mississippi riverboat cruise st louis

Visiting the Gateway Arch: Enter the monument through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs are exits only. Please allow at least 30 minutes to go through security. Tickets sell out early and often, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Pending availability, additional tickets may be available for same-day purchase beginning at 9am each day through our website, call center, and ticket center at the Gateway Arch. Same-day ticket availability is not guaranteed and sells out early and often.

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Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

Enjoy some of the best views of the Gateway Arch and St. Louis’ working riverfront on a riverboat cruise. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a relaxing tour, or a floating party with live music and dancing, we have a cruise to suit your interests.

St. Louis Riverfront Cruise

Catch some of the best views of the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis on a fascinating one-hour riverboat tour.

Daily cruises : 10:30 am, noon, 1:30 pm, 3 pm, 4:30 pm, 6 pm and 7:30 pm *Times vary, call (877) 982-1410 for schedule

Pricing: Adult: $24, Child (3-15): $14, Senior (60+): $22, Infant (0-2): FREE, * Group pricing available

Tram & Cruise Combo : Save up to $2 by adding a Tram Ride to the Top of the Gateway Arch

Skyline Dinner Cruise

Make any night special on this scenic two-hour cruise.  Our flagship evening cruise features live music on Fridays and a DJ on Saturdays, a chef-inspired menu, and captivating views of the St. Louis Skyline.

Sunday Brunch Cruise

The perfect Sunday starts here. Join us aboard the Becky Thatcher for the ultimate brunch experience with live entertainment, chef-inspired cuisine and great views.

Pricing: Adults: $57* Children (3-12): $23 * Group pricing available **Cruise dates and prices are subject to change.

Reservations are required.

Specialty Cruises

All aboard for fun on one of our specialty cruises. Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a leisurely brunch, or a lively party cruise, the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch offer outings for guests of all ages. Reservations are required. See below for upcoming cruises.

Upcoming Specialty Cruises

Paddlewheel Café

The Paddlewheel Café – St. Louis’ only waterfront dining destination!  Order a made-to-order burger while you’re enjoying views of the Gateway Arch and traffic on the Mississippi River. Join us for happy hour and grab a specialty cocktail, draft beer, or soft drink from the Dockside Bar.

Closed for the season. Will reopen in spring 2024!

Private Charters & Events

For a unique and memorable birthday celebration, anniversary, reunion, private reception, wedding, business outing or company party, just add water. Let the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch be your host. We can customize your event with a variety of sit-down or buffet meals, bar options, and entertainment.

Group Reservations

Whether you’re looking for a short tour or an all-day outing, our team is eager to work with you to ensure the best possible experience for your guests. From tour groups and scout troops to corporate retreats, church groups and field trips to family reunions, we welcome groups of all ages, sizes, and interests.

Riverboat Address

50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard St. Louis, MO 63102

Cash parking is available on the levee.

For more information,  click here .

Please note:  Levee parking is not operated by the Gateway Arch or Riverboats at the Gateway Arch.

Rolling on the River: Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises

No visit to the Gateway Arch in downtown St. Louis is complete without a riverboat tour of the Mississippi! Step back in time as you board the Becky Thatcher or Tom Sawyer and take a tranquil tour of the riverfront.

Before interstate highways crisscrossed the nation, people did their luxury traveling by train and steamboat. St. Louis was a bustling river town in the 1800’s with hundreds of steam powered paddlewheelers docked on riverfront! There’s a cool display of what St. Louis looked like back then at the Arch’s new museum –be sure to check it out on your next visit.

Riverboat Cruise at the Arch

The riverboats can take your family on a hour long tour of the riverfront –there’s a sightseeing cruise running every day from March to November.

But if you want to make it really special–book a dinner or brunch cruise! The Becky Thatcher is set up with a double decker dining room and takes visitors on a two-hour tour of the riverfront while you dine on a delicious buffet.

Brunch on the Riverboat Becky Thatcher

Sunday Brunch Cruises are a great way to celebrate Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Of course you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy a wonderful weekend at the Arch with your family! There’s one or two brunch cruises scheduled every month the boats operates. Check out their current schedule under “specialty cruises” here.   There’s also dinner cruises, dancing cruises, and a couple cruises up to see the lock and dam where the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers meet!

What’s included with my ticket?

Your brunch ticket includes a buffet full of scrambled eggs, blintzes, French toast, sausage, prime rib, stuffed chicken, veggies, pasta, dessert, and coffee, iced tea, orange juice, milk and chocolate milk. Soft drinks, beer and cocktails are available at the bar for an extra charge.

What to Expect on your Riverboat Brunch Cruise

First, you’ll want to reserve your spot early by getting tickets online . Tickets are $45 for adults, $18 for kids 3-12 and free for little ones under 2. 

The boats are docked at the foot of the Gateway Arch. Stop by the ticket office to pick up your tickets by 12:30 — the boat leaves promptly at 1pm!

Then you’ll come aboard and be directed to your seat. Unlike the sightseeing tours, the Brunch Cruise has reserved indoor seating with white linen table clothes. Tables are located by the windows, so you can enjoy the whole cruise from the comfort of the cabin, or pop upstairs to watch from the observation deck. 

