These locks and dams once helped riverboats transport goods back and forth across the country, providing those in different areas with access to foods, fabrics and hundreds of other products. This journey includes the sounds of iconic music, the sights of Civil War history, and the smells of whiskey and bourbon. How to Choose the Perfect Mississippi River Cruise for You. The single thing we enjoyed the most was the quality of the food and the service that came with it. Mississippi River Adventures. Honky tonk:This type of music is all about the rhythm section that accompanines the main instruments of a fiddle and steel guitar. A Louisiana Gumbo is a cant miss dish in the American south. 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. American Queen Voyages formerly the American Queen Steamboat Company, in a nod to its acclaimed riverboat roots has expanded to lake, ocean and expedition voyages, in addition to the line's river cruises. 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. Explore America's true historic treasures on a cruise of the Mississippi River and its tributaries. 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. Enjoy the warmth of the Mississippi River sun as we cruise from Vicksburg to Memphis. These are some of the most important factors to consider when selecting your cruise: Mississippi River cruises cost between $1,300 and $5,000 per person, but the average price of a Mississippi River cruise is about $2,400 per person for a 9-day itinerary. Visit Hotels, Bed & Baths. Admission fee . But visit the area now and you'll encounter wings of a totally different 10 Mississippi River Attractions In Illinois You Can't Pass Up Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in June and August in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, there is a higher chance of flooding in the spring and a potential need to reroute or reschedule. Boating Safety Tips - Be prepared for your River travel adventure. The entire staff was great and so accommodating. More than half of that drop in elevation occurs within the state of Minnesota. 10 Best Mississippi Tours & Trips 2023/2024 - TourRadar 1. This is where fans of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn can enjoy a literary pilgrimage to the town where Twain found most of the inspiration for his best known fictional characters. Gumbo:A Louisiana Gumbo is a cant miss dish in the American south. Bald eagles, owls and pelicans all have breeding areas near the river, and you can also see those majestic creatures soaring high in the air. The river's deepest section is between Governor Nicholls Wharf and Algiers Point in New Orleans where it is 200 feet deep. By Brittany Chrusciel and Gwen. (Courtesy of American Queen Voyages). The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 14, 2024, and booking is now open. Youll encounter impressive sights and activities in Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana; and some small towns along the way as well. Memphis is another musical mecca. Unlike other websites and agencies, we show you all the options, regardless of whether or not we are paid by the company. Many even dine with our guests. You can ride to the top via tram or elevator, as some one million visitors do annually. Visitors can explore everything from hardwood forests to the sandy shores of the Mississippi River while enjoying three lakes, the All American Great River Road and Crowley's Ridge Parkway . At more than 2,500 miles long, the Mississippi River is the longest and largest river in the country. Mark Twain the pen name for author Samuel Clemens and the most famous chronicler of the Mississippi River -- hailed from Hannibal, Missouri, which lies north of St. Louis along the river. Thunderstorms - What to do if you get caught in one, Lightning Kills - National Weather Service Article. Museums dedicated to westward expansion are at the foot of the steel arch. The American Symphony is a new ship, beautiful. Call us at 800-510-4002 or inquire about a vacation here. Remove all filters. News.]. Visits to its gardens, historic homes, and museums. New Orleans Central Business District. Explore his eclectic collection of period-specific artwork and one-of-a-kind antiques. 741 Boston Post Road, 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. Explore the scenic bluffs, gardens, and homes that define the region. These packable jackets ensure protection from the elements without sacrificing space in your suitcase. An Arts, Events, Lodging and Recreational Travel Resource. Riverscape Vacation Rentals: Mississippi River, De Soto, WI From Colonial pioneers to entrepreneurs, much of Americas story has been forged or fought along their length. Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance for the lowest price. Home [www.fantasyrvtours.com] The line's traditional paddle-wheelers are on hand to glide you through this hallowed territory, from Alton, Missouri, to Red Wing, Minnesota (docked a little more than 50 miles from Minneapolis). Operates April through October. (Note that prices, which are per person, and other details are subject to change.) Before embarking, and once on board the ship, there are several days to explore Ottawa, which sits at the confluence of the Fox and Illinois rivers. After dinner, you can enjoy a signature Louisiana cocktail and take a stroll on the deck - or a spin on the dance floor. Las Aventuras De Tom Sawyer, classic novel by Mark Twain shares early American adventures on the Mississippi River. On a Mississippi River cruise, theres no excuse for boredom: you'll float past roaring waterfalls, dams, and scenic river bluffs, and explore historical towns along the banks of the mighty river. Pre-Cruise. Top Mississippi River Tours & Vacations 2022-2023. Visiting former cotton plantations in Mississippi and Louisiana and gaining a new understanding of the true horrors of slavery. Yes. Best Mississippi River Paddlewheel Cruises - American Cruise Lines Since there are thousands of tour operators around the globe, Preferred or Premier badges are awarded to companies that Travelstride has determined meet the highest standards of professionalism, customer satisfaction, and quality. 