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View monuments from the Civil War in Mississippi

Mississippi & Tennessee Rivers Cruise

Huntsville - New Orleans - Example 16 Day Cruise aboard American Heritage
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Take a 16-day river journey from Huntsville to New Orleans aboard American Heritage, following the Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers through cities shaped by music, Civil War history, river trade and Southern culture. Visit Florence for Muscle Shoals music heritage and Ivy Green, Savannah for Shiloh National Military Park, Paducah for the National Quilt Museum, Memphis for Beale Street and civil rights history, and Vicksburg for Civil War sites. Continue to Natchez, St. Francisville, Baton Rouge and Oak Alley before exploring New Orleans and the French Quarter. Explore museums and historic sites while learning about Native American heritage, African-American history, music, and communities shaped by rivers. See Memphis, Vicksburg and Natchez for Civil War history, then continue to Baton Rouge, Oak Alley and New Orleans.
Visit historic Memphis, TennesseeVisit Louisiana's capital city of Baton RougePhoto of colorful cafe bars at the iconic Beale Street music and entertainment district of downtown Memphis, Tennessee, USA, illuminated at nightOak Alley Plantation, Vacherie, LouisianaBeale Street is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places,Explore the rivers of AmericaView monuments from the Civil War in Mississippi
Highlights
  • Explore Huntsville’s NASA heritage and Appalachian foothill landscapes
  • Visit Florence’s Muscle Shoals music history and Helen Keller’s birthplace
  • Explore Vicksburg National Military Park and preserved Civil War landmarks
  • Discover New Orleans’ French Quarter, Tremé, jazz heritage, and landmarks
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Huntsville, AL

  • 1 Dinner
Enjoy a one-night stay in this city, home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and known for its role in space exploration and innovation. Often called “Rocket City,” it combines a strong scientific heritage with Southern culture, including arts, music, and local cuisine.

Set near the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the city provides access to hiking trails and nature walks, with views of the surrounding landscape for outdoor exploration and relaxation.

Day 2: Huntsville, AL | Embark | Cruising the Tennessee River

Board your ship, settle into your stateroom, and begin to unwind as you set off along the Tennessee River. Watch the shoreline as wooded banks, quiet coves, and small river towns pass by.

Meet the crew and connect with fellow guests in the lounges or on the sun deck, with views of the river and surrounding landscape.

Day 3: Florence, AL

This is a city where deep historical roots and a rich cultural legacy come together in a powerful and distinctive way. Florence is part of the broader Muscle Shoals recording tradition, a cornerstone of American music that stands alongside the well-known stories of Memphis and Nashville.

With engaging local guides, explore legendary recording studios such as FAME and Muscle Shoals Sound, where artists including Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones helped define the sound of American music. Florence is also closely tied to the early roots of the blues and the enduring legacy of W.C. Handy, whose influence helped shape modern American music. Visit the W.C. Handy Cabin, Museum, and Library to experience this musical heritage firsthand.

Beyond its musical significance, discover Ivy Green, the birthplace of Helen Keller, and step inside her childhood home to gain insight into her remarkable early life and global impact. Nearby, tranquil spaces like Wilson Park offer a peaceful connection to the city’s scenic riverfront setting.

Florence Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy this quaint town at your leisure, with stops at:
Florence-Lauderdale Welcome Center – Learn about the rich history of The Shoals area. Representatives of Florence and The Shoals are there to greet you, answer questions and may even have something special to welcome you to their community.
The Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts – Discover and enjoy extraordinary works of art, explore new ideas, and cultivate new insights into local culture and the act of creation.
Pope’s Tavern – Popes’ Tavern serves as a hospital during the Civil War and now serves as a community history museum. Narratives from slaveholders, enslaved people, yeoman farmers, freedmen, and Native Americans invite visitors to understand the past from multiple viewpoints, using historical artifacts and interpretation. 
The W.C. Handy Cabin, Museum, and Library – Dedicated to one of Florence's most famous sons known as the "Father of Blues," Handy was born in a log cabin at this site in 1873. View a collection of Handy's personal papers, artifacts, and other items he donated before his death in 1958.
Downtown Shopping District – Explore downtown on your own. Take time for shopping, perusing, and perhaps stopping in at a local dining establishment.
Rosenbaum House – Explore one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most magnificent homes, declared by architecture critics to be one of the purest examples of Usonian prototype.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Ivy Green, Birthplace of Helen Keller – Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a self-guided exploration of Ivy Green, the birthplace of Helen Keller. Since 1954, this home on the National Register of Historic Places has been a permanent shrine to the “miracle” that occurred in a blind and deaf seven-year-old girl’s life. Discover the humble beginnings of the iconic activist and author as you wander through her childhood home, beautifully preserved with period furnishings. Having survived untouched through the ravages of the Civil War, Ivy Green is maintained to the smallest detail in its original state. Through informative exhibits and captivating displays, learn about Keller’s remarkable journey, including the influence of her teacher Anne Sullivan, as well as her enduring legacy.  
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes 

