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Relax and enjoy the passing landscapes as we river cruise the Mississippi from New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN. As you visit 10 states in 22 days, experience life as it once was on the western frontier. Starting in Lower Mississippi, explore southern plantations, stately antebellum houses, and Civil War battlefields. In Memphis, known for Blues and Barbeque, immerse yourself in the rich culture of one of the Mid-South’s most vibrant cities. After cruising past the Gateway Arch Riverfront in St. Louis, journey to Hannibal, the hometown of the famous author Mark Twain, where the characters of Huck Finn, Tom Sawyer, and Becky Thatcher come to life. Traveling up the river, get up-close views of bald eagle nests, beaver lodges, and great blue herons, from the comfort of your furnished private balcony.
Flights are available on request, please call for details
This Mississippi river cruise from New Orleans to St Paul includes a complimentary pre-cruise package, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. This tour includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. On the morning of your cruise departing you will be met 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.
Day 2 - New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is commonly referred to as the birthplace of Jazz. There is something for everyone in this historic city where art and culture prevail. 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 past.
Day 3 - Oak Alley, Louisiana
Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is rightfully named after its most distinguishing feature, a canopy of 300-year-old oak trees that form a quarter-mile path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking.
Day 4 - Houmas House, Louisiana
The historic Houmas House takes you back to the pre-Civil War era of stately mansions and expansive plantations. Featuring over 38 acres of lush gardens, ponds, and ancient oak trees, this shore excursion is rich in beauty and history. Enduring floods, war, and the Great Depression, Houmas House underwent a renovation in 1940 and today offers a detailed look into the legacy of the South.
Day 5 - Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Experience the wonder of Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s capital, and one of the most historic and unforgettable cities in the South. Known as the Red Stick, Baton Rouge has everything you would expect to find in a state capital, but with a down-home flavor that is part of its charm.
Day 6 - St Francisville, Louisiana
Established in 1809, St. Francisville is a quaint southern town overlooking the Mississippi River. One of the largest shipping ports on the Mississippi River prior to the Civil War, St. Francisville is a small town with appeal. Experience the town’s rich history as you tour historic plantations, including the famous Rosedown, or explore the areas’ captivating gardens.
Day 7 - Natchez, Tennessee
Settled in 1716, Natchez is rich in history and southern hospitality. Enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating city which has retained its antebellum charm since its surrender during the Civil War. Visit Frogmore, a historic cotton plantation still in use today, or attend a special piano concert in the J. N. Stone antebellum music room.
Day 8 - Vicksburg, Missouri
U.S. history is alive in Vicksburg. This “Queen City of the Bluff” offers plenty of opportunities to take a step back in time. Civil War battlefields, century-old churches, cotton fields, and restored train depots are just a few of the many intriguing landmarks that await your visit. Marvel in the beautiful antebellum-style homes and learn about Vicksburg’s rich history as displayed on the riverfront murals.
Day 9 - Greenville, Missouri
Known as the Heart and Soul of the Mississippi Delta, the city of Greenville offers visitors insight into traditional southern living. Enjoy a relaxing trip through the historic sites of the largest city in Mississippi, including Cotton Row, the Mount Holly Plantation, and the Weatherbee House.
Day 10 - Memphis, Tennessee
Excitement resonates as you reach America’s third-largest inland port, famous for Blues, BBQ, and Elvis Presley’s Graceland. The Memphis-Arkansas Memorial Bridge creates a dramatic backdrop for one of the most remarkable cities in the mid-South.
Day 11 - New Madrid, Missouri
Originally founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodriguez, early settlers of New Madrid were required to become citizens of Spain in order to reside here. Today, New Madrid is a living monument to early American history with sites including the Kochtitsky Home, the Trail of Tears, and Veterans Park.
Day 12 - Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Enjoy the charming features of this historic town that was a French trading post and lively river port in the late 1800s. Today it boasts Civil War sites and a tranquil setting commemorating the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Marvel at the outdoor murals reflecting the area’s rich heritage and enjoy shore excursions to Crisp Museum and the Old Vincent Church.
Day 13 - Chester, Illinois
Chester is a beautiful region of Illinois located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, with a diverse and storied history. Chester is also home to Popeye’s creator Elzie C. Segar; you may see the sailor man’s likeness in the town’s six-foot-tall bronze metal statue.
Day 14 - St Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is often referred to as the “Gateway to the West.” Take in the Gateway Arch Riverfront, highlighted by the Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Enjoy St. Louis’ many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and the Missouri History Museum. End your day by relaxing at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most popular public gardens.
Day 15 - Day of Cruising
Curl up with a good book in one of our spacious lounges. Or relax on the sun deck and enjoy the passing landscapes as we make our way along the Mississippi River from St. Louis to Hannibal.
