From St. Louis' majestic Gateway Arch to the jazz-infused French Quarter in New Orleans, this voyage follows the path of American humorist Mark Twain and the great steamboat races of the 19th century down the mighty Mississippi. Along the way visit New Madrid and walk along the river to an observation deck, listen to some blues on Beale Street in Memphis, and uncover the ghosts of the Civil War in Helena. Revel in Southern hospitality in Natchez's National Historic District and on the grand lawn of Oak Alley Plantation.
Highlights
Enjoy blues and the vibrant culture of Memphis, Tennessee
Explore the National Historic District in Natchez, Mississippi
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Arrive in St. Louis and check in to your deluxe hotel which is adjacent to the city’s attractions. Wonder at the St. Louis Arch, an unequaled architectural statement that defines this storied town, then continue your architectural tour at the imposing Cathedral of St. Louis. Indulge in a less lofty American pastime at the Anheuser-Busch brewery, an American classic.
Your fare includes breakfast this morning at your hotel as well as a transfer to the Louisiane and all porterage. Settle into your stateroom or suite, head to The Veranda for a light snack, and then bid St. Louis farewell as the Louisiane departs and you immerse yourself in the joys of life on the river. Bon voyage!
Imagine this sleepy village flattened in 1811 by North America's strongest recorded earthquake, and later further shaken up by 1862's Battle of Island Number Ten. Artifacts are on view at the quaint Historical Museum and the Hunter-Dawson State Historic Site.
The pleasures of the Louisiane become apparent as you start your day with a made-to-order beignet and café au lait in The Veranda. Read a book, talk to the Illuminator, the onboard historian, and then enjoy made-to-order crêpes for lunch. Spend the afternoon with new friends and sip a pre-dinner aperitif in the Bar Royale. Then indulge in the Southern and Continental cuisine of The Crescent Room followed by stimulating entertainment before retiring to your suite or stateroom for a restful night’s sleep.
Take in the sounds of Memphis, where a stroll on soulful Beale Street, a tour of Graceland, or a visit to the Stax Museum of Soul Music and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum have you feeling the beat.
You're sure to agree with Mark Twain's assessment that Helena "occupies one of the prettiest situations on the Mississippi", but there's more than just looks to this hub of blues music, which features the lovingly reconstructed Civil War-era Fort Curtis.
Get lost among over 500 gallant antebellum buildings in this magnificent town, one of America's most historically significant national treasures. Chat up the friendly locals in the thriving entertainment district Natchez-Under-the-Hill, which Mark Twain once described as having a "desperate reputation, morally."
Linger at one of the most photogenic sites in America, majestic Oak Alley Plantation, and stroll its allée, lined by 28 massive oaks more than 300 years old. Tour the Big House and investigate the buildings dotting the lovely grounds.
Day 9: New Orleans, Louisiana | Disembarkation
1 Breakfast
Bid adieu to the Louisiane and take the time to explore New Orleans at your leisure. Amble along the festive streets of the "Big Easy", where the scent of Creole dishes and the strains of jazz mingle within stately French Quarter homes. Hop on a streetcar to further uncover this most European of American cities.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$3,999
Notes
All fares, including land and hotel, are capacity controlled, subject to change at anytime without notice, and do not guarantee availability.
- A Single Supplement of 50% is available only for the Deluxe, French Balcony, Promenade, and Veranda Staterooms.
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
TrustScore 4.8 | 169 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 169 reviews on
32 minutes ago
Friendly and professional interactions. Answered my questions and followed up on initial contact.
Tim Elliott
1 day ago
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
2 days ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
2 days ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
3 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.