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Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

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Gain a new perspective while cruising the Mighty Mississippi. With a variety of sightseeing, dinner, and specialty outings to choose from, a riverboat cruise makes a unique and relaxing way to experience the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis.

Available March through November. Cruise dates and times vary. Located on the St. Louis Riverfront below the Grand Staircase of the Gateway Arch.

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• River Cruises
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Rolling on the River: Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises

No visit to the Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis is complete without a riverboat tour of the Mississippi! Step back in time as you board the Becky Thatcher or Tom Sawyer and take a tranquil tour of the riverfront.

Before interstate highways crisscrossed the nation, people did their luxury traveling by train and steamboat. St. Louis was a bustling river town in the 1800’s with hundreds of steam powered paddlewheelers docked on riverfront! There’s a cool display of what St. Louis looked like back then at the Arch’s new museum –be sure to check it out on your next visit.

Riverboat Cruise at the Arch

The riverboats can take your family on a hour long tour of the riverfront –there’s a sightseeing cruise running every day from March to November.

But if you want to make it really special–book a dinner or brunch cruise! The Becky Thatcher is set up with a double decker dining room and takes visitors on a two-hour tour of the riverfront while you dine on a delicious buffet.

Brunch on the Riverboat Becky Thatcher

Sunday Brunch Cruises are a great way to celebrate Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Of course you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy a wonderful weekend at the Arch with your family! There’s one or two brunch cruises scheduled every month the boats operates. Check out their current schedule under “specialty cruises” here.   There’s also dinner cruises, dancing cruises, and a couple cruises up to see the lock and dam where the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers meet!

What’s included with my ticket?

Your brunch ticket includes a buffet full of scrambled eggs, blintzes, French toast, sausage, prime rib, stuffed chicken, veggies, pasta, dessert, and coffee, iced tea, orange juice, milk and chocolate milk. Soft drinks, beer and cocktails are available at the bar for an extra charge.

What to Expect on your Riverboat Brunch Cruise

First, you’ll want to reserve your spot early by getting tickets online . Tickets are $45 for adults, $18 for kids 3-12 and free for little ones under 2. 

The boats are docked at the foot of the Gateway Arch. Stop by the ticket office to pick up your tickets by 12:30 — the boat leaves promptly at 1pm!

Then you’ll come aboard and be directed to your seat. Unlike the sightseeing tours, the Brunch Cruise has reserved indoor seating with white linen table clothes. Tables are located by the windows, so you can enjoy the whole cruise from the comfort of the cabin, or pop upstairs to watch from the observation deck. 

The food might be served buffet style, but you’ll also get a friendly waiter to serve your drinks and clear the plates. Don’t worry about standing in line either, the serving staff dismisses diners by table so the buffet isn’t overwhelmed.

And while you wait, enjoy a little Dixieland music!

Where do I park?

Best Photos of the Arch are Here

If you’re looking to get a postcard photo of the Gateway Arch, a riverboat cruise is where to be! You can also get a pretty cool one from the Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park over on the East Side, but you don’t need to worry about pesky power lines messing up your shot here. ( Here’s a few more ideas for great photos with the Arch! )

St. Louis Arch and River Cruise Small Group Walking Tour

• St. Louis Union Station Grand Hall
• Pass several points of interest including St. Louis Union Station and National Blues Museum
• Admission to Gateway Boat Cruise
• Admission to Gateway Arch
• Busch Stadium and the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France
• Laumeier Sculpture Park
• Pass by points of interest including the Magnolia Hotel, Federal Reserve Bank, and the Civil Courts.
• Entry/Admission - The Gateway Arch
• Gratuities (optional)
• 209 Walnut St, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA Meet your guide near the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France near memorial drive. Your guide will be wearing a white polo shirt with our company logo on it.
• Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA You will have a chance to enjoy a Gateway Boat Cruise. This is where you and your guide will part ways and the tour ends.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• The Gateway Arch
• Busch Stadium
• Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 209 Walnut St 209 Walnut St, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA Meet your guide near the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France near memorial drive. Your guide will be wearing a white polo shirt with our company logo on it. See address & details
• Pass by Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis Busch Stadium Laumeier Sculpture Park
• 1 The Gateway Arch Stop: 105 minutes - Admission included The Gateway Boat Cruise in St. Louis offers a unique and exciting way to experience the city's iconic Gateway Arch and surroundings. Passengers can relax on a modern riverboat while enjoying stunning views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline, including the impressive Gateway Arch up close. The knowledgeable crew provides informative commentary, adding historical and architectural context to the experience Read more
• You'll end at Gateway Arch National Park St. Louis, MO 63102, USA You will have a chance to enjoy a Gateway Boat Cruise. This is where you and your guide will part ways and the tour ends. See address & details

