Sunday, March 31, 2024

Mississippi River Odyssey 2025 Itinerary New Orleans, Louisiana to St Paul, Minnesota Viking®

4 day mississippi river cruise

Often cruise lines offer special rates that cannot be displayed to the general public. By registering with Cruise.com you will be able to view these special rates and offers. Welcome to Memphis, a historic city which rises picturesquely up the hillside from the river, adorned with grand oak trees, lush parks, and historic sites that commemorate everything from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement.

Ship Tour

Be entertained on board by local musicians as you savor a nightcap. During the Civil War, the struggle to control Vicksburg proved to be a major turning point. Explore many of the well-known downtown neighborhoods, while embracing the rich art, architecture, and nature along the route. If you feel adventurous, take a narrated boat ride through a Louisiana swamp. 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.

Be Wary of Weather on the Mississippi River Changing Your Cruise Itinerary

4 day mississippi river cruise

The La Crosse Queen has a split sternwheel, and each half is run by a twin diesel engine that powers hydraulic motors, which turn the paddles. The split paddlewheel gives the Queen greater maneuverability and dependability. Discover Memphis, the birthplace of Memphis blues and a center of civil rights history.

America's Musical Heritage

If you want to experience cruising the Mississippi River in a more "traditional" way (but with modern comforts), go for a steamboat; if you’d rather travel in something less traditional, opt for one of the modern cruise ships. In terms of itineraries, all three cruise lines offer a wide range of options. Here are five things you need to know prior to the life-changing experience of cruising on the Mississippi River. There are so many reasons to explore the Mighty Mississippi River from New Orleans to the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Admire the breathtaking scenery that has inspired the country’s most legendary writers, artists, and musicians. Be treated to southern hospitality and historic charm at every port.

La Crosse Queen Cruises

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below. Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. Rates are in USD and valid for US and Canadian residents only. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S.

For an 8- or 9-day cruise, the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise is around $4,000 per person in a stateroom. Viking offers complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines offers complimentary beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks.

Is the Mark Twain Riverboat wheelchair accessible?

Not Many People Know That You Can Take An 11-Day Cruise Along The Mississippi River In Missouri - Only In Your State

Not Many People Know That You Can Take An 11-Day Cruise Along The Mississippi River In Missouri.

Posted: Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Begin planning your U.S. cruise adventure with American Cruise Lines today. From the coast of Maine, to the mighty Mississippi and Pacific Northwest, our Free Cruise Guide provides detailed information about all of our more than 50 U.S. itinerary options. Not just the educational aspect, but the whole experience was great. So much so, that we canceled a vacation to the Caribbean for next year and signed up, on board, for the Columbia River cruise.

4 day mississippi river cruise

The Lower Mississippi is best in the spring, fall and winter. High temperatures and humidity levels make the summer less enjoyable. 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.

A guide to taking a Viking river cruise along the Mississippi from St. Louis - St. Louis Magazine

A guide to taking a Viking river cruise along the Mississippi from St. Louis.

Posted: Tue, 04 Apr 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

With no Civil War fighting here, Natchez still features hundreds of antebellum homes and buildings. Each of these architectural treasures has its own story to tell, creating a charming downtown that embodies the essence of southern charm and hospitality. In Natchez, grand homes sparkle like jewels, adorning the bluffs that tower above the river.

Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking. As the most discerning, up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel, Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse, offering both inspiration and vital intel. We understand that time is the greatest luxury, which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal, a drink, or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world. After American Queen Voyages shut down in February, only two Mississippi River cruise lines currently remain in operation. The challenge modern travelers now face is when, where, and how to go about this iconic American voyage. Below, see our answers to these frequently asked questions, plus our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024.

It’s best to cruise the Upper Mississippi in the spring, fall and summer, when temperatures are milder. 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.

Excellent team from the captain to the crew provide a relaxing time..The chefs do an excellent job and there is more great food than you can imagine. This is the most organized and professional staff that we have ever experienced. The Lower Mississippi has the longest season, typically running from November through December and April to mid-June, with most sailings on the bottom one-third of the river (New Orleans round trip or New Orleans to Memphis).

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 150-passenger American Heritage and 180-guest American Melody, American Serenade, American Splendor and American Symphony. Spring (late March through mid-June) and autumn (September through November) are the best times of year to go on a river cruise in the US. Spring blossoms add a colorful touch to the shoreline, and you can never go wrong with autumn foliage. The temperatures are mild, if not pleasantly cool, and passengers are eager to welcome a new spring travel season—or to enjoy one last autumn river adventure before winter arrives.

