The #1 Outdoor Activity In La Crosse On Tripadvisor
We took this boat cruise on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The boat was full, but there was plenty of room. Drinks are very reasonable and the staff was knowledgeable and friendly. One big plus was the bathrooms were clean and spacious, something I didn’t think I would find on a paddle boat! I would recommend the La Crosse Queen.
We took this cruise with a group and it was a lot of fun! We saw eagles, blue herons, foxes, osprey, along the banks of the Mississippi. We were able to go through the locks, which was lucky since if there is a barge in the area they do not allow this. We are talking about going again in the fall when the leaves are changing and birds are migrating.
We took the Friday night Pizza cruise and enjoyed fantastic views of the Mississippi River. Several people from our group had never been on a river cruise and were amazed. Free Pizza and beer along with cruise for $18.95 is hard to beat! Some questioned the cheap price, but soon found out it was good.
This was an excellent tour. The guide who did the narrative was friendly, fun and knowledgeable about the town and river. We saw bald eagles, a swing bridge, fancy homes, etc. We sat on the top deck which is covered and has open air sides so you get out of the sun and a nice breeze.
Mississippi River Cruise Itineraries
Viking River Cruises America’s Great River
Cruise from St. Paul down to New Orleans on Viking’s 15-day America’s Great River itinerary aboard the 193-stateroom Viking Mississippi, a ship designed just for this river. The journey starts in St. Paul, where guests can explore the Twin Cities, before heading to Red Wing, where they’ll learn about the country’s national bird at the National Eagle Center. Then, it’s on to La Crosse, Wisconsin Dubuque, Quad Cities, and Burlington, Iowa and Hannibal, Missouri, the childhood home and inspiration of author Mark Twain. The next stop is St. Louis, Missouri, with attractions like the Gateway Arch National Park and the Anheuser-Busch brewery. In the latter part of the trip, guests can enjoy scenic cruising along the Lower Mississippi and stops in Memphis, Tennessee Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi and Baton Rouge, Louisiana before finally arriving in New Orleans.
American Queen Voyages New Orleans to Memphis
American Cruise Lines Upper Mississippi River Cruise
This eight-day cruise starts in St. Louis and sails to St. Paul along the Upper Mississippi. Stops along the way include Hannibal, Missouri Fort Madison, Davenport, and Dubuque, Iowa and Winona and Red Wing, Minnesota. Several ships cruise this route, including American Melody, inaugurated in 2021, and the upcoming American Symphony. These new sister ships offer large rooms and suites with contemporary furnishings and an upscale feel.
Lower Mississippi River Cruise
On this 8-day Lower Mississippi River cruise sailing between New Orleans, Louisiana and Memphis, Tennessee, enjoy customized excursions from iconic ports in Oak Alley and Natchez where you gain an insiders perspective of classic antebellum homes and renowned plantations.
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Enjoy A Hibachi Dinner Cruise In Biloxi Ms
Experience the beauty of our Mississippi Gulf Coast on one of Americas last remaining TRUE stern wheel paddle boats. Enjoy sights and sounds while Chef Hurley displays his mastery of hibachi cooking, and dine on some delicious riverboat favorites.
Due to the overwhelming popularity of our Hibachi Night, our dinner cruise will consist of hibachi prepared by Chef Hung Hurley on the upper deck of the Betsy Ann in the open air during our warmer months. This specialty Mississippi riverboat cruise makes for a perfect date night or a fun night out with friends and family! Take in the sights and enjoy a dinner boat cruise aboard the Betsy Ann.
- Menu items include egg drop soup, fried rice, vegetables, shrimp and chicken or steak.
- Dining reservations are limited due to the time constraint of preparing meals for multiple passengers.
- Full bar with snacks available for purchase.
- Live music on Dinner Cruises!!
Mississippi River Gateway Cruise
On this 11-day Mississippi River Gateway cruise, cruise the Mississippi River from the banks of the Bayou to the shores of St. Louis. Embark on a modern riverboat and enjoy guided excursions to famous port cities, locally inspired cuisine, and a full array of small ship amenities.