• Essi K 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour Our guide Mike was friendly and welcoming. It was just my family on the tour, so we got to start early, and customize our experience. He even had an umbrella readily available for us when it started to snow/rain. We learned a lot about Saint Louis and saw several landmarks. The Arch ride experience was awesome and the new cathedral was breathtaking. Union Station was amazing too. No cruise this time of year, but still a great tour to get to know the city. Read more Written December 28, 2023
• zoulib39 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Take the tour! Our tour guide was a local and knew everything there is to know about St. Louis! Plus she took good care of us! We were entertained and informed every step of the way. We have already told our adult kids about the experience. We weren't sure about booking after seeing the reviews but our guide explained these situations happened at startup of the tour company in town and all concerns have since become obsolete. She was right! Give this tour a chance. You will be happy you did! Read more Written September 24, 2023
• alecmV4510DZ 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Scam We didnt go. It was a scam, still waiting on a refund. They took out money and no boats were running that day. Read more Written July 25, 2023
• 129stevenz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Tour! Fabulous tour! Mike, our guide, picked us up right at our hotel. He was kind and knowledgeable and took us to all of the best spots. I highly recommend this tour! Read more Written July 20, 2023
• dianelB595EX 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst tour ever Total waste of $300! Driver was both uninformed and a terrible driver. I felt I could have hired an Uber to drive in circles with no meaningful stops. Canceled our arch team ride. Said no availability. We went after tour, bought our own tram ticket and went up arch on own that early afternoon. Read more Written June 30, 2023
• mdlopez8 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst tour Driver had terrible driving skills. Totally uninformed. Said arch tram tickets unavailable. We went and bought our own arch tram tickets same day. It was a $300 Uber drive around city. Such a waste of money. We have toured extensively. This was worse tour ever!!! Read more Written June 30, 2023
• Waltons2010 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Not worth the money nor the time We were hoping to see some nice parts of St Louis along the mighty Missisippi. But all you see on this 1 hour cruise are industrial sites, abandoned places and homeless people. Not what one hopped to see Read more Written June 29, 2023

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

St. Louis Arch and River Cruise Small Group Walking Tour provided by Tripshepherd Saint Louis Tours

Visiting the Gateway Arch: Enter the monument through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs are exits only. Please allow at least 30 minutes to go through security. Tickets sell out early and often, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Pending availability, additional tickets may be available for same-day purchase beginning at 9am each day through our website, call center, and ticket center at the Gateway Arch. Same-day ticket availability is not guaranteed and sells out early and often.

• Sample Itinerary
• Hours & Pricing
• Directions & Parking
• Tram Ride to the Top
• Riverboat Cruises
• Virtual Reality Theater
• Old Courthouse
• Activities & Attractions
• Tour Operators
• Field Trips
• Private Events
• Group Pricing
• Submit Photos

Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: Holiday Cruises

ST. LOUIS– The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch, located below the Arch on the St. Louis Riverfront, will celebrate the holiday season with a lineup of cruises for all ages and interests, including breakfast with Santa Claus, a holiday dinner cruise, a festive drag show brunch and a New Year’s Eve party.

“Create lasting memories this holiday season aboard the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch,” said Mary Lamie, Executive Vice President of Multi Modal Enterprises, Bi-State Development. “The riverboats have a festive cruise for everyone and offer unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere in St. Louis.”

A complete cruise schedule is available at gatewayarch.com /riverboats. Reservations are required for all cruises. Cruises sell out fast, so it is highly encouraged to make reservations early by calling 877-982-1410 or visiting gatewayarch.com/buytickets .

