A Mississippi River cruise offers a unique perspective on American history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Here are the top must-see stops.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
Known for its vibrant music scene and Creole cuisine, New Orleans is a cultural melting pot.
Must-See Attractions:
- The French Quarter
- Jackson Square
- St. Louis Cathedral
- Garden District
- National WWII Museum
2. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
The capital city, Baton Rouge, is rich with history and government architecture.
Attractions:
- State Capitol Building
- USS Kidd
- Louisiana State Museum
3. Natchez, Mississippi
A quaint town famous for its antebellum homes and rich history.
Key Sites:
- Natchez Trace Parkway
- Historic Natchez Foundation
- Grand Village of the Natchez Indians
4. Vicksburg, Mississippi
Noted for its Civil War history and stunning riverfront.
Highlights:
- Vicksburg National Military Park
- Old Courthouse Museum
- McRaven House
5. Memphis, Tennessee
Home of the blues and rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis has a thriving music scene.
Don’t Miss:
- Beale Street
- Graceland
- National Civil Rights Museum
6. St. Louis, Missouri
This city is famous for its iconic Gateway Arch and vibrant cultural scene.
Sights to See:
- Gateway Arch
- Forest Park
- St. Louis Art Museum
7. Davenport, Iowa
A beautiful city with stunning river views and rich heritage.
Key Attractions:
- Figge Art Museum
- Putnam Museum
- Riverfront Trail
Mind Map of Key Stops:
- New Orleans
- Cultural Landmarks
- Cuisine
- Baton Rouge
- State History
- Local Museums
- Natchez
- Historical Homes
- Native American Heritage
- Vicksburg
- Civil War Sites
- Historic Buildings
- Memphis
- Music
- Cultural Icons
- St. Louis
- Architectural Highlights
- Cultural Institutions
- Davenport
- Art and Culture
- Scenic Views
Statistics Table on Visitor Attractions:
City | Average Annual Visitors | Top Attraction |
---|---|---|
New Orleans | 19 million | French Quarter |
Baton Rouge | 3 million | State Capitol |
Natchez | 450,000 | Historic Homes |
Vicksburg | 1 million | Military Park |
Memphis | 11 million | Graceland |
St. Louis | 25 million | Gateway Arch |
Davenport | 500,000 | Figge Art Museum |
Conclusion
A Mississippi River cruise opens up an array of experiences, from vibrant cities to historical sites. Make sure to visit these top stops for a memorable journey.