Best Riverboat Cruises in USA
Cruising along the picturesque rivers of the United States is a captivating journey that unveils the country’s natural beauty and rich history. As someone with a passion for travel and exploration, you’ll be thrilled to discover the best rivers to cruise in the USA. From the mighty Mississippi to the tranquil Hudson, these waterways offer a diverse range of experiences, each with its own unique charm. In this guide, we’ll take you on a virtual voyage through the top rivers to cruise in the USA, offering a glimpse of the enchanting landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural treasures that await along their meandering paths. So, embark on this adventure with us as we explore the beauty and wonder of cruising the best rivers America has to offer.
Here are the Best Riverboat Cruises in USA
Lower Mississippi Cruise : Memphis to New Orleans
📸 Courtesy of American Queen Voyages
Length : 9 days
Fair : Reasonable (Airfare included on select cruises) See Details ……
The Lower Mississippi River journey from Memphis to New Orleans is an incredible nine-day adventure, filled with rich history and breathtaking scenery. Your voyage will began in Memphis, Tennessee, a city steeped in the rhythms of blues and soul. As you set sail, you couldn’t help but feel the echoes of Elvis and the mighty river’s call.
Your first stop is Cleveland, Mississippi, a charming town in the heart of the Delta. Here, you can explored the birthplace of Delta Blues and felt the soulful spirit of musicians like B.B. King. The cotton fields stretching to the horizon told the story of the region’s agricultural history.
Vicksburg is next on our journey, a city with a profound Civil War legacy. You can visite the Vicksburg National Military Park, where the echoes of cannon fire still seemed to resonate. It was a somber reminder of the sacrifices made during that tumultuous period.
Natchez, with its antebellum architecture and graceful mansions, was a step back in time. Strolling through the streets, you will marvele the well-preserved elegance of this historic town. It was like walking through the pages of a Southern novel.
As you continued downriver, St. Francisville will greete you with its charming streets and beautiful gardens. The picturesque town’s plantation homes and vibrant history were a delight to explore.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s capital, will welcome you with the grandeur of the State Capitol building. The city’s fusion of Creole and Cajun cultures made for a sensory treat, with mouthwatering cuisine and lively music.
Your journey will culminated at Nottoway, home to the largest antebellum mansion in the South. The opulence of the mansion and the sprawling grounds were a testament to the grandeur of the plantation era.
Finally, we reached the vibrant city of New Orleans, where jazz filled the air, and the aroma of Creole spices hung all around. The river will take you on a historical and cultural voyage through time, leaving you with memories of a journey that felt like a dream. The Lower Mississippi River had truly show you the heart and soul of the American South, and as you disembarked with a newfound appreciation for its history and culture.
Shoreside Discoveries :
Highlights
◙ Free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay
◙ Unlimited guided tours
◙ Exquisite food
◙ Unlimited beverage
◙ Unlimited Wi-Fi
◙ Live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment
◙ Cancellation option available
◙ Designated service animals are permitted onboard
Prohibited
◙ No Gambling
◙ Smoking permitted in designated outside areas only
◙ Drones inside the vessel is strictly prohibited. (Drones are permitted only onshore and outside the port areas)
Upper Mississippi Cruise : St. Louis to Minneapolis
📸 Courtesy of American Queen Voyages
Length : 9 days
Fair : Reasonable (Airfare included on select cruises) See Details ……
Your nine-day river journey along the Upper Mississippi River, from St. Louis to Minneapolis, will be an adventure filled with history and natural beauty. You will embarked on this journey in St. Louis, Missouri, where the Gateway Arch stood tall, marking the starting point of your voyage.
Your first stop is Alton, Illinois, just across the river from St. Louis. This charming town had a rich history, with tales of Abraham Lincoln’s debates and the Underground Railroad echoing through its streets.
Hannibal, Missouri, is the next destination, and it was impossible not to get swept up in the nostalgia of Mark Twain’s tales of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. The Mississippi River played a central role in Twain’s stories, and you will felt like you are living in one of his books.
