riverboat twilight mississippi river cruise

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Riverboat Twilight 2-Day Fall Mississippi River Cruise

October 6 @ 7:30 am - october 7 @ 7:00 pm, event navigation.

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Complimentary overnight parking for your vehicle is provided in the well-lit parking lot located in front of the Riverboat Twilight’s river dock at 197 Front St., Le Claire for boarding at 7:30 a.m. Plan to wear comfortable and casual clothes with sensible rubber-soled shoes for the cruise. The welcoming dock staff will check one piece of medium-sized luggage per person before you board on Sunday morning and your luggage will be waiting for you in your room when you arrive in Dubuque! You are welcome to bring aboard a small carry-on bag, which should be limited to essential personal items, such as medications, camera, binoculars, etc. A continental breakfast is waiting for you when you board.

Our Club’s group is assigned to tables typically seating 4, 6, or more passengers on the Twilight’s three interior climate-controlled decks. Passengers within our group are not assigned specific seats among the tables assigned to the Club. Anticipate that you will be seated with other Club members. During the cruise, there is also unreserved outside deck seating available for relaxing and viewing the scenery.

On Monday morning enjoy your included breakfast 6:30am until 9:00am at Tony Roma’s in the resort. You’ll have free time to relax or use a complimentary shuttle to explore architecture and other nearby attractions, including the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium before re-boarding Riverboat Twilight at 11 a.m. for an 11:30 a.m. departure heading down river. Take in the passing views, perhaps hear the occasional strumming of a banjo, or reminisce when the onboard calliope bursts forth in a cascade of notes from a familiar tune of yesteryear. Lunch and dinner will be served at your table before you disembark at the trip’s conclusion in Le Claire at about 7:00 p.m.

Your roundtrip 2-day fall Mississippi river cruise fare for Club members is $429/person for Double Occupancy (resort’s standard room has 2 double beds) or $469/person for Single Occupancy and includes the 2-day cruise, on-board meals, overnight lodging and breakfast, entertainment, narration, complimentary shuttle service around the Port of Dubuque, and admission to the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. Gratuities are not included in the cruise fare.

Click HERE to view and print the Riverboat Twilight Registration Form or clip-out or photocopy the Registration Form appearing on the Quad City Plus 60 page published on Sunday, August 4, in the Quad-City Times and Dispatch/Argus newspapers. Reservation forms with check payment to the Club must be RECEIVED no later than Wednesday, September 4th.

Passengers needing registration help or with questions or special needs regarding disabilities or dietary restrictions can call or text Teresa at 309-236-8479 for assistance.

Riverboat Twilight passengers desiring to avoid stairs while aboard can usually be accommodated by a 10-day advance request through the Club to be assigned to Deck 1 on the Riverboat. When notified at least 10 days in advance of the October 6-7 cruise, the Riverboat Twilight culinary team can typically accommodate Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Diabetic and Lactose Intolerant dietary needs.

Reservation payments are subject after August 30, 2024 to cancellation penalties of increasing amounts as the cruise departure date approaches per Riverboat Twilight cruise terms unless the Club can substitute passengers from unfulfilled registration requests that may be pending on a Club “Wait List” for the trip.

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All Local Events are planned by Plus 60. Please do not call Tri-State for registration or information regarding Local Events.

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America's Authentic Mississippi River Experience

Group fares start at 20 passengers  Escort & Driver Complimentary

Climb Aboard! We'll take care of the rest.

The Riverboat Twilight delivers one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest. Come aboard and step back in time to when riverboats were the most elegant and relaxing way to travel.

Miles to LeClaire, Iowa from Major Midwest Cities

Welcome Travel Professionals!

To america’s authentic mississippi river experience.

Group fares start at 20 passengers – Escort & Driver Complimentary

• Max capacity of 140 passengers provides an intimate, quality-driven experience. • No buffet lines here! Meals prepared fresh and plated on china, served at reserved tables. • Commitment to cleanliness with enhanced cleaning processes. • Escort & Driver complimentary. • Abundant comfortable indoor and outdoor seating on all decks for everyone on board. • Fascinating and educational narration provided during the cruise. • Tickets to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium included.

Absolutely perfect in all ways!

My Friend and I went on the Riverboat Twilight and it was the most perfect/awesome adventure! From reserving our trip to our final walk to our car after the two day cruise, all was perfect! Staff are amazing, from the Captain to the servers, to the musical entertainers. The food is suburb and generous! Everything is very well organized, from our luggage/hotel in Dubuque/seating for meals, free shuttles in Dubuque, etc! The scenery and info along the way from the captain was wonderful! This was an absolutely perfect two day cruise, and we are going again in Mid October as we loved it so much!!.

