Grand Heartland Cruise-American Serenade

Time to Check ‘Mississippi River’ Off Your Bucket List!
Are you ready to cruise the entire length of the Mississippi River? You may have cruised segments before, but nothing can compare to experiencing the full Mississippi in one cruise. This 15-night southbound cruise is offered a couple times a year, and cannot be missed. You’ll cruise down the epic river of lore, as well as paddle past 10 states!

Cruise Details

Clock16 Days & 15 Nights

Double Occupancy from $11,945 pp/do*

Single Occupancyfrom $15,185 pp

CalendarSeptember 26, 2025 | September 25, 2026

Book Now Request More Info

or call 800.578.1479

*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees.
Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

    1Embark in St. Paul, MN
    Take some time to explore the Twin Cities before boarding your boat. Perhaps a walking tour of Summit Avenue to enjoy the late 1800 historic mansions, or a visit to local art galleries and museums.

    2Cruising the Mississippi River
    Board the ship and be treated with a welcome reception. Get to know your fellow guests and savor the view as you set out on Mark Twain's river. Admire the breathtaking scenery that has inspired the country's most legendary writers, artists, and musicians.

    3Winona, MN
    Step into 19th-century Americana in Winona, MN, located on the picturesque bluff country on the Mississippi River. Explore this vibrant small town with the perfect blend of urban and old world charm. From rolling fields of prairie flowers to some of the most architecturally important buildings in Minnesota.

    4Dubuque, IA
    One of the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi, Dubuque is a fascinating town full of just about everything. The complimentary shore excursion includes a historic city tour. Dubuque has Victorian era attractions, and you’ll learn about the history of this beautiful town with stops at Mathias Ham House and the Old Jail Museum.

    5Davenport, IA
    The complimentary shore excursion in Davenport visits the John Deere Pavilion and store. Learn the story of the company, and how John Deere continues to contribute to agricultural development. Another option in town is to visit the John Hauberg Indian Museum in the Black Hawk State Historic Site.

    6Fort Madison, IA
    Founded as an active military outpost in 1808, Fort Madison was one of three posts established by the U.S. Army to maintain control over the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. Today, Fort Madison offers visitors a vibrant cultural scene, bucolic landscapes, and an active agritourism industry which celebrates the American heartland. Explore its many historic districts, where you can admire the well-preserved Victorian and Post Renaissance architecture. Enjoy the area's museums, unique boutiques, shops, as well as local breweries and wineries.

    7Hannibal, MO
    Learn all about the beginnings of the great Mark Twain in his boyhood hometown of Hannibal. Be sure to also visit the Interpretive Center, which houses 15 original Normal Rockwell paintings!

    8St. Louis, MO
    Explore the city, from the Gateway Arch on the riverfront to the Anheuser Busch Brewery stables to Forest Park.

    9St. Louis, MO
    Spend another day in this vibrant city, home to the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and a variety of eclectic neighborhoods, with great dining, micro-breweries, and live music. Led by our knowledgeable guides, explore all St. Louis has to offer.

    10Day of River Cruising
    As you make your way from St. Louis to Memphis, reflect upon the rich history of the Mississippi River and the variety of music born upon its shores. Listen to our talented performers in one of the lounges, or share the afternoon with fellow cruisers.

    11Memphis, TN
    Welcome to Memphis, a historic city which rises picturesquely up the hillside from the river, adorned with grand oak trees, lush parks, and historic sites that commemorate everything from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. Immerse yourself in its rich musical legacy as you stroll along the legendary Beale Street, where music flows from every doorway, and savor the rich flavors and aromas of the city's famous BBQ.

    12Day of Cruising
    Mingle with guests in one of our comfortable lounges or read a good book on your private balcony as we stroll down the river.

    13Vicksburg, MS
    Vicksburg is a place of drama. During the Civil War, the struggle to control Vicksburg proved to be a major turning point. The well-fortified connection between river and rail transportation was known as "The Gibraltar of the West." A narrated exploration of the well-preserved National Military Park battlefield enlivens this powerful story and highlights its significance.

    14Natchez, MS
    In Natchez, grand homes sparkle like jewels, adorning the bluffs that tower the river. Since 1716, when the French first built a fort here among the Natchez Indians, the town has grown to boast elaborate mansions built by planters in the 1800's to flaunt their wealth. With no Civil War fighting here, Natchez still features hundreds of antebellum homes and buildings. Each of these architectural treasures has its own story to tell, creating a charming downtown that embodies the essence of southern charm and hospitality.

    15Baton Rouge, LA
    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 Capital Museum and visit Long's 1932 Stater Capitol building, an architectural marvel of granite and marble.

    16New Orleans, LA
    New Orleans is worth some extra time! Stroll the tree-lined avenues, take a carriage ride through the French Quarter, hop aboard the streetcar to the gorgeous Garden District, or visit the renowned National World War II Museum.

completemiss-grandheartland_700x1100

Cabin Categories

Cabin Single Price Double Price
Grand Suite (GS) $20,985 pp
Veranda Suite (VS)$16,380 pp
Premium Balcony (PB)$13,940 pp
Deluxe Balcony (DB1)$13,155 pp
Standard Balcony (SB1)$11,945 pp
Single Balcony (SGB)$15,185

Ship Read more about the American Serenade

*Prices may vary due to seasonality

Onboard Experience

The American Cruise Line fleet of ships are the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the US. The cruise line prides itself on their hospitable staff, and that you’ll be graciously received no matter which ship you cruise on. The large staterooms with interior entrances ensure you have a relaxed, private area to watch the river from, or visit any of the many onboard lounges. Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists.

Regionally-Inspired Menus

American Cruise Lines uses fresh, local ingredients to show off the culinary glory of the region you’re cruising in. On the Mississippi River, that could mean Andouille Gumbo, a po’boy with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie. In New England, you could find Littleneck clam ceviche on the menu followed by a spiced apple pudding with maple whipped cream. In the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find fresh fish on the menu, including shrimp bisque or Dungeness Crab cake, and a marionberry cheesecake that’ll make your mouth water! Your ship will provide you with a list of all the locally-sourced ingredients when you unpack.

Eagle Society

Once you’ve cruised aboard any American Cruise Line ship, you are an Eagle Society member. It’s free to be a member, but your loyalty to American Cruise Lines is greatly rewarded. You’ll receive Eagle Society luggage tags, and member-only gifts when you board each cruise. After 3 cruises, you’ll receive complimentary premium shore excursions. After 10 cruises, you’ll get a complimentary 11th cruise. There are special Eagle Society cruise dates every year. Plus all Eagle Society member benefits can be used when booking with USA River Cruises, plus you’ll still be eligible for our loyal customer benefits as well.

Book Today

Grand Heartland Cruise-American Serenade

Book Now Request More Info

or call 800.578.1479

logo-white