As you continued north, you reached Bettendorf, Iowa, a city with a strong industrial heritage. The sights of the riverfront factories and the Davenport Skybridge were a testament to the region’s economic past.
Dubuque, Iowa, has a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. You can explore the charming downtown with its historic architecture and enjoye the scenic beauty of the bluffs surrounding the city.
La Crosse, Wisconsin, will welcomed you with its stunning river views and vibrant arts scene. It was here that you truly felt the river’s influence on the culture of the region.
Red Wing, Minnesota, is a town with a strong connection to the river and a history of manufacturing, particularly in the production of Red Wing shoes. The picturesque town is a perfect place to reflect on your journey.
Your voyage will concluded in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a city known for its modernity and vibrant arts community. It will be a fitting end to your journey, as you marvele at the river’s transformation from its industrial past to the thriving metropolis it is today.
The Upper Mississippi River had been your guide through history and nature, showing you the heart of the Midwest and the stories woven into its towns and landscapes. Your nine days on the river will left you with a deep appreciation for the history, culture, and natural beauty of this remarkable region.
Shoreside Discoveries :
Highlights
◙ Free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay
◙ Unlimited guided tours
◙ Exquisite food
◙ Unlimited beverage
◙ Unlimited Wi-Fi
◙ Live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment
◙ Cancellation option available
◙ Designated service animals are permitted onboard
Prohibited
◙ No Gambling
◙ Smoking permitted in designated outside areas only
◙ Drones inside the vessel is strictly prohibited. (Drones are permitted only onshore and outside the port areas)
Tennessee and Cumberland Cruise : Louisville to Pittsburgh
📸 Courtesy of American Queen Voyages
Length : 9 days
Fair : Reasonable (Airfare included on select cruises) See Details ……
Your nine-day river journey from Louisville to Pittsburgh along the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers will be a captivating exploration of history and natural beauty. You will set sail from Louisville, Kentucky, with its vibrant riverfront scene and rich bourbon heritage. The city’s lively spirit will bids you farewell as you ventured upriver.
Your first stop is Madison, Indiana, a town known for its well-preserved historic district. The charming streets and grand homes spoke of a bygone era, where steamboats once ruled the waters.
Cincinnati, Ohio, will welcome you with its impressive skyline and riverfront parks. The city’s heritage as a major river port was evident, and as you explore its cultural and culinary offerings with enthusiasm.
Maysville, Kentucky, was a glimpse into the region’s frontier history. The town’s beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings and river views are made for a captivating visit.
As you continued along the Ohio River, Point Pleasant, West Virginia, will beckone you with its connection to the legendary Mothman and its role in the Battle of Point Pleasant during the American Revolutionary War.
Marietta, Ohio, was a town steeped in history, with its well-preserved streets and intriguing museums. You will immerse yourselves in the stories of the settlers who once called this place home.
Wheeling, West Virginia, with its historic sites and Victorian architecture, provided another layer of history and charm to your journey. The city’s location at the confluence of the Ohio River and Wheeling Creek added to its allure.
Your river voyage will culminate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a city defined by its industrial past. The steel mills and bridges that once dominated the skyline had given way to a thriving cultural scene, making Pittsburgh a city of transformation.
The Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers will guide you through a tapestry of history and natural beauty, connecting these cities and towns with the flow of their waters. Your nine-day journey will left you with a deep appreciation for the rich stories woven into the fabric of these riverfront communities and the majestic landscapes that surround it.
