queen of the mississippi riverboat

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American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi)

Queen of the Mississippi River Cruises 2024, 2025 - Small Ship, Itineraries, Dates, Prices, Amenities

Sail American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) From $CALL per person From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, the modern American Heritage features a serene color palette, luxurious textiles and linens, comfortable furniture, and sophisticated artwork and...

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American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Highlights

• Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom
• Complimentary room service
• Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a desk, and spacious seating area

American Heritage (formerly Queen of the Mississippi) Quick Facts

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About American Cruise Lines

Mississippi River Cruises

Embarking on a Mississippi River cruise with American Cruise Lines promises an exceptional voyage through America's history. The mighty river has witnessed the triumphs and struggles of many Colonial pioneers and entrepreneurs, shaping the country's narrative along its vast length. This maritime corridor extends from New Orleans, Louisiana to the Twin Cities of Minnesota, offering a unique perspective on America's heartland. The state-of-the-art river cruises fleet of contemporary riverboats and classic paddlewheelers venture even further, venturing through the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers. Each route provides a distinctive insight into the American South and Midwest. Travelers can immerse themselves in the fascinating stories and picturesque towns, from Hannibal, MO, the birthplace of Mark Twain, to Vicksburg, which played a significant role in the Civil War. For music lovers, Memphis and Nashville are must-visit destinations to experience the heart of American music while indulging in delectable Creole cuisine. The Mississippi River is a top-rated cruising destination, and American Cruise Lines' modern fleet of small ships provides an unparalleled experience to explore it in style. Join us on this unforgettable journey through America's vibrant history and culture.

American Heritage ( formally known as Queen of the Mississippi ) Ship Information

The new and improved Queen of the Mississippi debuted in 2015. The river cruise ship was originally named the American Eagle and has a capacity 150 passengers with 84 staterooms.  All staterooms have private baths, windows, Wi-Fi, and plenty of storage. Formally knows as the Queen of the Mississippi riverboat now known at the American Heritage offers larger than average staterooms, ranging from 300 to 600 square feet, many with 60 square foot private balconies.

The Queen of the Mississippi / American Heritage departs from St Louis Missouri, Pittsburg Pennsylavia, New Orleans Louisiana and Memphis Tennesse. It offers river cruises that are 6, 7 and 9 days.

American Heritage (formally know as Queen of the Mississippi) Amenities

Amenities onboard include a Dining room with table seating options for 4 and 8 people and with a capacity 150 people there is plenty of room. Cuisine varies but there is a strong focus on southern cuisine but with a chef's twist. All dietary needs can be accommodated. Breakfast room service is available for those who do not wish to visit the dining room. 

There are 3 lounges onboard including the Paddlewheel lounge in the back on the ship as well as the Magnolia lounge in the front and the Sky lounge found on deck 4. An area to do guest laundry, two small libraries, a putting green and sun deck. There are many rocking chairs throughout the ship to allow you to sit and relax as you cruise the river.

Mississippi River Cruise Itineraries

There are 11 Mississippi River Cruise itineraties to choose from. The river crusies range from 22 to 8 days.

Queen of the Mississippi Entertainment

Passengers can participate in lectures regarding to life along these great rivers, learn about river ecology and discover how locks and dams work. There are usually two enrichment lectures offered each day, and the riverlorians passengers' questions and can be found in the Chart room (map room) quite often. There are daily shore excursions where you will see historic towns, battlefields and beautiful gardens.

In the evening there are usually a cocktail hour each night, sing-a-longs, dance parties (geared towards an older traveler), trivia, and other entertainment options. There are several lounges if you just want to have a quiet drink and read a good book. Most entertainment is over before 10pm so this is not a party cruise.

Queen of the Mississippi, originally the American Eagle, and now known as American Heritage is an overnight riverboat offering Mississippi River Cruise as well as Ohio River Cruise. The best Cruise Travel has to offer for Mississippi River Cruises 

Year Built: 2012 

The ship began cruising in 2015 as American Eagle, then took a new name in 2016. The Queen of the Mississippi joined her sister boat the American Pride at this time. American Cruise line offers 13 ships.  They include a mississippi river cruise.

Book yourself on an authentic American Riverboat Cruise along the Mississippi River. Take an oldd fashion Paddlewheeler down the mighty mississippi. Its the perfect way to see and learn about the history of Mississippi River .

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“The American Queen is the largest, most opulent paddlewheel ever built in the entire world, so, you know, we call it a floating time capsule.”

John Waggoner Founder & CEO American Queen Steamboat Company

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a graceful and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. Built in 1995 as the third sister vessel to the Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen , the paddlewheeler is a six-deck recreation of a classic Mississippi riverboat.

She was built by McDermott Shipyard, 90 miles west of New Orleans in Morgan City, Louisiana for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company at a cost of $80 million. The vessel was christened in New Orleans on June 2, 1995 with a four foot tall container of Tabasco sauce instead of the traditional champagne bottle. She is 418 feet long and 89 feet wide and has 222 state rooms for a capacity of 436 guests and a crew of 160. The American Queen Steamboat Company purchased the vessel in April 2011 and continues to offer paddlewheel cruises traversing the Mississippi as well as the Ohio and Tennessee rivers.

The American Queen, with her bright red paddle wheel, towering fluted stacks and abundant fretwork, looks as though she just sailed out of the Victorian era. Glistening mahogany woodwork, flowery carpets, Tiffany glass and antiques enhance her interior spaces. Outside, lacy filigree, a steam-powered calliope and open verandas evoke memories of the stately riverboats that preceded her and inspired her design.

“What we try to do as philosophy is keep things like it was in the 1900s. This is just how it was when Mark Twain was onboard,” says John Waggoner, Founder and CEO of the American Queen Steamboat Company.

As history plays such a large part of the experience, Riverlorians, the resident history and culture experts, are onboard every cruise to impart the legends and lore of the river on which passengers are cruising. Passengers are invited to attend an enlightening lecture, relive a tale from Mark Twain or enjoy a recounting of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.

“We want you to experience the thump-thump-thump-thump-thump of the paddlewheel. We want you to stand on the stern. We want you to get muddy Mississippi water spraying your face, and we want you to sit in a rocking chair, and watch the river go by and relax,” says Waggoner.

This American Queen inspires crowds of onlookers in each port in which she docks. In true royal fashion, she glides gracefully along the river and courteously greets onlookers with the wave of her flags as she passes by.

American Queen Steamboat Company

Cruising The Mighty Mississippi

Cruising the Mighty Mississippi

American Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC.comAmerican Queen Steamboat Company / www.AQSC

American Heritage

Built in 2015, American Heritage, formerly Queen of the Mississippi, will receive a total ship redesign in time for the 2022 cruise season. From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, American Heritage will be completely remodeled with new color palettes, luxurious textiles and linens, new furniture and carpets, and artwork and flourishes, celebrating the Mighty Mississippi River. Guests can enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, full-size bathrooms, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as American Heritage makes its way down the legendary river.

