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Explore historic New Orleans

Historic Mississippi River Cruise

New Orleans Roundtrip - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard American Melody
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Set sail on an 8-day Mississippi River aboard American Melody and explore the Deep South’s rich history. Begin in New Orleans, then cruise to Oak Alley and Houmas House for a glimpse into plantation life. Visit Baton Rouge’s historic capitols, tour Natchez’s preserved mansions, and walk Vicksburg’s Civil War battlefields. Discover St. Francisville’s charming streets before returning to New Orleans. Enjoy guided tours, live entertainment, and expert narration on this immersive journey through Southern culture and history. Each stop reveals a new chapter in the story of the Mississippi River, making this cruise an immersive experience through time, culture, and heritage.


 
Visit Louisiana's capital city of Baton RougeMississippi RiverExplore the vibrant nightlight of New OrleansLearn about the troubled history of the SouthExplore the legendary bayou of the deep southView monuments from the Civil War in MississippiExplore historic New Orleans
Highlights
  • Explore the antebellum elegance of Natchez with its captivating homes
  • Discover important sites of Civil War history
  • Discover Oak Alley's historic charm and plantation surroundings
  • Visit cities and ports along the Mississippi River, including Natchez
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: New Orleans, Louisiana

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. 

Day 2: New Orleans | Embark | Cruising the Mississippi River

Step aboard and join the Welcome Reception, where you can connect with fellow travelers and take in the scenic Mississippi. Spend the afternoon cruising this historic river, deeply tied to American heritage. Enjoy live entertainment as performers showcase the region’s signature music, capturing its rich culture and spirit.

Day 3: Oak Alley, Louisiana | Houmas House

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 to 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

Day 4: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Meaning “red stick,” Baton Rouge’s 1699 French name references an ancient geographical marker and reflects the city’s long history. As Louisiana’s state capital, the city still echoes with tales of the characters who lived here, most notably Governor and Senator Huey P. Long. Learn about his dramatic career at the magnificent 1852 Old State Capitol Museum and visit Long’s 1932 State Capitol building, an architectural marvel of granite and marble.

Explore many of the well-known downtown neighborhoods, while embracing the rich art, architecture, and nature along the route. If you feel adventurous, take a narrated boat ride through a Louisiana swamp.

Baton Rouge Local Loop – Complimentary Excursion
Please wear your lanyard and board our comfortable Cruise Coach to explore Baton Rouge. Making stops at: 
Louisiana's Old Governor's Mansion - a stunning example of the Georgian architectural style. Once the home of Louisiana's governors, this historic site offers a glimpse into the state's political history and showcases beautifully preserved interiors. 
Louisiana's New Governor's Mansion - an impressive structure with elegant grounds. Take a guided tour to learn about its modern design and the significant events that have taken place within its walls since its opening in 1963. 
Louisiana State Capitol and Arsenal - the tallest capitol building in the United States. Explore its grand hallways, art collections, and panoramic views from the observation deck. Adjacent to the capital, the historic Arsenal provides insight into the military history of the region. 
LSU Museum of Art - where you can admire a diverse collection of American art. The museum often hosts special exhibitions, so be sure to check what's on display during your visit. 
Louisiana Art & Science Museum - combining art and science in a unique way. Explore interactive exhibits, stunning art collections, and an impressive planetarium that will ignite your imagination and curiosity.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

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.
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Day 5: Natchez | Vicksburg, Mississippi

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 will lead 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 - Fort Rosalie was built by the French in 1716 within the territory of the Natchez Native Indians and it was part of the French colonial empire, becoming the first settlement in present-day Natchez, Mississippi. Walk the hallowed grounds of the long-gone fort and enjoy perusing the gift items of the modern trading post. 
Historic Natchez in Photos - Visit the Stratton Chapel Gallery in downtown Natchez behind First Presbyterian Church. View an outstanding collection of photographs taken from as early as 1860, including family portraits, steamboats, and street scenes.
Main Street & Franklin Street - Explore the few one-of-a-kind antique shops or just walk among the many beautifully restored historic buildings of this lovely town.
Historic Natchez Bluffs & Gazebo - Sitting 200 feet above the banks of the Mississippi River, the Gazebo offers the best vantage point from which to take in the river’s natural splendor.
Rosalie House - Visit Rosalie, an antebellum mansion in downtown Natchez. Excursions begin at the top of every hour. Make sure to wear your lanyard for complimentary entry.
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 will entertain 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, that she’s known as "Our Lady on The Bluff."
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: No