River cruising gives you the time and space to fully immerse yourself in Mark Twain's story and the Mississippi River, getting to know the inspiration behind his books. We handle every detail for you from departure to dinner on our Mississippi river cruises, making it possible for you to fully relax and enjoy our modern riverboat. Upper Mississippi River cruises are a great way for people of all ages to take a break from the normal day-to-day. Instead you'll enjoy an afternoon taking in the beautiful scenery or an evening of entertainment and dining.

Drift through quaint shops, nibble on local delights, and enjoy the expansive views of the majestic river valley from the bluff-top park. After a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, passengers journey through all aspects of American history. You'll also call on a historic Missouri trading post in Cape Girardeau (a French river port). Take an exciting south of the boarder cruise on the Mississippi River while enjoying a build your Taco Bar and drink specials with a full cash bar available.

Complete Mississippi River Experience

4 day mississippi river cruise

Marvel at the majestic Mississippi river while relaxing in style aboard a stunningly replicated Victorian Riverboat. Allow yourself to be pampered by the Twilight’s attentive, informative, and welcoming crew. Delicious meals are prepared on board in the lower galley, while a full bar complete with top shelf liquors provides custom drinks to enhance your experience. Keep in mind that sailing against the current slows the boat and generally means fewer ports or less time in port, but you'll have more time to relax onboard.

Country Roads of the Deep South (Classic, 12 Days)

Sometimes we will have to because the weather isn’t always ideal and we want to stay in shallow, calm waters to keep the trip enjoyable. Our cruises are great for families with children of all ages, so bring your whole crew along with you! We have plenty of activities that will keep you occupied during the day and night.

Upper Mississippi

The Mississippi River is navigable from New Orleans, Louisiana to the Twin Cities of Minnesota, and forms a maritime corridor through the U.S. heartland. 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. 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. This itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on four American Cruise Lines ships, ranging from the 150-passenger classic paddlewheeler American Heritage to the 180-passenger modern riverboat American Serenade.

Which cruise lines do Mississippi River cruises?

In keeping with early traditions, she was built with sternwheels that are her only means of propulsion. The Mississippi River is truly a force of nature and travels across multiple states in the USA such as Iowa or Illinois before flowing through the Gulf of Mexico. Being the fourth largest river in the USA means that a river cruise in Mississippi will reveal countless landmarks, breathtaking scenery and even wildlife.

Known as the Heart and Soul of the Mississippi Delta, the city of Greenville offers visitors unique 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. 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. 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.

Complete Mississippi River Experience

4 day mississippi river cruise

Our tasty Captains Sunday Brunch menu, complete with full bar service available. The guide who did the narrative was friendly, fun and knowledgeable about the town and river. We sat on the top deck which is covered and has open air sides so you get out of the sun and a nice breeze.

The service by all involved was first class all the way!

4 day mississippi river cruise

St. Paul is an exciting place to end your riverboat cruise adventure on the Mississippi River. History buffs will enjoy a walking tour of Summit Avenue, which highlights 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. The two cruise lines sailing America's most legendary river offer itineraries for every interest on ships designed with mature travelers in mind.

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. They're offered between June and late September/early October in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Viking River Cruises' American Heartland itinerary sails from St. Louis to St. Paul (or vice versa) and runs 12 days with pre- and post-cruise stays in 2024 and 2025.

10 Great Labor Day Travel Sales: Cruises, Airfares, and More - AFAR Media

10 Great Labor Day Travel Sales: Cruises, Airfares, and More.

Posted: Fri, 01 Sep 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

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. The new kid on the Mississippi is the Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger, five-deck vessel that first set sail in September 2022. The cutting-edge cruise is Viking’s first foray in the US, adding to their fleet of more than 90 ocean, river, and expedition vessels navigating the world’s seven continents.

Some questioned the cheap price, but soon found out it was good. Music is an integral part of the Mississippi River culture. There is no better place to experience the blues than in Memphis where you can visit the historical Graceland. Nashville brings country music alive at the Grand Ole Opry.

You'll explore architectural gems aboard Viking Mississippi, itself an example of sleek, Scandinavian-inspired nautical architecture. 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. The port call in Greenville, Mississippi, is steeped in the blues with a chance to visit a museum dedicated to hometown legend B.B.

The cruise takes place on the Mississippi River from Mark Twain's boyhood home town of Hannibal, MO. Register with Cruise.com to get access to exclusive rates, discounts and special offers. 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. Since 1985, the Riverboat Twilight has delivered one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest.

And it’s not just a cruise; it’s a conduit to reconnection, relaxation, and renewal. Another year, too much rain flooded the river, making it impossible for riverboats to get under bridges and forcing the closing of several locks. Boats scheduled to sail the Upper Mississippi were diverted onto the Ohio.

The 10 Best Hair Mousses for Curly Hair to Buy in 2024

Table Of Content A Guide to Discovering the Best Mousse for Your Curls Best Curl Mousse for Flyaways + Frizz How to find the best mousse or ...