Shoreside Discoveries :
Highlights
◙ Free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay
◙ Unlimited guided tours
◙ Exquisite food
◙ Unlimited beverage
◙ Unlimited Wi-Fi
◙ Live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment
◙ Cancellation option available
◙ Designated service animals are permitted onboard
Prohibited
◙ No Gambling
◙ Smoking permitted in designated outside areas only
◙ Drones inside the vessel is strictly prohibited. (Drones are permitted only onshore and outside the port areas)
Mighty Mississippi Cruise : Minneapolis to New Orleans
📸 Courtesy of American Queen Voyages
Length : 16 days
Fair : Reasonable (Airfare included on select cruises) See Details ……
Your 16-day river journey from Minneapolis to New Orleans along the Mighty Mississippi will be a remarkable odyssey through time, history, and natural beauty. You will commence your adventure in Minneapolis, Minnesota, surrounded by the city’s modernity, and Red Wing will greete you with its historic charm and captivating river views.
Winona, Minnesota, is next, offering a glimpse into the state’s riverboat and lumber industry past. The grand riverfront mansions painted a vivid picture of the area’s history.
La Crosse, Wisconsin, will provide you with stunning vistas and a vibrant arts scene, setting the stage for the journey ahead. Dubuque, Iowa, with its historic downtown, is a step back in time, evoking the spirit of the river towns of yesteryear.
As you progresse, you reache Bettendorf, Iowa, a town with a strong industrial heritage, a testament to the region’s economic past. Burlington, Iowa, offered a mix of natural beauty and history, with its riverfront parks and preserved architecture.
Hannibal, Missouri, was a literary and historic gem, forever linked to Mark Twain’s tales of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. You will feel like characters in one of his adventures as you explored the city.
St. Louis, Missouri, will welcome you with the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of westward expansion. The city’s rich history and modern energy were a powerful combination.
Your journey through the Mississippi continued into Memphis, Tennessee, where the blues filled the air, and the city’s musical legacy was palpable. You will then venture to Cleveland, Mississippi, a town in the heart of the Delta, steeped in the history of blues and cotton farming.
Vicksburg, Mississippi, will greete you with the echoes of the Civil War. The Vicksburg National Military Park was a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during that tumultuous period.
Natchez, Mississippi, was a step back in time with its antebellum architecture and graceful mansions. Strolling through the streets will make you feel like walking through the pages of a Southern novel.
Your journey will conclude at Nottoway, Louisiana, home to the largest antebellum mansion in the South, and finally, you reached the vibrant city of New Orleans, where jazz filled the air, and the aroma of Creole spices hung all around. The Mighty Mississippi River had been your guide through history, culture, and nature, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the diverse stories woven into its banks and the incredible landscapes it showcased.
Shoreside Discoveries :
Highlights
◙ Free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay
◙ Unlimited guided tours
◙ Exquisite food
◙ Unlimited beverage
◙ Unlimited Wi-Fi
◙ Live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment
◙ Cancellation option available
◙ Designated service animals are permitted onboard
Prohibited
◙ No Gambling
◙ Smoking permitted in designated outside areas only
◙ Drones inside the vessel is strictly prohibited. (Drones are permitted only onshore and outside the port areas)
Columbia & Snake Rivers : Portland to Spokane
📸 Courtesy of American Queen Voyages
Length : 9 days
Fair : Reasonable (Airfare included on select cruises) See Details ……
Your nine-day river journey along the Columbia and Snake Rivers from Portland to Spokane will be a captivating exploration of the Pacific Northwest’s beauty and history. You will commence our voyage in Portland, Oregon, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and eco-conscious culture. As you set sail, the city’s modernity gradually gave way to the pristine wilderness that stretched before you.
Your first stop is Astoria, Oregon, a historic port town at the mouth of the Columbia River. The town’s waterfront and charming Victorian homes offer a glimpse into its maritime past.
Stevenson, Washington, nestled in the Columbia River Gorge, will welcome you with its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventure opportunities. The towering cliffs and lush greenery will paint a vivid picture of the region’s natural beauty.
The Dalles, Oregon, will be next to our journey, and its connection to the Oregon Trail and Lewis and Clark’s expedition added layers of historical intrigue. The Dalles Dam will showcas the modern engineering marvels that now shape the river’s course.
