, it’s a deeply immersive, soulful passage through America’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Because the river is alive and ever-changing, no two sailings are exactly the same. Varying water levels, shifting landscapes, and seasonal rhythms mean you’ll experience a unique journey, an authentic river voyage steeped in spontaneity, calm, and connection to place.
Upper Mississippi River Cruise Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: St. Louis, MO / Alton, IL
Tucked away beneath the limestone bluffs lies the charming port of Alton, Illinois, serving as a gateway to endless adventures in St. Louis and beyond. But before you set off on your escapades, start your journey with a visit to the captivating National Great Rivers Museum. Learn about the fascinating tales of the mighty upper Mississippi River, exploring its extensive history, the communities it sustains, and the diverse ecosystems it nurtures.
Day 2: Cruising the Upper Mississippi River
With the expansive Mississippi River ahead, savor the peaceful sounds of the water. Unwind on your private balcony as you watch the riverbanks teem with wildlife that inhabits these shores, or listen to the onboard expert share the rich stories of the region. Be sure to visit the sun deck for the most breathtaking views of the winding river. And don’t miss the freshly baked cookies served at 3 pm daily in the restaurant.
Day 3: Hannibal, MO
Welcome to Hannibal, Missouri, a picturesque riverside town full of charm and character. At the heart of Hannibal lies the legacy of its most famous resident, Mark Twain, whose childhood experiences inspired some of literature’s most beloved characters. Visit Twain’s boyhood home, a beautifully preserved white clapboard house where the author spent his early years. Just a short distance away, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum offers an intriguing look into Twain’s life and works, featuring original manuscripts, rare artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring his stories to life.
But Hannibal offers more than just literary history. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, where quaint boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops invite you to discover one-of-a-kind treasures. Be sure to stop by the Rockcliffe Mansion, a historic landmark with stunning views of the Mississippi River, where you can learn more about the town’s rich history.
Day 4: Day of Cruising
A day on the river is never wasted. Grab a book, invite a friend, pick up a game, or chat with an onboard expert as we cruise the upper Mississippi from Hannibal to Muscatine, IA. Immerse yourself in a variety of curated activities, including destination-focused enrichment programs with renowned guest speakers, engaging Art and App-titude Classes, and fun group Cooking Demonstrations. Enjoy lively camaraderie during Mixology sessions, Trivia challenges, and entertaining Game Shows, all designed to enhance your river journey.
Day 5: Muscatine, IA
Muscatine holds a unique distinction as the only place where the Mighty Mississippi River flows east to west. This charming town is also known for its history as the world’s largest button manufacturing hub, a heritage proudly celebrated through local museums and historic sites. Visitors are drawn to Muscatine’s scenic riverfront, offering breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing.
Downtown Muscatine is a delightful area to explore, with an eclectic mix of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and vibrant restaurants, all just two blocks from our dock.
Day 6: Dubuque, IA
Dubuque is a true gem along the upper Mississippi River. As one of the oldest settlements west of the river, the city proudly showcases its rich history while thriving as a modern center for commerce, industry, education, and culture.
Step off the ship and explore the renowned National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, a fascinating complex that will engage all your senses. Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with historic Victorian mansions, experience the excitement of the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway, or visit one of the city’s oldest Catholic churches. Don’t miss the stunning Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden, a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Day 7: Winona, MN
Nestled in southeastern Minnesota along the upper Mississippi River, Winona is a hidden gem known for its stunning bluffs, charming riverfront, and rich cultural blend.
The city’s architecture is a delightful mix of styles, from the grand Beaux-Arts Winona County Courthouse to the elegant Victorian homes in the historic district. The Winona National Bank Building, with its impressive neoclassical design, and the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka, showcasing Polish Cathedral-style architecture, stand as stunning examples of the town’s architectural beauty.
Winona’s cultural offerings are just as captivating, with the Minnesota Marine Art Museum featuring an extraordinary collection of marine art spanning centuries.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Garvin Heights Park offers scenic trails with panoramic views of the river valley and serene Lake Winona, making it the perfect spot for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Day 8: Red Wing, MN
Red Wing is home to one of its most iconic landmarks, Barn Bluff, a towering limestone formation that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Hiking trails lead to the summit, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty.
The city is also renowned for its pottery, with the Red Wing Stoneware Company producing high-quality ceramics since the 19th century. Visitors can tour the pottery factory, explore the showroom, and even try their hand at creating their own unique pieces.
History lovers will appreciate the charm of Red Wing’s historic downtown, where beautifully preserved buildings house boutique shops, antique stores, and art galleries. The Red Wing Shoe Company Museum offers a fascinating look into the history of the iconic footwear brand, while the Goodhue County Historical Society delves into the area’s rich heritage.
Day 9: St. Paul, MN
In St. Paul, a leisurely stroll down Summit Avenue reveals a captivating row of historic mansions, each telling its own story from the late 1800s. For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Mall of America, where over 500 stores await, alongside an indoor water park and theme park. Don’t miss the stunning Minnehaha Falls, where a 53-foot waterfall tumbles into a peaceful oasis, offering visitors a tranquil and mesmerizing escape.
You’ll disembark with easy access to the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport, or you can extend your stay to fully immerse yourself in the charm and attractions of this vibrant region.
