Complete Mississippi River Cruise (American Harmony)

Description

Relax and enjoy the passing landscapes as we make our way along the Mississippi River from New Orleans, LA to St. Paul, MN. As you visit 10 states in 22 days, experience life as it once was on the western frontier.

Starting in Lower Mississippi, explore southern plantations, stately antebellum houses, and Civil War battlefields. In Memphis, known for Blues and Barbeque, immerse yourself in the rich culture of one of the Mid-South’s most vibrant cities.

After cruising past the Gateway Arch Riverfront in St. Louis, journey to Hannibal, the hometown of the famous author Mark Twain, where the characters of Huck Finn, Tom Sawyer, and Becky Thatcher come to life. Traveling up the river, get up-close views of bald eagle nests, beaver lodges, and great blue herons, from the comfort of your furnished private balcony.

Trip Name

Complete Mississippi River Cruise (American Harmony)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Riverboat Passenger Capacity: 187 Built: 2018 The American River Cruise revolution continues with American Harmony, the newest ship in American Cruise Lines’ highly anticipated series of contemporary riverboats. These, the first modern riverboats ever in the U.S., have introduced many pioneering innovations to America’s waters. American Harmony will feature lounges soaring 40 feet above the water with triple the glass of other riverboats for astounding views. The new riverboat will also feature the Atrium, a four-story glass-enclosed area with a large domed skylight, which will serve as the central gathering point for the entire ship. Our new suite design will allow for unprecedented comfort while traveling, beginning with the new Grand Suites featuring 900 square feet of private space. These spacious suites include two glass walls and a wraparound private balcony. Complimentary room service during select mealtimes is available for every stateroom, but the Grand Suites offer ample space to host small cocktail parties or private dinner events. American Harmony will continue American Cruise Lines’ decade's long tradition for innovation in river cruising. With a capacity of just 187 guests, this new ship has the modern design features and contemporary styling that today’s traveler has come to expect. Experience the American Harmony for yourself next spring on the Mississippi River.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is commonly referred to as the birthplace of Jazz. There is something for everyone in this historic city where art and culture prevail. The open-air artist colony proudly displays local works on the iron fence in Jackson Square, while the city’s 45 museums carefully preserve its past. Consider staying an extra day or night to enjoy this lively city.

Day 2 - Day 2 Oak Alley, LA

Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is rightfully named after its most distinguishing feature, a canopy of 300-year-old oak trees that form a quarter-mile path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking.

Day 3 - Day 3 Houmas House, LA

The historic Houmas House takes you back to the pre-Civil War era of stately mansions and expansive plantations. Featuring over 38 acres of lush gardens, ponds, and ancient oak trees, this shore excursion is rich in beauty and history. Enduring floods, war, and the Great Depression, Houmas House underwent a renovation in 1940 and today offers a detailed look into the legacy of the South.

Day 4 - Day 4 Baton Rouge, LA

Experience the wonder of Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital, and one of the most historic and unforgettable cities in the South. Known as the Red Stick, Baton Rouge has everything you would expect to find in a state capital, but with a down-home flavor that is part of its charm.

Day 5 - Day 5 St. Francisville, LA

Established in 1809, St. Francisville is a quaint southern town overlooking the Mississippi River. One of the largest shipping ports on the Mississippi River prior to the Civil War, St. Francisville is a small town with appeal. Experience the town’s rich history as you tour historic plantations, including the famous Rosedown, or explore the areas' captivating gardens.

Day 6 - Day 6 Natchez, MS

Settled in 1716, Natchez is rich in history and southern hospitality. Enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating city which has retained its antebellum charm since its surrender during the Civil War. Visit Frogmore, a historic cotton plantation still in use today, or attend a special piano concert in the J. N. Stone antebellum music room.

Day 7 - Day 7 Vicksburg, MS

U.S. history is alive in Vicksburg. This “Queen City of the Bluff” offers plenty of opportunities to take a step back in time. Civil War battlefields, century-old churches, cotton fields, and restored train depots are just a few of the many intriguing landmarks that await your visit. Marvel in the beautiful antebellum-style homes and learn about Vicksburg’s rich history as displayed on the riverfront murals.

Day 8 - Day 8 Greenville, MS

Known as the Heart and Soul of the Mississippi Delta, the city of Greenville offers visitors insight into traditional southern living. Enjoy a relaxing trip through the historic sites of the largest city in Mississippi, including Cotton Row, the Mount Holly Plantation, and the Weatherbee House.

Day 9 - Day 9 Memphis, TN

Excitement resonates as you reach America’s third-largest inland port, famous for Blues, BBQ, and Elvis Presley's Graceland. The Memphis-Arkansas Memorial Bridge creates a dramatic backdrop for one of the most remarkable cities in the mid-South.