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Wonderful Relaxing Two Days
Extremely enjoyable trip. The cruise itself was delightful as you slowly moved up and down the river enjoying the wildlife and listening to the Captain explain the view and history. Unless you are a very big eater you have to be selective as they feed you FIVE times a day. Not only is the food plentiful but it is also very good. The Grand Resort in Dubuque was a nice stay as we had a view of the river. There was adequate time to explore some of the sights In Dubuque. I think we will do this trip again in the future.
Ron S. Tipton, Iowa
Your Lower Mississippi Itinerary
Youll enjoy between six and 22 days of fabulous food, music, camaraderie, and relaxation. Sit on the deck of one of our gorgeous paddle wheelers. This fantastic mode of travel slows life down and allows you to soak up every ounce of beauty along this iconic body of water.
Consider just a few of our fabulous Mississippi cruises: New Orleans to Memphis.
If you arrive in New Orleans a few days before the cruise launches, you have the opportunity to fully explore and experience the wealth of cultural amenities that abound in the Big Easy, including:
The Garden District: A fabulous and historic neighborhood, filled with oak-lined boulevards, grand mansions, and, of course, lush gardens. Its also the location of the famed Lafayette Cemetery, which is the final resting place of several historical figures, including John Howard Ferguson, who was the defendant in the Supreme Courts Plessy v. Ferguson decision that established the separate but equal doctrine that was later overturned in the 1950s.
French Quarter: No trip to New Orleans is complete without at least a walk-through of the famous district. Here youll find Bourbon Street the beating heart of Mardis Gras and Jackson Square, where ceremonies marking the transfer of the Louisiana Purchase territory from France to the United States took place in 1803.
Along the way, youll visit several more fabulous locations, including Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the state capital and home to Louisiana State University.
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Graceful Traditions Of The Era Of Steamboat Travel With Modern
Spacious luxury awaits aboard the American Duchess, a boutique-style riverboat that combines modern day amenities with a nod to the graceful era of steamboat travel. With some of the largest accommodations on the Mississippi River, the ship is home to 83 comfortable staterooms and balconied suites ranging from 180 to 550 square feet. Unique to the American Duchess are her Loft Suites, which feature two stories enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows, two full bathrooms, a comfortable dining area, a beautiful lounge with a queen sofa-bed, a private balcony and an upstairs bedroom.
Best Mississippi River Cruises For 2022
0Upper Mississippi River vs. Lower Mississippi River Upper Mississippi River Lower Mississippi River0Top Cruise Ports on the mighty Mississippi RiverWhere will your Mississippi River cruise take you? Mississippi River cruises immerse you in the culture and cuisine of the historic U.S. South. Here are some of the most popular cruise ports where our Adventure Life Mississippi River cruises dock: Get to Know VicksburgGet to Know Baton RougeGet to Know New Orleans0What’s it like to cruise the Mississippi River on the riverboats?American QueenAmerican Duchess American Countess
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Which Is The Best Company
Both companies appear to be well run and provide a memorable experience. According to US Today, both companies are solidly in the top ten.
Id feel comfortable booking with either company. Your decision may be influenced by the itinerary or being on a specific boat .
On a side note, if youre a Viking fan, the Viking Mississippi will be launched in August of 2022. This will also be a modern river boat hosting 386 guests.
Upper Mississippi River Cruise St Louis To Minneapolis
This luxury 9-day Upper Mississippi River cruise between St. Louis and Minneapolis offers adventure, beauty and comfort to all who embark upon it. The Upper Mississippi River offers the opportunity to explore the territory that served as Mark Twains muse.
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Highlights Of The Mississippi River Cruise
New Orleans, LA to New Orleans, LA
- Pre-CruisePackage and Complimentary Hotel Stay
- Day 1New Orleans, LA
- Day 2Houmas House, LA
- Day 3Baton Rouge, LA
- Day 4Oak Alley, LA
- Day 5New Orleans, LA
Begin in the French Quarter of New Orleans and continue to Baton Rouge and Natchez. Explore the “Gateway to the West” via St. Louis, rock ‘n’ roll to Graceland, view Civil War landmarks, and stroll through the museums and art galleries of Paducah.
