At a glance
- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Start/End:
- St. Louis, MO to St. Paul, MN or reverse
- From:
- $4,610
- Time of Year:
- June - October
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.
Feel the heartbeat of the great American spirit as you follow in the footsteps of literary legend Mark Twain, who found inspiration amidst the grandeur of the river and its cascading bluffs, immortalizing them in his iconic tales. Step into the pages of history as you travel to Hannibal, the very town that shaped Twain’s storytelling, where the colorful characters of Huck Finn, Tom Sawyer, and Becky Thatcher spring to life.
From the comfort of your own private balcony, take in the unspoiled landscapes, adorned with playful wildlife. Navigate through a labyrinth of enchanting islands and get up close to the ingenious engineering of dams and locks.
As the river twists and turns, all your meals will reflect the landscape you pass. Every dish is thoughtfully curated, infused with the essence of local ingredients, ensuring each bite is a celebration of the rich culture that lines the shores of the upper Mississippi. Join us and let the energy of this remarkable journey ignite your spirit and leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
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 wide Mississippi before you, relish the quiet sounds of the river. Relax on your private balcony and watch the riverbanks come to life with a vast array of wildlife that calls these shores home or learn the stories of the area around you from the on-board expert. Make sure to wander to the sun deck for the best views of the winding river. But don’t forget to stop by the restaurant for freshly baked cookies at 3 pm daily.
Day 3: Hannibal, MO
Welcome to Hannibal, Missouri, a charming riverside town brimming with character. At the heart of Hannibal lies the legacy of its most famous resident, Mark Twain, whose childhood adventures served as the inspiration for some of literature’s most beloved characters. Explore Twain’s boyhood home, a beautifully preserved white clapboard house where the author spent his formative years. Nearby, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Twain’s life and works, including original manuscripts, rare artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring his stories to life in vivid detail.
But Hannibal is more than just a literary landmark. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, where charming boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops beckon with unique finds and friendly smiles. Don’t miss the Rockcliffe Mansion, registered as a historic home, and has breathtaking views of the Mississippi River while you learn about the history of Hannibal.
Day 4: Day of Cruising
A day on the river is not a day lost. Grab a book, a friend, a game, or an onboard expert and take the day as it comes as we navigate the upper Mississippi from Hannibal to Muscatine, IA. Engage in curated activities, from destination-focused enrichment programs led by esteemed guest speakers to stimulating Art and App-titude Classes and group Cooking Demonstrations. Embrace spirited camaraderie with Mixology sessions, Trivia challenges, and Game Shows.
Day 5: Muscatine, IA
Muscatine has a unique claim to fame as the only place where the Mighty Mississippi River runs east to west. This charming town is renowned for its history as the former largest button manufacturing area in the world, a claim to fame celebrated through local museums and historic sites. Visitors are enchanted by Muscatine’s picturesque riverfront, offering stunning views and recreational opportunities such as boating and fishing.
Downtown Muscatine invites exploration with its eclectic mix of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and vibrant eateries, all within just two blocks of our dock.
Day 6: Dubuque, IA
Dubuque is a true masterpiece along the upper Mississippi River. As one of the oldest settlements west of the great river, Dubuque wears its history proudly while staying a modern hub for commerce, industry, education, and culture.
Step off the ship and into the renowned National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, a mesmerizing complex that promises to captivate your senses. Wander through the charming streets adorned with picturesque Victorian mansions, feel the thrill of riding the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway, or visit one of its oldest Catholic churches, and then the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden.
Day 7: Winona, MN
Situated in southeastern Minnesota along the banks of the upper Mississippi River, Winona is a gem of a city renowned for its stunning bluffs, picturesque riverfront, and blend of cultures.
The city’s architecture is a captivating mesh of styles, ranging from the grandeur of the Beaux-Arts-style Winona County Courthouse to the intricate details of the Victorian-era homes in the historic district. The Winona National Bank Building, with its striking neoclassical facade, and the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka with Polish Cathedral-style architecture are breathtaking examples of what lies in this small Minnesotan town.
Winona’s cultural scene is equally impressive, anchored by the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of marine art spanning centuries.
Outdoor enthusiasts rejoice as there are plenty of scenic trails to explore at Garvin Heights Park. With complete panoramic views of the river valley below, and the tranquil waters of Lake Winona, this area is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Day 8: Red Wing, MN
One of the most iconic features of Red Wing is Barn Bluff, a towering limestone bluff that overlooks the city and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Hiking trails wind their way to the summit, offering outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the area’s natural beauty up close.
Red Wing is also famous for its pottery, thanks to the presence of the Red Wing Stoneware Company, which has been producing high-quality ceramics since the 19th century. Visitors can tour the pottery factory, browse the showroom, and even try their hand at creating their own pottery.
History buffs will delight in exploring the city’s historic downtown district, where beautifully preserved buildings house charming boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. The Red Wing Shoe Company Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the iconic footwear brand, while the Goodhue County Historical Society provides insight into the area’s rich past.
Day 9: St. Paul, MN
In St. Paul, a stroll down Summit Avenue unveils a captivating array of historic mansions, each with its own story to tell from the late 1800s. For a shopping extravaganza like no other, venture into the vast expanse of the Mall of America, boasting over 500 stores alongside an indoor water park and theme park. And don’t miss the opportunity to visit the natural wonder of Minnehaha Falls, where a 53-foot cascade cascades into a serene oasis, enveloping visitors in its enchanting charm.
We’ll disembark with convenient access to the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport. Or choose to indulge in an extended stay to fully experience this captivating region.
