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Grand Heartland Cruise (American Jazz)

Grand Heartland Cruise (American Jazz)

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Description

Enjoy an epic 15-day journey on our Grand Heartland Cruise. This cruise on the Mississippi River travels from the northern reaches of St. Paul all the way down to the basin in New Orleans.

View the dramatic landscapes of the Upper Mississippi River which have long inspired artists, writers, and steamboat passengers. Visit Hannibal, the hometown of Mark Twain where the characters in his most popular works come to life. Immerse yourself in the culture of Memphis, the mid-South’s most vibrant city, famous for Blues and BBQ.

As you journey down the river, hear stories about southern life on the plantation and tour historic Civil War sites led by our local area experts. On your final stop, New Orleans, enjoy privileged access to its vibrant music scene and the best in Cajun and Creole cuisine.

Just as it was in Mark Twain’s day, every cruise on the Mississippi River is unique due to fluctuating river conditions that can have an impact on our itinerary. The river has a mind of its own and our sailing schedules must adapt to it. This is part of the adventure and American Cruise Lines will always work to provide a seamless travel experience.

Trip Name
Grand Heartland Cruise (American Jazz)
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Riverboat Passenger Capacity: 184 American Jazz will begin its inaugural season on the Lower Mississippi in August of 2020. Like her sister ships, American Jazz has the contemporary styling and modern amenities that make river cruising more attractive and comfortable than ever before. Featured will be a gorgeous five-story glass atrium, private balconies in all of its spacious staterooms, and spectacular views from everywhere on the ship. American Jazz will also feature the same advanced opening bow and retractable gangway seen on American Song and American Harmony. Ranging from 250 to 800 square feet, the staterooms aboard American Jazz are the finest on any cruise ship. Guests will enjoy ample living space, full-size bath rooms, plush seating, and the ideal place to unwind after an enriching day of discovery. The brand new Grand Suites also include two glass walls and a wraparound private balcony, plenty of space to host small cocktail parties or private dinner events.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Pre-Cruise Complimentary Package
Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Package, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after breakfast and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.
Day 2 - Day 1 St. Paul, MN
St. Paul is a thrilling place to begin 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.
Day 3 - Day 2 Red Wing, MN
Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the upper Mississippi River, Red Wing's beauty has inspired artisans and craftspeople for over 150 years. Red Wing delivers a diverse blend of arts, entertainment, and activities for your pleasure. 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 4 - Day 3 La Crosse, WI
Step into 19th-century America in La Crosse, located on the banks of three legendary rivers. Riverboats depart from the city’s Riverside Park which features international friendship gardens with landscape styles from around the world. Visit the Riverside Museum which traces the rich history of La Crosse or Dahl Auto Museum with an expansive collection restored classic cars. Explore Grandad Bluff Park with walking trails which offer spectacular views of the city.
Day 5 - Day 4 Dubuque, IA
A “Masterpiece on the Mississippi,” Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the 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 the bustling downtown area, or visit the national Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.
Day 6 - Day 5 Davenport, IA
Voted one of the Most Livable Small Cities in America, Davenport is often described as a lively, active city with a hometown feel. The Legacy of John Deere, the largest agricultural exhibit in the world, resides here. Music enthusiasts will enjoy Davenport’s many festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, The Mississippi Valley Fair, and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival.
Day 7 - Day 6 Fort Madison, IA
Founded as an active military outpost in 1808, Fort Madison was one of three posts established by the U.S. Army to maintain control over the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. Today, Fort Madison offers visitors a vibrant cultural scene, bucolic landscapes, and an active agri-tourism industry which celebrates the American heartland. Explore its many historic districts, where you can admire the well-preserved Victorian and Post Renaissance architecture. Enjoy the area’s museums, unique boutiques, antique shops, as well as the local breweries and wineries.
Day 8 - Day 7 Hannibal, MO
Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” is a place where you can rediscover adventures from Mark Twain’s era. 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 9 - Day 8 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 10 - Day 9 Day of River Cruising
Curl up with a good book in one of our spacious lounges, or grab a pair of binoculars and enjoy the fall foliage as we make our way down the Mississippi River.
Day 11 - Day 10 Memphis, TN
Excitement resonates as you reach America’s third-largest inland port, famous for Blues, BBQ, and Elvis Presley's Graceland. The city has been at the forefront of several American cultural movements such as Civil Rights and Rock ‘n’ Roll. In fact, the city’s Beale Street is often called “America’s Most Iconic Street” due to its significance to our country’s history and contributions to the music industry.
Day 12 - Day 11 Day of River Cruising
Spend a beautiful day with friends in one of the ship's comfortable lounges as we explore the river from Memphis to Vicksburg.
Day 13 - Day 12 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 14 - Day 13 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 music room.
Day 15 - Day 14 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 16 - Day 15 New Orleans, LA
Welcome back to New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz. Culture and art abound around every corner of this unique city. 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 rich history. Stay an extra day or more to enjoy the famed French Quarter.
Day 17 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • 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.
    • Enjoy 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.
    • 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.
    • Explore 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.
    • Enjoy La Crosse Queen Eco Cruise. Cruise along the scenic Mississippi River on a classic paddlewheeler as your tour guide highlights the current and historical facts about the area and tests your knowledge with trivia along the way.

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