Grand Heartland Cruise - Along America’s Most Iconic Waterway

Explore the Twin Cities, a hub where art, culture, and history converge in an elegant display. Minneapolis and St. Paul boast an array of first-rate art galleries and museums, alongside theaters hosting engaging live performances that capture the imagination.

St. Paul's Summit Avenue is a corridor of architectural magnificence, featuring an array of stately mansions constructed in the late 1800s, each telling its own story of the city's affluent past. A visit to the expansive Mall of America reveals a shopper's paradise with over 500 stores, even including an indoor waterpark and theme park.

Elevate your experience with a visit to Mounds Park, offering commanding views of downtown St. Paul that are simply spectacular, especially at sunset. Nearby, the natural beauty of Minnehaha Falls captivates visitors with its impressive 53-foot waterfall, set against a backdrop of lush greenery.

Step aboard and join us for the Welcome Reception as we begin our journey on the Mississippi River. This is your chance to meet fellow passengers and share in the excitement of the days to come. As the ship moves along the river, you will be treated to views that have stirred the minds of America’s great writers, artists, and musicians.

These are the very landscapes that inspired Mark Twain to pen his beloved tales. Watch the changing scenery of rolling hills and expansive riverbanks, each offering a window into the heart of American culture and history. This visual feast serves as a backdrop for creativity and storytelling that continues to resonate across generations.

Step back into 19th-century America as you explore La Crosse, positioned where three significant rivers converge. Riverside Park is the centerpiece of this city, featuring well-maintained gardens, an engaging outdoor performance center, and a collection of thought-provoking sculptures.

Ascend Grand Dad’s Bluff, which stands 600 feet above the city, for sweeping panoramic views that dominate the landscape and offer a unique perspective of La Crosse.

Accompany a local historian who will guide you through this town’s history, from its early days as a booming riverboat port through the vibrant 1920s and into the present day, examining both the challenges and advancements that have shaped the city. This educational stroll offers insights into the continuous transformation and enduring spirit of this unique port of call.

Dubbed a "Masterpiece on the Mississippi," Dubuque stands as one of the earliest settlements west of the river. Experience a ride aboard the Fenelon Place Elevator, recognized as the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway, offering spectacular panoramic views from its peak.

The city's streets are lined with striking Victorian mansions, showcasing Dubuque’s fascinating architectural history. Take a leisurely walk through the downtown area, where the energy of city life melds seamlessly with local shops and eateries.

Explore the national Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium for an engaging insight into the ecological and cultural significance of the river. This institution presents a compelling array of exhibits and aquatic life that illustrate the ecosystem of the Mississippi.

In Davenport, IA, the Mississippi River sets a stunning backdrop for your adventure. You can wander through the Quad City Botanical Center, where a unique plant collection and vibrant seasonal displays flourish. Experience the deep jazz connections of this area at the Bix Beiderbecke Museum, where you’ll discover fascinating artifacts and stories of the legendary musician. At The Putnam Museum, you can explore interactive exhibits ranging from ancient history to modern science, perfect for curious minds. Stroll downtown to find a variety of unique restaurants, charming shops, and lively entertainment venues, making this the perfect port to explore.

Take in the scenic beauty of the countryside, marked by rolling hills and distant bluffs. Throughout our journey, we'll pass through a series of locks and dams, each a testament to engineering ingenuity. Watch as the river bustles with activity: towboats glide by, skillfully maneuvering a variety of commodities like grains, petroleum products, and coal. This lively interplay of technology and commerce set against a natural backdrop provides a fascinating glimpse into the economic arteries of the region.

Hannibal, known as "America’s Hometown," transports you to the era of Mark Twain. Here, the stories of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn are brought to life. Wander through this charming Missouri town, where you can touch Aunt Polly’s fence and reconnect with one of the world's most beloved authors.

The downtown area of Hannibal is a hub for creativity, filled with specialty shops that reflect the local flair. This combination of historical exploration and artisanal presence makes Hannibal an engaging place to experience the spirit of Mark Twain’s classic tales.

As your journey unfolds from Hannibal to St. Louis, see expansive landscapes that span its banks—fields that stretch towards distant horizons, forests that cluster around the winding river, and quaint river towns dotting the shores. 

In the inviting lounges, enjoy performances from talented musicians who bring the spirit of the Mississippi to life through song. Alternatively, spend the afternoon sharing stories and experiences with fellow travelers, forging connections amidst the backdrop of the river's panoramic views. 

St. Louis, famously dubbed the “Gateway to the West,” welcomes you with its iconic skyline, crowned by the Gateway Arch. Standing as the tallest man-made monument in the U.S., the Arch offers sweeping views over the city and serves as a testament to the area's historical significance in pioneering American expansion.

The city boasts an array of premier attractions. Explore the St. Louis Art Museum, where masterpieces across ages and borders are displayed. Engage with interactive exhibits at the Science Center and learn about the regional history at the Missouri History Museum. For beer enthusiasts, a visit to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery is a must to learn how the brew is made from grain to glass. 