Day 4: Savannah, TN

On the eastern shores of the Tennessee River, Savannah holds a strong connection to the region’s history and serves as the primary access point to Shiloh National Military Park, one of the most significant Civil War battlefields in the area. 

Visit this historic park, which preserves the site of the pivotal 1862 Battle of Shiloh. Explore the preserved battlefield with knowledgeable National Park Service rangers who bring the landscape to life through stories of strategy, sacrifice, and survival.

In town, step into the Tennessee River Museum and uncover the area’s layered past. From Native American heritage to the rise of early river trade, engaging exhibits and unique artifacts guide you from prehistoric times through post-war reconciliation. As you wander, savor the flavors of the South with samples of hand-prepared specialties, from warm, golden hushpuppies to refreshing local beverages, offering a taste of the region’s enduring traditions.

Tennessee River Museum Shuttle - Complimentary Excursion
Set out to explore the Catfish Capital of the World, Savannah, with a shuttle that brings you straight to the Tennessee River Museum, where history and local flavor come together. Step inside to journey from prehistoric times through post-war reconciliation as engaging exhibits and one-of-a-kind artifacts reveal the region’s rich past. As you wander the museum, enjoy samples of hand-prepared Southern fare, from hushpuppies to refreshing local beverages, offering a true taste of the area. Located in the heart of town, the museum also places you just steps from charming local shops, giving you the freedom to browse and soak in Savannah’s welcoming atmosphere at your own pace.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Shiloh Military Park Driving Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Explore Shiloh National Military Park, which was established by Congress on December 27, 1894, to commemorate the April 6-7, 1862, battle that raged around Shiloh Church and Pittsburg Landing. Resulting in more than 23,000 casualties, the battle was the largest engagement in the Mississippi Valley campaign during the Civil War. Today, visitors can learn about the history from National Park Ranger programs and explore the grounds of this hallowed site.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 5: Day of Cruising the Tennessee River

The day is yours to enjoy as you follow the Tennessee River through a quieter stretch, where broad bends, wooded shorelines, and scattered riverside towns shape the passing scenery. Watch for herons and egrets along the banks, soaring bald eagles overhead, and the occasional deer or wild turkey emerging from the forested edges.

It’s a relaxed day on board, offering time to enjoy these ever-changing views at an unhurried pace, whether from the open decks or a comfortable spot inside, as you continue downstream toward Savannah.

Day 6: Paducah, KY

At the meeting point of the Tennessee River and the Ohio River lies Paducah, a designated UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art. With the guidance of the seasoned local expert, delve into its layered history and evolving creative identity.

Explore the city’s Wall-to-Wall Floodwall Murals, a sweeping public art installation featuring more than 50 large-scale works depicting Native American heritage, pivotal Civil War moments, and local landmarks such as the Old Carnegie Library. Continue to the LowerTown Arts District, a 25-square-block neighborhood where restored buildings now house studios, galleries, and a thriving community of working artists.

Among Paducah’s cultural highlights, the National Quilt Museum stands out as a nationally recognized institution that attracts textile artists and design enthusiasts from across the country. Its exhibits celebrate the artistry, innovation, and cultural depth of quilting.

Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Experience Paducah at your leisure with convenient Cruise Coach service throughout the city. Stops include:
The National Quilt Museum - Discover one of Paducah’s most celebrated cultural attractions. Admire striking works by renowned quilters who push the boundaries of fiber art through imaginative designs, techniques, and contemporary approaches. 
Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood - Wander through this charming 25-block neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and known for its beautifully preserved architecture. Look for the neighborhood directory at the iconic Texaco Station to help guide your exploration.  
Civil War Museum & Tilghman House - Step inside this remarkable 1852 Greek Revival home and hear the fascinating stories of Paducah’s role during the Civil War. Learn about the people and events that reveal the city’s strategic importance and significant influence during this pivotal period in America.
Paducah Railroad Museum - Travel back to the golden age of American railroading at this engaging, interactive museum. View railroad equipment, artifacts, memorabilia, and hands-on exhibits that capture the romance and excitement of the railroads and their lasting impact on Paducah and the region.
 River Discovery Center - Explore Paducah’s deep connection to the rivers that have shaped its history and identity. Interactive, water-filled exhibits bring the region’s maritime heritage to life, including a working model of a lock and dam that demonstrates the fascinating engineering behind river navigation.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 7: Day of Cruising

Today, let's celebrate the journey as much as the destinations themselves. Embrace picturesque landscapes along the iconic Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers. Take pleasure in the unspoiled stretches of land, the quaint charm of riverside towns, and the majestic presence of wildlife.

As you glide along the river's gentle currents, take in the expert commentary from the onboard naturalist, who regales you with tales of the native wildlife that call this region home. Alternatively, find solace in simply basking in the warmth of the sun on the bow, allowing the soothing rhythm of the river to lull you into a state of serene contentment.

Day 8: Memphis, TN

Welcome to Tennessee and the vibrant city of Memphis, a cultural landmark along the Mississippi where musical legacy and civil rights are deeply connected to the river. Walk along Beale Street, home to legendary blues clubs and live venues that carry forward the sounds that shaped the city. 

Step inside Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, and see where music legends recorded their groundbreaking hits. Then visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel for a powerful, immersive look into the American Civil Rights Movement.

Celebrate the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll at Graceland, viewing the iconic home, exploring personal artifacts, and tracing the life and influence of Elvis Presley. Take a guided motor coach exploration through downtown Memphis landmarks before returning to the revitalized riverfront.

Beale Street Bound - Memphis Shuttle - Complimentary Excursion
One of the most iconic streets in America, Beale Street is three blocks of nightclubs, restaurants, and shops in the heart of downtown Memphis. Hop aboard a convenient shuttle which runs continually after dark, so you can enjoy this legendary street as it comes to life.  
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 9: Day of River Cruising

Today you cruise from the rhythm and blues of Memphis to the history found in Vicksburg. Along the way, watch the Mississippi move from sandy beaches to thick forest. Sit on the sun deck, relax, read, and recharge for more adventures ahead. Share stories of the day and the days to come with new friends in the comfortable lounge, relax on the sun deck, and don’t miss cocktail hour before enjoying a delicious dinner with a menu of local dishes.

Day 10: Vicksburg, MS

Overlooking the Mississippi River, Vicksburg is best known for its pivotal role in the Civil War and its commanding views of the waterway that shaped its past. Visit Vicksburg National Military Park, where preserved battlefields, towering monuments, and the restored ironclad USS Cairo tell the story of the decisive campaign that helped turn the tide of the war. 

On a guided excursion, explore Vicksburg’s oldest neighborhood, where you can admire the Duff Green Mansion, once a hospital during the 47-day siege, and Tully’s Cave, which reveals how residents survived the bombardment.

Finally, walk through downtown to discover historic architecture, riverfront murals, museums, and local shops that reflect the city’s connection to the river.