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Queen of the Mississippi

Ship spotlight, porthole  rolls up the mighty river in style..

By Beth D’Addono

“The Mississippi River will always have its own way; no engineering skill can persuade it to do otherwise …” – Mark Twain

That Mark Twain knew what he was talking about, but that hasn’t stopped the current revival of passenger ships patterned after the grand Victorian riverboats that graced the Big Muddy in the late 1800s. The newest of these is the  Queen of the Mississippi  from American Cruise Lines, a Connecticut-based leader in small-ship cruising with a fleet of six ships and 35 itineraries along the Eastern and Western Seaboards including Alaska, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, Puget Sound, and the San Juan Islands.

The  Queen , built in Salisbury, Maryland, is the first new paddle wheeler designed for overnight travel on America’s rivers in nearly 20 years. Add into the mix the refurbished 436-passenger  American Queen , which the Great American Steamboat Company returned to the river in April 2012, and the Mississippi is back as a river-cruising destination.

Christened in New Orleans in August 2012, the five-deck, 150-passenger bespoke  Queen  conjures the halcyon days of riverboat travel, complete with a bright red paddle wheel (for effect only, as the ship is diesel-powered). Although it looks Mark Twain-worthy, the lovely stern-wheeler has modern amenities such as elevators, WiFi, and large staterooms with private balconies to go along with a 132-year-old Nichol steam calliope that was originally a fixture of the  Washington , a paddlewheel steamboat that operated on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers from 1880 to 1938.

The mighty river’s appeal is global, judging from the range of passengers aboard an early December one-week round-trip cruise out of New Orleans. Besides guests from states including California, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Montana, passengers hailing from the United Kingdom, Canada, Bolivia, Spain, and Brazil were aboard to see the famous river up close and personal. Although American Cruise Lines quotes 55 as the average passenger age, this particular cruise seemed to skew older. The itinerary drew history buffs interested in the area’s antebellum and Civil War history, with planned stops at Oak Alley Plantation outside of New Orleans; Natchez and Vicksburg, Mississippi; St. Francisville, Baton Rouge; and Darrow, Louisiana, before returning to the Port of New Orleans.

Life On Board

Like American Cruise Lines’ other ships, the  Queen ’s cabins are much larger than the industry average of 175 square feet. Even the first-passenger-deck cabins without balconies are light-filled and spacious, each with a large picture window and elbow room to the tune of 268 square feet. The bathrooms are full-sized and outfitted with plenty of storage options. The boat’s other 66 cabins range from 268 to 460 square feet, all with private balconies. The ship’s biggest ticket accommodations are the 460-plus-square-feet corner suites equipped with sliding glass doors and balconies that wrap a few feet around the bow for forward river views.

Each of the decks offers a computer station with complimentary WiFi and several lounges outfitted with charts, maps, books, and DVDs for in-room viewing. If you’re so inclined, a putting green is located on the top deck, along with a few pieces of exercise equipment and complimentary WiFi and several lounges outfitted with charts, maps, books, and DVDs for in-room viewing. If you’re so inclined, a putting green is located on the top deck, along with a few pieces of exercise equipment and complimentary washer and dryers.

Ken Albrecht and his lady friend Laurie Peressini from Great Falls, Montana, raved about the relaxed nature of life aboard the Queen . “This is my first time on a river cruise,” said Albrecht, “and it’s very different from a big ship ocean cruise experience.”

Although Albrecht would have liked to see more entertainment and a staffed bar after the nightly evening shows, he found the river all the entertainment he needed by day. “I guess I’m surprised at what a working river the Mississippi still is,” he said. Peressini gave the Queen ’s accommodations high marks. “The state rooms are big and comfortable. It’s nice to have the option to have breakfast in our room in the morning.”

Fun and Feasting

It’s tough to work up an appetite aboard the Queen . There’s always coffee, water, soft drinks, and juices available on each deck, along with snacks like hot cookies, chips, crackers, and fruit. Afternoon tea is served daily. The stern-wheeler’s dining salon, all polished wood and crystal chandeliers, serves an open seating breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with room service an option for breakfast. Still feeling peckish? Guests can get a snack just about any time of day or night upon request. Menus focus on freshly prepared Creole and Southern cuisine — think seafood gumbo, squash bisque with tasso ham, mahi mahi with crawfish étouffé, beef tenderloin, and bananas Foster bread pudding. Cocktails, wine, and beer are included in the ticket price.

The daily happy hour from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. was a lively event, with every imaginable cocktail (other than blender drinks) available. Passed hors d’oeuvres were impressive, ranging from baby lamb chops to bacon-wrapped scallops and crab cakes. Wine and beer was served during dinner, although cocktails were available for the asking, even after the bar closed at 6:30 p.m.

Entertainment aboard the Queen was on the scant side, although the quality was good. By day, trivia games and bingo were popular, as were the lectures offered by the Civil War historian on board. In the evening, a one-hour live performance was offered, ranging from a banjo player to a lounge singer, Dixieland band, and a gospel choir. If there was any criticism, it’s that passengers would have enjoyed more of it.

The caliber of service aboard the Queen of the Mississippi was stellar. From the cabin stewards to the dining room servers and managers, a friendlier, sweeter group of dedicated young people would be hard to find. Even with logistical challenges that occurred on this particular cruise (historically low water levels led to mechanical problems), the crew rose to the occasion and ensured that the guests’ experience was outstanding.

Passenger Ken Fake from Sarasota, Florida, is a member of the Eagle Society, the designation for repeat guests aboard American Cruise Lines’ ships. The company has a high repeat-booking record, with an average of 30 percent of guests booking again. “I like the itineraries and the quality of the group,” said Fake. “People are really friendly. And the accommodations are first-rate.”

True to his track record, Fake booked a third cruise before he’d even gotten back to New Orleans, this time up the Columbia and Snake Rivers in June 2013.

Inaugural sailing: August 2012

Passenger capacity: 150

Staterooms: 78, all outside and 66 with balconies

On-deck activities: Putting green, exercise equipment, calliope played daily, open sun deck

Onboard shopping: One small shop

Communications: WiFi access for laptops and GSM mobile phone connection throughout

Itineraries: The Queen of the Mississippi operates over the entire Mississippi River system, with 7-night cruises take passengers as far as St. Paul, Minnesota, on the Mississippi River and Pittsburgh on the Ohio River. Rates begin at $3,995 per person for a stateroom with no balcony and rise to $6,685 for an owner’s suite with a private balcony.

