Settle into your hotel and enjoy a feast for your senses as you explore this magical city. Stroll the tree-lined avenues, take a carriage ride through the French Quarter, hop aboard a streetcar to the gorgeous Garden District, or visit the renowned National World War II Museum.

This morning, gather in the hotel lobby at the designated time for transportation to the ship. All luggage is transferred directly from the hotel and placed in the cabin aboard the ship, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to the cruise.

Board your ship and receive a warm greeting from the Welcome Reception. This is the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and enjoy the scenic views as you spend the afternoon cruising along the majestic Mississippi, a river woven into the fabric of American history and culture. Delight in the entertainment provided by onboard performers, who bring to life the music that originated from the river itself, encapsulating the soul and spirit of the regions it touches.

As your river journey continues, two standout landmarks in Louisiana await: Oak Alley and Houmas House.

Oak Alley is celebrated for its striking avenue of centuries-old oak trees leading to a majestic historical home, offering a window into the grandeur and complexity of the South's past. This remarkable site, with its verdant tunnel of oaks and impressive architecture, serves as a living museum of the area's architectural and agricultural heritage.

Houmas House, known as "The Sugar Palace," reveals the opulence spawned by the sugar cane economy in the 19th century. Encircled by exquisite gardens and water features, this estate provides insight into the lavish lifestyles of its previous occupants, along with the stories of those who labored on the grounds.

Visiting these locations offers a journey through the architectural splendor and layered history of Louisiana's river road estates, painting a vivid portrait of the bygone era that sculpted this distinctive region.

Oak Alley Estate- Complimentary Excursion
From its canopy of 300-year-old oaks to its vast open spaces, Oak Alley's landscape tells the story of a southern plantation over time. Over 200 years ago, Oak Alley was just a land claim on a map and has since served many purposes, including as a sugar plantation, a rice farm, a chicken farm, a cattle ranch, and a country home. Agricultural tycoons, sugar planters, slaves, immigrant laborers, and real estate speculators have traversed its grounds over time.

Today, Oak Alley is a National Historic Landmark dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of its inhabitants. With an emphasis on its time as a sugar plantation, visitors are invited to walk under its iconic alley, explore the exhibits, interact with staff, and leave with a richer, more powerful understanding of this plantation's complex history. For the full Southern experience, don't forget to take time for a complimentary mint julep. 
Activity Level: High | ADA Accessibility: Partial

Named for an ancient landmark, Baton Rouge's French title from 1699 translates to "red stick" and mirrors the city's extensive history. As the capital of Louisiana, it resonates with the stories of notable figures who have left their mark here, especially Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. Delve into his impactful career at the Old State Capitol Museum, built in 1852, and make a stop at Long's 1932 State Capitol building, a striking edifice of granite and marble.

Wander through the famous downtown districts, taking in the flourishing art, architecture, and natural beauty along the way. For those seeking to explore further, consider a narrated boat excursion through a Louisiana swamp, offering a unique glimpse into the area's natural landscape.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum - Complimentary Excursion
Housed in a historic railroad depot on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (LASM) offers educational entertainment for visitors of all ages. The art galleries showcase changing fine art exhibitions and selections from a permanent collection. The Ancient Egypt Gallery houses ancient artifacts and a Ptolemaic-era mummy that rests in a re-created rock-cut tomb. The Irene W. Pennington Planetarium features sky shows, large-format films, visual music shows, and galleries devoted to space science.

Baton Rouge Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Please wear your lanyard and board your comfortable Cruise Coach to explore Baton Rouge. Making stops at: 

• Louisiana's Old Governor's Mansion
• Louisiana's New Governor's Mansion
• Louisiana State Capitol and Arsenal
• LSU Museum of Art
• Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

In Natchez, elegant residences gleam like gems on elevated land overlooking the river, with roots tracing back to a 1716 French stronghold. The town's grand 19th-century homes, spared by the Civil War, preserve a rich collection of pre-war architecture. Each building tells a unique story, creating a downtown that embodies Southern charm and hospitality. Visitors can tour historic townhouses, explore a working cotton estate, and enjoy the scenic river views from the bluff. 