As you continued, you will reache Richland, Washington, in the heart of the Columbia Valley wine region. The vineyards and wineries were a testament to the fertile land nourished by the river.
Your voyage will concluded in Spokane, more specifically Clarkston, where the Snake River joined the Columbia. Spokane offered a blend of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. You will explor its historic downtown, where tales of fur traders and pioneers seemed to echo through the streets.
The Columbia and Snake Rivers will be your guides through a diverse landscape, taking you from the bustling urbanity of Portland to the untamed beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Each stop along the way revealed a unique facet of this region’s rich history and stunning natural surroundings. This river journey will left you with a profound appreciation for the unique character of the Columbia and Snake Rivers and the communities they’ve shaped over the centuries.
Shoreside Discoveries :
Highlights
◙ Free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay
◙ Unlimited guided tours
◙ Exquisite food
◙ Unlimited beverage
◙ Unlimited Wi-Fi
◙ Live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment
◙ Cancellation option available
◙ Designated service animals are permitted onboard
Prohibited
◙ No Gambling
◙ Smoking permitted in designated outside areas only
◙ Drones inside the vessel is strictly prohibited. (Drones are permitted only onshore and outside the port areas)
The Great Lakes : Chicago to Toronto
📸 Courtesy of American Queen Voyages
Length : 11 days
Fair : Reasonable (Airfare included on select cruises) See Details ……
Your 11-day journey through the Great Lakes from Chicago to Toronto is a voyage of breathtaking landscapes and rich history. You will embark from Chicago, Illinois, a city known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture. As you set sail on Lake Michigan, the city’s skyline slowly faded into the horizon.
Your first destination is Mackinac Island, Michigan, a place frozen in time, where horse-drawn carriages replaced cars, and historic forts recalled the island’s strategic past.
You will continue through the serene waters of Lake Huron to Little Current on Manitoulin Island, Ontario. Here, you will discovere the tranquility of island life and the indigenous heritage of the region.
Sailing on Lake Huron, you will reache Detroit, Michigan, a city steeped in automotive history and Motown music. The city’s resurgence was evident, and you will marvel at the blend of past and present.
Cleveland, Ohio, will welcomed you with its industrial history, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the rejuvenated waterfront. The city was a testament to the power of reinvention.
As your voyage neared its end, you will arrive at Niagara Falls, Ontario. The thundering waters of the falls is a mesmerizing sight, remind you of the immense natural beauty of the Great Lakes region.
Your journey will concluded in Toronto, Ontario, a bustling metropolis with a rich tapestry of cultures. You will explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum.
The Great Lakes will carry you through a world of natural wonder and historical significance, connecting these cities and towns with the boundless waters they shared. Your 11-day adventure will left you with a deep appreciation for the unique stories woven into the fabric of these lakeside communities and the awe-inspiring landscapes that surrounded it.
Shoreside Discoveries :
Highlights
◙ Free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay
◙ Unlimited guided tours
◙ Exquisite food
◙ Unlimited beverage
◙ Unlimited Wi-Fi
◙ Live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment
◙ Cancellation option available
◙ Designated service animals are permitted onboard
Prohibited
◙ No Gambling
◙ Smoking permitted in designated outside areas only
◙ Drones inside the vessel is strictly prohibited. (Drones are permitted only onshore and outside the port areas)
Things to Do before your voyage
- Documents (Passport, I Card …… )
- Travel Insurance (Know more ….. )
- Accessories (Know more about it)
Also Read
Follow us on X
- Lower Mississippi Cruise : Memphis to New Orleans
- Upper Mississippi Cruise : St. Louis to Minneapolis
- Tennessee and Cumberland Cruise : Louisville to Pittsburgh
- Mighty Mississippi Cruise : Minneapolis to New Orleans
- Columbia & Snake Rivers : Portland to Spokane
- The Great Lakes : Chicago to Toronto
- Things to Do before your voyage
FAQ
What are the best rivers for cruises in the USA?