Vicksburg Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
 Board this convenient shuttle making stops at:
Tully’s Cave – Explore this modern-day replica of the underground shelters used by Vicksburg residents during the Civil War's 47-day siege in 1863.
Local Merchant District – Stroll through downtown Vicksburg and browse a few local shops.
Old Courthouse Museum – Built in 1858, this museum is a national historic landmark showcasing Vicksburg’s cultural heritage over the past 71 years. The museum’s collection includes the original Teddy Bear given to a local child by Theodore Roosevelt, a sash worn by both George Washington and Jefferson Davis during their presidential inaugurations, a vast collection of Civil War artifacts, Native American and pioneer implements, and much more.
Biedenharn Coca–Cola Museum – This unique museum celebrates the history of one of the nation's most beloved beverages. Built in 1890, the building is the location where Coca-Cola was bottled for the first time in 1894 and features the type of equipment that Joseph Biedenharn used at the time. View Coca-Cola memorabilia, peruse the gift shop, and treat yourself to an ice-cold Coke float.
Vicksburg Civil War Museum – Visit the Vicksburg Civil Museum and see an impressive collection of weapons, ammunition, uniforms, and other Civil War materials.
Lower Mississippi River Museum – Experience life on the Mississippi River. Through both interactive and static displays, discover how different communities, farming families, and the US Army Corps of Engineers have all utilized the river in the past and learn about the future for the Mississippi River Valley. Examine the science behind water movement and view some of the river's fish up close in the museum’s 1,515-gallon aquarium.
Catfish Row Museum – Learn diverse aspects about Vicksburg – from its music, history, and storytelling to its vibrant food heritage.
Old Depot Museum – The museum exhibits examine earlier modes of transportation, the Siege of Vicksburg, and many other elements of the city’s history. Inside the museum, you find railroad memorabilia, a collection of model Civil War gunboats, original war-themed paintings by Herb Mott, a detailed diorama of the Siege of Vicksburg, and models of architecture styles employed throughout Vicksburg’s past.  
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Vicksburg National Military Park Driving Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
A knowledgeable guide leads you through the National Military Park which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. Stop at the impressive Illinois Monument, modeled after the Roman Pantheon. The exploration concludes at the Visitors Center where life-sized exhibits and artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg are on display.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial

Day 11: Natchez, MS

In the heart of Natchez, where the Mississippi River bends, grand homes stand as a testament to the city’s wealth as a major river port. After the French built a fort here in 1716 near communities of the Natchez people, the settlement grew into one of the most prosperous towns along the water. Largely preserved despite early Union occupation during the Civil War, Natchez remains home to one of Mississippi’s most intact collections of iconic residences.

Discover the stunning Rosalie Mansion, known as “Our Lady on the Bluff.” Led by a guide, explore this beautiful home overlooking the river, with elegant interiors and period furnishings that offer a glimpse into Natchez’s past. Then relax and experience the town the old-fashioned way, by horse-drawn carriage, while listening to tales of the city’s rise as one of America’s wealthiest before the Civil War.

Natchez Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Board this convenient shuttle, making stops at:
Fort Rosalie & Trading Post - Fort Rosalie was built by the French in 1716 within the territory of the Natchez Native Indians and it was part of the French colonial empire, becoming the first settlement in present day Natchez, Mississippi. Walk the hallowed grounds of the long-gone fort and enjoy perusing the gift items of the modern trading post. 
Historic Natchez in Photos - Visit the Stratton Chapel Gallery in downtown Natchez behind First Presbyterian Church. View an outstanding collection of photographs taken from as early as 1860, including family portraits, steamboats, and street scenes.
Main Street & Franklin Street - Explore the few one-of-a-kind antique shops or just walk among the many beautifully restored historic buildings of this lovely town.
Historic Natchez Bluffs & Gazebo - Sitting 200 feet above the banks of the Mississippi River, the Gazebo offers the best vantage point from which to take in the river’s natural splendor.
Rosalie House - Visit Rosalie, an antebellum mansion in downtown Natchez. Excursions begin at the top of every hour. Make sure to wear your lanyard for complimentary entry.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial

Natchez Landmark Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Experience a multitude of National treasures, historic sites, and local points of interest from the comfort of your motorcoach. Natchez boasts more National Landmarks than any other town in Mississippi. Begin your exploration at the mighty Natchez Bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Your local guide entertains you with local lore and legends, in addition to historical facts. View historic architectural gems, African American sites, local favorites, and a few quirky place. Complete your experience with a complimentary guided exploration of Historic Rosalie Mansion, so exquisite, she’s known as "Our Lady on The Bluff."
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No

Natchez In View - Complimentary Excursion
Discover the timeless appeal of Natchez, the oldest permanent settlement on the Mississippi River, on a curated exploration through one of the South’s most captivating cities. Travel through the downtown district, where charming buildings and tree-lined streets reflect Natchez’s prosperous river-port past. Admire some of the city’s celebrated homes, including Stanton Hall, Melrose, Monmouth, Auburn, Dunleith, and other architectural treasures. See the distinctive Victorian residences of the Natchez Garden District and take in sweeping views of the mighty Mississippi from the city’s iconic bluff.