The food might be served buffet style, but you’ll also get a friendly waiter to serve your drinks and clear the plates. Don’t worry about standing in line either, the serving staff dismisses diners by table so the buffet isn’t overwhelmed.

And while you wait, enjoy a little Dixieland music!

Where do I park?

Best Photos of the Arch are Here

If you’re looking to get a postcard photo of the Gateway Arch, a riverboat cruise is where to be! You can also get a pretty cool one from the Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park over on the East Side, but you don’t need to worry about pesky power lines messing up your shot here. ( Here’s a few more ideas for great photos with the Arch! )

Riverboats at the Gateway Arch

• See all photos

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Riverboats at the Gateway Arch - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises

The St. Louis riverfront offers two 19th-century replica steamboats, the Tom Sawyer and the Becky Thatcher, for cruising the Mighty Mississippi River. A variety of cruises are offered for any occasion. There are sightseeing cruises such as a cruise to Kimmswick or to mouth of the Missouri to experience going through the lock and dam system. There are entertainment cruises such as the Blues Cruises and dinner cruises such as the Sunday Brunch Cruises. And there are seasonal cruises that feature dinner and entertainment such as the New Year's Eve Cruise or the Octoberfest Cruise. The Gateway Arch Riverboats can be chartered to share a special occasion, such as a wedding, reunion or birthday party with family and friends.

Take a Cruise on the Gateway Arch Riverboats

Times and prices vary according to type of cruise. Both boats are equipped with indoor and outdoor seating areas, tables, chairs, restrooms, and a concession area and are wheelchair accessible. See website for cruise schedule and more info.

Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises Address and Phone Numbers

Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises St. Louis Riverfront 50 N. Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd St. Louis, MO 63102 877-982-1410

Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises Related Links:

St Louis Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises Information

Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises Photo Gallery

View from the Gateway Arch

St Louis Riverboat Cruises

St Louis Riverboat Cruises on the Mississippi River Link

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Review Highlights

“ Louis we decided to ride this riverboat along the river and it was such a fun experience! ” in 17 reviews

“ There were concessions on board, but no one minded that I brought a drink onboard with me that I had purchased in the arch cafe . ” in 2 reviews

“ You'll pass your dock and go under a few more bridges before turning around and heading back to the dock . ” in 11 reviews

Location & Hours

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50 S Leonor K Sullivan Blvd

Saint Louis, MO 63102

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Take a relaxing cruise and discover the best view of the St. Louis skyline from replica nineteenth-century paddle-wheel riverboats, the Becky Thatcher and the Tom Sawyer. They were brought to St. Louis in 1964 so spectators could get a close-up view of the Arch as it was being constructed, and are the only riverboats on the St. Louis Riverfront today. During a variety of cruises offered, hear the waters churn and admire the view as you ride along the mighty Mississippi River, where Lewis and Clark completed their historic journey. Choose a One-Hour Sightseeing Cruise, Skyline Dinner Cruise or one of many specialty cruises. Hours Cruises run March-November, rain or shine. Departure times and costs vary for each cruise. Tickets Advance ticket purchases are recommended, and are required for certain cruises. Tickets available by phone or online. On-board concessions vary for cruises. Also your entire family may enjoy casual dining, dockside at the Paddle Wheel Café, with a spectacular view of the Gateway Arch. Parking is available on the levee in front of the riverboats. Parking on Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard is illegal and cars will be ticketed. Accessibility Ramps from the street to the levee provide wheelchair access to the riverboats. The first floor of both riverboats and the riverboat dock are wheelchair accessible. The second and top decks of both riverboats require using stairs. …

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The Arch is always a nice touch to a STL visit! The entire experience was fun and informative. Going up the arch was fun. Before we got on the tram, we participated in a learning session. We saw videos of how things were constructed and about the builders. I believe that there are sessions held with the founders and builders as well. I love how organized everything was. We stayed with our group took fun photos and learned so much! Once we made it to the top, it was a really nice view. Now I don't know if it was my fear of heights or what, but I became super dizzy and nauseous. But I did get a few pics and videos. Once we came back down, we stopped in the restaurant to eat. They have a really good system to make sure you get your food quickly. We had the ribs and wings. All of the sides come with original lays potato chips. We also had the juices. They were good! Finally, we shopped in the souvenir shop. It had so many great items. I always get a magnet for my refrigerator collection. If you are in St. Louis, this is definitely a place to visit!

Take a cruise on the Mighty Mississippi River. Board on a replica 19th century paddle-wheel riverboat for a different view of the Gateway Arch and the banks of the Mississippi. Love the names, the Becky Thatcher and the Tom Sawyer, that were originally used to take sightseers to view the construction of the Gateway Arch in the 1960s. Today, the cruise goes under several bridges, the Eads, the MLK, the MacArthur. On a beautiful sunny fall day, it was nice to be on the river enjoying the sunshine, but the tour itself was not that interesting and it was hard to hear the narration. Buy tickets at the National Park Service office inside the Arch and then walk down the steps to the riverbanks to board. The sixty-minute cruise is $25 ($24 plus a $1 service fee). If I had to do it again, I'd opt for a themed cruise like the Blues Cruise or Halloween for $30.

