Complete Mississippi River Cruise (American Jazz)

Description

The echoes of riverboat travelers from a bygone era resound as we travel the full length of the Mighty Mississippi. As ten states glide past your vantage point on the sun deck, admire what has been the subject of numerous works of art and the backdrop for countless American novels.

From the vibrant cultural center of the “Big Easy” to the dramatic landscapes of the Upper Mississippi, experience life as it once was on the western frontier. Our expert guides will take you to the grand southern plantations, stately antebellum houses, and Civil War battlefields of the Lower Mississippi. Taste the finest Cajun and Creole and enjoy mouth-watering Memphis BBQ as you travel to the birthplace of Jazz, Blues, and Rock–n-Roll.

Cruising up the river, Hometown Americana takes center stage. Relive the adventures of Mark Twain’s time on a trolley ride through Hannibal, his boyhood hometown. Experience the legacy of John Deere in Davenport and the Victorian-era elegance of Dubuque. As we continue north, pasture gives way to forest and the wild life of Minnesota and Wisconsin comes into view.

Just as it was in Mark Twain’s day, every cruise on the Mississippi River is unique due to fluctuating river conditions that can have an impact on our itinerary. The river has a mind of its own and our sailing schedules must adapt to it. This is part of the adventure and American Cruise Lines will always work to provide a seamless travel experience.

Trip Name

Complete Mississippi River Cruise (American Jazz)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Riverboat Passenger Capacity: 184 American Jazz will begin its inaugural season on the Lower Mississippi in August of 2020. Like her sister ships, American Jazz has the contemporary styling and modern amenities that make river cruising more attractive and comfortable than ever before. Featured will be a gorgeous five-story glass atrium, private balconies in all of its spacious staterooms, and spectacular views from everywhere on the ship. American Jazz will also feature the same advanced opening bow and retractable gangway seen on American Song and American Harmony. Ranging from 250 to 800 square feet, the staterooms aboard American Jazz are the finest on any cruise ship. Guests will enjoy ample living space, full-size bath rooms, plush seating, and the ideal place to unwind after an enriching day of discovery. The brand new Grand Suites also include two glass walls and a wraparound private balcony, plenty of space to host small cocktail parties or private dinner events.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is commonly referred to as the birthplace of Jazz. There is something for everyone in this historic city where art and culture prevail. The open-air artist colony proudly displays local works on the iron fence in Jackson Square, while the city’s 45 museums carefully preserve its past. Consider staying an extra day or night to enjoy this lively city.

Day 2 - Day 2 Oak Alley, LA

Once serving as an antebellum sugar cane plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is rightfully named after its most distinguishing feature, a canopy of 300-year-old oak trees that form a quarter-mile path leading to the Mississippi River. Restored to its 19th-century grandeur, this classic Greek Revival-style antebellum mansion is simply breathtaking.

Day 3 - Day 3 Houmas House, LA

The historic Houmas House takes you back to the pre-Civil War era of stately mansions and expansive plantations. Featuring over 38 acres of lush gardens, ponds, and ancient oak trees, this shore excursion is rich in beauty and history. Enduring floods, war, and the Great Depression, Houmas House underwent a renovation in 1940 and today offers a detailed look into the legacy of the South.

Day 4 - Day 4 Baton Rouge, LA

Experience the wonder of Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital, and one of the most historic and unforgettable cities in the South. Known as the Red Stick, Baton Rouge has everything you would expect to find in a state capital, but with a down-home flavor that is part of its charm.

Day 5 - Day 5 St. Francisville, LA

Established in 1809, St. Francisville is a quaint southern town overlooking the Mississippi River. One of the largest shipping ports on the Mississippi River prior to the Civil War, St. Francisville is a small town with appeal. Experience the town’s rich history as you tour historic plantations, including the famous Rosedown, or explore the areas' captivating gardens.

Day 6 - Day 6 Natchez, MS

Settled in 1716, Natchez is rich in history and southern hospitality. Enjoy a guided exploration of this fascinating city which has retained its antebellum charm since its surrender during the Civil War. Visit Frogmore, a historic cotton plantation still in use today, or attend a special piano concert in the J. N. Stone music room.

Day 7 - Day 7 Vicksburg, MS

U.S. history is alive in Vicksburg. This “Queen City of the Bluff” offers plenty of opportunities to take a step back in time. Civil War battlefields, century-old churches, cotton fields, and restored train depots are just a few of the many intriguing landmarks that await your visit. Marvel in the beautiful antebellum-style homes and learn about Vicksburg’s rich history as displayed on the riverfront murals.

