8 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from St. Louis to St. Paul 2025

Day 1 St. Louis, MO/Alton, IL

Tucked away beneath the majestic limestone bluffs lies the charming port of Alton, Illinois, serving as a gateway to endless adventures in St. Louis and beyond. But before you set off on your escapades, start your journey with a visit to the captivating National Great Rivers Museum. Learn about the fascinating tales of the upper Mississippi River, exploring its extensive history, the communities it sustains, and the diverse ecosystems it nurtures.

After a day of discovery, retreat to your cozy hotel and unwind in comfort. Whether you prefer to relax with a good book or venture out to explore the local sights, the choice is yours. So, kick back, soak in the serene ambiance, and let the excitement of your upcoming adventures fill you with joy and anticipation.

Each Mississippi itinerary comes complete with aHotel Stay,where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobbyand we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Day 2 Cruising the Mississippi River

With the water views before you, relish the quiet sounds of the river. Relax on your private balcony and watch the riverbanks come to life with a vast array of wildlife that call these shores home or learn the stories of the area around you from the on-board expert. The day is yours, wander to the sun deck for the best views of the winding river. Enjoy live music, but wherever you roam, don’t forget to stop by the restaurant for freshly baked cookies at 3 pm daily.

As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

Day 3 Hannibal, MO

Welcome to Hannibal, Missouri, a charming riverside town brimming with character. At the heart of Hannibal lies the legacy of its most famous resident, Mark Twain, whose childhood adventures served as the inspiration for some of literature's most beloved characters. Explore Twain's boyhood home, a beautifully preserved white clapboard house where the author spent his formative years. Nearby, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Twain's life and works, including original manuscripts, rare artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring his stories to life in vivid detail.

But Hannibal is more than just a literary landmark. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street, where charming boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops beckon with unique finds and friendly smiles. Don't miss the Rockcliffe Mansion, registered as a historic home, and has breathtaking views of the Mississippi River while you learn about the history of Hannibal.

Explore downtown Hannibal on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling through town. Our convenient shuttle will also take you to the following:

Hannibal History Museum - Through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and historic photos, learn the story of Hannibal's remarkable past.

Mark Twain Boyhood Home &Museum - Enjoy a guided exploration of the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. This is truly a piece of Americana.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Step back in time and relive the adventures of Mark Twain’s days in Hannibal. Your guide will share the history of Hannibal and will show you sites of historical importance. While on your excursion, visit Rockcliffe Mansion – this American “castle” has a breathtaking view overlooking the Mississippi and is on the National Register of Historic Homes.

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: No

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. The vivid stories told by Mark Twain come to life at this interactive museum. Visit the Becky Thatcher House, the Huck Finn Home, and the Tom and Huck Statue at the foot of Cardiff Hill. Stop at the Interpretive Center, home to 15 original Normal Rockwell paintings.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Join Richard Garey as Mark Twain and stroll through the streets of Hannibal, the hometown that inspired Mark Twain’s famous literary novels. Learn about its history through the author’s own words and observations and then enjoy a special performance of “Mark Twain Himself” at the Planter’s Barn Theater.

Activity Level: High| ADA Accessible: Yes

Led by a knowledgeable guide, explore the Mark Twain Cave, a labyrinth of a 260 passageways which inspired the author’s famous work, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) played here throughout his childhood, and 170 years later, you can still see his name written on a wall in the cave.

Activity Level: Moderate| ADA Accessibility: No

Day 4 Day of Cruising

A day on the river is not a day lost. Grab a book, a friend, a game, or an on board expert and take the day as it comes as we navigate the Mississippi from Hannibal to Muscatine, IA. Engage in curated activities, from destination-focused enrichment programs led by esteemed guest speakers to stimulating Art and App-titude Classes, and group Cooking Demonstrations. Embrace spirited camaraderie with Mixology sessions, Trivia challenges, and Game Shows. Elevate your journey with a blend of leisure and refinement, where every moment is enriched by the timeless charm of riverboat travel.

There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Day 5 Muscatine, IA

Muscatine has a unique claim to fame as the only place where the Mighty Mississippi River runs east to west. This charming town is renowned for its history as the former largest button manufacturing area in the world, a claim to fame celebrated through local museums and historic sites. Visitors are enchanted by Muscatine's picturesque riverfront, offering stunning views and recreational opportunities such as boating and fishing.