See all photos from Helene S. for Gateway Arch Riverboats

Now I can say I've been on a riverboat on the Mississippi. Otherwise not much to write home about. We did this before going up in the arch, so we knew some landmarks to look for from the top. I was glad they had food on board because we had totally run out of time to grab lunch after landing at the airport and needing to head straight to the riverboat!

View of the arch from the boat

Good food is not something I would have expected from a riverboat, but the food on our boat was really good. I'm still thinking about the gooey butter cake. The service was amazing and very friendly, too. You should know: When the boat is up and running, it gets very loud in the dining room area of the riverboat. I was trying to hold up a conversation with people at my table while I was eating, and I felt like I had to shout and ask them to repeat what they said. Upstairs on the deck, it's a little more quiet. But inside, you hear the roar of the engine from start to finish. But you should't spend too much time inside, anyway. The point of these riverboat cruises is to look out at the scenery, and your best view is from the deck. There is no bad seat on the deck, so just pick a spot and relax while the St. Louis skyline whooshes past you. From the riverboat, you can see the St. Louis Arch really well, as well as the behind-the-scenes graffiti and whatnot that you typically don't see from land. I love urban decay, so this is right up my alley. You also pass under bridges and see other watercraft go by. Our riverboat ride was about two hours. Just enough time to eat, snap some selfies on the deck, and bask in the sunshine on a really cool boat that's chugging down the Mississippi River.

I wanted to do a riverboat tour when in town as I had fond memories of doing it when I was a kid. Boarding process was quick, they take your photo ( you can skip it) and they bring it to you on the boat hoping you buy it. We initially sat on the upper deck but it started raining with thunder and lightening so we went down to a covered deck. Should have went indoors as it had the air conditioning! As you go down the river there is a staff from the Missouri history society talking about what you are seeing and changes in history. The sites themselves were actually pretty depressing. As someone who grew up here and came down to visit the floating McDonald's, eat or shop in Laclede's landing it was very bleak. Lots of unhoused person encampments, a rotting casino dock. You cruise up the river for 30 minutes and come back down for a total of an hour. They had food and drinks at the dock, as well as restrooms. It wasn't a terrible experience just sad if you remember this area in it's former glory.

On our trip to St. Louis we decided to ride this riverboat along the river and it was such a fun experience! The riverboat was really big and had lots of seats for people to sit and relax in... but it really didn't help that it was a pretty humid day, but we were prepared beforehand. As we cruised down the Mississippi River, we got to see so many cool things such as historic sites and landmarks. There were big bridges that we went under, and we even saw some big cargo ships that were carrying all kinds of goods. We also saw some wildlife, like birds and fish jumping out of the water. The best part of the cruise was when we got to see the Gateway Arch from the river. It looked even bigger and more impressive from down below! The captain of the boat also told us lots of interesting facts about the history of St. Louis and the river. Overall, I would definitely recommend the Gateway Arch Riverboat cruise if you're ever in St. Louis. It's a great way to see the city and the river from a different perspective, and it's a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon.

View right before we went under the bridge.

The old power plant, I think. I was melting due to the heat so I would forget some things the tour guide would say.

My friends and I were looking for something convenient to our location (Busch Stadium) it's only about 3 blocks away and right past the Arch, down the stairs. It was sadly only an hour but filled with lots of info. Bar on board had nice choices.

The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch: we did the Tom Sawyer riverboat cruise. Actually took it as part of the Arch ticket. The margarita by the bartender was really good. Some history is narrated throughout about the bridges etc seen while sailing on the Mississippi River, but the cruise is just too slow; and the speaker had this crackling sound while announcing, didn't feel like listening to it. Super hot as well. Overall didn't feel worth the money. We went at 4.30 pm. Don't know if they have a better experience at other times.

Ehh... This really isn't a "must do." The Mississippi River water is pretty disgusting and the sights around aren't that spectacular. The approximately one hour narrated tour (by a park ranger and also the captain) seemed to be a little strapped for fun facts around the area.

It's nice and scenic and informative, and it's nice you can bring your own drinks on and enjoy the view. However the plastic chairs are old and filthy, you can't tell me for one second they can't afford to buy new chairs to make it look a little better. It would make the experience so much nicer. They are simple plastic lawn chairs that run for 20-30 a piece at most stores. Those chairs need to be thrown out immediately. If the company is reading this, do better.

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Gain a new perspective while cruising the Mighty Mississippi. With a variety of sightseeing, dinner, and specialty outings to choose from, a riverboat cruise makes a unique and relaxing way to experience the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis.

Available March through November. Cruise dates and times vary. Located on the St. Louis Riverfront below the Grand Staircase of the Gateway Arch.

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Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruises

Type: Family Friendly , Tours and Excursions

Last updated on June 29, 2015

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800 N 1st St St. Louis, MO 63102

314-621-4040

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Mississippi River Cruises

Stretching for 2,350 miles down the United States, from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the "Mighty Mississippi" offer a different type of cross-country journey for the curious explorer—one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture.

Step on board the newest and most modern ship on the Mississippi with all outside staterooms, private verandas, spacious public areas and our signature, clean Scandinavian design, reimagined for the Mississippi River.

