Highlights of the Mississippi Cruise Route | American Cruise Lines

Apr 20 - 28, 2027

Full ItineraryDaily OverviewPricing
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Heather Ruggles

Ruggles & Routes Travel Co

Overview

Step aboard the American Heritage and experience the Mississippi River the way it was meant to be seen: slowly, comfortably, and with a front-row seat to America's history, culture, and charm. This unforgettable journey invites you to travel through the heart of the country, where every bend in the river reveals a new story, a new landscape, and a deeper connection to the places that helped shape our nation.

Along the way, you'll discover charming river towns, fascinating local traditions, historic landmarks, and warm Southern hospitality. Enjoy enriching excursions, regional cuisine, engaging onboard entertainment, and the opportunity to learn about the people and events that brought the Mississippi River to life. Between ports, settle into the relaxed rhythm of river cruising as scenic views drift by from the comfort of your stateroom, a cozy lounge, or the open-air decks.

The American Heritage offers spacious accommodations, exceptional service, and an intimate atmosphere that allows you to truly savor the experience. Whether you're sharing stories with new friends, enjoying a quiet morning coffee as the river awakens, or watching the sunset paint the water in shades of gold, each day brings moments worth remembering.

More than a cruise, this is an opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and experience America from a perspective few travelers ever see. From the rich history of the Mississippi to the simple pleasure of watching life unfold along its banks, this journey is designed to inspire, enrich, and leave you with memories that will stay with you long after you've returned home.

Day 1 · Tue, Apr 20 · ✈️ Travel to New Orleans, LA

New Orleans, Louisiana

12:00AM

Welcome to New Orleans, celebrated globally for its endless nightlife, live music, and distinctive cuisine that mirrors its background as a blend of French, African, and American cultures. This lively city is an ideal starting point for your histo...

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Day 2 · Wed, Apr 21 · 11am 🚢 EMBARKATION American Heritage Paddleboat

About Your Cruise Line - American Cruise Lines

Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly® American Cruise Lines provides a comfortable, relaxing, and informative cruise experience. Recognized as America’s #1 river cruise line, we are known for our small ships, personalized service, and enriching experiences. We are America’s largest cruise line with 21 ships operating solely in the U.S. and the only 100% American-owned and operated cruise line. Through personalized exploration, well-designed enrichment programs on board and ashore, and all the...

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About Your Ship - American Heritage

From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, the modern American Heritage features a serene colour palette, luxurious textiles and linens, comfortable furniture, and sophisticated artwork and flourishes, celebrating the Mighty Mississippi River.

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Cabin Choices (Pricing is PER ROOM)

Starting at $5,805

Apr 21 – Apr 28

6 room options

Blending the elegance of a classic paddle-wheeler with the comfort of a modern boutique hotel, the American Heritage offers a uniquely relaxing way to experience the Mississippi River. Spacious staterooms, welcoming lounges, expansive observation ...

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Day 3 · Thu, Apr 22 · Cruise the Mississippi River

Mississippi River, Louisiana

12:00AM – 11:59PM · 23hr 59min

Welcome aboard the American Heritage! As you settle in and begin your journey along the legendary Mississippi River, you'll be greeted with a special Welcome Reception where you can meet fellow travelers, enjoy light refreshments, and soak in the ...

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Day 4 · Fri, Apr 23 · Oak Alley, Louisiana

Oak Alley, Louisiana

8:00AM – 5:00PM · 9hr

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 grou...

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Day 5 · Sat, Apr 24 · Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

7:00AM – 5:00PM · 10hr

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...

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Day 6 · Sun, Apr 25 · Natchez,/Vicksburg, Mississippi

Natchez/Vicksburg, Mississippi

7:00AM – 5:00PM · 10hr

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 on...

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Day 7 · Mon, Apr 26 · Saint Francisville, Louisiana

Saint Francisville, Louisiana

7:00AM – 5:00PM · 10hr

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 ...

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Day 8 · Tue, Apr 27 · New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

New Orleans, Louisiana

12:00AM – 11:59PM · 23hr 59min

Return 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 Ar...

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Day 9 · Wed, Apr 28 · ✈️ DISEMBARK - Travel Home✈️ or Extend Stay in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

New Orleans, Louisiana

7:00AM – 8:30AM · 1hr 30min

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 Orlea...

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Important 🤓

All pricing is per stateroom, based on double occupancy of two guests sharing a room. Airfare not included. Rates are subject to change until a deposit has been made and booking is confirmed.

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Ready to Join the Journey?

Your Mississippi River adventure begins here. Please complete the traveler information form below to reserve your preferred stateroom. A deposit of $500 per person is required to confirm your reservation. Availability and pricing are subject to ch...

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