Central States Holidays

Days 1 - 2 : New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is like no other city in the USA. Steeped in a history of influences from Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and beyond, it’s a brilliant mosaic of culture, food and music. Here you’ll find the roots of Jazz and a blossoming culture that is like nowhere else on Earth. Bon Voyage will be delighted to plan your time in this vibrant city for you, you don't want to miss out on anything after all.

You'll depart on your Mighty Mississippi adventure on the elegant American Queen at 5pm on your second day in New Orleans.

Day 3 : Oak Alley, Louisiana

Oak Alley is one of the most photographed plantation homes on the Great River Road. This majestic mansion is a joy to explore, be sure to spend time strolling around the manicured gardens and along the famous avenue of 300-year-old oak trees. Here you'll learn about slavery in the South and the rich history of this southern estate.

Day 4 : St Francisville, Louisiana

Established in 1809, St. Francisville is the oldest town in the Florida Parishes. Below where St. Francisville is located currently, was a settlement called Bayou Sara in the 1790’s. When this settlement was destroyed by flooding and fires, many of the structures and artifacts were hauled up the bluff into St. Francisville, where they are still standing.

The town is referred to as two miles long and two yards wide, but that definitely doesn’t mean they have nothing to offer. Stop in at one of the unique shops, historical homes, beautiful churches, or breathtaking parks and you will agree with that. Spanish moss trees grow throughout the town, which creates a beautiful southern comfort to the atmosphere. 

Day 5 : Natchez, Mississippi

Founded in 1716, charming Natchez is the oldest city on the Mississippi. First inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers, the city today is now known for its elegance, hospitality and its impressive preservation of history. In Natchez you'll find more antebellum homes than anywhere else in the USA, so it's no wonder this quintessential southern town has been featured in the The 100 Best Towns in America listing. 

Day 6 : Vicksburg, Mississippi

Described as the Key to the South by Abraham Lincoln, this sleepy town perched on the edge of the Mississippi carries a history unlike any other Civil War city. Stroll though the streets and enjoy the views of the sweeping Mississippi as you delve into the local culture, art and history of this city.  

Day 7 : River Cruising

History plays a large part of this voyage along the Mississippi. Today, spend time with the onboard Riverlorian and gain an insight into the nation's history and heritage. Alternatively, grab a lounger on deck  and enjoy the scenery as it unfolds in front of you.

Day 8 : Helena, Arkansas

The small town of Helena dates back to 1833, and was once a bustling, thriving southern city. Today, Helena would seem to some as a town that time forgot. While the rest of the country was building shopping centers and interstate systems, Helena struggled to stay afloat amidst all of the progress. Big changes drew small businesses away from Main Street U.S.A. and into strip malls. Convenience took over, where simplicity once stood. Today, Helena is in the throes of a revival. With quirky boutiques, unique stores and a historic musical past, Helena remains proud of the life they continue to successfully sprout from the ruins of the past. For in through the dust and rubble, new life for this determined Southern town is emerging. 

Day 9 : Memphis, Tennessee

Welcome to the birthplace of Rock'n'Roll. Today on your tour of Memphis you'll discover landmarks such as Sun Studios, National Civil Rights Museum, famous Beale Street, and of course, Graceland. On your VIP tour of the home of The King you'll see the rooms in the mansion such as the Jungle Room, tour the grounds and museums and visit the peaceful Memorial Gardens. 

Day 10 : River Cruising

For a remarkable one-of-a-kind experience, take a guided tour of the American Queen's Engine Room to explore the inner workings of our classic, steam-powered vessel or take in a guided tour of the Pilot House where you can witness the latest high-tech electronics that helps navigate the innovative paddlewheeler up the changing currents of Old Man River in modern-day America.

Day 11 : New Madrid, Missouri

New Madrid was founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodríguez Miró who welcomed Anglo-Saxon settlers but required them to become citizens of Spain and live under the guidance of his appointed impresario, Revolutionary War veteran, Colonel William Morgan of New Jersey. Some 2,000 settled in the region. In 1800, Spain traded the territory to France in the Third Treaty of San Ildefonso, who promptly sold it to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase. The city is remembered as being the nearby location for the Mississippi River military engagement, the Battle of Island Number Ten, during the Civil War. The city is famous for being the site of a series of over 1,000 earthquakes in 1811 and 1812, caused by what is called the New Madrid Seismic Zone. Today, explore this quaint river town that will surely steal the hearts of all who visit it.

Day 12 : Paducah, Kentucky

UNESCO designated Paducah, Kentucky, the world’s seventh City of Crafts & Folk Art for the City’s important role in the connectivity of cultures through creativity, particularly quilting. Creativity is the common thread that connects people from around here. Anchored by the National Quilt Museum and a thriving fibre arts community, Paducah is a haven for creative thinkers and doers.

