Going on a river cruise is a great way to unwind and spend time with the family. River cruises are similar to ocean cruises but feature smaller ships with fewer crowds. Also, these boats usually dock closer to city centers, from where everything is easily accessible. Among the many river cruises across the country, those that sail on the Mississippi River are especially popular as they offer a unique blend of historical exploration and scenic beauty.

Mississippi riverboat cruises
The Mississippi River flows for over 2,300 miles and passes through various heritage sites. Those looking to sail this river can choose one of many popular cruises.

Historic Mississippi River Cruise: Round trip from New Orleans
American Cruise Lines has a popular cruise along the Mississippi River that takes travelers on a round trip, starting and ending at New Orleans. The weeklong voyage offers a tour of the Houmas House estate and Gardens in Darrow, Louisiana—a historic, 19th-century plantation complex. Passengers can also explore popular ports of call, including Baton Rouge, Natchez, and the Southern town of St. Francisville in Louisiana. While visiting these places, travelers are treated to Cajun and Creole dishes that reflect the food tradition of the residents. The prices for the Historic Mississippi River Cruise start from around $3,630 per person.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round trip from New Orleans
Those interested in a weeklong round trip from New Orleans can also consider Viking’s river cruise, which costs approximately $3,499 per person. This package includes six guided tours covering over 200 historic estates of Natchez, Mississippi, and a visit to the famous Vicksburg National Military Park. Passengers can also reserve a spot on one of Viking’s for-a-fee excursions, such as the Soul Food & Music tour in Natchez. This event includes a Southern-inspired meal at Dunleith Historic Inn, the last pre-Civil War mansion in Mississippi.

Music Cities Cruise: Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee
This package from American Cruise Lines is good for those who want to spend more than a week sailing. The Music Cities Cruise lasts nine days, beginning in Memphis and ending in Nashville. Passengers sail through three major rivers—Mississippi, Ohio, and Cumberland—while covering several places that are famous for country music, blues, soul, and rock n’ roll. Starting from around $3,795 per person, the itinerary includes a hotel stay the night before embarking on the cruise in Memphis. Those interested can also buy a two-night pre-cruise package close to Elvis’ former home, Graceland.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul, Minnesota, to New Orleans
This 16-day-long voyage by American Cruise Lines offers travelers a chance to explore the rich history of America by visiting the Indigenous towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The prices start from about $10,440 per person and include ports of call across seven states and 12 cities, such as St. Paul, La Crosse, Dubuque, St. Louis, Memphis, Vicksburg, and Baton Rouge. Travelers can also visit Mark Twain’s boyhood home in Hannibal, Missouri, and explore Civil War history along the Mississippi.

Tips to book riverboat cruises in Mississippi
A cruise is a perfect way to explore riverfront cities while staying within the comfort of a modern riverboat. Having said that, it’s important to book at the right time while following some handy tips.

Choose the right cruise line
American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises are two popular cruise companies that schedule cruise rides across the Mississippi. American Cruise Lines offers traditional paddlewheelers as well as modern riverboats. Meanwhile, Viking has larger and more luxurious ships with Scandinavian-style design.

Pick the best time to go
Usually, pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds can be expected on this route around springtime (April to June) and fall (September to December). The Lower Mississippi, from New Orleans to Memphis, is generally good for exploring during mild weather seasons. For the Upper Mississippi, between St. Louis and St. Paul, summer or early fall is the right time to travel.

Book early
Since river cruises are smaller, cabins tend to fill up quickly. So, it’s recommended to book several months in advance. Early bookings may also help one enjoy special discounts and added perks.