The best rivers for cruises in the USA include the Mississippi, Hudson, Columbia and Snake, Ohio, Alaska’s Inside Passage, St. Lawrence, Missouri, Tennessee, and more, each offering unique experiences.
How much does a USA river cruise cost?
The cost of a USA river cruise varies but can range from a few hundred dollars for short trips to several thousand dollars for longer, more luxurious cruises.
Are passports required for U.S. river cruises?
Passports are not usually required for U.S. citizens on domestic river cruises, as long as the cruise remains within U.S. waters. However, check specific itineraries for potential exceptions.
What’s included in a U.S. river cruise?
Inclusions vary, but most U.S. river cruises include accommodations, meals, onboard activities, some shore excursions, port fees, taxes, and more. Be sure to check with the cruise line for specific details.
How long are USA river cruises typically?
USA river cruises can range from a few days to several weeks, with some short cruises lasting 2-4 days and longer ones up to 14 days or more.
Can you book a river cruise without airfare?
Yes, you can book a river cruise without airfare. Most cruise fares do not include airfare, and passengers are responsible for making their own travel arrangements.
What are the must-see sights on a USA river cruise?
Must-see sights on a USA river cruise may include New Orleans, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Mark Twain’s Hannibal, and the scenic beauty of Alaska’s glaciers, among others.
Which cruise lines offer river cruises in the USA?
Several cruise lines offer river cruises in the USA, including American Queen Voyages, American Cruise Lines, Viking River Cruises, and more.
Can you go on an Alaska cruise from the USA?
Yes, you can go on an Alaska cruise from the USA, typically departing from West Coast cities like Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, and cruising to Alaskan ports.
What’s the best time of year for a U.S. river cruise?
The best time for a U.S. river cruise varies by region. Summer is popular for most cruises, but the choice depends on your preferred climate and river. Alaska is best during its short summer season, while Mississippi cruises are enjoyable throughout the warmer months.
What are some popular American river cruises for exploring the United States’ inland waterways?
Popular American river cruises include journeys along the Mississippi River, Columbia and Snake Rivers, and the Hudson River, offering scenic and historic experiences in the heart of the country.
What are the top architectural highlights you can see on an architecture river cruise in Chicago?
Discover iconic structures like the Willis Tower and Wrigley Building on a Chicago architecture river cruise.
What are the departure times for Jungle Queen boat tours in Fort Lauderdale?
Jungle Queen offers various departure times for their boat tours in Fort Lauderdale.
What are the best riverboat cruises in Europe for exploring scenic waterways?
Explore the picturesque European rivers with the best riverboat cruises, including the Danube and Rhine.
What are the most scenic river cruises in the United States?
Experience breathtaking scenery on river cruises like the Columbia River and Mississippi River in the United States.
What are the best river cruises in the US, and which rivers do they explore?
Discover the top US river cruises on rivers like the Mississippi, Columbia, and more.
What are the best luxury river cruises near me for an opulent travel experience?
Explore nearby luxury river cruises offering exceptional amenities and service.
Which river cruise lines are consistently ranked as the top choices for travelers?
Discover the top-ranked river cruise lines known for exceptional service and experiences.
What are the most scenic river cruises in Europe, and what breathtaking views can you expect?
Experience Europe’s beauty on scenic river cruises along the Rhine, Danube, and more.
Which river cruise lines are the best rated for exceptional service and experiences?
Explore the top-rated river cruise lines for a memorable journey.
Where can I find the best Vacation to Go river cruises for my next vacation?
Discover a wide range of river cruise options on Vacation to Go for your next holiday.
What are the most anticipated US river cruises in 2024, and how can I book them?
Get ready for exciting US river cruises in 2024 and secure your booking now.
Best Riverboat Cruises in USA
Best Riverboat Cruises in USA
Best Riverboat Cruises in USA
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