The 9 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2025

The Mississippi River weaves through the heart of America, offering a unique and mesmerizing way to journey across the country. Each cruise unveils landscapes, cultures, and histories that captivate and enchant travelers.

Discovering the best Mississippi River cruises for 2025 can promise a voyage filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. Whether one seeks the vibrant energy of bustling ports or the serene beauty of quiet riverbanks, these cruises provide an exceptional adventure for every explorer.

America’s Great River: St. Paul, Minnesota, to New Orleans

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Sailing from St. Paul, travelers are greeted by the lush landscapes of Minnesota. They can enjoy breathtaking river views and watch the skilled artistry of local craftsmen. As the journey continues, Wisconsin offers a look into quaint river towns. In La Crosse, visitors can explore charming shops and taste local delicacies.

Further south, Memphis beckons with its rich blues heritage. Travelers can immerse themselves in vibrant music scenes and savor world-famous BBQ. Finally, in New Orleans, the cruise concludes with a celebration of culture. Guests wander through historic streets and experience jazzy melodies, creating a memorable finale to an incredible voyage down America’s Great River.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Journey along the mighty Mississippi River from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota, for a 23-day adventure like no other. Start in New Orleans, where the music and food create an electric atmosphere. Travelers can explore the historic French Quarter and savor delicious beignets.

As the cruise moves north, visit Baton Rouge, where history and culture blend seamlessly. Guests can explore unique museums and dine on Southern cuisine. In Memphis, the home of the blues, visit Graceland or stroll through vibrant Beale Street. This unforgettable trip ends in St. Paul, where the scenic river views promise a perfect end to an enchanting voyage.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul, Minnesota, to New Orleans

Our Rating: 9.5/10

This incredible cruise begins in St. Paul, Minnesota, offering a picturesque view of the charming city. Travelers can explore local parks and historic sites before boarding the vessel. As the ship glides down the Mississippi River, guests encounter vibrant river towns filled with rich history. Stops include visits to charming places like Hannibal, Missouri, where Mark Twain fans can visit his boyhood home.

Further south, the cruise takes guests to Memphis, where music lovers can explore the vibrant blues scene and famous sites like Graceland. Finally, the journey concludes in New Orleans, renowned for its lively culture and delicious cuisine. Visitors can wander through the French Quarter, soaking up the unique atmosphere.

Heartland of America: St. Louis to St. Paul, Minnesota

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Cruising from St. Louis to St. Paul offers a thrilling exploration of the American Midwest. Passengers can explore St. Louis with its iconic Gateway Arch. This vibrant city also offers bustling markets and historic neighborhoods. As the riverboat continues north, it stops at the charming town of Hannibal, where visitors can delve into Mark Twain’s world.

Historic Black Hawk State Park provides nature trails and stunning views of the Mississippi River, perfect for hiking or photography. Minnesota’s St. Paul greets travelers with its rich cultural scene. Guests can enjoy world-class museums, buzzing local cafes, and beautiful architecture that lines the riverfront, offering a perfect blend of history and modernity.

Historic Mississippi River Cruise: Round-trip from New Orleans

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This cruise offers a delightful journey through time along the Mississippi River. Guests embark on a historic adventure starting in the vibrant city of New Orleans. Known for its rich culture and lively atmosphere, New Orleans invites travelers to explore its famous French Quarter and savor Cajun cuisine.

As the riverboat sails, travelers can enjoy breathtaking views from the deck. Stops along the way may include charming river towns where visitors can discover quaint shops and local museums. Onboard, the classic paddlewheel boat adds a nostalgic touch to the experience. Passengers can relax while enjoying live music performances and informative talks about the area’s history, making this cruise both educational and entertaining.

Mississippi Delta Explorer: New Orleans to Memphis, Tennessee

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Mississippi Delta Explorer cruise is an exciting voyage from the lively streets of New Orleans to the rich history of Memphis. Travelers can begin their journey by soaking in the vibrant music and flavors of the French Quarter. As the cruise moves north, a stop in Darrow offers a glimpse into grand plantations, evoking memories of the past.

In Natchez, travelers can wander through charming streets lined with antebellum homes. The city’s deep-rooted Southern hospitality is sure to make visitors feel at home. Vicksburg offers a poignant connection to the Civil War with its historic battlefields and museums, perfect for history buffs. This cruise melds captivating history with the beauty of the Mississippi River.

Music Cities Cruise: Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee

Our Rating: 9.2/10

Experience the magic of America’s music heartland on a nine-day journey from Memphis to Nashville. Revel in the energy of Memphis while exploring the iconic Sun Studio and Stax Museum, where legendary rhythms began. Sail along the storied Mississippi and Cumberland rivers, immersing in the soulful melodies that shaped these legendary spots.

Each stop promises captivating stories of musical legends, complemented by stunning river views. In Nashville, the vibrant heart of country music awaits. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and the storied Ryman Auditorium, catching the spirit of the city known as Music City. This cruise combines tuneful history with breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable adventure for music lovers.

The Great United States: Portland, Oregon, to Boston

Our Rating: 9.3/10

The Great United States cruise takes travelers on a remarkable journey from Portland, Oregon, to Boston. Passengers have the opportunity to experience Portland’s vibrant food scene and lush parks. As the journey continues, the cruise passes through diverse landscapes, offering views of magnificent rivers and charming towns. Stops along the way allow for exploration of historic landmarks and welcoming communities.

Finally, Boston awaits with its rich history and lively culture. Visitors can walk the Freedom Trail or enjoy fresh seafood at a local market. This cruise offers a sweeping cross-country adventure packed with unforgettable sights and experiences.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Cruisers are in for a treat on this round-trip journey from New Orleans. Travelers can explore historic estates that whisper stories of the past, and visit Civil War sites that echo with tales of bravery. In New Orleans, the vibrant streets promise an explosion of culture with jazz rhythms and delicious Cajun dishes. Baton Rouge buzzes with bustling markets and French-inspired architecture.

This cruise offers a delightful blend of history and lively culture. From the music that fills the air to the aromatic scents of local cuisine, every moment enriches the senses. Each port along the journey invites exploration and discovery, making it an unforgettable adventure.

The 9 best Mississippi River cruises for 2025 offer a unique way to explore the heart of America, blending scenic beauty with rich cultural and historical experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of Southern cities or the tranquil rhythms of river life, these cruises provide an unforgettable journey through one of the nation’s most iconic waterways.