PJs and Pancakes with Santa Cruise It’s a holiday outing for the entire family: Cruise the Mighty Mississippi on a replica paddlewheel riverboat with the big man himself—Santa Claus! Come dressed in your favorite PJs and enjoy a bountiful breakfast buffet, holiday crafts and other activities, unique views of downtown and the Arch, and take a photo with Santa. WHEN: Saturdays: November 23 & 30, December 7 & 14. 9:30-11:30 a.m. TICKETS: $38 per person. Children 2 and under are free.

Jingle & Mingle Holiday Dinner Cruise Celebrate the holidays in style and make memories aboard the Jingle & Mingle Holiday Dinner Cruise. This floating extravaganza features: DJ spinning festive classics and today’s hits; chef-prepared buffet dinner with all your holiday favorites; cash bar featuring beer, wine and cocktails; and festive lights and decor from top to bottom. WHEN: Thursday through Sunday, December 5-15. 7:30-10 p.m. TICKETS: Thursdays: $50 for adults; $30 for children; Fridays-Sundays: $53 for adults; $33 for children. Children 2 and under are free. Discount alert: The more, the merrier! Bring your friends, family or co-workers together for the celebration, and enjoy discount pricing on groups of 20 or more.

Blues Cruise Dance the night away and take part in a St. Louis tradition, as the Soulard Blues Band provides rocking, live entertainment and you enjoy illuminated views of downtown St. Louis. WHEN: Thursday, December 12. 8:30-11 p.m. TICKETS: $22 per person. Cash bar. Must be 21 or older.

Brunching with Queens Cruise Don’t let your weekend be a “drag”! A merry Sunday Funday is guaranteed as you enjoy a fabulous brunch buffet and host Jade Sinclair and St. Louis’ most glamourous queens provide live, holiday-themed entertainment. WHEN: Sunday, December 15. 1-3 p.m. TICKETS: $47 per person. Cash bar. Must be 21 or older.

New Year’s Eve Party Cruise Ring in the New Year with a view of the magnificent St. Louis skyline. Featuring an elegant three-course dinner, open bar, DJ entertainment, and midnight champagne toast. WHEN: Monday, December 31. 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. TICKETS: $99 per person. Must be 21 or older.

LOCATION AND PARKING The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are located below the south leg of the Gateway Arch at 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63102. Parking is available on the Mississippi River levee in front of the boats for a cash fee.

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St. Louis Riverfront Cruise

Return to a time when steamboats ruled the river. The one-hour narrated riverfront cruise aboard the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch explores the history of downtown St. Louis, including the Mississippi River’s role in its past, present and future.

Cruises run daily from March through November. Times vary depending on the season.

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Mississippi River Boat Cruise

Experience the mississippi river like never before.

February 2, 2024

November 11, 2023

Teresa Starnes

Steven Garrison

K Theiszmann

Auldine Ferrell

October 10, 2023

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Family-Friendly Tours Full Of Adventure, Storytelling, And Fun

History, literature, and travel enthusiasts unite for a unique sightseeing and dining experience aboard riverboat cruises on the Mississippi River from beloved author Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain's hometown of Hannibal, Missouri. Witness firsthand what inspired the writer to create iconic characters, Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. At Mark Twain Riverboat Co., you get to experience the Mighty Mississippi River in a truly memorable way, a Mississippi river boat cruise complete with storytelling, scenic views, and fine dining.

We provide a unique experience perfect for individuals, families, and groups. The cruise takes place on the Mississippi River from Mark Twain's boyhood home town of Hannibal, MO.

Mark Twain shared his unique perspective of life on the Mississippi River throughout his writings and characters. Get a glimpse of the Mississippi River as Mark Twain might have seen it.

The Mark Twain has been a unique feature on the Hannibal riverfront for more than 30 years. As a family-owned business since 1997, we strive to offer you a unique riverboat experience on the Mighty Mississippi, whether you’re a Hannibal resident or visitor. Choose between our two daily cruise offerings: our Sightseeing Cruise and our evening Dinner Cruise which includes live entertainment and a two entree buffet-style dinner.

