7 Nights Upper Mississippi River Cruise | Saint Louis to Saint Paul, and reverse

Type of Vessel

Launched in 2016, America is one of the finest paddle wheeler ever built, introducing features never before seen on the Mississippi. America embodies a casual ambiance and relaxed atmosphere while providing panoramic views of the passing scenery. With only 185 guests, fellow guests will quickly become new friends.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Saint Louis, Missouri: Saint Louis is sure to win you over. Admire the scenic riverfront, highlighted by the majestic Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the United States Enjoy Saint Louis' many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, and the Missouri History Museum. End your day by relaxing at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world's most popular public gardens.
Enjoy a guided excursion through two of the museum's most popular exhibits; The 1904 World's Fair: Looking Back at Looking Forward, an event that attracted over 200,000 visitors to the opening day, and Seeking Saint Louis, delve into the history of the Gateway City from its founding through the new millennium.
Enjoy a narrated journey of downtown Saint Louis, the riverfront, Citygarden, and the historic neighborhoods of Soulard and Lafayette Square. Delight in a visit to Saint Louis' 1,371-acre Forest Park, known as a natural oasis in an urban environment. Stop at the Cathedral Basilica, where you explore the interior if this stunning church which rivals the cathedrals in Rome, Italy. This excursion is only offered on cruises ending in Saint Louis.

Day 2 | Hannibal, Missouri: Explore Hannibal, "America's Hometown," and experience the boyhood adventures of Mark Twain. Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn come to life in this charming Missouri town, where you can run your hand along Aunt Polly's fence, explore Injun Joe's Cave, and get reacquainted with one of the world's most beloved authors. The downtown area is a thriving haven for artisans filled with specialty shops unique to Hannibal.
As you arrive in Hannibal, the boyhood home of famous author Mark Twain, relive the author's experiences that heavily influenced his writings. Visit the actual home that Mark Twain grew up in, which is surrounded by the legendary whitewashed fence of Tom Sawyer. The vivid stories told by Mark Twain come to life at this interactive museum. Visit the Becky Thatcher House, the Huck Finn Home, and the Tom and Huck Statue at the foot of Cardiff Hill. Stop at the Interpretive Center, home to 15 original Normal Rockwell paintings.
Relive the adventures of Mark Twain's time in Hannibal during this historical trolley excursion. Your experienced guide will share the history of Hannibal and take you to places of significance, including the Rockcliffe Mansion, an amazing 13,500-square-foot American castle built to overlook the mighty Mississippi River. This excursion will also highlight many of the exciting places which inspired Mark Twain's famous tales. Join your local guide strolling through the streets of Hannibal, the hometown that inspired Mark Twain's famous literary novels. Learn about its history through the author's own words and observations.

Day 3 | Day of River Cruising: Take in the beauty of the river as you make your way from Hannibal to Davenport. Join other guests in one of the spacious lounges or simply relax on the sun deck.

Day 4 | Davenport, Iowa: Voted one of the Most Livable Small Cities in America, Davenport is often described as a lively, active city with a hometown feel and features the largest agricultural exhibit in the world. Music enthusiasts will enjoy Davenport's many music festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, The Mississippi Valley Fair, and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival which is dedicated to native Jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke.
Enjoy a stop at the John Deere Pavilion and Store. The company's rich heritage is chronicled in exhibits, interactive touch screen displays, and equipment dating back nearly 175 years, including antique tractors and giant modern combines. Continue on a narrated city journey of Davenport and learn about the Rock Island Arsenal, Davenport native Bix Biederbecke's contribution to Jazz, Rock Island's 1920's "Crime Lord" John Looney, the area's beautiful college campuses, and the city's Native American history.
Enjoy a guided excursion of the Hauberg Indian Museum. Located in the Black Hawk State Historic Site, this museum interprets the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki Indians who once called it home. During the excursion, view full-size replicas of Sauk winter and summer homes, dioramas with life-size figures of the Sauk and Meskwaki Indians, and traditional artifacts, including authentic trade goods and jewelry.

Day 5 | Dubuque, Iowa: A "Masterpiece on the Mississippi," Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the river. Take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway, or try your luck in one of Dubuque's state-of-the-art casinos. View colorful Victorian mansions, stroll through the bustling downtown area, or visit the national Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.
Step back in time and experience the elegance of Victorian-era Dubuque during a journey through the town's many historic attractions. Learn about the architecture, families, and events that made 19th-century Dubuque such a unique treasure. Your guide will lead you through Dubuque's beautiful historic sites, including the Mathias Ham House and The Old Jail Museum.
Take an entertaining and informative journey along the mighty Mississippi at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. The museum's interactive exhibits will give you an inside look at the Mississippi River's past, present, and future. On this guided excursion, learn about the lives of the pioneers, explorers, and artists who once lived along the Mississippi River. Get close to nature, as you make your way through six large aquariums.