Day 16 - Hannibal, Missouri
Discover Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” and the inspiration behind many of Mark Twain’s literary characters. Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn come to life in this charming Missouri town, where you can run your hand along Aunt Polly’s fence, explore Injun Joe’s Cave, and get reacquainted with one of the world’s most beloved authors. The downtown area is a thriving haven for artisans, filled with specialty shops unique to Hannibal.
Day 17 - Fort Maddison, Iowa
Founded as an active military outpost in 1808, Fort Madison was one of three posts established by the U.S. Army to maintain control over the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. Today, Fort Madison offers visitors a vibrant cultural scene, bucolic landscapes, and an active agritourism industry which celebrates the American heartland. Explore its many historic districts, where you can admire the well-preserved Victorian and Post Renaissance architecture. Enjoy the area’s museums, unique boutiques, antique shops, as well as the local breweries and wineries.
Day 18 - Davenport, Iowa
Davenport is often described as a lively place with a hometown feel. The Legacy of John Deere, the largest agricultural exhibit in the world, takes place here. Music enthusiasts will enjoy Davenport’s many music festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, The Mississippi Valley Fair, and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival, which is dedicated to native Jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke.
Day 19 - Dubuque, Iowa
Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. Take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway or try your luck in one of Dubuque’s state-of-the-art casinos. View colorful Victorian mansions, stroll through a whimsical downtown area, and visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.
Day 20 - Day of river cruising
Reflect on the incredible journey you have experienced so far and get ready for the final leg of the trip, cruising the Upper Mississippi River.
Day 21 - Winona, Minesota
Step into 19th-century America in Winona, Minnesota, located in the picturesque bluff country on the Mississippi River. Explore this vibrant small town with the perfect blend of urban edge and old-world charm. From rolling fields of prairie flowers to some of the most architecturally important buildings in Minnesota, enjoy all there is to see and do here.
Day 22 - Red Wing, Minnesota
Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the Upper Mississippi River, Red Wing’s beauty has inspired craftsmen and artisans for over 150 years. Red Wing offers a diverse blend of arts, entertainment, and activities. Enjoy a show at the historic Sheldon Performing Arts Theatre or observe the beauty of nature at one of Red Wing’s 38 parks.
Day 23 - St Paul, Minnesota
St. Paul is an exciting place to end your adventure on the Mississippi River. History buffs will enjoy a walking tour of Summit Avenue, which showcases gorgeous historic mansions built in the late 1800’s. St. Paul’s enchanting art galleries, world-class museums, and entertaining stage performances will capture your imagination. End the day by visiting Mounds Park, where visitors are treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
1 night pre cruise stay in St Louis
Day 2 - St Paul, Minnesota
St. Paul is an exciting place to end your adventure on the Mississippi River. History buffs will enjoy a walking tour of Summit Avenue, which showcases gorgeous historic mansions built in the late 1800’s. St. Paul’s enchanting art galleries, world-class museums, and entertaining stage performances will capture your imagination. End the day by visiting Mounds Park, where visitors are treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
Day 3 - Red Wing, Minnesota
Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the Upper Mississippi River, Red Wing’s beauty has inspired craftsmen and artisans for over 150 years. Red Wing offers a diverse blend of arts, entertainment, and activities. Enjoy a show at the historic Sheldon Performing Arts Theatre or observe the beauty of nature at one of Red Wing’s 38 parks.
Day 4 - La Crosse, Winconsin
Step into 19th-century America in La Crosse, located on the banks of three captivating rivers. La Crosse is home to Riverside Park, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens and inspiring sculptures.
Day 5 - Day of River Cruising
Reflect on the incredible journey you have experienced so far and get ready for the final leg of the trip, cruising the Upper Mississippi River.
Day 6 - Dubuque, Iowa
Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. Take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway or try your luck in one of Dubuque’s state-of-the-art casinos. View colorful Victorian mansions, stroll through a whimsical downtown area, and visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.
Day 7 - Davenport, Iowa
Davenport is often described as a lively place with a hometown feel. The Legacy of John Deere, the largest agricultural exhibit in the world, takes place here. Music enthusiasts will enjoy Davenport’s many music festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, The Mississippi Valley Fair, and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival, which is dedicated to native Jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke.
Day 8 - Day of River Cruising
Listen to onboard experts sharing their knowledge of the history of our nation and the river, as we cruise between the borders of Missouri and Iowa.
Day 9 - Hannibal, Missouri
Discover Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” and the inspiration behind many of Mark Twain’s literary characters. Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn come to life in this charming Missouri town, where you can run your hand along Aunt Polly’s fence, explore Injun Joe’s Cave, and get reacquainted with one of the world’s most beloved authors. The downtown area is a thriving haven for artisans, filled with specialty shops unique to Hannibal.
Day 10 - Day of River Cruising
Curl up with a good book in one of our spacious lounges. Or relax on the sun deck and enjoy the passing landscapes as we make our way along the Mississippi River from St. Louis to Hannibal.
Day 11 - St Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is often referred to as the “Gateway to the West.” Take in the Gateway Arch Riverfront, highlighted by the Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Enjoy St. Louis’ many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and the Missouri History Museum. End your day by relaxing at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most popular public gardens.
