Let the classic American riverboat transport you to new adventures — and back in time.
Rivers
Onshore
Experience the very finest of each port — from history that comes grippingly alive to dazzling craft and artistry of every stripe from music and storytelling to theatrical performances and local cuisine.
DetailsOnshore
It’s miles and miles of soul as you meet contemporary players while journeying deep into the musical legacy of Memphis, birthplace of the blues and rock and roll. Experience American history through the stories of Mark Twain and General Ulysses S. Grant and walk the hallowed ground of Vicksburg where 17,000 Union soldiers rest. Mingle with the inmates of the infamous Angola penitentiary as they rehearse for the oldest continuous prison rodeo and learn how to cook up the legendary biscuits of Natchez Native Regina Charboneau from the woman herself — in her own kitchen. Entertaining, illuminating — and deeply rewarding — guided excursions ashore are the pinnacle of every port adventure.
onshore highlights
New Orleans
Meet the artists who make the Big Easy swing and po-boys fit for a king.
Churchill Downs
Born of Triple Crowns and Derby Bonnets.
Mount St. Helens
Where a volcanic eruption created a tranquil lake.
Galena, Illinois
See the Civil War through the eyes of General Ulysses S. Grant.
A Musical Journey Through Time
Where Tennessee mermaids sing with Muscle Shoals soul queens.
B Reactor
Where the end of the Manhattan Project began.
Dining
From wild salmon grilled to perfection to moonshine bread pudding evocative of Tennessee to succulent dumplings bursting with Washington's famous apples, you’ll find our cooking rooted in and inspired by North American traditions to be a journey of delectable discovery in its own right.
DetailsDining
Our vessels’ kitchens are bursting with flavor and ingenuity. The food on American Queen Voyages cruises is second to none with everything from delicate, hand-crafted desserts and pastries, to elegant entrees full of bold flavors. Of course, we will accommodate any special dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan.
What’s included
- Fresh local ingredients
- Intricate and artful plating
- Extensive American wine selection
- Regionally inspired fare
- Tantalizing, freshly prepared desserts
- Cajun and Creole cuisine
- Homegrown, homemade flavors
- 24-hour room service — and more
Enrichment
Step aboard any of our paddlewheelers and there is so much to do and so many game-for-fun fellow travelers to do it with you’ll be wondering how you’ll fit it all in.
DetailsEnrichment
The house band plays so hot they’re a fire code violation. Mark Twain’s beguiling you with witty anecdotes and shaggy dog stories. The guest artists are the kind with Grammys and Tonys. And, as if the above weren’t sufficient diversion, there’s your own dancing: ballroom, swing, Motown, R&B, and country. Plus there are expert guest lecturers and savvy local guides to illuminate and enrich your experience and enjoyment of each and every destination.
What’s included
- World-class performances
- Lore and legends of the waterways
- Insightful talks by destination experts
- Ballroom, swing and country dancing
- Motown, R&B and soul
- Regional musicians
- Captivating storytelling
- Request sessions…and more
Relaxation
Our voyages are designed to give you the space and amenities you need to completely unwind. Curl up with a great read, enjoy the panoramic views from the sun deck, or treat yourself to a glass of wine.
Owner’s suites with exclusive veranda
- guests 2–3
- SQ feet 348
- deck 5
Open French doors and step out onto your veranda to unwind on your amply furnished patio. Adorned with 11-foot vaulted ceilings, overhead lighting and a cozy interior lounging area with a sofa-bed and cocktail tables, these expansive suites can accommodate up to three guests, and epitomize luxurious river cruising. Relish the many exclusive benefits of our Commodore Services while your personal River Butler attends to your every need.