Karen V • Pella, Iowa

The service by all involved was first class all the way!

We were very impressed by the personal service we received by the staff and everyone involved. The trip was very nice from a sightseeing perspective, interesting from a historical perspective and very relaxing overall. Plus the food was plentiful and excellent. We highly recommend this cruise to everyone!

Denny F • Morgan Hill, California

Wonderful relaxing two days....

Extremely enjoyable trip. The cruise itself was delightful as you slowly moved up and down the river enjoying the wildlife and listening to the Captain explain the view and history. Unless you are a very big eater you have to be selective as they feed you FIVE times a day. Not only is the food plentiful but it is also very good. The Grand Resort in Dubuque was a nice stay as we had a view of the river. There was adequate time to explore some of the sights In Dubuque. I think we will do this trip again in the future…….

Ron S. • Tipton, Iowa

3 F's; Food, Food, and Fun

Excellent team from the captain to the crew provide a relaxing time..The chefs do an excellent job and there is more great food than you can imagine. This is the most organized and professional staff that we have ever experienced. No detail is overlooked.

Igs • Crown Point, Indiana

2-Day overnight cruise

Starting @ $409 pp  

Our Signature Cruise

• $409 pp Dbl Occupancy* / $439 pp Single Occupancy* • Departs LeClaire IA and travels to Dubuque IA. Return to LeClaire next day. • Overnight accommodations at the riverfront Grand Harbor Resort Hotel • Fare includes all meals, overnight accommodations • Tickets to National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium • Entertainment and Captain’s narration. *Peak season rates apply for departures after mid-September.

1-Day  cruise

Starting @ $169 pp

North into the Driftless Area

• $169 pp with one ticket complimentary • Group rates begin at 20 or more passengers. • Departs and returns to Dubuque Iowa • Fare includes breakfast, snacks, and full lunch • Entertainment and Captain’s narration.

2 – Day Cruise

Our signature cruise – leclaire, iowa to dubuque, iowa & return.

Includes: All Meals, 1 Night Lodging, Entry to the National Mississippi River Museum, Dubuque Shuttle, Entertainment & Activities Onboard.

From $409 /person Double Occupancy

download Twilight group travel information pdf

Welcome to leclaire & the quad city area, plenty to see & do before and after the cruise.

If you arrive in town early, don’t forget to visit historic downtown Leclaire IA, birthplace of Buffalo Bill Cody and the home of the Buffalo Bill Museum. Many of the turn of the century buildings are now occupied by unique shops featuring artwork, homemade candies, & antiques or enjoy a great meal while overlooking the beautiful Mississippi River. LeClaire is also home to the American Pickers!

For more group tour information and help in planning your visit to LeClaire:  Contact Cindy Bruhn [email protected]

For more group tour information & help in planning your visit to the Quad Cities, contact their Sales Manager –

Nicki Brus  [email protected] 800-747-7800, ext. 828

1 – Day Cruise

Dubuque, iowa to guttenberg, iowa & return.

Includes: Continental Breakfast, two snacks, full lunch, historical narration, great scenery, Eagles, more relaxation than you have allowed yourself in years, plus local favorite LA Suess on banjo.

From $169 /person

your Mississippi river adventure

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Riverboat Tw ilight

Two Day Mississippi Cruise & More!!!

July 31- August 3, 2024

     Laughter and excitement radiate from passengers boarding the Riverboat Twilight on the first day of their Mississippi River cruise.   The Twilight’s whistle blows, then water churns as the riverboat backs away from her dock in Le Claire, Iowa.   The onboard calliope bursts into song, playing an old-fashioned tune as the boat glides up the river to its overnight destination at the Port of Dubuque.   You can be part of this excitement when you join Laura and Gary Block for this four-day getaway.   Experience towering bluffs, two Locks and Dams, quaint river towns and historical narration during your two days on the river.    Our Andy’s Charter Service coach departs Little Falls from the northeast corner of the Wal-Mart parking lot at 6:30 a.m. on July 31st and heads south.   We’ll pick up in Royalton, Rice, St. Cloud, the Twin Cities or anywhere else along our route.   We’ll travel through southern Minnesota and across Iowa today, stopping for lunch on our own as we head to East Moline, Illinois where we’ll be staying at the Comfort Inn.   Dinner this evening is at Cinnamon Ridge Farm in Donahue, Iowa.   This is a fifth-generation family owned, family run robotic farm. Enjoy a farm to table meal and a tour of the robotic facility. The food is fabulous and the tour is great!