Along the way, enjoy a stop at Frankie’s on Main, a beloved local gathering place housed in a beautifully restored bank. Here, you can listen to patriotic music and savor a signature Blues Trail cocktail, adding a festive regional flair to your visit. Or, if you prefer, wander Magnolia Hall, the famous Natchez Brownstone, once home to a native who became a wealthy cotton broker and merchant.

From either location, you have the opportunity to explore Natchez at your own pace. Browse unique shops or simply soak up the atmosphere of this remarkable river city.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Natchez Shuttle – Complimentary Excursion
Explore Natchez at your leisure with convenient shuttle service into town. Stops include:
St. Mary / Main Street - Step into Natchez’s rich heritage as you visit the St. Mary and Main Street area. Explore the oldest Catholic church building still in use in Mississippi or simply stroll through the picturesque streets lined with beautifully restored buildings.  
Franklin Street - Wander along this celebrated street, browsing an appealing collection of independent shops offering everything from handcrafted treasures and regional finds to antiques and vintage discoveries. It’s the perfect place to find a special memento of your time in Natchez.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 12: St. Francisville, LA

Perched high above the Mississippi River, St. Francisville invites you to step into a world of small-town charm infused with Southern Gothic intrigue. Set on bluffs protected from flooding, this scenic destination connects the lower Mississippi’s estates with the Delta’s natural landscapes.

Visit The Myrtles, an 18th-century estate where history and mystery intertwine. Stroll through the beautifully preserved grounds of Rosedown, known for its expansive gardens and refined architecture.

Explore the Audubon State Historic Site to discover the region’s artistic and natural legacy, then venture to the Port Hudson Historic Site, where pivotal Civil War events unfolded. Wander the district, where Royal Street, century-old churches, and preserved community buildings showcase the town’s character.

Cochon De Lait Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Experience a traditional Louisiana Cochon De Lait serenaded by local musicians. Cochon de lait is the centuries-old Cajun heritage, centered on cooking a whole pig over an open hardwood fire, infused with Native, French, African, and Caribbean influences and celebrated across Cajun country. Delight in the flavors of slow-roasted cochon, Louisiana boudin, traditional potato salads, seasonal vegetables, as well as bread, crackers, and sauces to accompany dishes. As tradition, there is an opportunity for dancing after the feast.  
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

The Myrtles - Complimentary Excursion
At first glimpse Myrtles, built in 1796, envelopes one with a complete sense of peace and tranquility. However, it is reputed to be one of the most haunted homes in America. Surrounded by centuries-old live oak trees, the mansion features a 125-foot verandah, exquisite ornamental ironwork, hand-painted stained glass, open-pierced frieze work crown molding, Aubusson tapestry, Baccarat crystal chandelier, Carrara marble mantels, gold-leafed French furnishings and ghosts.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes

St. Francisville Local Loop – Complimentary Excursion
Board this convenient motorcoach, making stops at: 
Town Hall - Access to local boutiques, bookstore, and coffee shop for an experience that supports local artists and purveyors.
Audubon Market, Elliot’s Pharmacy, and Patrick’s Jewelry - Forgot something at home? No worries, everything you need can be found at either the Audubon Market or Elliot’s Pharmacy. While you're here, don’t forget to pick up something for your loved ones at Patrick’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts.
Sage Hill / Post Office - Local store for gifts / Post Office.
West Feliciana Museum, Away Down South Gift Shop - Located in the town’s former hardware store, learn about the fascinating history of St. Francisville, or stop in for a refreshing treat at Away Down South Gift Shop.
Grace Church and Cemetery - Built in 1860, you can stroll the grounds or explore the historic cemetery of one of the state’s oldest surviving Protestant churches. 
Activity Level: Partial | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 13: Baton Rouge, LA

Welcome to Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, whose name comes from a “red stick” that once marked a boundary used by the Native Americans. The city echoes with the stories of its most notable figures, particularly the bold Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. His political and architectural legacy is reflected in landmarks such as the Old State Capitol Museum, housed in a majestic Gothic-style castle from 1852, and the current 34-story State Capitol, a striking example of Depression-era Art Deco architecture built from Louisiana limestone and adorned with marble.  

Discover Capitol Park Museum, where Louisiana’s vibrant culture comes to life, from the sounds of Louis Armstrong to the pageantry of Mardi Gras traditions. Walk in history’s footsteps on a guided exploration of key Civil War sites tied to the Battle of Baton Rouge. Visit Magnolia Cemetery and stand on the very ground where some of the conflict’s most intense moments unfolded.

