8 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from St. Paul to St. Louis 2026

Day 1 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. And don't miss the opportunity to visit the natural wonder of Minnehaha Falls, where a 53-foot cascade cascades into a serene oasis, enveloping visitors in its enchanting charm.

Day 2 Cruising the Upper Mississippi River

A day on the river is not a day lost. Grab a book, a friend, a game, or an onboard 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.

Day 3 La Crosse, WI

Step into 19th-century America in La Crosse, situated on the banks of three captivating rivers. Riverside Park offers a spectacle of beautiful gardens, an outdoor performance center, and inspiring sculptures that ignite the imagination.

Gaze out from the heights of Grand Dad’s Bluff, a 600-ft high vantage point that provides a breathtaking, panoramic view over the entire city.

Accompanied by a local expert, explore the city’s evolution from its riverboat boomtown days, through the roaring ‘20s, to the contemporary challenges and opportunities it faces today. This is La Crosse—a city where history meets the modern world, inviting you to explore its continued evolution.

Day 4 Day of River Cruising

With the wide upper Mississippi River 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.

Day 5 Dubuque, IA

Dubuque is a true masterpiece along the 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 visit one of its oldest Catholic churches, and then the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Garden.

Day 6 Davenport, IA

Step into Davenport, the largest cruise port between St. Louis and St. Paul, a key city within the dynamic "Quad Cities" that merge into an extensive metro area. History marked its presence here when the first railroad to cross the Mississippi River connected Chicago to Rock Island, Illinois, just across the river.

The area hosts a diverse array of attractions, from grand historic mansions along the riverbank to acclaimed museums and significant Native American historical sites, alongside the largest agricultural exhibit in the world. At the Smithsonian-affiliated Putnam Museum, gain insights into the region's diverse history, culture, and natural environment.

Visit the expansive John Deere Pavilion, where the spirit of American ingenuity shines through interactive displays. Stroll through exhibits of both vintage and modern high-tech equipment that illustrate the evolution of technologies that have transformed American farming. Here, the narrative of agricultural advancement unfolds, highlighting the Midwest's crucial role in feeding the nation.

Day 7 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.

Day 8 St. Louis, MO/Alton, IL

Tucked away beneath the 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 mighty Mississippi River, exploring its extensive history, the communities it sustains, and the diverse ecosystems it nurtures.

Day 9 Alton, IL/ St. Louis, MO

Enjoy breakfast onboard the ship as you prepare for your journey home. Reflect upon the memorable experiences and the new friendships forged during your time with us.

Thank you for cruising with us, we hope your voyage was filled with delightful moments that you carry with you. Safe travels home, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard again soon.