New Orleans, LA to St. Louis, MO
- Pre-CruisePackages and Complimentary Hotel Stays
- Day 1New Orleans, LA
- Day 2Baton Rouge, LA
- Day 3Natchez, MS
- Day 5Day of River Cruising
- Day 6Memphis, TN
- Day 7New Madrid, MO
- Day 8Paducah, KY
- Day 9Day of River Cruising
- Day 10St. Louis, MO
- Day 11St. Louis, MO
Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Upper Mississippi River and treat yourself to Blues and BBQ. Guests can choose their perfect itinerary whether aboard an American riverboat or authentic paddlewheeler.
St. Paul, MN to New Orleans, LA
- Pre-CruiseComplimentary Hotel Stay
- Day 1St. Paul, MN
- Day 2Winona, MN
- Day 5Fort Madison, IA
- Day 6Hannibal, MO
- Day 7St. Louis, MO
- Day 8St. Louis, MO
- Day 9Day of River Cruising
- Day 10Memphis, TN
- Day 11Day of Cruising
- Day 12Vicksburg, MS
- Day 14Baton Rouge, LA
- Day 15New Orleans, LA
Pittsburgh, PA to St. Louis, MO
Memphis, TN to Nashville, TN
Chattanooga, TN to Nashville, TN
About La Crosse Queen Cruises
Cruise back in time and explore the Upper Mississippi with us! The La Crosse Queenis a modern-day replica of the grand river boats that plied the Mississippi River in the early 1900s. Cruising out of La Crosse, Wisconsin, she is one of the few authentic Mississippi River paddlewheel river boats still in operation in the United States today. In keeping with early traditions, she was built with sternwheels that are her only means of propulsion.
The La Crosse Queen has a split sternwheel, and each half is run by a twin diesel engine that powers hydraulic motors, which turn the paddles. The split paddlewheel gives the Queen greater maneuverability and dependability. This is in contrast to most Mississippi River paddlewheelers in operation today that have a free wheeling paddlewheel at the stern of the boat for visual effect, but have traditional screw-type engines hidden for their real means of propulsion.
The La Crosse Queen is U.S. Coast Guard inspected for safety and is licensed to carry up to 149 passengers.
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Dinner Brunch & Holiday Cruises On The Mississippi River From Memphis
For an upgraded experience including a meal, entertainment and extended time on the river opt for one of Memphis Riverboats dinner, brunch or themed cruises. The signature Memphis riverboat dinner cruise features Memphis-style pulled pork and all the fixings, plus a full cash bar and live music. It leaves at 7:30 p.m. and stays out for about 2 hours. But check the full reservations calendar for a variety of dinner, themed and holiday cruises that combine food, drink and entertainment with the riverboat experience: From Sunday Jazz Brunch, Easter Lunch and a Mothers Day cruise to a Fourth of July Fireworks celebration, Midnight Booze Cruise and Riverboat Queens, which hosts a full drag show on board, youll find plenty of riverboat tours to choose from whether youre looking to cruise with family or friends.
Where do I board? All cruises operated by Memphis Riverboats depart from 45 S. Riverside Dr., the historic Cobblestone Landing in downtown Memphis.
How do I book? While walk-up tickets are available as space allows , the company recommends booking in advance for weekend sightseeing tours, and always booking in advance for any dinner cruise. Memphis Riverboats’ online booking system is easy to use.
What should I wear? Dress casually for sightseeing cruises. On dinner, holiday and themed cruises, anything goes passengers dress in everything from casual attire to formal wear to get in the spirit.
Absolutely Perfect In All Ways
My Friend and I went on the Riverboat Twilight and it was the most perfect/awesome adventure! From reserving our trip to our final walk to our car after the two day cruise, all was perfect! Staff are amazing, from the Captain to the servers, to the musical entertainers. The food is suburb and generous! Everything is very well organized, from our luggage/hotel in Dubuque/seating for meals, free shuttles in Dubuque, etc! The scenery and info along the way from the captain was wonderful! This was an absolutely perfect two day cruise, and we are going again in Mid October as we loved it so much!!.
Karen V Pella, Iowa
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Mississippi River Port Highlights
New Orleans, Louisiana: Thick with atmosphere, New Orleans is world-famous for its annual Mardi Gras celebration, beautiful French Quarter neighborhood, great Southern and Creole cooking and some of the world’s best jazz music.
