AMERICAN CRUISE LINES
15 Days | Grand Heartland Cruise
Northbound

NEW ORLEANS TO ST. PAUL

Day 1 | New Orleans, LA. Embark. Welcome back to New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz. Culture and art abound around every corner of this unique city. 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 rich history. Stay an extra day or more to enjoy the famed French Quarter.

Day 2 | 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 3 | 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 4 | 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 5 | Day of River Cruising. Spend a beautiful day with friends in one of the ship's comfortable lounges as we explore the river from Memphis to Vicksburg.

Day 6 | 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 7 | Day of River Cruising. Curl up with a good book in one of our spacious lounges, or grab a pair of binoculars and enjoy the fall foliage as we make our way down the Mississippi River.

Day 8 | 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 9 | Hannibal, MO. Hannibal, "America's Hometown," is a place where you can rediscover adventures from Mark Twain's era. Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn are alive 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 wonderful and special shops unique to Hannibal.

Day 10 | 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 11 | Davenport, IA. Voted one of the "Most Livable Small Cities in America," Davenport is often described by newcomers and life-long residents alike as a lively, active city with a hometown feel. This vibrant city features the Legacy of John Deere, 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.

Day 12 | Dubuque, IA. A "Masterpiece on the Mississippi," Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. Dubuque is overflowing with things to do and see. 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 and Aquarium.

Day 13 | 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 14 | Red Wing, MN. Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the upper Mississippi River, Red Wing's beauty has inspired artisans, craftspeople and artists for over 150 years. Red Wing delivers a diverse blend of arts, entertainment and activities for your pleasure. 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 15 | St. Paul, MN. Disembark. St. Paul is a thrilling place to begin 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.

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

NORTHBOUND ITINERARY 15 DAYS | NEW ORLEANS TO ST. PAUL Click HERE to view 15-day SOUTHBOUND itinerary.