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Twilight Riverboat

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Join us for this extremely popular trip! Book today before it sells out!

August 26-29, 2024

Day 1: We leave Illinois and visit the American Pickers Store, Antique Archaeology, before

spending the evening in Davenport, Iowa at the Holiday Inn. 

Day 2: The beautiful Riverboat Twilight awaits! We will board the riverboat in LeClaire, Iowa where an expanded continental breakfast is waiting for you before we depart north on our journey. Our captain will be your guide to the wildlife, valley landscapes and historic river towns. Enjoy live entertainment, games, two snacks, and both lunch and dinner served at your table before arriving in historic Dubuque, Iowa. Accommodations are at the riverfront Grand Harbor Resort, where your luggage will be waiting in your room.

Tonight, the Diamond Jo Casino is within walking distance if you'd like to visit. 

Day 3: Start your day with breakfast at Tony Roma’s in the resort. Spend the morning exploring Dubuque’s history, architecture, shopping, and other attractions using our complimentary shuttle.  Admission is included to Iowa’s #1 attraction, the must-see Smithsonian-accredited National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. Later in the morning, we will re-board the Twilight for our return journey. Take in all the sites that you missed on the trip upriver. Enjoy lunch and dinner served at your table. We arrive back in LeClaire in the early evening and spend the evening at the Holiday Inn in Davenport, Iowa.  Day 4:  We travel home full of fantastic memories!

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Riverboat Twilight - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Riverboat Twilight

Phone 800 331-1467

Riverboat Twilight

Most of us have a mental picture of the Mississippi that has been formed from our view from the shore and bridges. Nothing prepares you for the experience of seeing the valley from the river side. This vast wilderness is hidden smack in the center of the densely populated center of our country. Who knew? A romantic could expound on the size, the commerce, the wildlife, the hidden qualities and the fact that the area is not much changed from the early explorer’s times. This is the river Mark Twain knew, not the one from our school geography books.

The great Upper Mississippi River Valley can only be experienced by boat. Fly-over’s won’t do, there are few roads along the shore and small boats are too limited in range and too low in the water to appreciate the true majesty of the many islands, marshlands and palisades along the Upper Mississippi River.

The Riverboat Twilight delivers one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest. And it’s not just a cruise; it’s a conduit to reconnection, to relaxation and ultimately renewal. Marvel at the majestic Mississippi river while relaxing in style aboard a stunningly replicated Victorian Riverboat. Allow yourself to be pampered by the Twilight’s attentive, informative and welcoming crew. Delicious meals are prepared on board in the lower galley, while a full bar complete with top shelf liquors provides custom drinks to enhance your experience.

Where the river runs deep, so do the discoveries. The Riverboat Twilight delivers one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest.

If you haven’t seen the river from the Twilight, you haven’t seen it.

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Riverboat Twilight

Review Highlights

“ We took the 2 day cruise for our summer's last hurrah! ” in 5 reviews

“ He autographed his drawing for us back in Le Claire !! ” in 2 reviews

“ The hotel/set up in Dubuque was well thought out-the museum there is really a gem. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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197 Front St

LeClaire, IA 52753

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Awesome Fall cruise up and down the Mississippi! HIGHLY recommend this cruise. It was so beautiful and we were just in awe of the colors. We also loved how the Captain narrated some of the trip!

Hubby and I loved the 1.5 hour sightseeing tour! There's a ton of seating around the boat and we were lucky to get front row on the top deck. We bought a strawberry daiquiri from the bar and had a super relaxing afternoon. The captain gave some occasional information on the area, otherwise we just peacefully enjoyed the view. The boat was mostly seniors, but I would definitely grab a group of my friends (young adults) and go for a cruise in the future!

Strawberry daiquiri and a river view!

Loved the two day cruise. Extremely relaxing, comfortable boat with a great crew and great amenities. I wish more "travel" was like this! Would absolutely come again.

The town of LeClaire is cute. There are lots of shops and restaurants. The 1.5 hour cruise is perfect. It was just enough time on the river. The were clean and organized.