At the heart of America's inland waterways, the river contributes to the constant flow of Paducah's engaging energy and fascinating history. From the colourful revitalisation of the Lower Town Arts District to the vibrant streets of 19th Century architecture in Historic Downtown. Here you can immerse yourself in rich American heritage and a globally-celebrated creative culture.

Day 13 : Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Nestled along the western banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the city of Cape Girardeau, Missouri is found; a community rich in history and heritage. For more than 250 years, people have been drawn to Cape Girardeau and the river on which it lies. Stroll along the riverfront, where the passion that led Mark Twain to write so eloquently about Cape Girardeau in Life on the Mississippi, the inspiration that Gen. Ulysses S. Grant used to lead with firm conviction as he took command of the Union Army on the Mississippi in historic downtown, and the warmth and hospitality that community founder Louis Lorimier extended to Lewis and Clark while on the journey of a lifetime as they set forth on their Corps of Discovery to explore the Louisiana Purchase.

Day 14 : Chester, Illinois

The creator and writer of Popeye, Elzie Crisler Sagar, was born in Chester, Illinois. Known for its rich history and pop culture, here you can check out the world's only Popeye Museum or discover the grand homes, historical buildings and museums that are abundant in this city.

Day 15 - 16 : St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis, Missouri, famously referred to as the Gateway City, is known for its diverse neighbourhoods and the different cultures and traditions each one brings forth. The iconic city was founded in 1764 by French explorers who settled on the east side of the Mississippi, claiming the land as their fur trading post. In 1803, the city’s name began to spread as the beginning point for the famous Louis and Clark Expedition. The city is typically associated with its 630-foot stainless steel monument, The Gateway Arch, which stands proud on the banks of the Mississippi River to symbolise the westward expansion of the United States.

Day 17 : Hannibal, Missouri

Founded in 1819, Hannibal became a popular stop along the river for many steamboats travelling up the Mississippi. The town offers more parks per citizen than most towns in the Midwest and it boasts a truly remarkable arts scene. However, today the main draw of this quirky Missouri town is from fans of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, AKA Mark Twain. Many of Samuel's characters in his novels where based on people living in Hannibal where he grew up. The town is a delight to explore with many of the influences of this icon weaved into the streets, shops and museums of the town.

Day 18 : River Cruising

Borrow a book from the onboard library and relax on deck today or pop into the Gentlemen's Card Room for a game of Bridge with your fellow travellers.

Day 19 : Clinton, Iowa

The city of Clinton has much to offer, all with the beautiful backdrop of the Mississippi River. Situated at the crossroads of the Lincoln Highway and the Great River Road, Clinton is the Eastern-most point in the State of Iowa. At the height of its local economy during the late 19th Century, Clinton was regarded as the lumber capital of the nation; a history that is reflected as visitors pass many old sawmills. Today, agriculture plays a big part in Clinton’s economy, which is visible in the beautiful rolling fields filled with luscious, fresh harvest crops. Explore the history of this fascinating river town and discover a lifestyle that will stand out from today’s norm.

Day 20 : Dubuque, Iowa

Amongst the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi, Dubuque was founded in 1785 by fur-trader Julien Dubuque. Filled with historic sites, buildings and a fascinating architectural district this All American City is a joy to explore.

Day 21 : La Crosse, Wisconsin

La Crosse, named by explorer Zebulon Pike who saw a group of people playing a game with sticks that looked like a cross, is a popular destination for tourists. Filled with statues and architecture this river city is an artist’s dream. Like much of Wisconsin, La Crosse became heavily involved with the lumber industry in the mid-1800's until the decline of the forests throughout much of Wisconsin took its toll. But in the wake of the vanishing lumber era, La Crosse became a city renowned for its beer making, with around five breweries operating in La Crosse near the turn of the century. Today, make note of lingering pieces of history along the streets of the city, inside local breweries, and within the floorboards of historic homes and businesses.

Day 22 : Red Wing, Minnesota

Recently voted as one of the most historic places in the world to visit by National Geographic Traveller, Red Wing was discovered in the early 1850s and began to flourish as a thriving pottery industry between 1877 and 1967. It's one of the most charming towns in the Upper Mississippi rising from beautiful bluffs with an abundance of historical sites and a unique small town character. 

Day 23 : Depart Minneapolis

Enjoy the twin town of Minneapolis and St.Paul at your leisure before your early evening flight home.

This is the end of your Mississippi River cruise but it doesn't have to be the be the end of your adventure. Perhaps you may want to extend your stay and include a trip to Chicago for a few days or maybe fly down to Florida and relax on its beaches before heading back to the UK.

Call the USA travel specialists at Bon Voyage to discuss your perfect Mighty Mississippi - Full Length River Voyage.