Downtown Muscatine invites exploration with its eclectic mix of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and vibrant eateries, all within just two blocks of our dock.

Enjoy 18 holes of golf at Geneva Golf & Country Club. History surrounds you at this 123 year old, championship location that is both challenging for the experienced golfer and fair and fun for the beginner. The course is a masterpiece featuring rolling terrain, rambling Geneva Creek, strategically placed bunkers, and three sets of tees that allow the course to be set up for various playing levels. In addition, you will enjoy drinks served on the course and a special take home gift consisting of balls, towel, and divot tool. Activity Level: High / ADA Accessible: No This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.

Come visit the lovingly restored Pine Creek Grist Mill, at Wildcat Den State Park, reputed to be the oldest, most complete gristmill between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains. Your friendly and experienced guide will interpret the significance of the 175 year old mill, its original milling equipment, and its picturesque setting. Listen to dramatic stories about the mill’s various owners and watch as the mill’s complex systems of belts and pulleys bring the milling process to life. With the mill being part of Iowa’s state park system, you are sure to enjoy all of nature’s glory.

Activity Level: Moderate / ADA Accessible: No

Explore the area at your leisure with our convenient motorcoach making stops at:

Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 6 Dubuque, IA

Dubuque is a true masterpiece along the upper Mississippi River. As one of the oldest settlements west of the great river, Dubuque wears its history proudly while staying a modern hub for commerce, industry, education, and culture.

Step off the ship and into the renowned National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, a mesmerizing complex that promises to captivate your senses.

Wander through the charming streets adorned with picturesque Victorian mansions, feel the thrill of riding the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway, or test your luck at one of Dubuque's cutting-edge casinos.

Visit one of its oldest Catholic churches, and then the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden, where scenic landscapes await to stun you at every turn. Dubuque beckons you to explore, discover, and create unforgettable memories along its storied streets.

Delight in an exploration of some of the highlights of Dubuque. First, stop at Steeple Square Event Center, one of the oldest catholic churches in Dubuque which was renovated into a vibrant community gathering space. Next, arrive at Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden for a guided exploration of the beautiful landscapes. Visit the Convivium Urban Farmstead, a center which celebrates the efforts of local gardeners with onsite cooking and gardening classes as well as a restaurant that serves local produce. Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator, the shortest steepest railway in the United States. Don’t forget the camera, it’s a great opportunity to get a photo of the ship at dock in the Port of Dubuque from above the bluffs.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

This convenient shuttle will transport you from the ship to the center of town and back. At your leisure, explore the many districts of downtown Dubuque, including Cable Car Square, the Historic Millwork District, and Historic Old Main District, once a hideaway for notorious gangster Al Capone. Visit the Summer Farmers Market which has been located in the Upper Main district since 1845. Running daily on a continuous loop.

Activity Level: Low| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Travel to the Field of Dreams Movie Site, built by Universal Studios and known for the famous quote, “If you build it, he will come.” Released in 1989, Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner, was a movie that inspired millions and became an Academy Award nominee for “Best Picture of the Year.” Explore this famous site, including the baseball field, the magical corn, and the farm house in which the movie was made. After, visit the gift shop for some take-home movie memorabilia.

Activity Level: Moderate| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Take an entertaining and informative journey along the mighty Mississippi at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. The museum’s interactive exhibits will give you an inside look at the Mississippi River's past, present, and future. On this guided exploration, learn about the lives of the pioneers, explorers, and artists who once lived along the Mississippi River. Get close to nature, as you make your way through six large aquariums.

Activity Level: Medium| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 7 Winona, MN

Situated in southeastern Minnesota along the banks of the upper Mississippi River, Winona is a gem of a city renowned for its stunning bluffs, picturesque riverfront, and blend of cultures.

The city's architecture is a captivating mesh of styles, ranging from the grandeur of the Beaux-Arts-style Winona County Courthouse to the intricate details of the Victorian-era homes in the historic district. The Winona National Bank Building, with its striking neoclassical facade, and the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka with Polish Cathedral-style architecture are breathtaking examples of what lies in this small Minnesotan town.

Winona's cultural scene is equally impressive, anchored by the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of marine art spanning centuries.