Took the 2 day river cruise on riverboat Twilight from Le Claire Iowa ( Davenport area) to Dubuque Iowa and back!! The weather was grey, overcast, and occasional rain both days. The trip was fantastic , weather be damned!!! The crew was welcoming. The Captain informative on river lore. He also kept us informed about what was happening with and on the river. Lots of Bald Eagle sighting and other birds. The food was delicious!! The snacks plentiful. Plenty of seating on all decks,Inside and out. Great views of river. Fun entertainment for part of cruise. I enjoyed hearing the water slap against the hull while enjoying the quiet beauty of the river. Whenever the sun came out it was glorious!! Bring a jacket, it can get a bit chilly on the river. Especially when it was overcast and drizzling. (I stayed outside both ways except for meal and snack times.) If you listen to the Captains announcements you can fill out a small questionnaire for a chance to win prizes! On the bar deck you will see handmade kaleidoscopes, fantastic works of art by local artist Tom Chouteau. Unfortunately they are not for sale. There are riverboat drawings by Tom in the gift shop on board. Beautiful drawing, and amazingly low priced. We bought a picture!! Tom also works for the boat. You may meet him when checking in your luggage, or when getting transferred to the hotel in DBQ. He autographed his drawing for us back in Le Claire!! The hotel in DBQ was superb! Close to boat, clean comfortable and our luggage was in our room when we arrived. If you need a handicapped room, let them know when you book your tour. I waited 'til we checked our luggage that first morning. Fortunately they were able to accommodate me and I had a room with a walk in shower!! They actually radioed the boat while on the river to let me know a handicapped accessible room was ready for me!! Wow!! Breakfast buffet at hotel was superb, with all the usual accouterments plus biscuits and gravy. One last comment, then I will end and post some pictures. Our Steward on the main deck was Dylan!! He was incredibly helpful, kind, and cheerful. He made several trips to the 3rd deck to get or refill our beverages. Was quite attentive to our needs before, during, and after meals and snacks, took care of us in the gift shop, helping us find sizes, and digging out a pair of gloves for me from God knows where. He made sure we had brochures of the boat when we left. We have given them out to friends and family with high recommendation they take this trip. We will be back, in spring !! Book now for fall trips!! This company is amazing!! Avast Ye landlubbers, book now or walk the plank, and stow Ye gear in Davy Jones Locker ‍! Check out pictures!!

See all photos from Hal M. for Riverboat Twilight

We took the two day cruise from LeClaire to Dubuque. It was great. So relaxing. Boat is just big enough to let you move around as needed but small enough to kind of force you to relax and just take in the scenery. Captains narration was nice-informative but not over done. All staff very friendly. The hotel/set up in Dubuque was well thought out-the museum there is really a gem. Bring a book and plan to chill out in a rocking chair,see bald eagles and pelicans, have a drink and unwind surrounded by beautiful scenery.

We had a terrific time on the two day cruise. The crew was darling, friendly and attentive; the food simply outstanding, plentiful and delicious and the ambiance relaxing. Scenery lovely and the captain's narrative added so much. We highly recommend and will do it again! We are from Utah and came to Missouri to visit family so it was a nice way to spend some uninterrupted time together.

My wife and I had took the 1.5 hour boat tour as that was what was available. Awesome experience , good staff and professional and relaxing atmosphere. At only $20 per person this was well worth it. We'd definitely come back when we are in the area.

We just went on the Twilight Cruise, it was very relaxing and extremely organized. I would not have changed 1 thing! The food was plentiful and delicious. And yes, there isn't WiFi or TV but that wasn't an issue for us. Senior citizens? Yes, plenty of the nicest people to hold a conversation with. We had a wonderful time.

See all photos from Cilla C. for Riverboat Twilight

It was nice and the people are friendly. If you are looking to relax and learn facts about the Mississippi, it's the trip for you. I'm glad I went. If I had it to over again I would go on the one day cruise. Just FYI to be prepared: The WiFi doesn't work onboard. There may be major delays due to locke sharing along river. Only one bathroom on first deck. Only one bar on top (3rd) deck with no table service. No Television to watch sports. BRING SOMETHING TO READ. Almost all passengers are Senior Citizens.