Whether you are looking for a sightseeing adventure on the Mississippi River, taking in the sights, or dining on the river at sunset, Mark Twain Riverboat has something for everyone.

Set Sail on Our Riverboat Cruises

Sightseeing Tour

This one-hour sightseeing cruise travels along the mighty Mississippi River, allowing you to soak up the scenery at a relaxing, rhythmic pace. Listen as the captain guides your cruise with historical commentary on the history, legends, and sights of the Mississippi River.

A cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat is great for family events. Whether you are a visitor or resident of Hannibal, you can make wonderful memories aboard our unique riverboat experience! Looking forward to having you onboard!

Departure time: Varies - check calendar Yearly availability: April 1 - Nov. 4 Weekly availability: Daily

Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a night of dinner and dancing on this cruise on the Mighty Mississippi. Indulge in a delicious buffet and share a wonderful dinner with your family or friends, then enjoy live music from the dance floor or the deck.

Once on board, you are escorted to your table, then you are free to roam the boat until the captain announces that dinner is ready. After dinner, you are free to dance or sit back and enjoy the music. Live entertainment is included on our Dinner Cruises. It may be The Rivermen playing modern jazz (Saturday night from Memorial Day thru September), or you might get to enjoy the music of Tim Hart (Mondays & Tuesdays), or Adam Ledbetter and David Damm (Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday). Listen or dance to their favorite tunes — and they have been known to take a request or two. And you never know when a crew member or two may step up on the stage and join in.

Departure time: 6:30 p.m. Yearly availability: May 3 - Oct 28 Weekly availability: Varies - check calendar

Why choose us?

A Glimpse At Missouri Through The Lens Of A Famous Author On The Mississippi River

A Mississippi River cruise aboard Mark Twain Riverboat Co. allows you to enjoy a short excursion from Hannibal during the more pleasant weather months of the year. Just 100 miles away from St. Louis, our Mississippi River boat cruise is the only cruise that departs from Mark Twain's boyhood home.

River cruising gives you the time and space to fully immerse yourself in Mark Twain's story and the Mississippi River, getting to know the inspiration behind his books. We handle every detail for you from departure to dinner on our Mississippi river cruises, making it possible for you to fully relax and enjoy our modern riverboat.

Cruising down the river is a great way to unwind and enjoy nature after a busy week. Hannibal, Missouri is home to some of the most scenic riverfront views in the Midwest!

Informative

Our cruise guides are experts in their field and love to share their knowledge about this beautiful city. They'll educate you all about the history of the area and its inhabitants, so you can really get an insider's look at this fascinating area.

Family-friendly

Our cruises are great for families with children of all ages, so bring your whole crew along with you! We have plenty of activities that will keep you occupied during the day and night.

Hannibal, Missouri

Despite its small size, Hannibal, MO is full of history and immersive learning experiences. It is there that you can visit Mark Twain's boyhood home and museum, take a Mississippi River cruise, or even attend a festival in his honor. That's not all there is to do in the area, though. You can explore caves and even take a ghost tour. Although, we are sure our cruise will be one of your favorite experiences yet.

Upper Mississippi River cruises are a great way for people of all ages to take a break from the normal day-to-day. Instead you'll enjoy an afternoon taking in the beautiful scenery or an evening of entertainment and dining. Our cruises are perfect for anyone who wants adventure but doesn't want the length of trip that most American cruise lines offer. A short trip aboard our Mississippi River cruises is just the evening out you need to feel refreshed, educated, and creative.

Frequently asked questions

Can we modify existing itineraries.

To some extent – yes. Sometimes we will have to because the weather isn’t always ideal and we want to stay in shallow, calm waters to keep the trip enjoyable.

What is the duration of the cruises?

Our cruises last approximately one to two hours

Are food and drinks available on board?

Yes, we offer a variety of food and drinks, including a snack bar and a full-service bar.

Is smoking allowed on board?

No, smoking is not allowed onboard.

Is the Mark Twain Riverboat wheelchair accessible?

We are wheelchair accessible on the lower deck. However, there is no lift to the upper deck and wheelchairs do not fit in the bathrooms.