Day 10 - Day 10 New Madrid, MO

Originally founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodriguez, early settlers of New Madrid were required to become citizens of Spain in order to reside here. Today, New Madrid is a living monument to early American history with sites including the Kochtitsky Home, the Trail of Tears, and Veterans Park.

Day 11 - Day 11 Cape Girardeau, MO

Enjoy the charming features of this historic town that was a French trading post and lively river port in the late 1800s. Today it boasts Civil War sites and a tranquil setting commemorating the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Marvel at the outdoor murals reflecting the area's rich heritage and enjoy shore excursions to Crisp Museum and the Old Vincent Church.

Day 12 - Day 12 Chester, IL

Chester is a beautiful region of Illinois located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, with a diverse and storied history. Chester is also home to Popeye's creator Elzie C. Segar; you may see the sailor man's likeness in the town's six-foot-tall bronze metal statue.

Day 13 - Day 13 St. Louis, MO

St. Louis is often referred to as the “Gateway to the West.” Take in the Gateway Arch Riverfront, highlighted by the Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Enjoy St. Louis' many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and the Missouri History Museum. End your day by relaxing at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most popular public gardens.

Day 14 - Day 14 Day of River Cruising

Curl up with a good book in one of our spacious lounges. Or relax on the sun deck and enjoy the passing landscapes as we make our way along the Mississippi River from St. Louis to Hannibal.

Day 15 - Day 15 Hannibal, MO

Discover Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” and the inspiration behind many of Mark Twain’s literary characters. Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn come to life in this charming Missouri town, where you can run your hand along Aunt Polly’s fence, explore Injun Joe’s Cave, and get reacquainted with one of the world’s most beloved authors. The downtown area is a thriving haven for artisans, filled with specialty shops unique to Hannibal.

Day 16 - Day 16 Day of River Cruising

Listen to onboard experts sharing their knowledge of the history of our nation and the river, as we cruise between the borders of Missouri and Iowa.

Day 17 - Day 17 Davenport, IA

Davenport is often described as a lively place with a hometown feel. The Legacy of John Deere, the largest agricultural exhibit in the world, takes place here. Music enthusiasts will enjoy Davenport’s many music festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, The Mississippi Valley Fair, and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival, which is dedicated to native Jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke.

Day 18 - Day 18 Dubuque, IA

Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. Take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway or try your luck in one of Dubuque's state-of-the-art casinos. View colorful Victorian mansions, stroll through a whimsical downtown area, and visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Day 19 - Day 19 Day of River Cruising

Reflect on the incredible journey you have experienced so far and get ready for the final leg of the trip, cruising the Upper Mississippi River.

Day 20 - Day 20 La Crosse, WI

Step into 19th-century America in La Crosse, located on the banks of three captivating rivers. La Crosse is home to Riverside Park, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens and inspiring sculptures.

Day 21 - Day 21 Red Wing, MN

Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the Upper Mississippi River, Red Wing's beauty has inspired craftsmen and artisans for over 150 years. Red Wing offers a diverse blend of arts, entertainment, and activities. Enjoy a show at the historic Sheldon Performing Arts Theatre or observe the beauty of nature at one of Red Wing’s 38 parks.

Day 22 - Day 22 St. Paul, MN

St. Paul is an exciting place to end your adventure on the Mississippi River. History buffs will enjoy a walking tour of Summit Avenue, which showcases gorgeous historic mansions built in the late 1800’s. St. Paul’s enchanting art galleries, world-class museums, and entertaining stage performances will capture your imagination. End the day by visiting Mounds Park, where visitors are treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the city.

Day 23 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Enjoy Deluxe Graceland Signature Tour. No trip to Memphis is complete without a trip to the home of the “King of Rock n’ Roll,” Elvis Presley. American Cruise Lines offers the most in-depth experience available at Graceland, allowing you to explore fascinating exhibits such as Elvis’ museum, estate grounds, the jungle and trophy rooms
Discover Vicksburg National Military Park. The night before our visit, our onboard Civil War historian gives a captivating lecture detailing all you are about to witness the next day at Vicksburg National Military Park
Enjoy Houmas House & Plantation Tour. The stately grandeur of Houmas House is complemented by its eclectic flair as our guide, Ms. Judy Davis who has a personality as magnificent as the mansion itself. Take a private tour through the gardens to the 16 room plantation home.
Visit Mark Twain Boyhood Home. As you arrive in Hannibal, the boyhood home of famous author Mark Twain, relive the author’s experiences that heavily influenced his writings. Visit the actual home that Mark Twain grew up in, which is surrounded by the legendary whitewashed fence of Tom Sawyer.
Explore B.B. King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center. The B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center was built to honor the life and music of one of the most accomplished musicians of our time. The museum’s exhibits and educational programs serve to build bridges between the community and the world while preserving the rich cultural and musical heritage
Discover National Eagle Center. Come face-to-face with bald and golden eagles at the National Eagle Center. This unique opportunity brings you within a few feet of these majestic creatures with no barrier between