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Highlights of mississippi river cruises.

A Mississippi River cruise offers the rare opportunity to sail through America's heartland on the world’s #1 river cruise line. Explore picturesque towns and boom cities; take in views of pastoral farms and towering bluffs; and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture with an included excursion in every port. Here are a few highlights Viking reveals to you:

• Festive French Quarter and Creole cuisine in New Orleans
• Cajun heritage in Baton Rouge
• Civil War history at Vicksburg National Military Park
• Memphis BBQ, Graceland and appreciation of the Delta Blues
• Steamboat sailings with diverse wildlife sightings
• Mark Twain's boyhood home and America’s literary history
• Up close look at America’s national symbol, the bald eagle
• Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the pioneering spirit of the Midwest
• Norwegian cultural experience at Vesterheim
• Intricate locks and dams of the Upper Mississippi

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Dinner Cruise

Trip Highlights

A delicious dinner buffet, live musical entertainment, relaxing or dancing to the music, soaking in beautiful scenery along the mississippi river, description.

Enjoy a night of dinner and dancing on this cruise on the Mighty Mississippi. Indulge in a delicious buffet and share a wonderful dinner with your family or friends, then enjoy live music from the dance floor or the deck.

Once on board, you are escorted to your table, then you are free to roam the boat until the captain announces that dinner is ready. After dinner, you are free to dance or sit back and enjoy the music. Live entertainment is included on our Dinner Cruises. It may be The Rivermen playing modern jazz (Saturday night from Memorial Day thru September), or you might get to enjoy the music of Tim Hart (Mondays & Tuesdays), or Adam Ledbetter and David Damm (Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday). Listen or dance to their favorite tunes — and they have been known to take a request or two. And you never know when a crew member or two may step up on the stage and join in.

Departure time: 6:30 p.m. Yearly availability: May 3 - Oct 28 Weekly availability: Varies - check calendar

300 Riverfront Drive, Hannibal, MO. 63401

Why take this tour?

It’s a fun night of music for the young and the young at heart! You never know when members of the crew might take up a mic and sing you a song. Our dancefloor is available after dinner if you are so inclined, or you can choose to dance under the stars on the outer decks (no dancing on the tables and chairs, please).

A cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat is great for family events. Whether you are a visitor or resident of Hannibal, our unique riverboat experience makes a wonderful memory for you to take home with you! We’re looking forward to having you on board!

Alcoholic beverages

Things to know.

They are available for purchase from our fully stocked bar and concession stand

Sunday - Friday Nights

Enjoy the music of Adam Ledbetter on piano and David Damm on a variety of instruments. Listen or dance to their favorite tunes. They might even take a request or two! You never know when members of the crew might take up a mic or drumsticks and join them.

Saturday Nights

The tradition of music on the river continues with the sound of modern jazz, big band, blues, and just about everything else from The Rivermen, a four-piece (or more) ensemble. More than 50 years of entertaining qualifies this ensemble to offer all ages a good time. The Rivermen show you why the river, Hannibal to New Orleans, is musical in many ways.

Departure Time

All cruises depart from Center Street Landing on the waterfront in historic Hannibal, MO. Boarding begins 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Adults (Ages 13 & Older) - $54.95

Children (Ages 5-12) - $24.95

Wee Ones (Ages 2-4) - $8.00

Babies (Ages 2 & Under) - Free

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Sightseeing Tour

This one-hour sightseeing cruise travels along the mighty Mississippi River, allowing you to soak up the scenery at a relaxing, rhythmic pace. Listen as the captain guides your cruise with historical commentary on the history, legends, and sights of the Mississippi River.

A cruise aboard the Mark Twain Riverboat is great for family events. Whether you are a visitor or resident of Hannibal, you can make wonderful memories aboard our unique riverboat experience! Looking forward to having you onboard!

Departure time: Varies - check calendar Yearly availability: April 1 - Nov. 4 Weekly availability: Daily

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The Most Beautiful River Cruises In North America Are Picture Perfect

Posted: February 10, 2024 | Last updated: February 10, 2024

Rolling on the river

Viking Mississippi Holiday Season cruise, USA

It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas markets cruise, and as much as we love the ones in Germany and Austria, nothing beats a festive float down the Mississippi. Highlights on  this cruise , which snakes from Memphis to New Orleans, include stop-offs at Natchez, whose many historic buildings are festooned with Christmas lights, and Vicksburg, whose independent boutiques are great places to pick up presents. This is also a great cruise for twitchers – a huge number of bird species flock to this stretch of the Mississippi for winter. 

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M.S. Dixie II Lake Tahoe cruise, California, USA

Say hello to one of America’s most spectacular lake cruises. Your mode of transport for this sail across Lake Tahoe will be the M.S Dixie II – the lake’s biggest boat. The sunset dinner cruises are popular with couples, although we recommend the scenic daytime tours, which are a great way to explore North America’s largest alpine lake. This high-altitude body of water spreads into two states (California and Nevada), contains enough water to cover California with 14 inches of water and is deeper than the Empire State Building is tall.  