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Visiting the Gateway Arch: Enter the monument through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs are exits only. Please allow at least 30 minutes to go through security. Tickets sell out early and often, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Pending availability, additional tickets may be available for same-day purchase beginning at 9am each day through our website, call center, and ticket center at the Gateway Arch. Same-day ticket availability is not guaranteed and sells out early and often.

• Hours & Pricing
• Directions & Parking
• Sample Itinerary

Tram Ride to the Top

• Riverboat Cruises
• Virtual Reality Theater

Old Courthouse

• Activities & Attractions
• Tour Operators
• Field Trips
• Private Events
• Group Pricing
• Submit Photos

Experience a destination where the stories are as incredible as the views.

Bringing together art, nature, history, and adventure, the Gateway Arch is an inspiration as well as a destination. Spend a few hours or a whole day. The Gateway Arch will change your perspective, inside and out.

Tram Ride to the Top: Getting there is part of the adventure.

Gaze at over 43,000 tons of concrete and steel making an iconic, elegant arc 63 stories high into the Midwest sky. Shaped by the inspired design of Finnish-America architect Eero Saarinen, the Gateway Arch celebrates the westward expansion of the United States and the pioneers who made it possible. Since its completion in 1965, the monument has taken millions of visitors on the trip to the top to enjoy stunning views stretching up to 30 miles to the east and west.

Begin your tour with our new, interactive pre-boarding exhibits featuring 60s era animation and Gateway Arch trivia. Then, be transported 630 feet to the top of America’s tallest monument.

Each tram tour has an anticipated duration of 45-60 minutes. For the best experience, purchase your Tram Ride to the Top tickets before you visit. Start planning your Gateway Arch adventure now.

Please Note: The Tram Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch is not fully accessible for guests with mobility impairments, as no wheelchairs, scooters or strollers are permitted on the Observation Deck. To reach the top and return, you must be able to manage at least 96 steps, divided into six flights, and you may need to stand for 30­–60 minutes. No seating or restrooms are located at the top of the Arch.

Museum: See history differently.

Challenge yourself to consider different perspectives and discover previously untold stories of westward expansion at the Museum at the Gateway Arch. Our innovative, accessible and interactive museum features 200+ years of history within six themed galleries, commemorating America’s pioneering spirit and acknowledging the positive and negative impacts of westward expansion.   The galleries span from 1764 to 1965 with topics covering Colonial St. Louis, Jefferson’s Vision, Manifest Destiny, The Riverfront Era, New Frontiers, and Building the Gateway Arch. Admission to the museum is free.  

Learn more about the Museum Galleries.

Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: Cruise through time on the Mighty Mississippi.

Travel through time on a replica 19 th century paddle-wheel riverboat. Day or night, the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch offer stunning skyline views that have been voted Best in St. Louis. With a variety of sightseeing, dinner, and specialty outings to choose from, a riverboat cruise makes a unique and relaxing way to experience the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis.

Brought to the St. Louis riverfront in 1964, the Tom Sawyer was originally used to take curious sightseers out on the river to view the construction of the Gateway Arch. While the city may have changed since then, the views of the Gateway Arch are as impressive as ever. Access the St. Louis riverfront via Chouteau Ave.

50 South Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63102

Old Courthouse: Landmark in Every Sense of the Word

Note: The Old Courthouse is temporarily unavailable

Walk the halls where ordinary Americans made civil rights history. Built in 1839, the Old Courthouse is a prime example of mid-19th century federal architecture. But it is two landmark cases that secure its place in history.

Beginning in 1847, the enslaved Dred Scott twice sued for his and his wife Harriet’s freedom. But, the U.S. Supreme Court decided against them, ruling that African-Americans were not citizens and had no right to sue. In 1873, St. Louis suffragette Virginia Minor and her husband filed a civil suit arguing for women’s right to vote. Although their suit was denied, they brought great attention to the fight for voting rights for all U.S. citizens.

11 North 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

Activities & Attractions

To get the complete Gateway Arch experience, plan time to enjoy one or all of these additional activities.

The stories behind the Gateway Arch are just as incredible as the views. Learn more about the history and meaning of this one-of-a-kind national memorial.

The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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