Follow downtown along the Baton Rouge Riverfront, where modern art, river views, and old architecture blend seamlessly. Browse local shops and experience the dynamic energy of a city shaped by a rich and complex past.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Housed in a historic 1925 railroad depot on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Louisiana Art and Science Museum offers educational entertainment for visitors of all ages. The museum features exhibitions by internationally renowned artists, innovative programming in the state-of-the-art Irene W. Pennington Planetarium, and an Ancient Egypt Gallery. The planetarium is one of the largest and most technologically advanced planetariums in Louisiana and one of the largest in the southeastern United States. The Louisiana Art and Science Museum's Ancient Egypt Gallery houses an authentic Egyptian mummy and is one of the only permanent ancient Egypt galleries in the southeastern United States.
Activity Level: Moderate | Accessibility: Yes

The Battles of Baton Rouge - Complimentary Excursion
Led by an expert historian, explore locations that were critical to the Battle of Baton Rouge and hear about the history surrounding Vicksburg in the Civil War. Visit the historic Magnolia Cemetery and stand upon the very ground where the most intense fighting of the battle took place. Baton Rouge was the most fought over land in Louisiana’s history and this experience covers not only the Civil War, but the American Revolution and the Florida Rebellion. Although the landscape of Baton Rouge isn’t the same as it was in the 1780s or 1810s, its history is brought to life by your guide. Visit the Magnolia Mound Plantation, a Baton Rouge city park. Magnolia Mound, unlike other antebellum house museums along the Lower Mississippi, is not your grand mansion. Rather, it’s a simple structure built during Louisiana’s colonial history, and around the time of its Statehood into the Union. 
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes

Capitol Park Museum Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Begin this excursion with a brief city exploration before arriving at the Capitol Park Museum. Learn about the many diverse aspects of Louisiana from Louis Armstrong to Mardi Gras. You then continue by motorcoach for a narrated exploration as you view the impressive Governor's Hall and the New State Capitol, as well as the Old Louisiana State Capitol, also known as the State House.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 14: Oak Alley, LA

This stop along the Great River Road highlights the landscapes and stories of the lower Mississippi. Visit Oak Alley, a 19th-century Greek Revival mansion built during the region’s sugar boom and known for its avenue of live oaks. Explore the grounds, wander beneath the oaks, and see how the property evolved from a working farm into a preserved historic site. Step inside the interiors and learn about its role in the sugar industry. 

You can also join a Cajun cooking experience, prepare jambalaya while hearing traditional folktales and learning how these recipes have been passed down through generations.

Another option is a narrated boat ride through nearby wetlands, where cypress and tupelo trees draped in Spanish moss frame the waterways. From a covered boat, look for wildlife such as alligators, nutria, turtles, and wading birds in this part of the Mississippi River Delta ecosystem.

Cajun Pride Swamp Adventure - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a narrated boat ride in the Manchac Swamp, a privately owned wildlife refuge. Relax in a comfortable, covered boat, with walking room and open viewing from any seat. Swamp creatures are unafraid and responsive to the captain’s voice. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you can get within a few feet of the “jumping gators.” Other animals to be on the lookout for include nutria, ibis, turtles, herons, raccoons, egrets, and more.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: No

Oak Alley Estate - Complimentary Excursion
From its canopy of 300-year-old oaks to its vast open spaces, Oak Alley's landscape tells the story of a grand southern estate over time. Over 200 years ago, Oak Alley was just a land claim on a map and has since served many purposes, including as a sugar and rice farm, a chicken farm, a cattle ranch, and a country home. Agricultural tycoons, sugar planters, slaves, immigrant laborers, and real estate speculators have traversed its grounds over time.
Today, Oak Alley is a National Historic Landmark dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of its inhabitants. Visitors are invited to walk under its iconic alley, explore the exhibits, interact with staff, and leave with a richer, more powerful understanding of its complex history. For the full southern experience, don't forget to take time for a complimentary mint julep. 
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessible: Partial

Day 15: New Orleans, LA

Welcome to New Orleans and enjoy a full day immersed in the rhythm and spirit of the city. Discover the enchanting French Quarter, pausing at Jackson Square on the Mississippi River, just steps from the legendary Café du Monde. Continue to Louis Armstrong Park in the historic Tremé neighborhood, the birthplace of many of the city’s most celebrated jazz musicians.

