Mississippi River Vacation
Few vacations are able to offer such intimacy as Mississippi River cruises. A Mississippi River cruise is a truly remarkable U.S. vacation experience. A major advantage of taking a Mississippi River cruise is that the river cruise ships are able to go deep into the heart of the United States’ deep south, where larger cruise ships simply cannot reach. Take part in the one-of-a-kind, intimate atmosphere on board these ships, as you visit the river towns and locations that would be impossible to enjoy as much any other way. Plus, the cruise lines that offer river cruises have fabulous, regionally-inspired cuisine, matched perfectly by an attentive and well-trained staff.
There are many destinations in which you can enjoy a Mississippi River cruise. You can experience states such as Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Montana, Tennessee, and Kentucky as you’ve never dreamed you could! Select itineraries may even combine Ohio River cruises, with port stops in Pennsylvania and Ohio.
As you navigate the fascinating banks of the Mississippi, you will discover everything from thriving cities to pre-Civil War plantations. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of New Orleans, the birth place of jazz music. Explore the beautiful blooming gardens of Rosedown planation. Step back in time to Civil War battlefields. Witness the famous Missouri Gateway Arch and visit the childhood home of author Mark Twain. A Mississippi River cruise is the best way to experience American history. Typical cruises are 7-nights long, many with complimentary pre-cruise packages that let you settle into your itinerary the night before embarkation.
American Discount Vacations is proud to offer the best deals possible on all Mississippi River cruises booked with us. Backed by our "Low Price Guarantee," and powered by our team of expert travel agents, we're sure to exceed your expectations when booking your next Mississippi River cruise!
Select River Cruises cannot be booked online. If you find that the river cruise you're interested in cannot be booked online, or if you'd just prefer to book over the phone with one of our River Cruise Experts, call us toll free at 1-866-214-7447 (US & Canada only). International customers can reach us at +001-732-970-9142.
Since the Mississippi River spans multiple states, the cruise industry generally splits it into three regions.
The following are just a few of the many things to do while sailing the Mississippi:
Lower Mississippi
This part of the river runs from New Orleans to Memphis and includes ports such as Baton Rouge, Oak Alley, St. Francesville, and Vicksburg. Tour areas such as the National Military Park, gunboats, and cotton plantations in the deep south. Along the way, you’ll be charmed by quaint towns, antebellum mansions, and all the spicy Cajun and creole foods you can eat! Cruises along the Lower Mississippi usually go both ways.
Middle Mississippi
This part of the river runs from Memphis to St. Louis and includes ports such as Chester, Paducah, and New Madrid. You will have the opportunity to check out landmarks like the Trail of Tears, the National Quilt Museum, and the Missouri Botanical Garden. Plus, you can miss out on touring Memphis (aka “Blues City”) or St. Louis, two of the most well-known cities in the Southern U.S. Itineraries that include the Middle Mississippi are usually part of longer Upper or Lower Mississippi cruises.
Upper Mississippi
This part of the river runs from St. Louis to St. Paul and includes ports such as Hannibal, Davenport, Dubuque, and Red Wing. Points of interest include Mark Twain’s childhood home, the Fenelon Place Elevator, and Grandad Bluff Park. Plus, you can admire endless Victorian mansions, state parks, and breathtaking scenery. While in Davenport, it is worth checking out one of their many Jazz and Blues festivals!