    Our second day begins in LeClaire, Iowa as we step aboard the most elegant riverboat launched in the last 100 years and enjoy breakfast on the Riverboat Twilight.   Her unique stern and ornate detailing will bring you back in time to the elegant riverboats of Mark Twain’s era …the classic boats that Twain called “floating palaces”.   Considered the Midwest’s best kept secret, the Riverboat Twilight offers a two-day cruise between Le Claire and Dubuque.   The cruise aboard the Victorian-styled Twilight is a journey back to the days when riverboats were the most luxurious means of transportation in the country.   There are three decks with comfortable climate-controlled dining salons and three sundecks with lounge chairs for those who wish to take in the fresh air, sights, or snooze in the sun.   For two days, we’ll be served a bountiful of freshly prepared meals, plated on china and served at reserved dining tables.   We’ll be enlightened by the enjoyable entertainment in the afternoon and educated throughout the day by the Captain’s narration as he guides through the bends of the river exploring the stunning nature and wildlife and bringing a unique educational experience of “locking” through the two lock and dams.   Lunch, dinner and snacks in the morning and afternoon are served on the Twilight and included with the trip.   Early evening we land at Dubuque Ice Harbor where we disembark and take the shuttle or do the very short walk to the Grand Harbor Resort, our home for the evening.   Tonight we can relax or explore the beautiful hotel, enjoy a stroll along the river walk, visit Diamond Jo Casino or enjoy the live entertainment on the hotel patio.

    The third day begins with a buffet breakfast at the hotel’s Tony Roma’s Restaurant where they cook a killer breakfast that is included.   This morning continuous shuttle service to many Port of Dubuque area activities will begin departing from the main lobby of the hotel.   The shuttle makes round trips every 15 minutes and will include stops at the National Mississippi River Museum, 4th Street Elevator, Cable Car Shopping Square, St. Luke’s Methodist Church Tiffany stained window collection and the Diamond Jo Casino.   Take your time and explore the activities.   Late in the morning, we re-board the Twilight for our cruise back to Le Claire.   Lunch and dinner are once again included with trivia and entertainment in the afternoon.     The Riverboat Twilight delivers one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest.   You’ll marvel at the majestic Mississippi while relaxing in style aboard a stunningly replicated Victorian riverboat.   Nothing but the Twilight delivers the experience of exploring the majestic bluffs, islands and marshes along the river, plus the remarkable variety of animal, bird and plant species viewed outside.   Inside, we’ll be pampered and delighted by delicious plated meals and snacks that are all included, a full bar on your own and an attentive and friendly crew.   Arrival at Le Claire, the boyhood town of Buffalo Bill Cody will be early in the evening when we head to the Holiday Inn Express.

   Our final day begins with breakfast at the hotel and then over to “American Archaeology”, the home store of the History Channel’s American Pickers and other fun shops in the area.   Lunch will be on your own at the World’s Largest Truckstop, located on the eastern edge of Iowa.   This is a place like no other in the world with a convenience store, shopping area and a number of fast-food places. It’s a captivating four-day trip that we’ll find fun and relaxing.    Make sure you sign up today for a well-deserved fabulous summer getaway.          

Ø   Comfortable Andy’s Charter Service motor coach transportation

Ø   Two-day cruise on the Riverboat Twilight with three meals a day included

Ø   Snacks, entertainment and games on board the riverboat

Ø   Overnight accommodations at Grand Harbor Resort – Dubuque, IA

Ø   Overnight accommodations at the Comfort Inn – East Moline, IL

Ø   Overnight accommodations at Holiday Inn Express – Le Claire, IA

Ø   National Mississippi River Museum admission

Ø   Shuttle to Diamond Jo Casino, Cable Car Shopping Square, St. Luke Methodist Church or 4 th Street Elevator (Optional choice that is included)