Delve into the powerful exhibits at the National WWII Museum, where immersive displays bring to life the global scale of the conflict that reshaped the world, highlighting not only influential leaders but also the everyday men and women whose courage defined a generation.

French Quarter Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Get a flavor for this dynamic region aboard this shuttle which runs on a continuous loop. Drop off points include:
Caesar's New Orleans, a few blocks from Bourbon Street and centrally located near a variety of specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Jackson Square set in the heart of the French Quarter overlooking the Mississippi River and across the street from the world-famous Café Du Monde.
The Old U.S. Mint which today houses the New Orleans Jazz Museum and the Louisiana Historical Center. 
Louis Armstrong Park, located in the Tremé neighborhood, birthplace of many of New Orleans' most famous jazz musicians. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

New Orleans City Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Journey through more than three centuries of history, culture, and timeless allure as you discover why New Orleans is known as "The City That Care Forgot." This guided excursion showcases the city's most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, from the legendary French Quarter to the stately homes of former Mardi Gras Kings and Queens and the elegant mansions of the Garden District. Visit a historic New Orleans' cemetery, where above-ground tombs reveal stories of the area's unique past, then enjoy the tranquil beauty of City Park, one of the nation's oldest urban parks.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 16: New Orleans, LA | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, disembark and begin your journey home, taking with you lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the stories and traditions that have shaped life along the river.

Alternatively, you may choose to extend your stay in New Orleans, allowing more time to explore its vibrant neighborhoods, rich cultural heritage, and world-renowned cuisine at your own pace.

Ship/Hotel

American Heritage

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Per person starting at
$9,850 2-3 travelers
Single Waterview
Single staterooms provide 203 sq. ft. of space with essential amenities. Each room has an interior entrance, a large window for Mississippi River views, desk and chair, dresser, and large closet. In-room single-serve coffee brewing, premium toiletries, and complimentary WiFi included.
Single Balcony
Ideal for solo travelers, Single staterooms provide amenities similar to those of a fine hotel. With 230 sq. ft. of space, these rooms feature spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors leading to a private balcony.
Standard Waterview
The 290 sq ft staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. With large opening picture windows, modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and ample closet space, provides a comfortable and well-appointed accommodation.
Standard Balcony
Located on the second deck, features 304 sq. ft. of living space, a dresser, and a closet. Complimentary WiFi is available, with in-room single-serve coffee brewing. The full-size bathroom includes premium toiletries. A private balcony with outdoor seating provides river views.
Deluxe Balcony 2
Discover comfort in the Deluxe Balcony 2 staterooms on the third deck. The 304 sq. ft. space includes a full-size bathroom, desk, reading chair, dresser, storage, in-room coffee brewer, toiletries, and WiFi. River views can be enjoyed from the private balcony through large sliding glass doors.
Deluxe Balcony 1
Located on the fourth deck, the stateroom offers views of the Mississippi River. It measures 304 sq. ft. and includes a sitting area, desk, and full-size bathroom. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors lead to a private balcony. The room is equipped with a desk and chair, dresser, storage, and an in-room single-serve coffee brewer. Complimentary WiFi is also available.
Premium Balcony
Located on the top deck, these staterooms are 328 sq. ft. and include floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors opening to a private balcony, a sitting area, a desk, and full-size bathrooms. The room also features an in-room single-serve coffee brewer, toiletries, and complimentary WiFi.
Veranda Suite
Experience a Veranda Suite aboard American Heritage. Each suite includes a refrigerator with regularly refreshed beverages and offers up to 445 sq. ft. of living space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors connect the living area to a private balcony. The suite features a seating area, desk, full-size bathroom, and complimentary WiFi.
Included
  • 15 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 15 Dinners
  • 15 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Snacks
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Onboard gratuities
  • Port charges and fees
  • Complimentary cocktail parties
  • Dining service
  • WiFi provided by Starlink
  • Wine and beer service each afternoon and evening
  • Resident historians and experts who lead discussions and enlighten as you sail
  • Personalized experiences with a dedicated guest programs staff
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Premium and Signature shore excursions

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Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge

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