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The Day Cruise In Iowa That Will Make Your Summer Stupendous

Kim Magaraci

Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: [email protected]

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Back in the old days, the Mississippi River was full of riverboats and paddle-wheelers transporting people and goods up and down the Iowa coast. Today, you can still find several of these ships making their rounds, but on stunning, full day cruises rather than transportation missions. For one of the best day cruises in Iowa, set sail on the Riverboat Twilight.

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To book your trip on this beautiful vessel, visit the Riverboat Twilight website, here . The one day cruise is offered on August 31, September 1, 2 and 3, and October 26, 27 and 28. In addition to one day cruises, the Riverboat Twilight offers 1.5 hour sightseeing tours and a full, two day excursion from Le Claire to Dubuque, where you’ll tour the National Museum of the Mississippi River. Book your cruise early, as these often sell out!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Riverboat Twilight

A two-day, relaxing, round-trip paddlwheel journey on the Mississippi River!

•  Detailed Overview
•  Tour Itinerary
•  Other Information
•  Pick-up Points
•  Departure Dates
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4 Days / 3 Nights

Come explore the mighty Mississippi River in style on board the Riverboat Twilight. This elegant steamboat replicates the vessels popular in the Victoria era. Enjoy a two-day trip roundtrip on the river as you indulge in delicious meals and relax to live entertainment. Stay overnight in a hotel midway then reboard the Twilight to return to LeClair, Iowa.

We make our way through Wisconsin enroute to the small river town of Le Claire, IA. First, tour the Buffalo Bill Museum to learn more about this bigger-than-life western character and his humble beginnings here in his hometown of LeClaire, This evening we enjoy free time for dinner on your own before turning in for the night here in LeClaire.

Board the Riverboat Twilight for our two day excursion up the Mississippi River. A continental breakfast awaits you upon boarding. Lunch and dinner meals will be served to you by the friendly crew at your reserved table. Beautiful scenery, activities and relaxation are all for you to enjoy as the boat winds its way upstream. From shallow marshes teaming with wildlife to palisades and high cliffs pass as we approach mining country. The Captain will point out sights of interest along the way and explain "locking through" procedures as we negotiate locks and dams. Showtime each afternoon features folk musicians, humorists and perhaps an appearance by Mark Twain himself! Browse the gift shop or enjoy your favorite cocktail at the bar. Ending day one of our cruise we check into the Grand Harbor Resort on the banks of the river in Dubuque, IA for a well deserved rest tonight.

We have a free morning to enjoy the National Mississippi River Aquarium & Museum adjacent to our hotel. Then we're back on board the Riverboat Twilight for another day of adventure and history on the mighty Mississippi River. Heading downstream we enjoy the company of river barges, houseboats, pleasure craft and workboats on the third largest river system in the world. The Mississippi was once a highway for French traders, fur trappers and European settlers in the 18th Century. Continental breakfast, lunch dinner and snacks throughout the day with entertainment and fun keep us busy. We return to Le Claire, IA to meet our Lamers coach and transfer to the nearby Comfort Inn or Holiday Inn Express for another relaxing night.

Beginning our journey home we travel through Illinois for a tour of Starved Rock State Park. We enjoy an included luncheon in the Parks' historic lodge in the main dining room. Entering Wisconsin our fellow travelers say goodbye as we head home with wonderful memories of the Twilight Riverboat and the mighty Mississippi River.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner

Images courtesy Riverboat Twilight

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COVID-19 WARNING: 

We have taken enhanced health and safety measures, including additional cleaning and disinfecting, in an effort to mitigate the risks of  COVID-19  . An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. To assist in preventing the spread of COVID-19, individuals should not travel if they are suffering from any symptoms of COVID-19. Individuals who may have been exposed to COVID-19 are encouraged to wear masks while traveling and all passengers should engage in frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizer. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), senior citizens and individuals with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. By traveling on a Lamers bus, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. Let’s work together to keep one another healthy and safe.