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Queen of the Mississippi Embarkation Day in New Orleans

Note:  queen of the mississippi was refurbished and renamed american heritage in 2022..

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I’m heading north on the Big Muddy aboard American Cruise Line’s Queen of the Mississippi . Our seven-night Mississippi River cruise began in New Orleans with a night of jazz on Bourbon Street. 

It’s an Americana cruise filled history, culture and of course, southern food.

Mississippi River Cruise Aboard Queen of the Mississippi

I followed my own advice and arrived the night before my cruise. American Cruise Lines can vary the hotel but for this cruise it was The Whitney Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of downtown New Orleans. With an entire evening to relax, a stroll along New Orlean’s famous Bourbon Street and neighborhood was number one on my list. 

In an 1880’s converted bank building, The Whitney was charming and the staff and service exceeded my expectations. Breakfast wasn’t so special, but you’re in New Orleans! Hop on the Garden District street car to La Madeleine’s for a local New Orleans full breakfast, under $12.

At 10:30am, the motor coach picked up all 44 of us at the hotel for a short ride to the busy riverfront. As our bus lumbered through the narrow New Orleans roads to the port, I had my first glimpse of the Queen of the Mississippi .

RELATED:  New American Symphony Heads to New Orleans

Welcome aboard Queen of the Mississippi

A bright light blue sky was the perfect backdrop for the ship’s gleaming white hull and candy-apple red paddlewheel. Red, white and blue banners hung from balcony rails.

A member of the ship’s staff boarded our bus, looked at our identification and gathered our boarding passes. That was it. Off the bus and onto the ship. Our staterooms were unlocked and our keys on the bed. Nice.

Queen of the Mississippi First Impression

The rooms are enormous by almost any standard. Certainly bigger than most mainstream cruise ships. There are plenty of dresser drawers and hangers, too. Bathrooms are large, great lighting and ample-sized, walk-in showers.

Our Mississippi River cruise was underway at 1:30pm. We would have departed New Orleans sooner but we were waiting for a few late arrivals. It’s different on a river cruise. With a maximum of 150 guests, as soon as everyone is onboard, the ship is on the move.

Lunch was followed by a short safety brief and a “meet the staff” introduction. Before we knew it…it was 5:30pm and time for the first of seven complimentary cocktail hours throughout the week.

At sunset we docked in front of the impressive oak-lined entrance to Oak Alley Plantation. Tomorrow morning, we would walk along the Live Oak canopied path to the beautifully restored plantation house for a short tour. 

I’ve always had very mixed feelings about glorifying plantations. On one hand, they are landmarks of living history. On the other hand, the ever-present reminder of slavery is a sobering experience. 

The Week Ahead on the Mississippi River

Our Mississippi River cruise will take us 600 river miles upstream to Memphis. Along the way, we’ll pass smokestacks belching flames and quiet cat-tailed marshes. Pastel-colored plantation homes stand high above the river. Civil War battlefields and quiet downtowns are on our agenda.

It’s going to be a fascinating week on the Mississippi River…especially for this Yankee gal.

READ NEXT:   Complete Mississippi River Cruise From New Orleans to Memphis

And of course there were plenty of rocking chairs…the best place to watch the scenery as we meandered north. 

Disclaimer: I was a sponsored guest aboard the Queen of the Mississippi. As always, all opinions are my own, as are the photos, unless otherwise given credit.

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12 comments.

Hi José, No worries…thank you for reading the article and taking the time to write. I hope to write more Mississippi River articles as soon as it’s safe to travel again. Sherry

Hi Sherry again. I’m realizing right now that this article is old. I’m sorry. I don’t know why I received an email that redirectioned me to this article. I’m sorry about that. Please, ignore it. Thank you. José

Hi Sherry. I loved your review on board. Are you going to write some more about this river cruise? An anecdote, what you liked the most about this ship, the menu, … and so on. This river cruise is 7 nights long. You should tell us a little bit more, please. I believe that many people are looking forward to knowing something more about this amazing river cruise aboard the Queen of the Mississippi Thank you anyway. José

Hi Greg, Thanks for your comment. I have more parts for the Mississippi River cruise review in the works. Stay tuned… Sherry

It’s a shame you never wrote more. This article ranks pretty well for “Mississippi River cruise review” on Google, and if it had another part attached it might move up even higher.

Hi Dale, Thank you for the reminder. I’m working on the rest of the cruise and will upload as soon as possible. Please subscribe (if you’re not already) to my newsletter and it’ll include the trip in its entirety as soon as it’s published. Thanks, again.

Hi, Sherry:

How can I get the full article about the New Orleans to Memphis Queen of the Mississippi cruise? Is it archived somewhere?

Dale Blanshan

It IS a fun cruise. Have a wonderful time and thanks for reading my article.

This sounds like so much fun! History and relaxation, great combo. I’ll send my mother-in-law the link and we’ll start working on our husbands to book a river cruise on the Mississippi!

I’m putting the review together. It’s a terrific ship and I like that it holds only 150 passengers. If you are subscribed to my site, you’ll receive the post as soon as it’s published. Have a wonderful cruise!

Would like to be able to see your review of Queen of the Mississippi as I am soon going on one.

Would love to see your review of the cruise.

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Updated on September 7, 2022 by Sherry Laskin

Cruising on the Upper Mississippi

Last Updated on December 15, 2023

It’s pure Americana…..the sight of a multi-decked Mississippi riverboat gliding seemingly effortlessly along the mighty river, its signature black smokestacks pointing skyward, as its great red paddlewheel slaps the river behind. Cruising the Mississippi River is a dream trip for many, and one that’s often long remembered….. (all photos by Dave G. Houser except as noted)

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

By Dave G. Houser

There’s no better way to get to know and enjoy a river than to be out on it.

That’s certainly the case for America’s mother of all rivers – the mighty Mississippi. And there’s nothing like cruising it on the Queen of the Mississippi.

I was introduced to the lower reaches of the Big Muddy several years ago during a paddlewheeler voyage from New Orleans to St. Louis . Just last October I experienced the upper section on a cruise from St. Louis to St. Paul.

For me, the upper river proved the most engaging – and I’m not the only writer to make that observation. In fact, here’s what Mark Twain had to say on the subject in the Chicago Tribune, July 9, 1886:

“It is strange how little is written about the upper Mississippi. Surprisingly, the river below St. Louis has been described time and again. But and it is the least interesting part…(with) low shores, the ungainly trees and the democratic buzzards…along the upper Mississippi every hour brings something new. There are crowds of odd islands, bluffs, prairies, hills, woods and villages – everything one could desire to amuse the children.”

Cruising the Mississippi River Aboard the Queen of the Mississippi

My vessel of choice for the 7-day Mississippi River cruise was American Cruise Line ’s Queen of the Mississippi. It’s a gleaming white five-deck 150-passenger replica of a 19 th -century steamboat. They’re the ones that routinely churned up and down the river, transporting both freight and passengers.

