Mississippi River Cruises for 2026 & 2027

Pricing for American Cruise Lines' Mississippi River itineraries varies based on the length of the cruise and any optional excursions you choose to add. The cost of Mississippi River cruises can vary widely depending upon itinerary length and ship type. Every port of call features at least one complimentary Featured excursion, thoughtfully selected to enhance your journey. Guests can further customize their experience with Premium excursions, typically ranging from $10 to $99 per person, or opt for exclusive Signature excursions—intimate, small-group adventures such as fishing charters, flightseeing tours, kayaking, or farm-to-table culinary experiences, typically priced at $100 or more.

To make travel even more seamless, American Cruise Lines offers flat-rate domestic airfare on all itineraries, as well as special promotions that may include free airfare or additional savings on select departure dates.

Mississippi River region cruises with American Cruise Lines are all-inclusive, covering shipboard meals, entertainment, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, port charges, and fees—ensuring you can simply relax and enjoy, knowing almost every aspect of your journey is included in one convenient fare.

The Mississippi River stretches over 2,300 miles and is fed by a vast network of tributaries, offering diverse landscapes and seasonal experiences along its course. The best time for Mississippi River cruises depends on the region you wish to explore and the time of year you plan to travel.

The Upper Mississippi River is best enjoyed during the summer through early fall, when temperatures are mild and humidity is lower than in the southern regions. The Mid-Mississippi River, particularly between Memphis and Nashville, is ideal from July through September—offering warm, pleasant weather without the intensity of peak summer heat.

For those interested in exploring the Lower Mississippi River and the charm of the Deep South, the best cruising seasons are spring (April to mid-June), fall (mid-September through October), and the festive holiday months of November and December.

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Our Mississippi River cruises begin and end in some of America's most iconic and culturally rich cities, including New Orleans, LA; Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; St. Paul, MN; Nashville, TN; Chattanooga, TN; Pittsburgh, PA; and Louisville, KY.

To help you make the most of your journey, American Cruise Lines includes a complimentary hotel stay in each port—giving you the perfect opportunity to experience the unique charm, history, and attractions each destination has to offer.

Depending on your itinerary, a Mississippi River cruise may include historic Southern cities, Civil War sites, music landmarks, museums, historic homes, scenic river bluffs, wildlife, locks and dams, and small towns throughout America's Heartland. Popular destinations include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Natchez, Vicksburg, Memphis, St. Louis, Hannibal, and St. Paul.

American Cruise Lines offers expertly curated cruises through the Mississippi River region, ranging from 8 to 23 days. Mississippi River cruise lengths vary, allowing travelers to choose from shorter highlights or longer, more immersive riverboat cruises. Cruising its tributaries offer even more areas to explore.

The 8-day Highlights of the Mississippi cruise, a round-trip journey from New Orleans, showcases the highlights of the area. For a variety of 9-day options, guests can choose from the Lower Mississippi River, Upper Mississippi River, Tennessee Rivers, and Music Cities cruises.

Those seeking extended adventures can enjoy the 11-day Great Smoky Mountains National Parks land and cruise package that combines a scenic journey along the Tennessee Rivers with a guided exploration of America’s most visited national park. There’s also a 12-day option – Mississippi Explorer cruise traveling from New Orleans, LA to Memphis, TN tracing the evolution of American music and region’s diverse culinary heritage.

For the ultimate river voyage, American Cruise Lines presents the 16-day Grand Heartland cruise traveling between St. Paul, MN and New Orleans, LA offering a deep and immersive exploration of America’s heartland. The 16-day Grand Ohio River cruise sailing from Pittsburgh, PA to St. Louis, MO experiences two of America’s greatest rivers.

Choosing the best cruise line to explore the Mississippi River region depends on the experience you are seeking. American Cruise Lines is the best choice for those who want an enriching cruise with a focus on authentic American experiences. We are known for our unsurpassed personalized service, well-curated small group excursions, and knowledgeable onboard experts who bring the natural beauty, history and regional culture of the Mississippi River region to life. American Cruise Lines is also a top option for all-inclusive cruising, ideal for individuals who like to understand all costs upfront. Our fleet of brand new small cruise ships, modern riverboats, and classic paddlewheelers provides the most spacious and comfortable accommodations in the industry, built for the most discerning travelers. Year after year, the company continues to be the most awarded U.S. cruise line, winning accolades from: Condé Nast Traveler, U.S.A. Today, U.S. News & World Report, Travel & Leisure, and countless industry publications.

Upper Mississippi River cruises travel between St. Louis and St. Paul, reaching destinations such as Hannibal, Dubuque, and Winona. Lower Mississippi River cruises travel from New Orleans to Memphis, visiting destinations such as Vicksburg, Natchez, and Baton Rouge. Both cruises offer opportunities to experience the region’s rich history, music, cuisine, and culture. Travelers can also choose itineraries that combine multiple regions of the Mississippi River such as the Grand Heartland River Cruise. Mississippi Explorer Cruise is a longer cruise for 12 days / 11 nights on the Lower Mississippi River.

American Cruise Lines offers an all-inclusive culinary experience on all our Mississippi River and tributary itineraries. Each menu offers something for everyone and changes to complement the season and the region in which guests are traveling. 

Our chefs are encouraged to use locally grown, sustainable ingredients to create regionally inspired and exquisite cuisine. Fresh foods are brought aboard daily, some from the farms and vineyards that we visit along the way. The cruise fare also features a variety of beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, such as soft drinks, bottled water, coffee, tea, beer, wine, and cocktails.

Learn more about American Cruise Lines' All-Inclusive River Cruises.

No, there are no casinos on American Cruise Lines ships that operate on the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Unlike larger ocean cruise ships that may include casinos, American Cruise Lines focuses on a different kind of onboard experience, one that emphasizes enrichment, relaxation, and regional connection.

Entertainment on board typically includes live performances by entertainers who celebrate the local culture and musical heritage of the area. In addition, a range of educational programming led by guest speakers, local experts, and historians cover topics such as the history of the Mississippi River region, the ecology of the surrounding landscapes, and the cultural traditions of the towns and cities along these legendary waterways.

What you pack for a Mississippi River cruise depends on both the region you're visiting and the time of year. Since weather conditions along the river can vary, from warm days to cooler evenings with a breeze, it’s best to pack layers that allow you to adjust comfortably throughout the day.

Consider the range of activities you will be taking part in. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for daytime excursions, while activewear is perfect for onboard exercise at our fitness center. As the atmosphere on board is relaxed and informal with no formal dress code, casual attire is appropriate for dinners and time spent relaxing on the sun deck.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for daily shore excursions. Other essentials include sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket or umbrella in case of unexpected showers. If you own binoculars, bring them along for opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenic views along the riverbanks up close.

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