Day 6: St. Francisville, Louisiana

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 - Forgot something at home? No worries, everything you need can be found at either the Audubon Market or Elliot’s Pharmacy. While here, don’t forget to pick up something for your loved ones at Patrick’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts. 
Town Hall - Access to local boutiques, bookstores, and coffee shops for an experience that supports local artists and purveyors. 
Cross Quilter – Visit this unique cross stitch and quilt shop for an exceptional shopping experience. 
Sage Hill / Post Office - In-store shopping center for gifts / Post Office Stop 
West Feliciana Museum, Away Down South Gift Shop - Located in the town’s former hardware store, learn about the fascinating history of St. Francisville or stop in for a refreshing treat at Away Down South Gift Shop. 
Grace Church and Cemetery - Built in 1860, you can stroll the grounds or explore the historic cemetery of one of the state’s oldest surviving Protestant churches. 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Day 7: New Orleans, Louisiana

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 Cafe 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.

Day 8: New Orleans, Louisiana | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark in the city doesn't just claim jazz; it lives it. After eight days of cruising along the historic Mississippi River, the 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.

Ship/Hotel

American Melody

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • Nov 28, 2025from $4,255
  • Dec 4, 2025from $4,255
  • Dec 10, 2025from $4,255
  • Dec 16, 2025from $4,255
  • Feb 16, 2026from $4,255
  • Feb 22, 2026from $4,255
  • Feb 28, 2026from $4,565
  • Mar 6, 2026from $4,565
  • Mar 12, 2026from $4,565
  • Nov 27, 2026from $4,255
  • Dec 9, 2026from $4,255
  • Dec 15, 2026from $4,255
  • Dec 21, 2026from $4,255
  • Feb 18, 2027from $4,255
  • Feb 24, 2027from $4,255
  • Mar 2, 2027from $4,565
  • Mar 8, 2027from $4,565
  • Mar 14, 2027from $4,565
  • Mar 20, 2027from $4,565
  • Nov 26, 2027from $4,255
  • Dec 2, 2027from $4,255
  • Dec 8, 2027from $4,255
  • Dec 14, 2027from $4,255
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Deal available

Deals

Special Offers 23942
Promotional rates are available on select departures for a limited time. These offers cannot be combined with other discounts and are only valid on new bookings.  Please discuss with your trip planner about applicable dates and cabin types.
Applies to select departures

Per person starting at
$4,255
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Select a Date
Single Balcony
Queen-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi Size: 250 sq. ft., including balcony
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Standard Balcony
King-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to a private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi Size: 275 sq. ft., including balcony
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Deluxe Balcony
King-size bed, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi, Size: 316 sq. ft., including balcony
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Premium Balcony
King-size bed that can convert to two twin beds, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, sitting area, writing desk, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi. Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. Size: 350 sq. ft., including balcony
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Veranda Suite
King-size bed that can convert to two twin beds, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, large living area, sliding glass doors open to private balcony, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi. Size: 405 sq. ft., including balcony
Grand Suite
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Grand Suite
King-size bed, floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering 270-degree panoramic views, large balcony, private dining area, full-size private bathroom with a full set of amenities, satellite TV and DVD player, complimentary WiFi, individual climate control. Each Grand Suite features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration. Size: 650 sq. ft., including balcony
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Snacks
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Onboard gratuities
  • Port charges and fees
  • Complimentary cocktail parties
  • Dining service
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Signature shore excursion - Should be reserved in advance due to limited availability.

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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin

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