Highlights of the Mississippi Cruise

New Orleans is a city alive with music, culture, and history at every turn. Explore its vibrant streets, savor iconic cuisine, and soak up the energy of this unforgettable location. A walk through the French Quarter reveals iron balconies, Creole townhouses, and architectural details that reflect the city’s French and Spanish heritage.

The New Orleans jazz legacy thrives, from street musicians to the traditional performances at Preservation Hall, while local restaurants showcase the bold flavors of Creole cuisine. Along the nearby riverfront, the Mississippi’s role in steamboat commerce and trade comes into focus, making this bustling port the perfect starting point for a journey on the river.

Hotel Stay
Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with a Hotel Stay, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. 
On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby for transport to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Board your ship and wave goodbye to New Orleans as your Mississippi River cruise sets sail. Traveling north, the scenery shifts from the city’s iconic waterfront to the working river corridor. Levees line the banks, cargo vessels move through the channel, and bustling port facilities showcase the river’s vital role in American trade and transportation.

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 and wander beneath the oaks that have seen so much history. Step inside the interiors and learn how the property evolved from a working farm into a preserved historic site.

You can also join a Cajun cooking experience, preparing jambalaya as you hear traditional folktales and learn 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 our captain’s voice. In the safety and comfort of the boat, you will be able to get within a few feet of our “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 southern plantation 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 plantation, a 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. With an emphasis on its time as a sugar plantation, visitors are invited to walk under its iconic alley, explore the exhibits, interact with staff, and leave with a richer, more powerful understanding of this plantation's complex history. For the full Southern experience, don't forget to take time for a complimentary mint julep. 
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessibility: Partial

Welcome to Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, whose name comes from the French phrase “red stick,” a reference to a boundary marker once used by Native American tribes. 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 will cover 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 will be 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

Experience Baton Rouge – Complimentary Excursion
Board your Cruise Coach for a guided exploration of Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s vibrant capital city. Begin in the historic government district, home to the Pentagon Barracks and Fort San Carlos, reminders of Baton Rouge’s strategic importance throughout Louisiana’s military heritage. Learn how these storied sites played a role in the city’s early defenses and witnessed the changing fortunes of the region through periods of Spanish, French, American, and Civil War history.

Continue to the grounds of the Old Louisiana State Capitol, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. With its striking Gothic Revival architecture and dramatic position overlooking the Mississippi River, the historic landmark offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s colorful political past. Nearby, Galvez Plaza provides an inviting setting to take in the surroundings with plenty of photo opportunities. Your final stop is Repentance Park, a beautiful riverfront gathering place with sweeping views of the mighty Mississippi. Take a moment to enjoy the scenery before returning to your Cruise Coach.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial

Capitol Park Museum - 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. We will then continue by motorcoach for a narrated exploration as we 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

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 water, with elegant interiors and period furnishings that offer a glimpse into Natchez’s past.

Next, travel to 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. 

Vicksburg National Military Park- Complimentary Excursion
A knowledgeable guide will lead 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

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 will entertain you with local lore and legends, in addition to historical facts. View historic architectural gems, African American sites, local favorites, and a few quirky places. Complete your experience with a complimentary guided exploration of Historic Rosalie Mansion, so exquisite, that she’s known as "Our Lady on The Bluff."
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: 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 will 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

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, where the region’s artistic and natural beauty comes to life, 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 will be 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 Accessibility: 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

Welcome to New Orleans, where jazz fills the air, and every street corner has a story to tell. Wander through the French Quarter, where charming balconies and hidden courtyards invite you to sit, sip, and people-watch to your heart’s content. Savor some beignets at Cafe du Monde and indulge in a bowl of gumbo or a po' boy sandwich, because in New Orleans, there's no such thing as too much good food. And don't forget to explore the fascinating exhibits at The National WWII Museum, where history comes alive in the heart of this vibrant city. From the sounds of jazz to the rich flavors of Creole cuisine, New Orleans promises an unforgettable experience.

Disembark in the city doesn't just claim jazz; it lives it. After eight days of cruising along the historic Mississippi River, the journey has concluded. Filled with lasting memories and a new appreciation for the river's history. As you disembark for the last time, the Mighty Mississippi and the serene landscapes you've encountered offer a quiet goodbye.