Day 8 - Day 8 Greenville, MS

Known as the Heart and Soul of the Mississippi Delta, the city of Greenville offers visitors insight into traditional southern living. Enjoy a relaxing trip through the historic sites of the largest city in Mississippi, including Cotton Row, the Mount Holly Plantation, and the Weatherbee House.

Day 9 - Day 9 Memphis, TN

Excitement resonates as you reach America’s third-largest inland port, famous for Blues, BBQ, and Elvis Presley's Graceland. The city has been at the forefront of several American cultural movements such as Civil Rights and Rock ‘n’ Roll. In fact, the city’s Beale Street is often called “America’s Most Iconic Street” due to its significance to our country’s history and contributions to the music industry.

Day 10 - Day 10 New Madrid, MO

Originally founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodriguez, early settlers of New Madrid were required to become citizens of Spain in order to reside here. Today, New Madrid is a living monument to early American history with sites including the Kochtitsky Home, the Trail of Tears, and Veterans Park.

Day 11 - Day 11 Cape Girardeau, MO

Enjoy the charming features of this historic town that was a French trading post and lively river port in the late 1800s. Today it boasts Civil War sites and a tranquil setting commemorating the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Marvel at the outdoor murals reflecting the area's rich heritage and enjoy shore excursions to Crisp Museum and the Old Vincent Church.

Day 12 - Day 12 Chester, IL

Chester is a beautiful region of Illinois located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, with a diverse and storied history. Chester is also home to Popeye's creator Elzie C. Segar; you may see the sailor man's likeness in the town's six-foot-tall bronze metal statue.

Day 13 - Day 13 St. Louis, MO

St. Louis is often referred to as the “Gateway to the West.” Take in the Gateway Arch Riverfront, highlighted by the Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Enjoy St. Louis' many world-class attractions, including the Art Museum, Science Center, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and the Missouri History Museum. End your day by relaxing at the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most popular public gardens.

Day 14 - Day 14 Day of River Cruising

Curl up with a good book in one of our spacious lounges. Or relax on the sun deck and enjoy the passing landscapes as we make our way along the Mississippi River from St. Louis to Hannibal.

Day 15 - Day 15 Hannibal, MO

Discover Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” and the inspiration behind many of Mark Twain’s literary characters. 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.

Day 16 - Day 16 Fort Madison, IA

Founded as an active military outpost in 1808, Fort Madison was one of three posts established by the U.S. Army to maintain control over the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. Today, Fort Madison offers visitors a vibrant cultural scene, bucolic landscapes, and an active agri-tourism industry which celebrates the American heartland. Explore its many historic districts, where you can admire the well-preserved Victorian and Post Renaissance architecture. Enjoy the area’s museums, unique boutiques, antique shops, as well as the local breweries and wineries.

Day 17 - Day 17 Davenport, IA

Davenport is often described as a lively place with a hometown feel. The Legacy of John Deere, the largest agricultural exhibit in the world, takes place here. 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.

Day 18 - Day 18 Dubuque, IA

Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi 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 a whimsical downtown area, and visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Day 19 - Day 19 Day of River Cruising

Reflect on the incredible journey you have experienced so far and get ready for the final leg of the trip, cruising the Upper Mississippi River.

Day 20 - Day 20 La Crosse, WI

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.

Day 21 - Day 21 Red Wing, MN

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.

Day 22 - Day 22 St. Paul, MN

St. Paul is an exciting place to end your adventure on the Mississippi River. History buffs will enjoy a walking tour of Summit Avenue, which showcases gorgeous historic mansions built in the late 1800’s. St. 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.

Day 23 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Enjoy Deluxe Graceland Signature Tour. No trip to Memphis is complete without a trip to the home of the “King of Rock n’ Roll,” Elvis Presley. American Cruise Lines offers the most in-depth experience available at Graceland, allowing you to explore fascinating exhibits such as Elvis’ museum, estate grounds, the jungle and trophy rooms
Discover Vicksburg National Military Park. The night before our visit, our onboard Civil War historian gives a captivating lecture detailing all you are about to witness the next day at Vicksburg National Military Park
Enjoy Houmas House & Plantation Tour. The stately grandeur of Houmas House is complemented by its eclectic flair as our guide, Ms. Judy Davis who has a personality as magnificent as the mansion itself. Take a private tour through the gardens to the 16 room plantation home.
Visit Mark Twain Boyhood Home. 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.
Explore B.B. King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center. The B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center was built to honor the life and music of one of the most accomplished musicians of our time. The museum’s exhibits and educational programs serve to build bridges between the community and the world while preserving the rich cultural and musical heritage
Discover National Eagle Center. Come face-to-face with bald and golden eagles at the National Eagle Center. This unique opportunity brings you within a few feet of these majestic creatures with no barrier between