Day 6 | La Crosse, Wisconsin: Step into 19th-century America in La Crosse, located on the banks of three legendary rivers. Riverboats depart from the city's Riverside Park which features international friendship gardens with landscape styles from around the world. Visit the Riverside Museum which traces the rich history of La Crosse or Dahl Auto Museum with an expansive collection restored classic cars. Explore Grandad Bluff Park with walking trails which offer spectacular views of the city.
Take a narrated excursion of this wonderful city. Discover the historic downtown with its late 19th and early 20th-century buildings, as well as the well-preserved residential neighborhoods. Gain insight into LaCrosse's development, from the boomtown riverboat days and roaring '20s to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Visit the Hixon House, an authentic Victorian home and designated Historic Landmark, which has retained 90% of its original furnishings.
Cruise along the scenic Mississippi River on a classic paddle wheeler, the La Crosse Queen Eco, as your guide highlights current and historical facts about the area and tests your knowledge with trivia along the way. Witness some of the most beautiful views in the Midwest, including native wildlife and steep bluffs on the river. Learn about the locking process while cruising past the Lock and Dam Number Seven in Dresbach, Minnesota.

Day 7 | Red Wing, Minnesota: Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the Upper Mississippi River, Red Wing's beauty has inspired craftsmen and artisans for over 150 years. Red Wing offers a diverse blend of arts, entertainment, and activities. Enjoy a show at the historic Sheldon Performing Arts Theatre or observe the beauty of nature at one of Red Wing's 38 parks.
Travel back in time, as you visit the beautiful city of Red Wing. Led by the local expert guide, view some of the most impressive Victorian homes of the period, as well as the historic Saint James Hotel. Visit the Pottery Museum of Red Wing and admire the numerous vintage pieces of artisan-crafted stoneware, art pottery, dinnerware, and folk art.
Witness bald and golden eagles like never before, face-to-face! The National Eagle Center offers a unique viewing opportunity that brings visitors within a few feet of these majestic creatures with no barrier in between. This is an experience like no other and one you will never forget.

Day 8 | Saint Paul, Minnesota: Saint Paul is a thrilling place to begin your adventure on the Mississippi River. History buffs will enjoy a walking journey of Summit Avenue, which showcases gorgeous historic mansions built in the late 1800's. Saint Paul's enchanting art galleries, world class museums, and entertaining stage performances will capture your imagination. End the day by visiting Mounds Park, where visitors are treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the city.

Guest Services

The all-American crew from American Cruise Lines simply provides you with the best possible cruise experience by offering an unsurpassed level of attention. Whether onboard or ashore, each member of the crew will work with you to help accommodate your specific interests, tastes, and needs. Attentive and personalized service is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.

Food and Dining

Meals are served in the spacious dining salon, which accommodates all passengers at one seating. The day's menu is announced well in advance, and consists of fresh meats and seafood, as well as in-season fruits and vegetables. Special menus are available to passengers on restricted diets. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated, though advance notice. All meals are prepared to order. Coffee, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are available 24 hours a day.

Onboard Activities/Events

Let American Cruise Lines guide you through the origins and rich traditions of music on America's legendary rivers and waterways. These shores are home to many celebrated styles of music including Country, Jazz, Blues, and Rock n' Roll. Onboard and ashore, enjoy music inspired by each unique region and learn its impact on the development of American music. Also enjoy daily entertainments from historians, naturalists, and local experts that join every cruise. Daily lectures ranging from history to culture to cuisines.
As you cruise this legendary river, the riverlorians will provide you with a deeper understanding of river history, culture, and lore. Learn about the Civil War as you walk the grounds on which it took place. Take part in discussions about the river's role in the development of American music and discover how steamboats played a major part in America's western expansion.

Shore Excursions

The eight-day Upper Mississippi cruise is an enriching experience, embodying hometown Americana, abounding wildlife, and the breathtaking scenery that has inspired the country's most legendary writers, artists, and musicians. Shore excursions include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home, John Deere Pavillion, La Crosse Queen Eco Cruise and the National Eagle Center.

Staterooms or Cabins

Owner's Suites | Each suite offers the finest accommodations on the Mississippi River with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular up to 445 square feet of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors lead to an expansive private balcony offering private panoramic views throughout the room. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a spacious seating area, desk, and full-size bathroom.
AAM Staterooms | Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing Mississippi landscape. At 328 square feet, there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor- to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views of the Mississippi from every angle. These staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk, and full-size bathrooms and are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.
AAC Staterooms | Conveniently located on the fourth deck and at 304 square feet offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.
AAL Staterooms and AAR Staterooms | Enjoy a luxurious 304 square feet of living space that is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathrooms, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery.
A Staterooms | These 290 square feet staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, these staterooms are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space.
Single (Private Balcony) Staterooms | Perfect for the solo traveler, offering all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 230 square feet, these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.
Single Staterooms | A comfortable getaway, offering individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 square feet, these staterooms have interior entrances and large opening viewing windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.