To relax, make your way to the Missouri Botanical Garden, a haven of botanical beauty that ranks among the world’s top public gardens. As you stroll through vibrant displays and serene landscapes, the garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city's bustling pace, perfect for winding down your exploration of St. Louis.

Welcome to Memphis, a city that rises from the riverbank, adorned with grand oak trees, expansive parks, and historic sites commemorating events from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. Stroll along the renowned Beale Street, where music flows from every doorway, enriching the air with songs as enticing as the aromas of the city's famed BBQ.

Choose from a variety of customized excursions to enhance your experience. Join us for a narrated motorcoach ride for a comprehensive overview of Memphis's dramatic landscape. Visit the esteemed Peabody Hotel for a taste of local glamour or explore the home and legacy of Elvis Presley. A must-visit for music lovers is Sun Studio, the recording site of some of Elvis’s early hits.

Your ship, comfortably docked at the upgraded Beale Street Landing, is right in the heart of the action, so it’s easy to visit any part of Memphis you choose. As evening descends, enjoy performances by local musicians on board, creating a perfect setting to enjoy a relaxing nightcap after a full day of exploration.

Times may have moved forward, but Downtown Tunica captures a slice of history, with Main Street buildings meticulously preserved as they were at the turn of the 20th century. Wander through this district where each storefront offers a experience—from specialty boutiques brimming with handcrafted goods to antique shops filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. The centerpiece is the beautifully restored courthouse, an emblem of Tunica's rich heritage, standing proudly as a testament to the town’s enduring character.

Here in Tunica, the legendary southern hospitality invites you to slow down and savor a way of life that celebrates both past and present. Enjoy the warmth and charm of this timeless town as you step back in time and into the heart of the South.

As you cruise toward the historic city of Vicksburg, sail through the beauty of the heart and soul of the Mississippi Delta. This region, known for its profound influence on blues music and river culture, provides a picturesque backdrop for your journey. Onboard, choose from a variety of ways to enjoy your day. Mingle with other guests in one of our lounges, lose yourself in a good book on your private balcony, or enjoy the passing scenery on the sun deck.

Participate in one of the many activities offered on the ship. From educational talks that delve into the history and culture of the regions you're passing through, to fun games and crafts, there’s always something to do on board our Modern Riverboats. 

Vicksburg, once known as "The Gibraltar of the West," holds a pivotal place in Civil War history, its strategic position at the confluence of river and rail crucial to both Union and Confederate forces. The city's capture by Union troops on July 4, 1863, marked a significant turning point, effectively splitting the Confederacy and paving the way for the North's victory. Vicksburg National Military Park preserves this historic battleground, offering guided tours that highlight the siege’s strategic battles and the personal stories of those who fought.

President Abraham Lincoln famously emphasized the city's importance, stating, “Vicksburg is the key. The war can never be brought to a close until that key is in our pocket.” Beyond the battlefield, visitors can explore Vicksburg's impact on history through local museums, sites, and a series of murals along the floodwall that vividly narrate the city's past.

In Natchez, grand homes shine brilliantly, adorning the bluffs overlooking the river. Founded in 1716 by the French among the Natchez Indians, the town has evolved, displaying opulent mansions built in the 19th-century.

Unscathed by Civil War battles, Natchez preserves hundreds of pre-Civil War homes and buildings, each with its own narrative, contributing to a downtown area that embodies southern grace and hospitality.

Explore on your own or engage in curated guided experiences that illuminate the town's past. Tour the grand townhomes, visit a working cotton farm to learn about the crop's role in history and today, or step into the historic Under-The-Hill Saloon. 

Baton Rouge, named for the "red stick" that early French explorers used as a geographical marker, holds a deep historical significance. Today, as Louisiana’s state capital, it continues to resonate with the legacies of its prominent figures, such as Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. Explore his impactful career at the Old State Capitol Museum, established in 1852, and Long's 1932 State Capitol building, an impressive structure made of granite and marble.

Take a leisurely stroll through Baton Rouge's renowned downtown districts, where a blend of art, architecture, and the natural environment comes to life. 

For a glimpse into the heart of Louisiana's natural landscape, hop on a narrated boat excursion through a dense Louisiana swamp. This journey offers an up-close view of the area’s rich ecological diversity, where you can spot alligators sunning on the banks, hear the calls of diverse bird species, and discover the vegetation that thrives in this unique wetland ecosystem. The guided tour not only highlights the wildlife but also delves into the fascinating plant life and the intricate waterways that define this vibrant habitat.

Bid adieu to the ship in New Orleans, where each corner holds the promise of a new adventure. Whether you choose the spend more time here in the Big Easy or head home, we at American Cruise Lines want to thank you for joining us along the Mississippi River and hope to see you for more adventures to come. 

Itineraries are subject to change.