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America's Authentic Mississippi River Experience

Group fares start at 20 passengers  Escort & Driver Complimentary

Climb Aboard! We'll take care of the rest.

The Riverboat Twilight delivers one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest. Come aboard and step back in time to when riverboats were the most elegant and relaxing way to travel.

Miles to LeClaire, Iowa from Major Midwest Cities

Welcome travel professionals, to america’s authentic mississippi river experience.

Group fares start at 20 passengers – Escort & Driver Complimentary

• Max capacity of 140 passengers provides an intimate, quality-driven experience. • No buffet lines here! Meals prepared fresh and plated on china, served at reserved tables. • Commitment to cleanliness with enhanced cleaning processes. • Escort & Driver complimentary. • Abundant comfortable indoor and outdoor seating on all decks for everyone on board. • Fascinating and educational narration provided during the cruise. • Tickets to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium included.

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

The service by all involved was first class all the way!

We were very impressed by the personal service we received by the staff and everyone involved. The trip was very nice from a sightseeing perspective, interesting from a historical perspective and very relaxing overall. Plus the food was plentiful and excellent. We highly recommend this cruise to everyone!

Denny F • Morgan Hill, California

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

3 F's; Food, Food, and Fun

Excellent team from the captain to the crew provide a relaxing time..The chefs do an excellent job and there is more great food than you can imagine. This is the most organized and professional staff that we have ever experienced. No detail is overlooked.

Igs • Crown Point, Indiana

2-Day overnight cruise

Starting @ $409 pp  

Our Signature Cruise

• $409 pp Dbl Occupancy* / $439 pp Single Occupancy* • Departs LeClaire IA and travels to Dubuque IA. Return to LeClaire next day. • Overnight accommodations at the riverfront Grand Harbor Resort Hotel • Fare includes all meals, overnight accommodations • Tickets to National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium • Entertainment and Captain’s narration. *Peak season rates apply for departures after mid-September.

1-Day  cruise

Starting @ $169 pp

North into the Driftless Area

• $169 pp with one ticket complimentary • Group rates begin at 20 or more passengers. • Departs and returns to Dubuque Iowa • Fare includes breakfast, snacks, and full lunch • Entertainment and Captain’s narration.

2 – Day Cruise

Our signature cruise – leclaire, iowa to dubuque, iowa & return.

Includes: All Meals, 1 Night Lodging, Entry to the National Mississippi River Museum, Dubuque Shuttle, Entertainment & Activities Onboard.

From $409 /person Double Occupancy

download Twilight group travel information pdf

Welcome to leclaire & the quad city area, plenty to see & do before and after the cruise.

If you arrive in town early, don’t forget to visit historic downtown Leclaire IA, birthplace of Buffalo Bill Cody and the home of the Buffalo Bill Museum. Many of the turn of the century buildings are now occupied by unique shops featuring artwork, homemade candies, & antiques or enjoy a great meal while overlooking the beautiful Mississippi River. LeClaire is also home to the American Pickers!

For more group tour information and help in planning your visit to LeClaire:  Contact Cindy Bruhn [email protected]

For more group tour information & help in planning your visit to the Quad Cities, contact their Sales Manager –

Nicki Brus  [email protected] 800-747-7800, ext. 828

1 – Day Cruise

Dubuque, iowa to guttenberg, iowa & return.

Includes: Continental Breakfast, two snacks, full lunch, historical narration, great scenery, Eagles, more relaxation than you have allowed yourself in years, plus local favorite LA Suess on banjo.

From $169 /person

Your mississippi river adventure, step  aboard.

