The Best Mississippi River Cruises to Book in 2025

by Sarah WilliamsDecember 2, 20246 minutes read

The Mississippi River, with its scenic beauty and rich history, has long been a prime destination for river cruising enthusiasts. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a music fan, a Mississippi River cruise promises an unforgettable experience. For 2025, several cruise lines are offering some truly spectacular itineraries that combine the river's storied past with modern luxury. Here's a look at some of the best Mississippi River cruises you can book in 2025.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates a fleet of 24 small ships, each designed to accommodate 90 to 180 passengers, making it the only cruise line with a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats. Offering a variety of Mississippi River cruises ranging from 8 to 51 days, ACL's all-inclusive pricing includes meals, drinks, daily snacks, free cocktail hours, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, entertainment, tips, and other port charges. Its unique cruises allow guests to explore diverse U.S. waterways, with the option to add pre-cruise accommodations, making it a top choice for riverboat enthusiasts.

American Cruise Lines' Most Popular Mississippi River Cruise Itineraries

Historic Mississippi River Cruise: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,630 per person

Departing from New Orleans, this round-trip journey offers a rich exploration of Louisiana's historical and cultural gems. Highlights of the cruise include a visit to the Houmas House and Gardens in Louisiana, an extended stop in Baton Rouge for a culinary adventure, and a tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park. The cruise offers an immersive experience of the Mississippi River region from March to December 2025.

Music Cities Cruise: Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $3,795 per person

The Music Cities Cruise takes passengers on an eight-night adventure steeped in music history. From the blues of Memphis to the country music capital of Nashville, the journey includes visits to Graceland, overnight stops in Paducah, Dover, and Clarksville, and a highlight trip to the Grand Ole Opry. The scenic route along the Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Cumberland River offers stunning views of the American heartland. This themed cruise will be available from April to October 2025.

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

Length: 16 days

Price: Starts at $10,440 per person

Embark on a 16-day adventure from St. Paul to New Orleans, covering seven states and twelve cities. This in-depth cruise includes visits to landmarks such as the Mark Twain Boyhood Home in Missouri and various Civil War sites in Mississippi. Passengers will explore the heart of America, with stops in cities like Minneapolis, Memphis, and Vicksburg. This grand journey will depart in September and October 2025, offering a deep dive into American history and culture.

Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises, globally renowned for its luxurious river cruises, offers several itineraries along the Mississippi River, with cruises ranging from 8 to 22 days. With a strong emphasis on all-inclusive pricing, passengers enjoy river-view rooms, free port excursions, destination lectures, and entertainment, along with wine and beer with meals, specialty coffee, and free Wi-Fi. Viking’s cruises also provide options for additional pre- and post-cruise extensions, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience through America’s heartland.

Viking River Cruises' Most Popular Mississippi River Cruise Itineraries

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

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,499 per person

Description: This eight-day round-trip cruise from New Orleans offers six guided tours, including visits to over 200 historic mansions in Natchez, Mississippi, and a tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park. Passengers will also explore St. Francisville, Louisiana, with its 140-plus National Historic Register buildings. Optional paid excursions, such as the nearly four-hour Natchez Soul Food and Music Tour, are available for those seeking an enhanced experience. The cruise will be available five times in 2025, including January, November, and December.

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

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $5,499 per person

Description: Launching in 2025, this new "Heartland of America" route will sail along the upper Mississippi River, starting in St. Louis and ending in St. Paul, or vice versa. The eight-day journey includes stops in four states and six guided excursions. Guests can opt for an extended stay in one of the cities along the route through post-cruise options, further enriching the experience. This itinerary will be available in June, August, and October 2025.

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

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $11,999 per person

Description: This 15-day adventure takes passengers from St. Paul to New Orleans, visiting over a dozen cities along the way. The itinerary blends Viking's best Mississippi River cruises, offering a comprehensive experience of the Midwest and South. Highlights include a panoramic tour of Memphis, visits to the Rock and Soul Museum, a stroll through Burlington's Snake Alley, and the National Eagle Center in Red Wing, Minnesota. Additional paid activities such as an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp or a tour of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis are also available. This cruise will be offered in July, September, and October 2025.

Is a Mississippi River Cruise Worth It?

A Mississippi River cruise can be a fantastic choice, especially for travelers who enjoy a slower pace and a blend of natural beauty and rich history. The cruise offers unique experiences, such as scenic views of the river, charming small towns, and visits to historic sites like antebellum mansions, Civil War battlefields, and vibrant cities like New Orleans and Memphis. The onboard experience typically includes regional cuisine, live entertainment, and shore excursions that delve into the local culture, from blues music in Memphis to Cajun cuisine in Louisiana.

However, whether it’s “worth it” depends on your preferences. The leisurely pace of a Mississippi River cruise might not appeal to those looking for high-energy activities, and the cruise can be quite expensive. For those interested in cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and history, it is a valuable experience. The cruise is particularly popular with older adults or those who seek relaxation and a deep dive into American heritage.

Best Time to Take a Mississippi River Cruise

The best time to take a Mississippi River cruise is during the spring (March, April, May) or fall (September, October, November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, avoiding the extremes of summer heat and winter cold. However, temperatures can vary greatly along the river, with colder conditions in Minnesota compared to Louisiana. Additionally, springtime can bring higher chances of flooding, which might lead to route changes or rescheduled itineraries.

Conclusion

Booking a Mississippi River cruise in 2025 provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the iconic river's scenic beauty, rich history, and unique cultural landmarks. With various cruise lines offering diverse itineraries and onboard experiences, it's an ideal way to explore the heart of America in comfort and style. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, a Mississippi River cruise promises a memorable adventure.