Ø   History Channel’s “American Pickers” home store, American Archaeology

Ø   Dinner and tour at Cinnamon Farms – Donahue, IA

Ø   The World’s Largest Truck Stop

Ø   A total of 8 meals are included

Ø   Fun & games

Ø   Hosted by Laura and Gary Block

$889 per person double occupancy - $835 per person triple occupancy

$809 per person quad occupancy - $1089 single occupancy

$250 deposit per person required within 3 days of signing up.   Remainder due on July 1.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Transportation and lodging hosted by Gary Block Tours is arranged with independent firms.   Bookings for entertainment are arranged through independent hotels, theatres and other entertainment venues.   We take great pride in our selection of reliable firms.   However, we do not control these independent firms.   Sometimes shows or celebrity appearances are changed or cancelled without notice.   We cannot be responsible for claims or losses arising out of injury, accident, death, loss of enjoyment, frustration or inconvenience that arises from the act or omission of any independent firm supplying services to Gary Block Tours, or for mechanical breakdowns, governmental actions, acts of God, strikes or acts of war beyond our control.   We cannot be responsible for the consequences of your failure to follow instructions, including but not limited to check in, check out and baggage handling.   If events or reservations are cancelled or changed, we will make every effort to provide a comparable substitute tour experience.  

Deposits and payments are non-refundable unless the tour is cancelled.

I have read and understand the Cancellation and Refund Policy notice.   All participants of this trip must sign below.

Mail registration and payment to:

Gary Block Tours, 112 SE 4 th Street, Little Falls, MN   56345

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                                                                                                     Twilight 2024

If you’re interested in a tour of Dubuque, the Trolleys of Dubuque will have a one-and-a-half- hour historical tour throughout downtown Dubuque on our evening in Dubuque.   The cost is an additional $20 per person and will depart in the evening from the front of the Grand Harbor Resort.   Please inform us when you sign up if you’re doing the trolley tour.

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Riverboat Twilight

Let’s cruise in leclaire.

Come explore the mighty Mississippi River in style, comfort, and convenience! The TWILIGHT, at 126 ft. in length, has the power and accommodations to make your next freshwater cruise one to remember. From 1.5-hour cruises to a 2-day trip, you will find a package that’s perfect for your next visit to LeClaire, IA!

Coveted as the “the most elegant riverboat to be launched in the last 100 years,” the TWILIGHT was carefully designed and built by Captain Dennis Trone to replicate the lavish steamboats popular in the Victorian era. A rounded stern and high attention to ornate detailing plays up your classic riverboat experience.

Your captain, Kevin Stier, is a master of the water. A family affair, Carrie Stier runs the office while their son and daughter all work towards making your experience fun and relaxing. In his spare time, Captain Stier loves traveling, so a breezy, sunny day in the TWILIGHT’s Pilot House is his idea of paradise. In fact, you’re encouraged to stop by and say hello during your cruise. If you’re willing to listen to a story or two from Captain Stier, you may even get to steer the boat!

Mile after glorious mile, you’ll enjoy the best of the Mississippi with all the ease of modern amenities. Book your TWILIGHT Riverboat cruise in LeClaire today!

Ready to book your Riverboat Twilight cruise today? Let’s pick your adventure!

2-Day Cruise: Our Signature Cruise

LeClaire, IA to Dubuque, IA & Return

Includes: All Meals, One Night Lodging, Entry to National Mississippi River Museum, Dubuque Shuttle, Entertainment & Activities Onboard

1-Day Cruise: North Into The Valleys

Dubuque, IA to Guttenberg, IA & Return

Includes: Continental Breakfast, Two Snacks, Full Lunch, Historical Narration, Great Scenery, Eagles, & Relaxation

1.5-Hour Cruise: Sightseeing Cruise

Departs & Returns to LeClaire, IA

Cash bar and gift shop available. Sack or box lunches are welcome! Please, no coolers.

For more information, including video tours of the TWILIGHT, click here .

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.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

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.

You might also be interested in:

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Highlights of mississippi river cruises.

A Mississippi River cruise offers the rare opportunity to sail through America's heartland on the world’s #1 river cruise line. Explore picturesque towns and boom cities; take in views of pastoral farms and towering bluffs; and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture with an included excursion in every port. Here are a few highlights Viking reveals to you:

• Festive French Quarter and Creole cuisine in New Orleans
• Cajun heritage in Baton Rouge
• Civil War history at Vicksburg National Military Park
• Memphis BBQ, Graceland and appreciation of the Delta Blues
• Steamboat sailings with diverse wildlife sightings
• Mark Twain's boyhood home and America’s literary history
• Up close look at America’s national symbol, the bald eagle
• Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the pioneering spirit of the Midwest
• Norwegian cultural experience at Vesterheim
• Intricate locks and dams of the Upper Mississippi

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2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from August 1-31, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by March 31, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by November 30, 2025. Offers expires August 31, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  $25 DEPOSIT: For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to January 2025 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to March 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:  Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires August 31, 2024.

NOTE: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.