- 348 sq ft with 670 sq ft exclusive private balcony
- Queen bed
- Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination
- Lounging area with sofa-bed
- Dressing area with granite vanity and mirror
- Flat-screen TV
- Coffee maker and mini-refrigerator
- French doors open to the exclusive veranda
- Furnished patio with sofa, two chairs and a coffee table
- Interior and exterior access
- Promenade Deck
- Commodore Services, including a River Butler
- Pre-boarding privileges (one hour earlier than standard)
- Complimentary bottle of wine on embarkation day
- Fresh fruit daily in your suite
- Preferred dining arrangements
- Reserved balcony seating in the Grand Saloon
- Private reception with senior officers
- River Butler services (LS and OS cabins)
- Specialty afternoon snack menu
Vessels
All-Inclusive
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1-night Pre-cruise Hotel Stay with free ground transfers between hotel and vessel -
Unlimited Guided Tours designed with your comfort in mind aboard private, deluxe motorcoaches -
Unlimited Beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees -
Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar EVERY morning -
Locally Sourced & regionally Inspired Cuisine from land and sea -
Gourmet Selections of freshly prepared choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
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In-room Dining Available -
Pre-Paid Gratuities (NEW) -
Port Taxes & Fees (NEW) -
Unlimited WiFi -
Live, Daily Onboard
Entertainment & Enrichment -
Bicycles* and Hiking Sticks
*River Cruises Only
River Cruises
When you step aboard the riverboat cruise with American Queen Voyages, you are catapulted back in time as your set sail on the classic riverboat vessels. Encapsulated in the Victorian-era luxury of your river cruise and gracious hospitality, discover the unique adventures our ports have to offer.
US River Cruise FAQs
What are the best rivers to cruise in the USA?
The USA is home to the best rivers to cruise, each majestic in its unique way and has played crucial roles in the nation’s development. With such diversity, expect a lot of history, cultural and culinary experiences on your U.S. river cruise.
One of the most iconic rivers inarguably is the Mississippi river. Because of its astounding size, cruises are usually split into Lower Mississippi river cruises, Upper Mississippi river cruises, and Ohio and Mississippi river cruises. Any of the great American river cruises sailing along the Mississippi let you experience one of the country’s most significant waterways in a way you never thought possible.
Cruising the Columbia and Snake rivers allows you to experience incredibly picturesque locations along Washington state and the changing landscapes of Oregon. The journey lets you explore incredible nature and taste wines and is an off-the-beaten-path experience.
On Cumberland and Tennessee River cruises, there is never a dull moment as you enjoy country music in Nashville and sample bourbon, the true American spirit.
Which US rivers does American Queen Voyages cruise?
- Lower Mississippi River
- Upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers
- Ohio River and Mississippi Rivers
- Cumberland and Tennessee River
- Columbia and Snake Rivers
How much do U.S. river cruises cost?
American Queen Voyages offer an all-inclusive experience. This means the cost will include a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, ground transfers, unlimited guided tours, exquisite food, unlimited beverage, unlimited Wi-Fi, and live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment.
What is included on a river cruise in America?
Cruises with American Queen Voyages include top-quality amenities, luxury, and comfort to ensure you feel at home away from home. Included in the cost of the cruise you will be welcomed with a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, ground transfers between hotel and vessel, personally tailored and expertly crafted unlimited guided tours, unlimited beverages at open bars and lounges, acclaimed cuisine in multiple venues, in-room dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, and live entertainment and enrichment onboard.
Do river cruises include airfare?
Airfare for in river cruises with American Queen Voyages is included on select cruises, read more about it here.
Can you go on USA river cruises without a passport?
American citizens are not required to present a passport when cruising the USA rivers.
How long are river cruises in the US?
US river cruises can last from 7 days visiting 6 different ports to 16 days and 15 ports, and everything in between. Pick the ideal voyage for you, and if you wish to extend your journey, you can always hop on a back-to-back cruise and keep exploring the American heartland.
What are the best sights and landmarks to see on a USA river cruise?
Some of the best landmarks you will explore on a US river cruise are the Gateway Arch soaring over the mighty Mississippi in Missouri, Vicksburg National Military Park, the French Quarter in Louisiana, the home of King of Rock and Roll, Elvis’, in Tennessee, historic homes in Natchez, wineries in Dalles, Oregon, and so much more. Find your perfect voyage and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime river cruise.
