Day 1 : Fly to Memphis

Before we embark on our merry Mississippi River cruise, enjoy this port of call in Memphis with a night out on the town to find tasty local cuisine and other activities at your leisure. We overnight in Memphis.

Day 2 : Graceland

Before we embark on our Mississippi River cruise, we tour Graceland, home of The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, at the most wonderful time of the year. Voted the #1 Best Historic Holiday Home Tour by USA Today, Graceland continues The King’s tradition of spectacular and over-the-top Christmas décor. Afterwards, enjoy lunch on your own in Graceland, perhaps grabbing a bite at an authentic 50s diner. Next, we board The American Queen for a seven-night cruise.

Day 3 : Cleveland (Terrene Landing)

Our first port of call is Cleveland, located along the Mississippi Delta. This distinctive northwest region of the state lies between the Yazoo and Mississippi Rivers, dubbed “The Most Southern Place On Earth,” nicknamed for its culture and geography. The Delta is rich with American lore, attracting musicians, writers, and artists such as iconic playwright Tennessee Williams and novelist William Faulkner whose tales tell eye-opening stories of taming the wild, flood-prone Delta. Enjoy an included excursion at the new GRAMMY Museum Mississippi. Witness cutting-edge interactive exhibits that celebrate the history, breadth, and cultural significance of American music before browsing downtown boutiques and restaurants.

Day 4 : Vicksburg

Today’s port of call is in Vicksburg, Mississippi. This town is brimming with American history which is highlighted on our included hop-on, hop-off tour. Visit the Church of the Holy Trinity that features 34 stained glass windows and inspired architecture or the Vicksburg National Military Park and its marble Illinois Monument. This site is where the Siege of Vicksburg took place, when the Union Army made its critical push to obtain a favorable position during the American Civil War.

Day 5 : Natchez

Delight in the charming port of call in Natchez and admire the over 1,000 historic homes that line the quaint streets. Stock up on Southern staples like muscadine juice, salsas, dips, jellies, and every souvenir imaginable including alligator items at the Old South Trading Post. Discover the history of the of the magnificent Rosalie Mansion on a self-guided tour. This Federal-style structure was built in 1832 by a wealthy cotton planter and has been maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Day 6 : St. Francisville

Today’s port of call, St. Francisville, features natural formation of bluffs, ridges, and foothills in addition to the historic city center. Pre-war homes, quaint shops, and beautiful views make this an idyllic place to spend the day.

Day 7 : Baton Rouge

Our stop in the historic city of Baton Rouge is packed with included activities. Get a feel for the bustling city with a hop-on, hop off tour featuring a stop at the Capitol Park Museum which showcases artifacts from Louisiana’s colorful history. Immerse yourself in history by hopping off the tour bus and spending a few hours touring the USS Kidd, a 376-foot long 1945 Fletcher-Class Destroyer now converted into a museum. Take advantage of today’s included premium shore excursion – the Ultimate Cajun Adventure. Channel the adventurous Creole spirit on an airboat adventure down the lush swamplands where gators reside. Our Cajun guide provides cultural and historical insight while pointing out the animal inhabitants of the calm waters. Next, a lunch at Crawfish USA demonstrates the Cajun culinary tradition of flavorful fusion. Finally, reflect on the cultural contributions and hardships of 18th and 19th-century rural life in Louisiana at the sprawling LSU Rural Life Museum.

Day 8 : Nottoway

Our stop today is at the American Queen Voyages exclusive port of Nottoway. Delight in the grandeur of a bygone era on a tour of Nottoway Resort, the largest pre-war, antebellum mansion. Originally home to sugarcane magnate Randolph Nottoway in 1895, the 53,ooo-square-foot structure has been fastidiously restored to showcase everything from 12 grand columns to delicate, minute details of the plaster frieze moldings.

Day 9 : New Orleans

Welcome to New Orleans! After we disembark, take a guided tour of the city cloaked in dazzling decorations with a break for lunch in historic Jackson Square. The afternoon brings us to exciting Mardi Gras World where we get a historical overview of the famous festival and view floats so elaborate you will have a new appreciation for the artists who create these massive 3D pieces. Enjoy dinner and the evening at your leisure.

Day 10 : National WWII Museum

For our last day in New Orleans, we visit the masterful National WWII Museum featuring immersive multimedia experiences, first-person oral histories, massive collections of artifacts, and more that showcase and honor the Greatest Generation and its veterans who made so many sacrifices in the name of freedom. Later this morning we enjoy a farewell jazz brunch at Court of Two Sisters in New Orleans with the remainder of the day at leisure to explore and enjoy the city and its holiday offerings as you please.

Day 11 : Fly Home