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The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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Riverboat Twilight Online Reservations

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Reservation / Cancellation Policy

What is the cancellation policy? Two-day cruises: Less than 30 days notice of cancellation: $100 /person not refunded. - Less than 72 hours: 50% refund. - Less than 24 hours notice, no shows or late arrivals no refunds. If your plans change prior to 72 hours before departure we may allow you to reschedule, based upon availability. An inconvenience fee of up to 50% of the cruise value may be charged for passengers who fail to show up for their scheduled cruise. One day cruises: Less than 30 days notice of cancellation: $25 /person not refunded. - Less than 72 hours: 50% refund. - Less than 24 hours notice, no shows or late arrivals no refunds. If your plans change prior to 72 hours before departure we may allow you to reschedule, based upon availability. An inconvenience fee of up to 50% of the cruise value may be charge for passengers who fail to show up for their scheduled cruise. Sightseeing cruises - Less than 24 hours notice, no-shows or late arrivals - No Refund. In the event of a global pandemic or other crisis beyond our control, we reserve the right to issue gift certificates in place of cash refunds.

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Privacy Policy Information collected is for our internal company purposes only. We will not share your information with other companies. Tobacco Policy Smoking and vaping of tobacco products is allowed outside on the main deck stern only. The consumption of cannabis, whether by smoking, vaping or via edibles is strictly forbidden. The Riverboat Twilight prohibits the possession and consumption of all substances proscribed by the Federal Controlled Substance Act. Thank you for understanding. Parking Free parking is available in the public lot located in front of our boat landing.

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A Look at The Mississippi River Fleet for 2024

• March 28, 2024

With American Queen Voyages ceasing operations , the number of cruise ships on the Mississippi River is diminishing in 2024.

Two cruise lines are set to offer itineraries along the U.S. domestic waterway this year, including American Cruise Lines and Viking.

Cruise Industry News lists all of the vessels sailing on the Mississippi in 2024.

American Serenade Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Modern riverboat  Built: 2023 Capacity:  175 guests Tonnage:  5,148

After entering service for American Cruise Lines in 2023 , the American Serenade will be the newest cruise ship in operation on the Mississippi River this year.

For its second season, the 175-guest vessel is currently offering itineraries that cover the entire length of the Mississippi River and also include sailings to other waterways, such as the Ohio, the Cumberland, and the Tennessee.

American Symphony Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Modern riverboat  Built: 2022 Capacity:  175 guests Tonnage:  5,148

Custom-designed to sail on the Mississippi , the American Symphony is marking its third season on the river in 2024.

Part of American Cruise Lines’ Modern Riverboat Series, the 2022-built vessel is set to offer a series of itineraries along both the Lower and Upper Mississippi, in addition to cruises that also sail to the Tennessee, Cumberland and Ohio rivers.

American Melody Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Modern riverboat  Built: 2021 Capacity:  175 guests Tonnage:  5, 148

Also part of American Cruise Lines’ series of modern riverboats, the American Melody entered service in 2021 .

In 2023, the 175-guest vessel will offer seven- to 23-night cruises that sail along the Mississippi, Tennessee, Cumberland, and Ohio rivers. Some of the itineraries can be combined with land-based tours that include visits to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

American Splendor Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Classic paddle-wheeler Built: 2016 Capacity:  185 guests Tonnage:  2,000

After undergoing a major refurbishment in 2022 , the American Splendor continues to sail on the Mississippi River in 2024.

One of American Cruise Lines’ classic paddle-wheelers, the 185-guest vessel is set to offer four different itineraries during the season, which include destinations in Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Illinois, Kentucky, Alabama and Missouri.

American Heritage Cruise Line: American Cruise Lines Type: Classic paddle-wheeler Built: 2015 Capacity:  149 guests Tonnage:  3,800

Previously named the Queen of the Mississippi , the American Heritage is another paddle-wheeler operated by American Cruise Lines.

Built in 2015, the 149-guest cruise ship is scheduled to offer three seven- to 11-night itineraries across the Lower Mississippi in 2024. Additionally, it will offer a 15-night itinerary that focuses on the Ohio River and sails all the way to Pittsburgh.

Viking Mississippi Cruise Line: Viking Type: European-style modern riverboat Built: 2022 Capacity:  386 guests Tonnage:  10,000

The Viking Mississippi is the largest cruise ship sailing on the Mississippi River. After entering service in 2022 , the 10,000-ton European-style riverboat continues to offer itineraries across both the Upper and Lower river regions.

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