ACL proclaims itself an “All-American” line, utilizing American crews and U.S.-built ships. Our was built in 2012 by a company-owned shipyard in Maryland.

Beneath her antique veneer and authentic paddlewheel, the Queen of the Mississippi is a thoroughly modern craft. It also features 78 cabins in seven categories, 65 of which have private balconies.

They range in size from a 600-square-foot owners’ suite to single cabins at 210 square feet.

Standard double cabins measure a commodious 304 square feet – larger than most cruise ship staterooms. Each cabin has a satellite flat-screen TV/DVD, Keurig coffeemaker, wireless Internet access and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Public areas include six lounges, ranging from a cozy library to the spacious Magnolia Lounge. The Magnolia is home to most presentations and entertainment. It’s also where you’ll find a complimentary Happy Hour, a popular ACL tradition offered on all of its vessels.

Up top, there’s a sun deck, exercise equipment and a casual café. The Dining Salon is large enough to accommodate all 150 passengers at a single (open) seating.

A Historic City

Joining me for the voyage was my lady friend and fellow cruising enthusiast, Melinda Renner. She joined me in St. Louis a day prior to departure to give us some time to explore the city’s many attractions.

St. Louis is famous, of course, for its soaring Gateway Arch, symbol of the city’s role as “Gateway to the West.”

The world’s tallest arch rises 630 feet from a 90-acre site (a national park unit formally known as the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial) that was undergoing a massive landscaping project during our visit.

We nonetheless managed to make our way through the confusion to join a “Journey to the Top.” This popular tour shuttles visitors in elevator cars to an observatory atop the Arch. There narrow slit-like windows afford awe-inspiring views over St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

Boarding Our Mississippi Cruise in the Gateway to the West

Next, we walked to the nearby Old Courthouse to have a look at exhibits from the Museum of Westward Expansion. They were temporarily moved there from the Arch during construction. Our visit to the Courthouse (famous as the setting for the Dred Scott case) was enhanced with a performance by a string ensemble from the St. Louis Symphony.

Later in the day, we strolled around Laclede’s Landing . Laclede is a popular, historical riverfront dining and entertainment district. It’s named after one of the French fur traders who founded St. Louis in 1764. An early dinner at Hannegan’s Restaurant & Pub found us making a big mess out of a delectable rack of St. Louis-style barbecued ribs.

Following a smooth and efficient boarding process the next morning, we were underway. We were soon passing through several of the 26 locks we’d encounter on the way to St. Paul and the landmark confluence of the country’s two greatest rivers – the Mississippi and Missouri – near St. Charles, MO, where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out on their Pacific Ocean Expedition in 1804. (Speaking of the two explorers, if you’re ever in Great Falls, Montana, don’t miss the extraordinary the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center ).

A Perfect Mississippi Port-of-Call

Hannibal, MO , forever linked to the Mississippi River as the town that most inspired America’s greatest author and humorist, Mark Twain , proved the perfect first port-of-call on our voyage.

Mark Twain spent his boyhood years in Hannibal. A young rascal then known as Samuel Clemens, his childhood experiences sparked his huge imagination. It lead him to writing some the world’s most widely read novels.

Naturally the town is all about Twain, as you might expect.

On every visitor’s must-see list is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum , a National Historic Landmark. Also the Becky Thatcher and Huckleberry Finn Houses. They’re all nicely restored and offering a comprehensive, easy to follow interpretation of Clemens’ life.

Where Corn Is King

In Davenport, IA , where corn is king, we thought it appropriate to join a tour to the John Deere Pavilion . It makes perfect sense that one of the world’s major manufacturers of farm machinery is based here in the American heartland.

The Pavilion (located in neighboring Moline, IL) is a massive glass and steel structure. It houses the largest display of John Deere equipment and technology in the world.

There are some fascinating exhibits, many of them offering hands-on experiences.

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The warm, sunny weather following us upriver on our Mississippi cruise became chilly for our morning arrival in Dubuque, IA. We quickly warmed to the city, however, with its revitalized riverfront that features the huge and handsome National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium – our objective for an ACL-included self-guided tour.

A Smithsonian affiliate, this sprawling complex has earned praise as the one of the Midwest’s finest museums.

Built on the site of the Dubuque Boat & Boiler Works, operating from 1851 until 1972 as the nation’s largest shipbuilder on inland waters, the museum couldn’t be better. It traces the colorful history of the Golden Age of Steamboating on the Mississippi.

The museum couples seamlessly with the adjacent Aquarium where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the creatures that call the river home – from massive gar and catfish to playful otters.

An All-American City on Our Mississippi River Cruise

La Crosse, WI , got our vote for the most attractive and inviting town or city we visited so far during our voyage Queen of the Mississippi. It’s just plain pretty and possesses the sort of friendly, wholesome all-American atmosphere that makes you feel you’d enjoy living there.

The Queen docks at lovely, leafy Riverside Park – the city’s showpiece riverfront park – a picture-perfect setting on an October morning with the fall colors out in force.

ACL’s staff onboard the Queen included three outstanding and versatile individuals, known as “riverlorians” who served in various capacities as lecturers, guides and entertainers.

Mike Jennings, a veteran riverboat lecturer, delivered daily talks on matters of history, geography and river lore while the dynamic husband and wife duo of Steven Marking and JoAnn Funk anchored the evening entertainment. They also shared their knowledge of the nature and ecology of the upper Mississippi through a number of presentations.

JoAnn – a La Crosse native – led a group of us on a walking tour of the city, taking in the downtown historic district and visiting the International Friendship Gardens , a colorful network of demonstration gardens that celebrates sister-city relationships between La Crosse and several foreign cities.

Later, we joined a bus excursion through the city’s Victorian residential neighborhoods, pausing to tour the 1858 Hixon House – the elegantly furnished home of a one-time lumber baron.

Cruising Into Minnesota

Churning ever northward toward our next destination – Red Wing, MN – the nature of the river changed dramatically, narrowing considerably and flanked by bluffs ablaze in fall foliage.

Nearly everyone emerged on deck for the show and to join Marking and Funk in a game of eagle spotting. The big raptors nest in large numbers along the river in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Red Wing has to go on record as the quirkiest of ports along the upper river. It’s a wee town of just 16,000 but has a huge reputation for resourcefulness and productivity.

Settled by Scandinavian immigrants in the 1840s, it soon became the primary wheat market in the world – and it was here that puffed wheat cereal was invented.

Boots to Pottery

Red Wing brand shoes and boots have been made there for a century – as were the famous art pottery products of Red Wing Pottery . Showrooms and museums of those two venerable companies highlighted our ACL-included tour.

