Cruising the Mississippi is a journey through the heart of America's past.
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Overview
Cruising the Mighty Mississippi River offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of American history, culture, and music. Stretching over 2,300 miles from its source in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, this iconic waterway has shaped the nation's identity, serving as a vital artery for trade, a cradle for distinctive musical genres like jazz and blues, and a backdrop for pivotal historical events. A river cruise allows travelers to step back in time, experiencing the charm of the South and the pioneering spirit of the Midwest from the unique vantage point of a paddlewheel steamboat or modern river vessel.
From the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the historic grandeur of Natchez and the musical heritage of Memphis, a Mississippi River cruise provides an immersive exploration of diverse landscapes and rich traditions. Passengers can delve into antebellum history, savor authentic regional cuisines, and enjoy live entertainment that echoes the river's storied past, creating a truly memorable and uniquely American adventure.
Begin or end your journey in New Orleans, and dedicate time to explore its iconic French Quarter. Wander through Bourbon Street, soak in the vibrant jazz music on Frenchmen Street, sample beignets at Cafe Du Monde, and admire the unique Creole architecture.
Tip: Take a guided walking tour of the French Quarter to learn about its fascinating history, legends, and architectural details.
Many Lower Mississippi cruises include stops near magnificent Antebellum Plantations like Oak Alley, Laura Plantation, or Rosedown Plantation. These grand estates offer a poignant glimpse into a complex period of American history, with guided tours of historic homes and slave quarters.
Tip: Choose a plantation tour that provides a comprehensive and balanced perspective on both the grandeur of the homes and the realities of slavery.
Step ashore in Memphis, the soulful city known as the "Home of the Blues and Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll." Explore Beale Street's legendary music clubs, visit Graceland (Elvis Presley's former home), or delve into the Civil Rights movement at the National Civil Rights Museum.
Tip: Don't miss a performance at one of Beale Street's historic juke joints for an authentic taste of Memphis music.
Experience the preserved charm of Natchez, Mississippi, a city famous for its hundreds of antebellum mansions that survived the Civil War. Take a carriage ride, tour one of the historic homes, and soak in the slow, graceful pace of the Old South.
Tip: Many mansions offer open house tours, giving you a chance to see their interiors and learn about their unique histories.
If cruising the Upper Mississippi, gain fascinating insights into the engineering marvels of the lock and dam systems. Watch as your vessel navigates these impressive structures, raising or lowering the ship to different water levels, a testament to modern river navigation.
Tip: Find a spot on an open deck or observation area during lock transit to get the best views of this intricate process.
Beyond the ports, take full advantage of the onboard lectures and entertainment. River cruises often feature local historians, musicians, and storytellers who bring the history, music, and culture of the Mississippi River to life, enhancing your understanding of the regions you traverse.
Tip: Participate in themed activities or workshops, such as Southern cooking demonstrations or jazz and blues history lessons, offered on your cruise.
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
Nashville, Tennessee
4 Sailings
Nov 3, 2026 - Nov 9, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
New Orleans, Louisiana
23 Sailings
Feb 7, 2026 - Nov 23, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
New Orleans, Louisiana
4 Sailings
Jun 13, 2026 - Jul 27, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
Memphis, Tennessee
4 Sailings
Oct 27, 2026 - Nov 2, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
New Orleans, Louisiana
1 Sailing
Oct 17, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
Memphis, Tennessee
25 Sailings
Dec 13, 2025 - Nov 30, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
New Orleans, Louisiana
4 Sailings
Jun 13, 2026 - Jul 27, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Mississippi
From
St. Paul, Minnesota
4 Sailings
Jul 4, 2026 - Sep 14, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
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