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Published 8/21/20 - This is the second entry into our new ‘Travel Close to Home’ blog series focusing on the best places open for fun and safe travel during COVID-19. Many attractions mentioned in this article are enforcing social distancing or other protocols to ensure the safety of guests. To learn more, please contact the individual attraction to see what protocols they are enforcing prior to your visit.
If your ideal vacation consists of learning the history of the destinations you visit, being immersed in a laid-back atmosphere, and gazing at incredible panoramic views, then there’s nothing better than an intimate cruise along the expansive Mississippi River.
Not only that, but a Mississippi River cruise is also an excellent choice for those who want to experience a one-of-a-kind getaway that’s closer to home for their next vacation.
Running through ten U.S. states, the Mississippi River provides a unique and relaxing way to see must-see cities and landmarks from Minnesota all the way to Louisiana.
On an American Queen Steamboat or American Cruise Lines river voyage, you can find cruise itineraries that sail the Lower Mississippi, the Upper Mississippi, or even the entire Mississippi on one sailing! So, whether you want to visit select cities or embark on a more in-depth excursion, you are in good hands with these two cruise lines.
Plus, on a Mississippi River cruise, you can enjoy all the things that make a vacation unforgettable like delectable dining options, exciting entertainment, and enriching experiences – all onboard the ship as you sail to breathtaking riverside destinations.
Top Mississippi River Ports of Call:
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is one of the most popular stops along the Mississippi, and for good reason. Rock your taste buds with authentic, mouthwatering Creole cuisine, ride around town in an iconic streetcar, make a visit to the National WWII Museum, explore the historic French Quarter with a stroll down Bourbon Street and experience an energetic atmosphere with the sounds of live jazz all around you. There’s never a dull moment in this diverse, vibrant city!
On select itineraries, New Orleans is the starting city and/or ending city for a Mississippi River cruise.
Want to spend some extra time in the city? Check out these incredible hotels to stay at in New Orleans before or after your voyage.
Memphis, Tennessee
You’ll fall in love with the kind embrace and charm of this incredible city. There is so much to do in Memphis for music lovers, the outdoorsy types, foodies, and more! For Rock n’ Roll fans, Sun Studios and Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, are both a must to see. Participate in outdoor activities like biking at the Shelby Farms Greenline or embarking on a guided kayaking tour along Memphis’ waterfront. Plus, with an ever-growing craft beer and food scene, you are bound have an unforgettable time in Memphis!
Memphis, once home to Elvis Presley himself, is one of our favorite cities in the world for music-lovers. See why Memphis and six other destinations made our list of the Top 7 Music Cities in the World!
St. Louis, Missouri
If you’re looking for a city that has it all, it’s Saint Louis! Spend some time at Forest Park and discover a plethora of interesting attractions like the St. Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, the St. Louis Science Center, and the increasingly popular St. Louis Zoo that boasts 90 acres and is home to over 13,000 animals. Walk around the city and awe at its incredible architecture, including the Gateway Arch, America’s tallest man-made monument. From incredible museums and attractions, to breathtaking architecture and a lively sports culture, St. Louis is a must to visit for every type of traveler.
Vicksburg, Mississippi
You can learn a lot about America’s past with a visit to Vicksburg. Explore the Lower Mississippi River Museum and discover the roots of the very river you’re sailing on during your cruise. See history in art form by checking out Vicksburg’s waterfront murals. Dive into the importance of the American Civil War and visit the Vicksburg National Military Park that consists of over a thousand monuments, guided tours, and demonstrations. History lovers will have a blast digging into all that Vicksburg has to offer!
These are just a few of the exciting destinations you can visit on a Mississippi River cruise. Check out itineraries from American Queen Steamboat Company and American Cruise Lines to discover more.