The Red Wing Store features a real attention-getter with its “World’s Largest Boot” exhibit. The oversized leather work boot measures 20 feet long by 16 feet tall and weighs in at 2,300 pounds.

Collectors of art pottery or glass are quick to recognize the name Red Wing. The company was a prolific producer of art pottery, stoneware and hand-painted dinnerware from the late 1800s until the plant was shuttered in 1967.

Our tour group loved the Pottery Museum with its collection of more than 5,000 pieces ranging from massive stoneware jugs to delicate vases.

Reaching the End of our Mississippi River Cruise in St. Paul

A riverboat cruise is generally a slow-moving event, but it hardly seemed as if a week had passed as Queen of the Mississippi tied up in St. Paul, MN to bring our weeklong cruise to an end.

All in all, the voyage went flawlessly. Meals were tasty, plentiful and well presented and the Queen’s officers and crew were invariably friendly and efficient. As a veteran of more than 40 cruises, I will tell you unequivocally that ACL is among the best in the business of small ship cruising.

Following the customary hugs and farewells, we made a beeline for the St. Paul Farmers’ Market . We’d heard this was the best place to be on a Saturday morning in St. Paul. Founded in 1853 and featuring more than 300 vendors, it’s one of the nation’s oldest and largest public markets. We had a great time there, wandering about and making photos.

Enjoying an Additional Night

Rather than rushing off to the airport, we’d booked a night at the 1910 Saint Paul Hotel .

After a long walk around the city we settled in that afternoon at the castle-like Landmark Center. We watched the St. Paul Civic Symphony Orchestra rehearse a performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

That evening, as we sat down for a light dinner at the hotel’s lobby bar, we heard a familiar voice. It belonged to our riverloarian/entertainer (and new favorite songbird) from the Queen, JoAnn Funk. JoAnn made it home to St. Paul just in time for her regular Saturday night gig at the hotel. It was a fitting finale to a wonderful week cruising the Mississippi River.

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American Cruise Lines www.americancruiselines.com Tel: (800) 460-4518

April 19, 2016 at 2:34 pm

I would like to speak with the person that handles the marketing and advertising. I am the Digital Sales Manager at ABC7/NewsChannel 8

April 20, 2016 at 2:09 pm

I have no idea who that may be Roy. I suggest you call their corporate offices.

March 13, 2021 at 8:28 pm

Please send more info on your riverboat tours. Thank you.

March 15, 2021 at 4:58 pm

Hi Sue, For more info on the cruise you’ll need to contact American Cruise Lines directly. Their contact information is listed at the end of the article.

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American Heritage

The 150-passenger American Heritage (formerly the Queen of the Mississippi ) offers an authentic paddlewheeler experience with all the comforts of home. Guests enjoy large staterooms with private balconies, hotel-style bathrooms, and complimentary room service. Experience breathtaking scenery from the privacy of your stateroom as the American Heritage makes its way down the legendary river.

Cruising aboard American Heritage , enjoy comfortable lounges and large observation decks that provide the perfect place for guests to relax and enjoy the company of fellow travelers who share their interest in American heritage. Glass enclosed dining salons provide panoramic views of the spectacular scenery you will see on every American Cruise Lines trip.

From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, the American Heritage will be completely made-over with new color palettes, luxurious textiles and linens, new furniture and carpets, and regionally inspired artwork and flourishes. The design pays homage to the Mighty River, highlighting its historical, cultural, musical, and literary inspirations.

American Heritage Highlights

• Many lounges offer an atmosphere for every mood
• Grand dining room accommodates all guests together
• Culinary program featuring locally sourced ingredients
• Breakfast room service
• Afternoon tea service in the Sky Lounge
• Complimentary cocktail hour each evening
• Jazz and evening musical entertainment
• Onboard historians and naturalists
• Mark Twain Library and Chart Room
• Putting green on the top deck
• Open-air exercise area with views of passing scenery
• Laundry facilities
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Elevator access to all decks of the ship
• All-American crew

American Heritage Details

Accommodations.

The staterooms aboard American Heritage 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.

• Spacious staterooms, the largest on any cruise ship
• Private balconies
• Sliding glass balcony doors offer panoramic views
• Full-size private bathrooms with a full set of amenities
• Satellite TV and DVD player in all staterooms
• Twice daily stateroom service
• Individual climate control

Specifications

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Advanced public reservations are taken online. Bookings open four weeks in advance of cruise date.

La Crosse Queen Cruises

Paddlewheel cruises on the mississippi river.

Now taking reservations for private charters or groups of 30 or more on any public cruise for our 2024 season! Please call for more information. All other public cruise reservations open for booking 29 days prior to each cruise date. New to 2024 season: Captain’s Sunday Brunch Cruise departing at 10:30 a.m. and lasting until 1:00 p.m. Two-and-a-half hours will allow us to “lock thru” Lock & Dam No. 7, conditions permitting!

Individual public reservations will become available in Spring of 2021—Group reservations are now available for 2021.

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Saturday Dinner Cruise

Feast on a delicious chicken and prime rib dinner while relaxing on this Mississippi River tour!

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours
• Users All ages
• Clock 6:00 p.m.

Cruise on the Mighty Mississippi!

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours
• Clock Wednesday's and Friday's at 5:30 p.m. & Saturday's and Sunday's at 3:30 p.m.

Pizza Cruise

Enjoy an afternoon on the Mighty Mississippi River while eating free pizza on this fun boat tour!

• Clock 10:30 a.m.

Captain’s Sunday Brunch

Enjoy a delicious brunch while learning about the Mississippi River on this narrated river tour!

• Clock 11:00 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Sightseeing Cruise

Learn all about the historical and present day Mississippi River on this sightseeing cruise!

See the historical sites and local wildlife of the beautiful Upper Mississippi River!

Step back in time when you come aboard our replica paddlewheel river boat!

Choose from our tasty brunch, lunch, pizza, and dinner buffet-style cruises!

Beer, wine, and liquor offered on every cruise.

About La Crosse Queen Cruises

Cruise back in time and explore the Upper Mississippi with us! The La Crosse Queen is a modern-day replica of the grand river boats that plied the Mississippi River in the early 1900s. Cruising out of La Crosse, Wisconsin, she is one of the few authentic Mississippi River paddlewheel river boats still in operation in the United States today. In keeping with early traditions, she was built with sternwheels that are her only means of propulsion. 

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. This is in contrast to most Mississippi River paddlewheelers in operation today that have a “free wheeling” paddlewheel at the stern of the boat for visual effect, but have traditional screw-type engines hidden for their real means of propulsion. 

The La Crosse Queen is U.S. Coast Guard inspected for safety and is licensed to carry up to 149 passengers.