Le Petit Navire Lachine Canal tour, Québec, Canada

If crowded cruise liners and transatlantic crossings don’t appeal, consider this leisurely sail along Canada’s 14-kilometer Lachine Canal, which slices through the southern section of Montréal, a city famous for its historic architecture. Don’t know your dingle from your dewater? You’ll gain a wonderful insight into the construction of this historic waterway as you pass through its locks, and you’ll also enjoy fantastic views of Montréal’s skyline. Your mode of transport is rather special too – a carbon-neutral, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat. 

American Cruise Lines Alaska Inside Passage cruise, Alaska, USA

Alaska’s Inside Passage is an inland route weaving between islands on the Pacific Northwest coast and along glacier-lined fjords. Inside Passage cruises offer a different perspective on Alaska to coastal cruises, relying on smaller ships to reach more remote ports of call. Highlights of this cruise include the Strait of Georgia, where you’ll sail between Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and the glacier-fed waters of Frederick Sound – a brilliant whale watching spot.

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Northwest Pioneers Cruise, Oregon and Washington, USA

As much as we love the mighty Mississippi, this brilliant river cruise , which wiggles through Oregon and Washington, is a fantastic reminder that there are plenty of other breathtakingly beautiful waterways to explore. On this adventure, you’ll sail along the Columbia River – the largest in America’s Pacific Northwest – and Snake River, which is the Columbia River’s largest tributary. It’s a great way to see some of America’s most underrated destinations, including the town of Astoria, which is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.

American Cruise Lines Puget Sound and San Juan Islands Cruise, Washington, USA

This seven-day cruise provides a brilliant insight into one of America’s most wildlife-rich regions: Washington state’s Puget Sound, America’s second largest estuary; and the San Juan Islands, a cluster of 172 islands and reefs where you’re likely to spot wildlife including whales and eagles. Don’t miss the chance to explore Port Townsend, sandwiched between Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and famous for its Victorian-era architecture. 

Viking America’s Heartland cruise, Upper Mississippi, USA

This is one of the best Mississippi cruises for anyone keen to learn about the people who shaped this part of the US, whether it’s the Norwegians who migrated here during the 1800s or the farmers who made this region one of America’s top culinary destinations. Stops include the Missouri city of St Louis, once known as the Gateway to the West; Hannibal, which was the setting for Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn;  and the Iowan city of Dubuque, home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Viking Heart of the Delta cruise, USA

An eight-day cruise between Memphis and New Orleans, Viking’s Heart of the Delta cruise takes in the Mississippi’s best bits, including many listed monuments and buildings. For history buffs, highlights will include St Francisville, where there’s a whopping 140 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Natchez, which has more listed buildings than any other American city. If you’re short on time, put Stanton Hall, which was built in the 1850s, at the top of your list – this Greek revival-style property is famous for its ornate mirrored parlors.  

James River Batteau Company Batteau River tour, Virginia, USA

Short on time? Opt for this scenic river tour . Your mode of transport for this float along Virginia’s James River will be one of the beautiful wooden boats which have sailed this waterway for years. The two-hour tour along the river, which is Virginia’s longest, is a great way to see its wildlife – bald eagles, river otters and ospreys are regularly spotted. It’s a rather relaxed affair, and passengers are encouraged to cool off with a swim in the river. 

Discover the beloved cruise ships that will never sail again

American Queen Voyages Clarkston to Portland cruise, USA

A brilliant cruise for history fans, this 10-day Snake River and Columbia River cruise starts in Clarkston and finishes in Vancouver, Washington – the route undertaken by explorers Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark in the early 1800s. It’s also a route lined with natural wonders, including Columbia Gorge, which slices through the Cascade Mountains, and Idaho’s Hell’s Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon and can be explored on a high-speed boat ride. The Columbia River stretch is where you’re most likely to see bison, elk and deer too. 

American Queen Voyages Memphis to Nashville cruise, USA

This nine-day Memphis to Nashville   cruise is a fantastic way to check out some of the southern state’s prettiest towns, whether it’s Paducah in Kentucky, famed for its arts and craft museum or Clarksville, Tennessee. The latter is famous for its breweries, distilleries and wineries, while historic sites include the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town’s famous former residents, including Wilma Rudolph – the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. 

American Queen Voyages Mighty Mississippi Red Wing to New Orleans, USA

Can’t get enough of the Mighty Mississippi? Take a deep dive on  this 16-day cruise between Red Wing and New Orleans. It’s a fantastic way to discover the landscapes which surround America’s second longest river. The Minnesotan city of Winona, for example, is built on a sandbar and dates back to 9,500BC. The excursions on this cruise are fantastic too. Our favorite? In the town of Hannibal, Missouri, you’ll get the chance to make your very own clay pot out of Mississippi mud. 

Adventure Life Rivers of Adventure and Wine cruise, Oregon, USA

Your transport for this food and wine-themed cruise along the Columbia River is the Wilderness Legacy, a beautiful vessel designed to resemble a Victorian steamer. During the cruise, which starts and finishes in Portland, you’ll visit some of Oregon’s most important historical sites, but it’s the food and wine-themed stops that really set it apart. In the Hood River Valley, you can sign up for cycle rides between local vineyards, and in the Washington city of Walla Walla, you’ll visit a local chocolatier, olive oil producer, and brewery.  