Outdoor enthusiasts rejoice as there are plenty of scenic trails to explore at Garvin Heights Park. Complete panoramic views of the river valley below, and the tranquil waters of Lake Winona, this area is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Take a guided walk through Winona's historic downtown to admire great architecture, hear surprising stories, and play a fun game or two.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Running on a continuous loop, this guided exploration shuttle takes you from the ship to Winona's hot spots including history and art museums, historic places with beautiful architecture and stained glass, and to the heart of Downtown so you can shop, eat, and stroll at your leisure.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

This narrated Winona boat exploration not only entertains but educates about the famed waterway, the history of Winona and its relation to the Mississippi River. Bring your camera and binoculars to view local wildlife like eagles, deer, turtles, snakes, and beaver on this mesmerizing river cruise.

Activity Level: Low

Enjoy a guided, in-depth exploration of the historic and intriguing sites around greater Winona. Stops include the Winona County History Center, Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Garvin Heights lookout with amazing views of this stretch of the Mississippi River Valley, and more.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Enter the quiet and rich environment of Pool 6 of the Mississippi River and observe wildlife up close within the forested backwaters. On a sit-on-top kayak or canoe, with a partner or on your own, paddle along the smooth water, stopping for a refreshment along the way. A portion of each excursion cost goes towards reclamation efforts in the surrounding Prairie Island Park area.

This is a Signature shore excursion and should be reserved in advance. Please call (800) 894-8570 for information.

Activity Level: moderate |ADA Accessibilty: No

Day 8 Red Wing, MN

One of the most iconic features of Red Wing is Barn Bluff, a towering limestone bluff that overlooks the city and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Hiking trails wind their way to the summit, offering outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the area's natural beauty up close.

Red Wing is also famous for its pottery, thanks to the presence of the Red Wing Stoneware Company, which has been producing high-quality ceramics since the 19th century. Visitors can tour the pottery factory, browse the showroom, and even try their hand at creating their own pottery.

History buffs will delight in exploring the city's historic downtown district, where beautifully preserved buildings house charming boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. The Red Wing Shoe Company Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the iconic footwear brand, while the Goodhue County Historical Society provides insight into the area's rich past.

Visit the National Eagle Center, offering additional up close viewing of non-releasable bald and golden eagles. Learn about the ecology, biology, and natural history of these magnificent creatures.

Activity Level: Low| ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

There's no better way to experience the capital city of St. Paul than on this carefully-curated excursion. Saint Paul, though the state capital, moves at a slower pace and has prided itself on architectural preservation, boasting some of the Midwest's last remaining Victorian Romanesque blocks. Led by our engaging guide, explore all this beautiful city has to offer as well as a brief stop at the Minnehaha Falls.

Note: Only available on cruises ending in St. Paul/Red Wing.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Travel back in time as you explore the beautiful city of Red Wing. Led by our local expert guide, view some of the most impressive Victorian homes of the period as well as the historic St. James Hotel. Visit the Pottery Museum of Red Wing and admire the numerous true vintage pieces on site such as stoneware, dinnerware, folk art, and more! Stop at the Sheldon Theatre, among the oldest operating theatres in Minnesota and host to thousands of large national touring acts, international artists, and local performers alike.

Activity Level: Low| ADA Accessibility: Yes

Explore the highlights of Red Wing on this convenient shuttle to:

Activity Level: Low / ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 9 St. Paul, MN

In St. Paul, a stroll down Summit Avenue unveils a captivating array of historic mansions, each with its own story to tell from the late 1800s. For a shopping extravaganza like no other, venture into the vast expanse of the Mall of America, boasting over 500 stores alongside an indoor water park and theme park for endless entertainment.

Experience convenient access to the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport, or indulge in an extended stay to fully immerse yourself in the allure of this captivating region. The Twin Cities boast an array of world-class art galleries, museums, and live performances to delight every cultural enthusiast.

For breathtaking views of the cityscape, ascend to Mounds Park and drink in the stunning panoramas. And don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the natural wonder of Minnehaha Falls, where a 53-foot cascade cascades into a serene oasis, enveloping visitors in its enchanting charm.

Why not spend another day in St. Paul’s to explore the enchanting art galleries, world class museums, and enjoy world-class live entertainment. History buffs will enjoy a walking tour of Summit Avenue, which showcases gorgeous historic mansions built in the late 1800’s. End the day by visiting Mounds Park, where visitors are treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the city.