The #1 Outdoor Activity in La Crosse on TripAdvisor

We took this boat cruise on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The boat was full, but there was plenty of room. Drinks are very reasonable and the staff was knowledgeable and friendly. One big plus was the bathrooms were clean and spacious, something I didn't think I would find on a paddle boat! I would recommend the La Crosse Queen.

We took this cruise with a group and it was a lot of fun! We saw eagles, blue herons, foxes, osprey, along the banks of the Mississippi. We were able to go through the locks, which was lucky since if there is a barge in the area they do not allow this. We are talking about going again in the fall when the leaves are changing and birds are migrating.

We took the Friday night Pizza cruise and enjoyed fantastic views of the Mississippi River. Several people from our group had never been on a river cruise and were amazed. Free Pizza and beer along with cruise for $18.95 is hard to beat! Some questioned the cheap price, but soon found out it was good.

This was an excellent tour. The guide who did the narrative was friendly, fun and knowledgeable about the town and river. We saw bald eagles, a swing bridge, fancy homes, etc. 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.

Always wanted to take a cruise on the Mississippi and we booked the early afternoon cruise on a weekday. Boarding went smoothly - they take your picture for sale later as a souvenir. Boat was clean and comfy and captain and staff friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. They do have a snack bar and bathrooms on board. Relaxing and enjoyable!

We went on the La Crosse Queen on a beautiful day. Cruising on the river was so cool. The breeze, scenery was awesome. Best place to view everything is on the top deck. The crew were so polite and fun to talk with. If you have questions they answered them. Hats off to the La Crosse Queen.

Wonderful time on a 2-hour Sunday Brunch cruise. The buffet was small but the price was still good. Met wonderful folks inside and outside during the trip. Got to go through a Lock and Dam. The wait staff were very accommodating. Definitely worth every penny for this adventure.

We celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary on the La Crosse Queen. The dinner exceeded our expectations. The turkey and roast beef were both tender and moist. For being a buffet the food was delicious. The staff was attentive and live music was a surprise. We were fortunate to have wonderful weather and really enjoyed ourselves!

• CruiseMapper

American Heritage deck plans

Deck layouts, review of facilities, activities, amenities.

American Heritage deck plan review at CruiseMapper provides newest cruise deck plans (2024-2025-2026 valid floor layouts of the vessel) extracted from the officially issued by American Cruise Lines deckplan pdf (printable version).

Each of the American Heritage cruise ship deck plans are conveniently combined with a legend (showing cabin codes) and detailed review of all the deck's venues and passenger-accessible indoor and outdoor areas. A separate link provides an extensive information on American Heritage staterooms (cabins and suites), including photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.

American Heritage (2015-built as "Queen of the Mississippi", renamed after major drydock refurbishment in 2021-2022) is an authentic late 1800s design Mississippi River steamboat paddle-wheeler owned by the American Cruise Lines company . The company's other riverboats with paddle-wheel design are American Splendor/fka America (2016 as "American Eagle", sistership), American Pride (2012, the old "Queen of the Mississippi" ship) and American West/fka Queen of the West . With similar design are also the  American Queen Voyages ships American Queen and American Empress . All these classic American paddle-wheel design ships were known in the past as "paddle steamers". They were powered by steam engines driving paddle-wheels (one at the stern or two at the sides) that propel the ship through the water. The new Queen of the Mississippi ship is powered by two diesel engines, and its propulsion system has 3 Azimuth thrusters.

Queen of the Mississippi/American Heritage river cruise ship deck plan shows a total of 84 staterooms for 150 passengers served by 50 crew/staff. The boat has 5 passenger decks (accessible via 2 elevators), 7 bars/lounges, 1 restaurant.

Among the riverboat's main features are:

• historically accurate design and decor
• large collection of artworks on display throughout
• modern maritime technologies
• luxury hotel amenities and comfort
• historically-themed onboard activities and entertainment
• uniquely designed excursions and tours themed on USA history, heritage and culinary
• top-quality river travel vacation experience along the Mississippi River cruise itinerary route.

Note: In August 2015, the shipowner announced that the old “Queen of the Mississippi” ship (launched in 2012 on Mississippi River) would be renamed "American Pride" and relocated on Columbia River (USA Pacific Northwest).

Deck layouts

Deck 01 - main.

American Heritage deck plans are property of American Cruise Lines . All deck layouts are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

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Mississippi River Dinner Jazz Cruise

Step on board and cruise with us into the night where the sleepless activity of America's busiest port buzzes. The sounds of a lively jazz band fill the air as you enjoy a lavish Creole buffet in elegantly appointed dining rooms. See details

Historical River Cruise

View the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and be entertained by a historian narrator with a detailed description of New Orleans landmarks, history, vessel information, and river lore. See details

Weekend Jazz Brunch

Enjoy delicious brunch delicacies as you cruise down the Mighty Mississippi River while listening to the lively sounds of a traditional New Orleans Jazz band See details

Tiana's Riverboat Experience

Swifties Era Cruise

Creole Queen Haunted Halloween Cruise

Thanksgiving Day Jazz Cruise

Defenders of the River: Superhero Cruise

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

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What to Know About Mississippi River Cruises — From the Cruise Lines to Top Itineraries

See small towns and bustling cities by boat on a Mississippi River cruise.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

River cruises are a great way to see the world — you can visit several waterfront destinations and watch the scenery pass by from cozy accommodations and top-deck lounges on intimate luxury ships. And while rivers like the Danube and the Rhine are top choices for many travelers, you don't have to go abroad for a memorable river cruise. You can access some of the nation's iconic attractions and favorite cities right from the Mississippi River.

There are three main cruise lines traveling the Mississippi, with journeys ranging from less than a week to more than 20 days. Spring and fall are the best times of year to take a cruise along the river, as you'll avoid the summer heat and winter chill and enjoy more pleasant weather while you take in the surroundings.

Here's what you need to know about Mississippi River boat cruises, from choice itineraries to popular stops.

Mississippi River Cruise Lines

There are three main cruise lines that offer itineraries along the Mississippi River: Viking River Cruises , American Queen Voyages , and American Cruise Lines . Viking is known for its luxury river, ocean, and expedition cruises to incredible destinations around the world, and trips aboard its 193-stateroom Viking Mississippi adhere to the same standard of service.

American Queen Voyages offers several itineraries along the Mississippi — one along the Upper Mississippi, another on the Lower Mississippi, and one that also sails a portion of the Ohio River — on its signature paddle-wheel steamboats. The company's flagship, the American Queen, is said to be the world's biggest steamboat.

The itineraries on American Cruise Lines feature either modern riverboats or old-school paddle wheelers, so you can choose your ideal sailing experience.