Vicksburg, Mississippi: The site of a famous Civil War battlefield, Vicksburg also offers visitors a glimpse into its Southern heritage with antebellum plantations, old churches and restored train depots. A popular attraction is National Military Park, where visitors can learn about the siege and defense of the city. The park includes more than 1,370 monuments and markers, a restored Union gunboat and a national cemetery. Boat-lovers might like the Old Depot Museum, which features the world’s largest collection of ship models, as well as a collection of riverboat models and U.S. Navy ships with Mississippi names.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Louisiana’s state capital is an intriguing mixture of African-American and Caribbean cultures and a hot spot for Creole and Cajun cuisine. Visit Louisiana’s Old State Capitol or new state capitol building — or head to the LSU Rural Life Museum for a showcase of what life was like on a typical 19th century plantation. Visit the kitchen, slave cabins and grist mill before touring a replica of the town.
Mississippi River Cruise Lines
Two companies ply the Mississippi on a regular basis. American Cruise Lines operates nearly nine itineraries, anywhere from five to 22 days, on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, while American Queen Steamboat Company operates four paddlewheelers on all of the Mississippi.
European river cruise operator Viking River Cruises plans to sail the Mississippi, expected to launch in 2021. The ships will not be paddlewheelers. Instead, they will have the company’s signature Longship style and focus on enrichment.
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How Much Does It Cost To Take A Mississippi River Cruise
For the ultimate experience, you could cruise all the way from Minnesota to New Orleans . The overall distance from headwaters to the gulf coast is 2,320 miles . Typically, the river is divided into three segments:
- Upper section between St. Louis and St. Paul
- Middle section between St. Paul and Memphis
- Lower section between Memphis and New Orleans
We fell in love with The Big Easy many years ago and vowed to return one day. For that reason, we worked out the average costs of some of the most popular river cruises on the lower Mississippi.
The itineraries vary and include some amazing sights such as Memphis, southern plantations, and Vicksburg.
Mississippi river cruises pricing will vary depending upon the time of year, reflecting peak and non-peak season rates. More dramatically impacting the fare is your cabin choice.
For instance, the American Queen offers basic inside cabins starting around $237 per night / person. These are much smaller than the ones with balconies.
Lower Mississippi River Sights
The 8-day Memphis to New Orleans itinerary appeals to us. We could fly in and spend a day , see Graceland and other sights.
On AQSC, wed be sailing on the American Queen, with a veranda, for a cost of $3,999 each. With ACL, wed be on the Queen of the Mississippi, with a balcony, for $4,605.
Vicksburg was a pivotal battle allowing the Union supremacy of the waterway. As mentioned above, this is a must see for Shannon.
Id rather see an original southern plantation, especially one as famous as Oak Alley. The best part is we can do both!
One of my greatest disappointments when we were in New Orleans was not being able to go on the local paddle-wheeler. Our timing was horrible as it was in dry dock. Thats why Im even more excited to arrive by water.
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Lets Cruise In Leclaire
Come explore the mighty Mississippi River in style, comfort, and convenience! The TWILIGHT, at 126 ft. in length, has the power and accommodations to make your next freshwater cruise one to remember. From 1.5-hour cruises to a 2-day trip, you will find a package thats perfect for your next visit to LeClaire, IA!
Coveted as the the most elegant riverboat to be launched in the last 100 years, the TWILIGHT was carefully designed and built by Captain Dennis Trone to replicate the lavish steamboats popular in the Victorian era. A rounded stern and high attention to ornate detailing plays up your classic riverboat experience.
Your captain, Kevin Stier, is a master of the water. A family affair, Carrie Stier runs the office while their son and daughter all work towards making your experience fun and relaxing. In his spare time, Captain Stier loves traveling, so a breezy, sunny day in the TWILIGHTs Pilot House is his idea of paradise. In fact, youre encouraged to stop by and say hello during your cruise. If youre willing to listen to a story or two from Captain Stier, you may even get to steer the boat!
Mile after glorious mile, youll enjoy the best of the Mississippi with all the ease of modern amenities. Book your TWILIGHT Riverboat cruise in LeClaire today!
Ready to book your Riverboat Twilight cruise today? Lets pick your adventure!
