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

Type of Vessel

The American River Cruise revolution continues with American Harmony, the second in American Cruise Lines' highly anticipated series of contemporary riverboats. These, the first modern riverboats ever in the United States, have introduced many pioneering innovations to America's waters. With a capacity of just 190 guests, American Harmony has the modern amenities and contemporary styling that today's traveler has come to expect. Featured are expansive lounges with large glass windows, offering astounding views. This new ship also features a five-story, glass-enclosed atrium with a large domed skylight, which serves as the central gathering point for the entire ship.

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 and on the Complete Mississippi and Grand Heartland itineraries

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.

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

Grand Suites | Measuring over 800 square feet and offers 270 degrees of panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Sliding glass doors lead out to a wrap-around balcony complete with a private dining area, the perfect place to enjoy breakfast room service or watch the sun set. Each features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration.
Owner's Suites | Offers the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular 645 square feet of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. This spacious suite features a full-size bathroom, as well as a separate bedroom and living area. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors let light pour in and allow private panoramic views from every vantage point. An expansive private balcony is a perfect place to savor a calm afternoon or to enjoy breakfast as the sun rises over the riverbank.
Veranda Suites | With a generous 405 square feet of relaxing space, each suite includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.
AAM Staterooms | Located on the fourth deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. At 350 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 from every angle.
AAC Staterooms | Conveniently located on the third deck and 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 views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. At 316 square feet, these staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk and full-size bathrooms.
AAL Staterooms | Located on the second deck and offer a luxurious 300 square feet of living space. Each stateroom is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery. These staterooms are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.
AAR Staterooms | Located on the main deck offering complete comfort with approximately 275 square feet of living space. Enjoy a full-size bathroom, large picture window, and door leading out to a furnished private balcony. These staterooms also feature a large sitting area, ideal for getting together with friends.
Single Staterooms | Perfect for the solo traveler, offering all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 250 square feet, these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.