All three cruise lines offer similar itineraries along the river, so we recommend looking into the ships, the amenities, and what's included in the rate (like pre-departure hotel stays and excursions) to help make your decision.

Popular Ports on the Mississippi

You can cruise all the way from New Orleans to Minneapolis, or you can sail shorter segments of the river. Typically, cruises along the Lower Mississippi sail between New Orleans and Memphis, while cruises on the Upper Mississippi sail between St. Louis and the Twin Cities.

Passengers on the Upper Mississippi may get the chance to hop off and explore Mark Twain's childhood home in Hannibal, Missouri, stroll the streets of Iowa's oldest city (Dubuque), or marvel at sacred bluffs in Red Wing, Minnesota. Along the Middle Mississippi, there's Paducah, Kentucky, a UNESCO-designated Creative City , and Chester, Illinois, the birthplace of Popeye the Sailor Man.

On the Lower Mississippi, you'll find Cajun culture in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Civil War history in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and music and BBQ in Memphis .

Mississippi River Cruise Itineraries

There are many itineraries to choose from between the three major Mississippi River Cruise lines, but here are our top picks.

Viking River Cruises: America's Great River

Cruise from New Orleans all the way up to St. Paul on Viking's 15- or 17-day America's Great River itinerary aboard the 193-stateroom Viking Mississippi , a vessel designed just for this river. The journey starts in New Orleans and stops in Baton Rouge; Natchez and Vicksburg, Mississippi; Memphis; and St. Louis, where passengers can explore attractions like Gateway Arch National Park and the flagship Anheuser-Busch brewery. From there, it continues on to Hannibal, Missouri; Burlington, Davenport, and Dubuque, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Red Wing, Minnesota, where travelers can learn about America's most recognizable symbol at the National Eagle Center. In between action-packed stops, there's plenty of time to take in the scenery from your veranda or the boat's several public viewing areas.

American Queen Voyages: New Orleans to Memphis

Sail along the Lower Mississippi from New Orleans to Memphis on this nine-day cruise, which starts with a complimentary stay in New Orleans and a second day to enjoy the Big Easy. Then, it's on to Nottoway Resort and St. Francisville in Louisiana and Natchez, Vicksburg, and Greenville in Mississippi before a day of cruising through the Delta and disembarking in Memphis. There are a few different paddle-wheel riverboats that cruise this route for American Queen Voyages — find the specific ship for your journey when you select a date.

American Cruise Lines: Upper Mississippi River Cruise

This eight-day cruise starts in St. Louis and sails along the Upper Mississippi to St. Paul. Stops along the way include Hannibal, Missouri; Fort Madison, Davenport, and Dubuque, Iowa; and Winona and Red Wing, Minnesota. Several riverboats cruise this route, including American Melody and American Symphony , inaugurated in 2021 and 2022, respectively. These sister vessels offer large rooms and suites with contemporary furnishings and an upscale feel.

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Worshippers bless the Mississippi River by boat, in an act of Eucharistic revival

BATON ROUGE, La. — The air was already steamy at 8 a.m. on an August morning, the sidewalk radiating heat waves as a crowd filtered into St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Baton Rouge. Hundreds filed into the church, adorned in veils and athleisure wear, white robes and tennis shoes.

They were among thousands of Catholics who converged on the Mississippi River Aug. 14 and 15 for the Fête-Dieu du Mississippi. The two-day boat procession traveled down the river from Baton Rouge to New Orleans. Its star attraction is a 14-foot-tall golden sculpture called a monstrance, which is used in Catholicism to house the spirit of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

The Fête’s concept of a blessing from God bestowed upon a fleet of ships and those who come out to witness it has deep roots in Louisiana tradition. Vessels setting out on shrimping voyages garnered blessings from Catholic priests as far back as the early 1900s. Shrimping was — and still is — a prominent industry in Louisiana and used to be a lot more dangerous. Drownings, accidents involving hooks and pulleys and frequent engine explosions on board were common enough for shrimpers to seek divine intervention in order to feel safe.

This blessing, usually held on Bayou Teche in the Atchafalaya Basin, represents an intersection of Catholic and Louisiana tradition. Having the pilgrimage on the water rather than on land, “recalls our rich Acadian history and, in a way, re-enacts the journey made by the Acadians 250 years ago,” according to the Fête-Dieu du Teche website .

“The Mississippi River is known around the world,” said Aimee Dawes, an attendee from Baton Rouge. “To put Jesus on the boat with the crucifix to travel down the river, so many more people get to witness him.”

The procession started with a Mass on Aug. 14 at Baton Rouge’s oldest church, the gothic building filled to the brim with people from all across the southeastern United States. Inside, the church boomed with sound as the orchestra and choir played and sang in grand unison. Great mahogany arches towered over the parishioners as sweat stained the backs of shirt collars. Paper programs gained a second life as fans to swirl around the still, hot air.

“Let the blessings of our Lord and Our Lady of the Palm Sunday be upon us this hurricane season,” Father Michael Champagne said from the pulpit.

“Lord, hear our prayers,” the crowd responded.

The procession, a pilgrimage organized by Champagne and the Community of Jesus Crucified in St. Martinville, carried at its center the 14-foot-tall golden monstrance, central to the tradition of the Eucharist. Deacons and volunteers, red-faced from the heat, pushed the glittering structure from St. Joseph Cathedral to the Baton Rouge boat dock on the river using a rolling metal cart adorned with boxes of pink, red and white carnations.

The 130-mile voyage down the Mississippi River took place against the backdrop of a nationwide Eucharistic Revival, sponsored by U.S. bishops with the goal, according to the National Eucharistic Revival’s website, to “be united once again around the source and summit of our faith in the celebration of the Eucharist.”

The Eucharist is a Catholic ceremony commemorating the Last Supper, in which Jesus ate bread and wine with his apostles the night before his crucifixion. At the core of this ceremony is the idea that the bread and the wine are not just symbols but become “the real body and blood of Jesus” after undergoing a process called transubstantiation.

According to the Pew Research Center, in a 2019 survey , 69% of self-described Catholics believe the bread and the wine used in communion are symbolic representations, deviating from official church doctrine that says the bread and wine aren’t symbols, but truly are the presence of Christ.

The movement to drum up support for stronger Catholic belief in the presence of Christ in the Eucharist began in 2022 . It rolled out with a three-year action plan culminating in a National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis this past July and pilgrimages like the Fête-Dieu du Mississippi happening across the country.

The Fête was held on the Mississippi River this year rather than Bayou Teche to match a central idea in the Eucharistic Revival: Go big.

Downriver in St. Charles Parish, hundreds of faithful gathered Aug. 15 for the second day of the Fête under the Hale Boggs Bridge in Luling. The event coincided with the Feast of the Assumption, a holy day for Catholics that marks the death of Jesus’ mother, Mary, and her ascension into heaven.

