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Mississippi - Bridge - Sunset

Mississippi River New Orleans to Memphis – 11 days

This wonderful river cruise through America’s southern states gives you the authentic experience of what life is like there now and what it was like beforehand.

Memphis - Tennessee - USA
Paddle boat - Mississippi

The cruise starts in New Orleans and you will cruise along the Mississippi river up to Memphis, the home of Elvis Presley and much more. You will be travelling on board the famous American Queen Steamboat where you can go back in time as you travel through the area.

Day 1: Days 1 - Hello New Orleans

It is your first day of your holiday and it begins by flying from the UK to New Orleans. Once you land and have collected your luggage, you will make your way to a 4* hotel located in the centre of the city. By all means, if you want to add any more days here, we can certainly organise this for you.

Day 2: Day 2 - New Orleans and the American Queen

New orleans - french Quarter

Spend the morning exploring the exciting city of New Orleans. Wander around the streets and enjoy the jazz music that is played on every street corner, especially in the French Quarter. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a local restaurant where you will sure be introduced to true southern American food. In the afternoon, head to the boat, the American Queen, for an early evening departure.

Day 3: Day 3 - Nottoway, Louisiana

Plantation house - Nottoway

This where your adventure along the Mississippi river really begins and you start to go back in time by learning all about the history of this part of the USA. Nottoway is the South’s largest, most glorious remaining Antebellum mansion with a rich history dating back to 1859. In a fabulous location along the great River Road overlooking the Mississippi River, this ‘white castle’ of the South will transport you back to an era of glory and grandeur. Enjoy a tour of this fascinating mansion which flaunts 64 bedrooms and then perhaps stroll through the lush grounds and gardens.

Day 4: Day 4 - St Francisville, Louisiana

St. Francisville is a quaint town that overlooks the Mississippi river. The town has a lot of history that you can discover as you walk along the streets. In fact, there are over 140 buildings on the National Register of historical buildings here, plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside and bustling Main Street shops. Walk along Royal Street, visit Old Market Hall, Grace Episcopal Church and the West Feliciana Historical Society Museum.

Day 5: Day 5 - Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez - Mississippi - USA

This town is full of charm and gets its name from the people who first inhabited it, the Natchez Indians. It was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi and is known for its elegance, hospitality and impressive preservation of history. Enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, museums and historical houses as you explore the beautiful downtown areas. Sights include Rosalie Mansion, William Johnson House Museum, Magnolia Hall and Stanton Hall.

Day 6: Day 6 - Vicksburg, Mississippi

What makes Vicksburg so special is the blend of old and new here that we are sure you are going to love too. The sweeping river views from here are also very special that you won’t be able to stop taking photos. Often called the “Red Carpet City of the South,” Southern hospitality is at its very best here, yet another reason for loving your time in Vicksburg. Today there is a hop-on-hop-off tour included with sights including the shopping district, Old Court House Museum and the Lower Mississippi River Museum.

Day 7: Day 7 - Port of the Mississippi Delta

The Mississippi Delta is more than a geographical region, it is a way of life and a true experience based around agriculture, music and history. These small river towns have been the inspiration for authors, musicians and artists for centuries. You never know, you may also be inspired by your visit here and take a new calling in life.

Day 8: Day 8 - Scenic River Cruising

After a busy few days of exploring and sightseeing, it is time to relax and put your feet up for the day. Relax on deck during a leisurely day on board. If you are not the kind of person to just sit around, no need to worry as it is the perfect time to enjoy the many activities that are available on board.

Day 9: Day 9 - Memphis, Tennessee

Graceland - memphisBeale Street - memphis

You will say goodbye to the American Queen today as we reach our final stop for the next couple few days, the famous music city of Memphis. It is time to set off through the streets of Memphis to Beale Street for a walking tour with a local musician. Continue to Elvis Presley’s former home, Graceland where you have time to explore the many exhibits. You will be spending 2 nights in a 4* centrally located hotel.

Day 10: Day 10 - Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis - USA

Today you have an escorted walking tour which includes the historic Peabody Hotel and the famous Peabody Duck Parade. An included attraction pass gives admission to Sun Studio, the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum.

Day 11: Day 11 - Fly back to the UK

It is the end of this wonderful holiday and time to grab your transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

If you would like to add any extra nights in Memphis or even head to the home of country music, Nashville, just get in touch with our team who can arrange this easily for you.

What’s included

Included in your trip:

  • Flights from the UK
  • 1 night in 4* centrally located hotel in New Orleans – bed and breakfast
  • 7 nights on board the American Queen – full board
  • 2 nights in 4* centrally located hotel in Memphis – bed and breakfast
  • Various transfers as explained in the itinerary above
  • Guided tour of the ‘White Castle’ in Nottoway
  • Hop on and hop off tour in Vicksburg
  • Walking tour of Memphis
  • Attraction pass in Memphis giving you entry to many of its museums and sites.

Ship Information

The largest steamboat ever built, the American Queen is a paddlewheeler that is packaged within the ornate detailing that embellishes her exterior. Any traveller who chooses to cruise on this iconic riverboat will soon find that her steady heart beats to the rhythm of music that resounds within her walls.

The Grand Saloon is home to award-winning, Broadway-calibre entertainment every night. The venue is two decks tall and resembles a 19th century opera house with details modelled after Ford’s Theatre. Inspired by America’s heartland and its Southern heritage, the food on board showcases the varied cultural and culinary influences of the nation.

Can’t see what you are looking for? Don’t worry, in all probability we can still do it.
Call us on 01582 349480.

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About Suitcase Travel

A family run boutique travel agency, we specialise in creating memorable travel experiences. Offering unique adventures, tailored to your specific requirements, we focus solely on you, helping you to understand the experience that your holiday will give you and equipping you with those all-important tips that will help to make your holiday that extra bit special. Oh, and the best part? Our service is free – it literally costs you no more than if you were to book direct. Come and talk to us and we’ll help you to create memories that really will last a lifetime.

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