12 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Memphis to New Orleans 2028

American Cruise Lines River Cruise - Memphis to New Orleans

Mississippi Explorer Cruise

Starting from $7,275
Ship(s): American Serenade, American Symphony
12 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Memphis to New Orleans 2028 -

River Cruise Description

Experience our most immersive and in-depth journey along the Lower Mississippi River. From the soulful streets of New Orleans to the legendary music halls of Memphis, this voyage invites you to engage deeply with the history, culture, cuisine, and spirit of the South.

Begin your journey in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Delight in the sounds of street performers in Jackson Square and make your way to Café du Monde for beignets and chicory. Travel along the Great River Road to Houmas House, once dubbed the “Sugar Palace,” with lavish interiors and sprawling gardens.

In Baton Rouge, connect with Louisiana’s political and military legacy at the Old State Capitol.  Stroll along Royal Street in St. Francisville, where moss-draped oaks shade antique shops and cafés beckon. Admire the grand mansions of Natchez that reflect the city’s 19th-century prosperity. Vicksburg offers a powerful window into the Civil War, with in-depth visits to battlefields and museums that bring history to life. 

A scenic day of cruising provides time for reflection, while onboard historians deepen your understanding of the river’s impact on American identity. As you continue into the Mississippi's Delta region, Cleveland’s GRAMMY Museum Mississippi welcomes you to explore the state’s profound influence on American music, from blues and gospel to country and rock. 

In Graceland, enjoy a personalized visit to the iconic home of Elvis Presley and view his automobile collection and custom jets. Experience Beale Street, where the energy of Memphis comes alive at B.B. King's Blues Club and Rum Boogie Café.
Departure DateShipPriced From
(per person)
 
Mar 10, 2028American Symphony$7,275Call Us!
Mar 30, 2028American Symphony$7,275Call Us!
Oct 17, 2028American Serenade$7,770Call Us!

River Cruise Itinerary

Day 1 Memphis, TN

Get ready to feel the vibrant soul as you cruise to Memphis. This historic gem boasts a skyline that dances along the river, lined by swaying oak trees and historic landmarks. Feel the rhythm of the city through legendary Beale Street, alive with the sounds of blues and jazz. Indulge in mouthwatering BBQ, then unwind at The Guest House, your haven in this dynamic city.

Day 2 Cruising the Mississippi River

Step aboard your ship and set sail into a captivating experience. Begin with a warm welcome at the reception, an ideal place to connect with fellow travelers. As the ship elegantly cruises along the river, engage in the dynamic array of onboard entertainment. Each moment is designed to enhance your experience, promising a journey filled with delightful encounters and memorable entertainment.

Day 3 Tunica, MS

In the embrace of the Delta , Tunica, reveals itself as a living testament to history and charm. Its Main Street, frozen in time, boasts buildings that have been engrained in the landscape since the turn of the century, each a stalwart witness to bygone days. Stroll through unique boutiques and antique shops, keeping the past alive. Be captivated by the fully restored courthouse, a symbol of justice, and pay homage at the Tunica Veterans Memorial in Rivergate Park, honoring the valor of generations.

Day 4 Cleveland, MS

Known as the "City of Hospitality," Cleveland, Mississippi, has played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the South. Its history is deeply intertwined with agriculture, particularly cotton farming, reflected in the historic downtown where remnants of the city's cotton trading past still remain.

Cleveland is also celebrated for its contributions to American music. As part of the Mississippi Blues Trail, legendary musicians such as B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson have left their mark on the region. One of Cleveland's most notable cultural attractions is the GRAMMY® Museum Mississippi which pays tribute to the region's many contributions to American music.

Day 5 Day of River Cruising

Today is your day to unwind and take it all in. Glide effortlessly along the Mighty Mississippi, surrounded by breathtaking panoramas of cottonwood trees and graceful blue herons.

Engage in captivating enrichment sessions and lively onboard events. Delight in gourmet cuisine and refreshing cocktails. Whether you're lounging in our spacious lounges or basking in the sun on the deck, there's endless fun to be had. As Mark Twain famously said, it's a day with "nothing to hang a worry or a fret upon" – so let go and embrace the adventure!

Day 6 Vicksburg, MS

Dubbed "The Gibraltar of the West," Vicksburg’s fortified link between river and rail was crucial. Explore the National Military Park battlefield with a narrated tour, bringing its significance to life.

This port offers excursions abound, from museum visits guided by experts to solo explorations. Step onto an immense Army Corps of Engineers towboat or amble along the floodwall adorned with captivating murals, each panel narrating Vicksburg's tales with fervor.

Day 7 Day of River Cruising

The day is yours to savor. As you glide along this picturesque waterway, admire the serene landscapes and quaint towns dotting the riverbanks. Relax on the sun deck, the perfect vantage point for spotting wildlife and soaking up the natural beauty around you. Enjoy the onboard expert’s insights into the local fauna and take this opportunity to fully embrace the tranquil rhythm of the river. Breath in the fresh air and let the journey be as rewarding as the destination itself.

Day 8 Natchez, MS

Natchez, nestled along the Lower Mississippi River, is full of history and architectural wonders. Founded in 1716, it bears the imprint of its French origins, evident in landmarks like Fort Rosalie, a testament to its colonial past. The town flourished with affluent planters who built grand mansions such as Stanton Hall and Longwood, to showcase their wealth and influence.

Natchez preserves its heritage with hundreds of well-preserved enchanting homes, each telling a unique story. Take a stroll down historic Main Street, lined with charming shops and restaurants housed in restored buildings.

Day 9 St. Francisville, LA

This picturesque town traces its origins to the early 19th century, a time when it flourished under Spanish rule in West Florida before American settlers claimed it, weaving it into the fabric of the United States.

St. Francisville invites you to wander through its history, whether you prefer to venture alone or join one of many engaging guided tours. Explore the Historic District, where grand mansions stand as testaments to the town's past wealth and elegance, surrounded by eclectic boutique stores. The landscape shifts from towering cottonwoods to spectacular oaks, their limbs draped in the ethereal beauty of Spanish moss.

Day 10 Baton Rouge, LA

Known for Cajun and Creole cuisine, this capital city is a melting pot of culture. Founded in 1699 by French explorers, its rich past is evident in its diverse architecture, from historic homes to modern skyscrapers.

The Louisiana State Capitol stands as an architectural marvel, boasting the title of the tallest capitol building in the United States. Its distinctive Art Deco style and towering presence make it an iconic landmark of Louisiana's political and historical significance.

Day 11 Oak Alley, LA / Houmas House, LA

This iconic Southern estate is renowned for its oak-lined avenue, stretching towards the Mighty Mississippi. Built in the early 19th century, this Greek Revival mansion exudes charm with its grand architecture and lush gardens.

Houmas House and Gardens offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of 19-century Louisiana. Known as the "Crown Jewel of Louisiana's River Road," this magnificent estate features stunning architecture, manicured gardens, and luxurious interiors.

Day 12 New Orleans, LA

Established in 1718, this jazz-centric city features notable locations such as the French Quarter, with its ornate architecture, and Bourbon Street, famous for its bustling nightlife. Explore the historic St. Louis Cathedral, built in 1794, and Jackson Square, a hub of artistic and cultural activity.

Uncover the city's past at the National WWII Museum, honoring American soldiers' sacrifices during World War II. Wander through the Garden District, known for its elegant mansions and lush gardens.

Indulge in the city's culinary delights, including gumbo, po'boys, and beignets. Enjoy live music at venues like Preservation Hall and Tipitina's, or any sidewalk where jazz, blues, and funk fill the air.
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