American Queen Voyages St Louis to Cincinnati cruise, USA

Get more bang for your buck from your river cruise by signing up for American Queen Voyages’ exploration of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Stop-offs on this spectacular paddle steamer cruise include the Illinois city of Alton, which has a rich history and became a base for abolitionists in the 1800s, and Henderson in Kentucky. It’s another cruise with fantastic excursions, our favorite of which is a jet boat ride along a stunning section of the Ohio River near Carrollton, Kentucky. 

American Queen Voyages Montréal to Detroit cruise, Canada and US

An 11-day cruise between two very different cities, this Montréal to Detroit sailing provides plenty of opportunities for urban explorations – you’ll visit Montréal, Québec City , Toronto and Cleveland, as well as quaint riverside towns such as Gananoque, in the heart of the Thousand Islands archipelago in Eastern Ontario. This particular cruise offers fantastic value for money – the cost of your sailing covers a wide range of excursions, including visits to Toronto’s CN Tower and catamaran tours of Niagara Falls.

St Lawrence Cruise Lines, Canada’s Capital North cruise, Canada

This Ottawa River cruise is a great way to explore two very different regions of Canada – more specifically Ontario and Québec. The six-day sailing is packed with fascinating stop-offs, including the wildlife-filled Thousand Islands, which straddle the border between America and Canada, and Fort Wellington, built in 1812. Love a lock? For many passengers, the highlight of this river cruise is the famous Carillion Lock, an enormous 182-tonne structure which has a flow rate of 2,000 cubic meters of water per second. 

Pearl Seas Cruises Great Lakes and Georgian Bay cruise, US and Canada

Sign up for this 11-night cruise from Toronto to Milwaukee and you’ll get the chance to see four of the most beautiful Great Lakes, with time to visit attractions lining the route. For many, the highlight is Georgian Bay, where 30,000 islands form the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, and where you’ll be able to check out destinations such as traffic-free Mackinac Island by horse-drawn buggy. There are plenty of big hitters too – you’ll take a guided tour of Niagara Falls and visit the legendary Henry Ford Museum in Windsor, Ontario. 

Le Boat Rideau Canal Cruise, Ontario, Canada

For something completely different, consider hiring your own river boat for a bespoke exploration of Canada’s Rideau Canal. The waterway, which is the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest engineering feats, and the UNESCO-listed canal is lined with historic sites. Your mode of transport? A luxury river boat kitted out with a kitchen, spacious bathrooms and sun deck. They’re surprisingly easy to drive too, thanks to powerful thrusters which make navigating locks a breeze. 

American Cruise Lines Hudson River cruise, New York, USA

This New York round trip  takes in the Hudson River’s best bits, busting the myth that its most spectacular section weaves through the Big Apple. You’ll explore it on the American Star, which has room for just 100 passengers and offers several stop-offs in the beautiful Catskill Mountains area. The cruise is especially popular with fans of architecture, who come to admire historic buildings such as the Vanderbilt Mansion (the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt). 

Viking Great River cruise, Mississippi, USA

This is another fantastic option for history buffs – a Mississippi River cruise filled with visits to some of America’s most important historic sites. In Red Wing, Minnesota, you’ll learn how New Englanders joined forces with German and Irish migrants to farm the fertile landscape, and in Burlington, Iowa, you’ll discover how the arrival of both steamboats and the railroad transformed this once sleepy town, filled with listed buildings. Don’t miss the chance to stand under the famous Gateway Arch in St Louis, Missouri – a crossroads for nineteenth-century explorers. 

US Mailboat Cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee on the M/V Sophie C, New Hampshire, USA

Another fantastic option for anyone short on time, this cruise takes place on America’s oldest floating post office – a beautiful vessel which launched on Lake Winnipesaukee in 1945. During the two-hour cruise, you’ll visit several of Lake Winnipesaukee’s 253 islands, many of which were once home to indigenous people such as the Pennacooks. Don’t forget to send a postcard home – you’ll be able to post it on the boat, complete with an M/V Sophie C stamp.  

Craving a cruise? Check out our guide to the world’s most beautiful cruise ships

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Advanced Reservations: The Tram Ride to the Top is SOLD OUT for advanced reservations through Saturday, March 30, 2024 . Pending availability, additional tickets may be available for same-day purchase beginning at 9am each day via our website, call center at 314-982-1410, and ticket center at the Gateway Arch. Same-day ticket availability is not guaranteed.

Visiting the Gateway Arch: Enter the monument through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs are exits only. Please allow at least 30 minutes to go through security. Tickets sell out early and often, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Pending availability, additional tickets may be available for same-day purchase beginning at 9am each day through our website, call center, and ticket center at the Gateway Arch. Same-day ticket availability is not guaranteed and sells out early and often.

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Blues Cruise feat. Billy Peek

The Mississippi River and blues music are a match made in heaven. Come see for yourself aboard this lively cruise celebrating a St. Louis tradition. This long-standing cruise series features some of the region’s best blues artists, from local favorites to up-and-comers. All season long, this cruise is the perfect place to grab a drink and take it easy for a night. Cash bar available.

COVID-19 Update:  Riverboat visitors, ages 9 & up, are required to wear face coverings with no exceptions. Guests unable to wear face coverings are encouraged to visit at a later date. View  COVID-19 FAQ  for more protocols.