Day 12 - Chester, Illinois
Chester is a beautiful region of Illinois located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, with a diverse and storied history. Chester is also home to Popeye’s creator Elzie C. Segar; you may see the sailor man’s likeness in the town’s six-foot-tall bronze metal statue.
Day 13 - Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Enjoy the charming features of this historic town that was a French trading post and lively river port in the late 1800s. Today it boasts Civil War sites and a tranquil setting commemorating the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Marvel at the outdoor murals reflecting the area’s rich heritage and enjoy shore excursions to Crisp Museum and the Old Vincent Church.
Originally founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodriguez, early settlers of New Madrid were required to become citizens of Spain in order to reside here. Today, New Madrid is a living monument to early American history with sites including the Kochtitsky Home, the Trail of Tears, and Veterans Park.
Excitement resonates as you reach America’s third-largest inland port, famous for Blues, BBQ, and Elvis Presley’s Graceland. The Memphis-Arkansas Memorial Bridge creates a dramatic backdrop for one of the most remarkable cities in the mid-South.
Known as the Heart and Soul of the Mississippi Delta, the city of Greenville offers visitors insight into traditional southern living. Enjoy a relaxing trip through the historic sites of the largest city in Mississippi, including Cotton Row, the Mount Holly Plantation, and the Weatherbee House.
Day 17 - Vicksburg, Missouri
U.S. history is alive in Vicksburg. This “Queen City of the Bluff” offers plenty of opportunities to take a step back in time. Civil War battlefields, century-old churches, cotton fields, and restored train depots are just a few of the many intriguing landmarks that await your visit. Marvel in the beautiful antebellum-style homes and learn about Vicksburg’s rich history as displayed on the riverfront murals.
Day 18 - Natchez, Missouri
Settled in 1716, Natchez is rich in history and southern hospitality. Enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating city which has retained its antebellum charm since its surrender during the Civil War. Visit Frogmore, a historic cotton plantation still in use today, or attend a special piano concert in the J. N. Stone antebellum music room.
Day 19 - St Francisville, Louisiana
Established in 1809, St. Francisville is a quaint southern town overlooking the Mississippi River. One of the largest shipping ports on the Mississippi River prior to the Civil War, St. Francisville is a small town with appeal. Experience the town’s rich history as you tour historic plantations, including the famous Rosedown, or explore the areas’ captivating gardens.
Day 20 - Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Experience the wonder of Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s capital, and one of the most historic and unforgettable cities in the South. Known as the Red Stick, Baton Rouge has everything you would expect to find in a state capital, but with a down-home flavor that is part of its charm.
Day 21- Houmas House, Louisiana
The historic Houmas House takes you back to the pre-Civil War era of stately mansions and expansive plantations. Featuring over 38 acres of lush gardens, ponds, and ancient oak trees, this shore excursion is rich in beauty and history. Enduring floods, war, and the Great Depression, Houmas House underwent a renovation in 1940 and today offers a detailed look into the legacy of the South.
Day 22 - Oak Alley, Louisiana
Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is rightfully named after its most distinguishing feature, a canopy of 300-year-old oak trees that form a quarter-mile path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking.
New Orleans is commonly referred to as the birthplace of Jazz. There is something for everyone in this historic city where art and culture prevail. 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 past. Consider staying an extra day or night to enjoy this lively city. Your tour ends today.
The brand new American Riverboats have elevated the standard for riverboat cruising across the country. This new class of modern riverboats is the first of its kind in the U.S. and features contemporary styling, a grand multi-story atrium in the center of the ship, a variety of sizable lounges, and private balconies in each spacious stateroom.
The staterooms in our newest riverboats are the most spacious and modern in U.S. small ship cruising – each with the finest appointments, modern décor a private bathroom. Your stateroom is a comfortable haven and the perfect place to relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery from your large private balcony.
Launched in 2016, and recently fully renovated, American Splendor (formerly America) combines the nostalgia of a traditional paddlewheeler with the safety and comfort of modern amenities.
American Splendor embodies a casual ambiance and relaxed atmosphere while providing panoramic views of the passing scenery. With only 180 guests, fellow guests will quickly become new friends.
American Splendor staterooms are the most spacious in the small ship cruising industry. All range between 200 and 450 square feet in size, and feature full-size bathrooms and modern amenities. After an invigorating day, your spacious stateroom is a comfortable haven and the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the ever-changing scenery from your large opening picture window or from your private balcony.
Excursions falls into one of three categories: COMPLIMENTARY shore tours are included free. PREMIUM shore tours typically cost between $20 and $70 and may be purchased onboard with your Hotel Manager. SIGNATURE shore tours are particularly unique tours with limited-availability and which often cost more than $70. We recommend that you reserve these tours in advance with your Cruise Specialist. For more information on shore tours, please speak with your Cruise Specialist.