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. Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of the Mississippi River delta on this unforgettable journey. It was truly a wonderful time for us., This cruise was my retirement gift to myself. Mississippi River archaeological site visits. Length: 22 daysPrice: Starts at $14,935 per person. Plan an idyllic escape to revel in fall's colorful splendor. This region is not usually included on tour itineraries of the United States, and even very few Americans vacation here. Westgate Resorts: Official Website The Lower Mississippi has the longest season - open all year except for January and February - while the Upper Mississippi has a short season, between June and October. 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. Home made boat barge cruising down Mississippi River near Cassville, WI. 1-Night Pre-Cruise Complimentary Hotel Stay. On Southern Mississippi River cruises, you can start and finish in either New Orleans, Memphis, or St. Louis and visit historical river towns such as Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi. Save 100% on your flight Price was $557, price is now $386 per person. | Festivals | Calendar, Mississippi River Campgrounds, Mississippi River Museums, Mississippi River Retail | Shopping, Site Map Mississippi River Tours, Quincy, Ill., looks to the mighty Mississippi for power. There are several wonderful places to sample barbeque in the US, but along a Mississippi River Cruise, the top state for this dish is Tennessee. Length: Nine daysPrice: Starts at $4,259 per person. Creole Christmas - Mississippi River Cruise | Holiday Vacations As the captain of your own houseboat, youll enjoy the freedom of exploring the Mississippi River at your own pace. Check out RiverView Inn's CrocoRat. As you move further north along the Mississippi, you will be entering into the eastern edge of the American Midwest. Marinas or bike, or motorcyle. Explore these 29 top Mississippi River cruises for 2023 and 2024. On your Fun 'N the Sun houseboat vacation you'll enjoy sandy Mississippi River beaches, historic river towns, unparalleled scenery, and excellent fishing. Located about 80 miles from downtown Chicago, the city has a vibrant cultural and culinary scene and offers outdoor adventure, including Illinois' most popular park, Starved Rock State Park. Head to the beach for an unforgettable time with your four-legged friend. Choose from one of our 5 luxury vacation rentals, all with breathtaking views of the the mighty Mississippi River! The voyage highlights the small towns and cities along the Illinois and Mississippi rivers in the Midwest. Mississippi River State Park provides quality access to the St. Francis National Forest and offers visitors endless adventures where the Mississippi River, Crowley's Ridge and the Arkansas Delta meet. Travelstride has the widest selection of tours and tour companies. 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. If you're looking at lodging accommodations in NE Iowa, we offer quality Amish hand built vacation rental cabins ideal for getaways, family vacations, reunions, business conferences, and retreats. First class. Cruises depart from New Orleans, Memphis, St. Louis, St. Paul, Louisville, Nashville and Cincinnati. Our onboard experts dont just lecture, they spend time with guests aboard and on shore, giving real insight and depth to each destination visited. Mississippi River cruises offer a chance to explore the mighty waterway in a relaxing environment perhaps even on an authentic paddle-wheeler. Much like jazz, the different instruments take turns having a solo with the others accompanying them. The food was outstanding and the alcohol was plentiful and of high quality. Find your own secret fishing spot. The Minnesota Marine Art Museum has three large art galleries, while the National Eagle Center will teach you everything you need to know about bald eagles. This 2,320-mile waterway flows through 10 states, from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Bluegrass:Influenced both by jazz and English, Scottish and Irish ballads, Bluegrass features acoustic string instruments. We had the chance to meet and probably had a meal, a drink or excursion with almost everyone on board., I really appreciated how organized everything is. If you choose to cruise the Upper Mississippi during the summer, there is a positive note regarding the tourist crowds. Julia Belle Swain Home Port, River Town La Crosse, WI Last SteamBoat manufactured by Diamond Jo Boat Co. in Dubuque, IA. Mississippi River Cruises | Viking River Cruises These are just a few of the highlights you'll experience on a Mississippi River cruise. Can I trust the tour operator and trip reviews on Travelstride? The overall experience between north and south also varies, with the north having more wildlife and scenery while the south offers more cultural experiences and history. 4 out of 5. [Want to cruise the Mississippi River? Honky tonk is seen as a type of country music and evolved from a rythmic piano playing style. Waiting at the airport now and cannot wait to write a review. Our expectations were exceeded. If you enjoy communing with nature and spending time outside, look for campgrounds on or near the Mississippi River. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law. Absolutely loved having McAvoy Layne on the cruise as Mark Twain. Wildlife are usually within sight. The best time to cruise the Mississippi River is during the months of spring (March, April, May) or fall (September, October, November) to avoid the extreme hot and cold temperatures in summer and winter. Across the river from Natchez lies Vidalia, Louisiana. In LaCrosse, Wisconsin, farther north yet, you can sample the local breweries, which replaced the lumber industry as one of the citys primary economic engines. Between sightseeing, youll be eating and enjoying some fabulous cuisines from traditional southern to creole. We have a huge passion for hunting and fishing and there's no better place for that then here!!