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Minneapolis to St. Louis

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Explore the parks and museums of St. Louis, Missouri.
• See Mark Twain's childhood home and inspiration in his hometown of Hannibal.
• Relax in the laid-back lifestyle of La Crosse and its diverse influences.
• Admire the work of local artists and craftspeople in Red Wing, Minnesota.
• Village Visits
• River Cruises
• Archaeological Site Visits
• Mississippi River
• North America
• United States

Full Itinerary

Day 1: hotel stay in minneapolis, day 2: red wing, mn | embark.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Red Wing, MN

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 4: La Crosse, WI

Day 5: dubuque, ia, day 6: bettendorf, ia, day 7: burlington, ia, day 8: hannibal, mo, day 9: st. louis, mo | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

American Countess

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $250 per person, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 71 days prior to departure by MasterCard, Visa, Discover, Diners Club, or check

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• American Queen Steamboat Company - Terms and Conditions 2022 - American Queen Voyages

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
• 8 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Unlimited Wifi
• Gratuities to Onboard Crew
• Port Taxes & Fees
• Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar every morning
• In-Room Dining
• Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
• Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment
• Locally Sourced & regionally Inspired Cuisine from land and sea
• Gourmet Selections of freshly prepared choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Unlimited Beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees
• Unlimited Guided Tours designed with your comfort in mind aboard private, deluxe motorcoaches
• 1-night Pre-cruise Hotel Stay with free ground transfers between hotel and vessel
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Optional Premium Shore Excursions - highly recommend booking these in advance. If interested, ask us for a detailed list of premium excursions for your cruise as these vary depending on your departure date.
• Transfers to and from the airport

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Baltimore bridge collapse

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Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

By Helen Regan , Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Rachel Ramirez and Elise Hammond , CNN

Bridge collapse will have lasting impact on Maryland economy, local union head says

From CNN's Yahya Abou-Ghazala

The president of the International Longshoremen’s Association Local 333 in Baltimore, Maryland, said the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will have major consequences for the port’s workforce and the state’s economy for the foreseeable future.

"We are at a standstill, we make our living off of import and export cargo, unloading and loading, discharging and loading ships," Scott Cowan, president of ILA Local 333, said. "This is going to put a very big strain on the economy in the state of Maryland because the port of Baltimore is one of the main engines, main drivers of the economy of Maryland, this is going to create a big problem."

The ILA’s work relies on the flow of cargo ships through the port as its workers are responsible for securing loads on and off the deck, operating the cranes and running the boxes throughout the yard.

"Until those ships can come up and down the bay, the little bit of cargo that's in the terminal will be imported and exported out and then we'll be waiting for the channel to open — I don't know how long it's going to take," Cowan added.

Cowan said that these massive cargo shops are very difficult to stop — especially when you face issues with power outage and propulsion.

"This is not like a car, they don't have brakes," Cowan said.

Ocean carriers are being diverted to Port of Virginia after Baltimore bridge collapse 

From CNN’s Rebekah Riess

Ocean carriers are being moved away from the Port of Baltimore after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed on Tuesday. The Port of Virginia and the Port of Baltimore are coordinating diverting the ships to the Port of Virginia to eliminate the traffic in Baltimore’s port to “keep trade moving."

The Virginia and Maryland Departments of Transportation are also working to ensure uniform signage along roads “all the way up from Virginia into Maryland,” Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin said.

“We have our first ocean carrier that was supposed to be heading to Baltimore making a stop in Virginia and unloading all of their Baltimore cargo here. We've got capacity to do it, and I think that's really important,” Youngkin said.

"We've got high-level interaction everywhere needed and we just wait to be called and as soon as we are, we'll be moving," he added.

Patient discharged at University of Maryland Medical Center following bridge collapse

From CNN's Kit Maher and Maria Sole Campinoti

The patient who was taken to the R Adams Cowley Shock Center following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse has been discharged, according to a release from the University of Maryland Medical Center. 

Officials will hold a virtual briefing Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. with hospital officials to speak about how the hospital handled the incident.

Patient details will not be discussed.

It's been just over 12 hours since the Baltimore bridge collapse. Here's what we know now

From CNN Staff

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore  collapsed  at 1:27 a.m. ET Tuesday after it was struck by a 984-foot cargo ship.

If you're just reading in, here's where things stand now:

• Biden wants the federal government to pay: President Joe Biden said Tuesday he wants the federal government to bear the full cost of rebuilding the collapsed bridge, noting that it will not wait for the company who owns the container ship DALI to shoulder the costs. Funding could come from the Federal Highway Administration as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but it may require additional funding from Congress.
• Six people remain missing:  Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld confirmed in a press briefing that eight people were on the bridge at the time of the collapse. At least two people have already been rescued — one was taken to a hospital and has since been discharged, and the other is fine. The search continues for the other six.
• Tide conditions could complicate search: Authorities are carrying out a  search and rescue operation  using  sonar and infrared technologies  as well as drones, officials said. However, weather conditions in and above the water of the Patapsco River could complicate things. Officials may have to deal with coastal flood advisories, dangerous rip currents, cold water temperatures and tidal flow. So far, they have identified vehicles submerged in the water.
• How authorities minimized impact: Radio traffic in the moments before a cargo ship collided with the bridge captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact, including warnings of the ship approaching the bridge. CNN has confirmed that the bridge collapsed at 1:27 a.m. ET.