Meanwhile, Vicksburg, known as “The Gibraltar of the West,” played a pivotal role in the Civil War, a story vividly recounted at the Vicksburg National Military Park. The siege and fall of Vicksburg in 1863 marked a strategic Union victory, emphasized by President Lincoln's declaration, “Vicksburg is the key...” Guided tours at the park detail the military strategies and human stories that shaped this critical battle. Exploring Vicksburg provides a profound connection to American history, complemented by the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River.

Vicksburg National Military Park- Complimentary Excursion
A knowledgeable guide leads you through the National Military Park, which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg in 1863.  Stop at the impressive Illinois Monument, modeled after the Roman Pantheon. The exploration concludes at the Visitors Center, where life-sized exhibits and artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg are on display.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Natchez Local Loop- Complimentary Excursion
Board this convenient shuttle, making stops at:

• Fort Rosalie & Trading Post
• Historic Natchez in Photos 
• Main Street & Franklin Street
• Historic Natchez Bluffs & Gazebo 
• Rosalie House 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Natchez Landmark Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Experience a multitude of national treasures, historic sites, and local points of interest from the comfort of your motorcoach. Natchez boasts more National Landmarks than any other town in Mississippi. Begin your exploration at the mighty Natchez Bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Your local guide entertains you with local lore and legends, in addition to historical facts. View historic architectural gems, African American sites, local favorites, and a few quirky places. Complete your experience with a complimentary guided exploration of Historic Rosalie Mansion, so exquisite, she’s known as "Our Lady on The Bluff." 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: No

St. Francisville, a storied cotton port, has the best view from the high banks over the river. This picturesque town traces its origins to the early 19th century, a time when it flourished under Spanish rule in West Florida before American settlers claimed it, weaving it into the fabric of the United States.

St. Francisville invites you to wander through its history, whether you prefer to venture alone or join one of many engaging guided tours. Explore the Historic District, where grand mansions stand as testaments to the town's past wealth and elegance, surrounded by eclectic boutique stores. The landscape shifts from towering cottonwoods to majestic oaks, their limbs draped in the ethereal beauty of Spanish moss, creating a scene that captures the essence of the South's timeless allure.

The Myrtles - Complimentary Excursion
At first glimpse, Myrtles, built in 1796, envelopes one with a complete sense of peace and tranquility. However, it is reputed to be one of the most haunted homes in America. Surrounded by centuries-old live oak trees, the mansion features a 125-foot verandah, exquisite ornamental ironwork, hand-painted stained glass, open-pierced frieze work crown molding, Aubusson tapestry, Baccarat crystal chandelier, Carrara marble mantels, gold-leafed French furnishings, and ghosts.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessibility: Yes

St. Francisville Local Loop – Complimentary Excursion
Board this convenient motorcoach, making stops at: 

• Audubon Market, Elliot’s Pharmacy, and Patrick’s Jewelry
• Town Hall
• Cross Quilter
• Sage Hill / Post Office
• West Feliciana Museum, Away Down South Gift Shop
• Grace Church and Cemetery

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Welcome to New Orleans, where jazz fills the air, and every street corner has a story to tell. Wander through the French Quarter, where charming balconies and hidden courtyards invite you to sit, sip, and people-watch to your heart’s content. Savor some beignets at Café du Monde and indulge in a bowl of gumbo or a po' boy sandwich, because in New Orleans, there's no such thing as too much good food. And don't forget to explore the fascinating exhibits at The National WWII Museum, where history comes alive in the heart of this vibrant city. From the sounds of jazz to the rich flavors of Creole cuisine, New Orleans promises an unforgettable experience.

Disembark in the city doesn't just claim jazz; it lives it. After eight days of cruising along the historic Mississippi River, your journey has concluded. Filled with lasting memories and a new appreciation for the river's history. As you disembark for the last time, the Mighty Mississippi and the serene landscapes you've encountered offer a quiet goodbye.