Three busloads of students from St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School in nearby Destrehan were among the participants who lined the riverbank. Their principal, Rachel Hafford, made it a priority to bring the kids to see the flotilla.

“We started [school] last Thursday, so it was quite a task to get a field trip underway and get buses and all that,” Hafford said. “But … being such an instrumental part of our faith, there's no way … that we would miss this opportunity.”

A few nearby tugboats maneuvered to flank the Eucharistic procession, mirroring people on the riverside who kneeled as the giant golden sculpture floated by under the bridge.

The celebration included a solemn moment in remembrance of those who died in the George Prince ferry disaster almost 48 years ago. St. Charles Parish President Matthew Jewell placed a wreath on the riverside to mark the occasion.

As the vessel carrying the Eucharist passed along the river, Ann Roshto of Baton Rouge joined many others on their knees and wept. Her tears were brought on by the significance of the moment and the river to her life and the state, she said.

“The river is important to Louisiana. It’s just a blessing.” she said. “And for Jesus to travel down the river, to allow us to come here and to give him praise and worship, He deserves all the glory.”

The journey down the river ends with another Mass in St. Louis cathedral and celebration in Jackson Square in New Orleans. Onlookers gather around the outside of the church as faithful enter through the arched central doorway. A boy sits on a man’s shoulders and cups his hands over his eyes, peering past the wrought iron fences and French Quarter lanterns in Jackson Square, curious.

Greg LaRose contributed to this report from Luling. This story is a product of the Mississippi River Basin Ag & Water Desk , an independent reporting network based at the University of Missouri in partnership with Report for America , with major funding from the Walton Family Foundation.

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Hundreds line river banks for procession of boats ferrying Eucharist down the Mississippi

(OSV News) — “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High” (Ps 46:5).

The psalmist was clearly not speaking about the Mississippi. But his words would have been an apt description of the joy so many experienced on the banks of America’s great river Aug. 14-15 as boats ferried the holy Eucharist in Louisiana from Baton Rouge to New Orleans — a distance of 130 miles.

Organized by the Community of Jesus Crucified in St. Martinville, Louisiana, the Fête-Dieu (French for “Godfest”), was two years in the making. The event was as ambitious as it was bold. Unlike most traditional expressions of Catholic faith, the Fête-Dieu required a team of engineers. Ladders and a boom lift were used throughout the procession to manage the 14-foot monstrance, and several tools were created to lift, tilt or move it from boat to church and back.

That didn’t keep the procession from being conducted with deep reverence. Designated boats rang bells, burned incense, and displayed a larger-than-life-sized crucifix and statues of the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph. A treasury of traditional hymns and prayers united believers of all ages and backgrounds in worship. Everything was executed with transcendent beauty and grandeur.

The large-scale undertaking was intended to stir up a current of new evangelization and Eucharistic revival across the state of Louisiana, and to bring the blessing of God to the river itself. As Fête-Dieu organizer Father Michael Champagne explained, “The Mississippi has never been blessed. I talked with a man who has worked on the river for 50 years. He said, ‘I’m a Baptist, but we need to bless this river!'”

And bless it they did, with the sacramental presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The flotilla of barges brought thousands of Louisiana Catholics to their knees, as the spectacular monstrance, canopy, altar and host — all specially made for this event — passed by. The two-day procession stopped at towns along the route for “River Rallies” where residents and pilgrims alike could express their faith by walking in processions, or by participating in prayer services, adoration and Benediction.

The event began Aug. 14 with Mass at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in the state’s capital of Baton Rouge. Bishop Michael G. Duca encouraged the standing-room only congregation, “Jesus Christ is Lord, and he is with us! Today, we bring Christ out of the church and into the world. Our pilgrimage begins when we open our hearts to Jesus.”

The 14-inch host — large enough to be seen from the levees — was consecrated, then placed in the monstrance and processed more than a mile to the boats. Despite extreme heat and humidity, the joy was tangible.

Bishop Glen J. Provost of Lake Charles addressed those gathered in Donaldsonville, a town 55 miles downriver from Baton Rouge. Priests assigned to two decommissioned ambulances known as “Spiritual Care Units” offered sacramental confession.

A similarly adapted fire truck, equipped with a pulpit, provided a platform for nationally recognized speakers, such as Father Josh Johnson, author and vocations director of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, and Tom Neal, an author, former seminary dean and currently director of evangelization and mission engagement for the Diocese of Pensacola, Florida. It was an effective way to address large riverside crowds.

The flotilla completed 70 miles, arriving in Convent, Louisiana, shortly before sunset. The large monstrance was processed down the levee to St. Michael the Archangel Church, where a crowd of approximately 1,500 — three times the town’s population — had gathered. Wide-eyed congregants gasped when the 220-pound monstrance was tilted and borne horizontally down the center aisle, then placed upright in the sanctuary under a stunning image of the Lamb of God.

A flaming beacon was lit on the levee above St. Michael’s and solemn vespers was offered. Louisiana native Dominican Father Aquinas Guilbeau offered the reflection.

“The Mississippi River has no greater herald than Mark Twain,” Father Guilbeau said. “For Twain, being on the river was like being in church. But we have made the river a kind of church. Wherever there is an altar, a tabernacle, a monstrance, God is there. Christ is with us,” he observed. “He makes the journey joyful.” Compline, or night prayer, closed out the evening before all-night Eucharistic adoration commenced.

On Aug. 15, the solemnity of the Assumption began with matins and lauds. Large groups of Catholic school students attended “River Rallies” in Reserve and Luling before the procession reached the final rally at Audubon Park in New Orleans.

In anticipation of its arrival, 1,000 adorers embarked on America’s last operating Mississippi steamboat, the proclaimed-to-be 99-year-old Natchez. They met the flotilla on the water and were led in a Holy Hour. Passengers included priests, deacons and religious, seminarians, families with young children, high school students and young adults as well as the elderly. Before departing from the pier, familiar hymns were played on the boat’s historic calliope.

Docked at the edge of the city’s famous French Quarter, the Most Blessed Sacrament was brought to St. Louis Cathedral for vespers, Benediction and Mass of the Assumption celebrated by Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond. Because the basilica was filled beyond capacity, the Mass was broadcast through outdoor speakers and priests brought holy Communion to people who were unable to get inside. The evening concluded with a live Cajun music band just outside the cathedral in Jackson Square.

Catholics across the United States have been asking whether efforts like the National Eucharistic Revival can succeed in taking root. If grand and creative initiatives like the Fete-Dieu du Mississippi are any indication, the answer is a resounding — and joyful — yes.

Jaymie Stuart Wolfe writes for OSV News from New Orleans. She’s the author of several books and the bimonthly column “Called to Holiness.”

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