Other East Coast ports offer statements of support following Baltimore bridge collapse

From CNN’s Shawn Nottingham, Devon Sayers and Eva Roytburg

Some of the East Coast’s busiest ports are offering their support after the DALI cargo ship collided with Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, a major artery road traffic, to collapse.  

South Carolina: “Our hearts are hurting for all those affected. We are sending support and strength to our sister port city during this difficult time,” South Carolina Department of Transportation Secretary Christy Hall, SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin and Charleston Branch Pilots Association President Crayton Walters said in a joint statement.

South Carolina is home to the Port of Charleston, another major seaport off the Atlantic Ocean. The port said it hopes to learn from the incident that unfolded in Baltimore, adding they “have already had initial conversations regarding the incident, and we will jointly review harbor operations, procedures and state infrastructure.”

Georgia: In Georgia, home to ports in Savannah and Brunswick, the Georgia Ports Authority offered similar sentiments, noting “The Georgia Ports Authority offers our thoughts, prayers and support to our Port of Baltimore colleagues and everyone involved in this tragic accident.”

North Carolina: In a statement to CNN, the North Carolina Ports Authority said they are monitoring the situation and "are in close communication with our various partners, customers and port users as the situation continues to develop."

"Our thoughts are with the Port of Baltimore, the community, those directly impacted, and the first responders still engaged in the important search and rescue work," it said.

Authorities scrambled to clear Key Bridge in the seconds before impact, according to audio

From CNN’s Brian Rokus and David Williams

Radio traffic in the moments before a cargo ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore captures how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge before the impact.

Officials warned of the ship approaching the bridge, according to a Broadcastify recording of the transmissions.

"I need one of you guys on the south side, one of you guys on the north side, hold all traffic on the Key Bridge. There's a ship approaching that just lost their steering so until we get that under control, we've got to stop all traffic," the person said.

In the audio, units reported that the bridge had collapsed about 90 seconds later. CNN has confirmed that the bridge collapsed at 1:27 a.m. ET.

"The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever … everybody. The whole bridge just collapsed," a person is heard on the radio.

“Do we know what traffic was stopped?” another person later said.

“I can’t get to the other side, sir. The bridge is down," another person responded.

Ironworker who helped built the bridge says he's "in shock" following collapse

From CNN's Sunlen Serfaty

John Zimmerman was an ironworker who helped build the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in the 1970s. He was woken up by his wife early this morning to turn on the news after news broke of the accident.

From looking at the footage, he says it appears that the dolphins, the concrete bumpers around the pilings meant to protect the structure, didn’t work because of the exact place and way the ship hit. He speculates that the ship seems to have perhaps avoided the bumpers or only side-swiped them.

He said, unfortunately, the ship seemed to have hit at the most vulnerable part of the bridge.

“It looks like it hit the only spot it could have hit to take the whole thing down,” he said. “It hit at probably the weakest part of the bridge.”

Zimmerman, who is now 83 years old, worked on the bridge for two years in the 1970s as a local 16 ironworker.

Tide conditions could complicate search and rescue operations, CNN meteorologist says

From CNN Meteorologist Derek Van Dam

Officials are conducting search and rescue efforts in Baltimore on Tuesday after a cargo ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse. At least eight people were on the bridge when it fell, and at least six of them are still unaccounted for, according to Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld.

But, weather conditions in and above the water of the Patapsco River could complicate search and rescue operations, CNN Meteorologist Derek Van Dam said.

A full moon spring tide is bringing two main impacts: coastal flood advisories around the Chesapeake Bay and dangerous rip currents, Van Dam said.

Another contributing factor is the way the water is moving. Water from the Patapsco River will flow out of Baltimore Harbor as low tide approaches Tuesday afternoon. Then, during high tides, there will be a reversal, with water coming back into the harbor. Van Dam said this could mean more difficult conditions for search and rescue boats.

Additionally, the cold water temperatures could be dangerous for people still in the water. Right now, the water in the Patapsco River is about 40-50 degrees. The human survivability at that temperature is one to three hours.

Loved ones wait for answers about workers who were working on bridge when it collapsed

From CNN's Danny Freeman, Ali Gordon, Bryan Mena and Maria Santana

Family members of workers who were on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when it collapsed are still searching for answers nearly 12 hours later, they told CNN outside a construction business Tuesday.

The family members, who declined to give their names, were at Brawner Builders construction agency picking up vehicles belonging to their relatives.

One woman said that her brother worked for the company and survived the bridge collapse. She said he was released from the hospital but was not doing well, declining to add more detail while his wife sat silently in tears while CNN spoke with his sister.

Another young woman said two of her immediate family members are still missing, she told CNN, adding one of her uncles, who worked at Brawner for a long time, loved his job there. It’s unclear if he was among the missing.

CNN reached out to Brawner Builders but they declined to comment.

Six people remain unaccounted for , Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said Tuesday morning.

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