riverboat casino in mississippi

A Guide To The Most Iconic Riverboat Casinos In The US 

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Talk about casino destinations and you’ll most likely think of Las Vegas, Atlantic City or, if you are travelling outside the US, maybe Monaco or Macau.

Yet what are called “land based” or “bricks and mortar” casinos to differentiate them from the online versions are not necessarily on land or made of bricks and mortar.

We refer, of course, to riverboat casinos, a little slice of Americana that’s as American as Super Bowl Sunday or Thanksgiving turkey. Riverboat casinos conjure up images of the Mississippi and Mark Twain complete with white suit, top hat and cigar. There are more than 60 riverboat casinos operating in the USA and every single one of them has a story to tell. Here, we highlight a handful of the very best.

The Grand Victoria, Elgin

Our first stop is not on the Mississippi at all, but on the Fox River in Elgin, 50 miles north west of Chicago . Owned and operated by Caesars Entertainment, the Grand Victoria really is a slice of Las Vegas on the Illinois waterfront.  With more than 1,000 slots and video poker terminals and 36 tables, there’s a great choice of games.

If all that gambling whets your appetite, there are four dining options on board, including the highly rated Buckingham’s Steakhouse and Lounge.

Casino Queen, Marquette  

The Casino Queen would look like a lifeboat if it was moored alongside the Grand Victoria, but that is all part of its charm. It offers a more intimate and personalized experience, and although there are only eight tables, they host an intriguing variety of games that are not commonly found in land (or water) based casinos. If you know how to gamble online in the US , you’ve probably seen fusion blackjack and 21+3 at US online casinos. The Casino Queen gives you an opportunity to play them in real casino surroundings.

When you step ashore, there is an adjacent 31-acre entertainment complex with a variety of attractions and a huge choice of dining options.

The Amelia Belle, Amelia  

At last, we arrive in Louisiana, where the Amelia Belle lies nestled in the Avoca Island Cutoff waterway. This classic four-story riverboat looks like it has stepped straight out of a photograph from the turn of the 20 th century. When it is lit up at night, it takes your breath away.

At the tables, poker is the order of the day. The casino offers Mississippi stud, 3-card poker and Texas Holdem. There are also 800 slot games, while the Fanduel sportsbook has self-service betting kiosks, a wall full of television screens, and a huge video wall to show the biggest events.

Sam’s Town, Shreveport

On the opposite side of Louisiana, Sam’s Town could not be more different to the Amelia Belle. This floating leisure complex houses a hotel, health spa, sauna and live entertainment venue.

The casino offers more than 1,000 slots and 30 table games that include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, Let it Ride and Craps No More.

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Gaming in Mississippi

Whether you’re looking for a riverboat casino for the night or a casino resort with a golf course nearby, Mississippi has it all. With dozens of sprawling casino floors, you’ll find all the games you’ve come to know and love. Many of our resorts have pristine pools, luxurious spas, fine-dining and casual restaurants, live entertainment, and bars – all in one location. Mississippi is also one of the only states to allow sports betting at retail locations. You need to be 21 years of age or older to sit on the casino floor, except when a casino is located on tribal land, at which point the age requirements may vary slightly.

The casino resorts found close to the Gulf Coast often have access to the beach, and the casinos closer to the Delta Region and North Mississippi have access to beautiful country clubs with exquisite golf courses.

For more information about Mississippi’s best gaming spots, use our trip planner , check out some of the places to stop, or contact us today to start planning your trip.

Beau Rivage Hotel & Casino Resort

Biloxi   FEATURED

This upscale waterfront hotel is 1.4 miles from Keesler Air Force Base and 1.2 miles from the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. The sophisticated, traditionally furnished rooms are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, and bathrooms with Italian marble floors, plus iPod docks, […]

Hollywood Casino & Hotel Tunica

Robinsonville   FEATURED

Hollywood Casino Tunica is a casino and hotel located in Tunica Resorts. The casino offers more than 1,000 slot and video poker machines, 17 table games, and a sportsbook. The casino houses the Mid-South’s largest collection of authentic movie memorabilia, […]

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Biloxi

Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, this upscale, rock ’n’ roll-themed hotel is a mile from both Biloxi Lighthouse and the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum Of Art. The stylish, contemporary rooms and suites provide free Wi-Fi and 42-inch flat-screen TVs, along with iPod […]

Magnolia Bluffs Casino

Magnolia Bluffs Casino is a casino in Natchez, Mississippi. It has 45,000 square feet of gaming space, with 490 slot machines and 10 table games […]

Bok Homa Casino

Bok Homa Casino, located at the Pearl River Resorts near Laurel in Heidelberg offers 24/7 casino gaming. Guests can enjoy an array of popular slot machines, live and virtual table games, and sports betting. Restaurants, entertainment, and rewards and prizes […]

Tunica Resorts

Tunica Resorts is the site of six casino resorts located in Northwest, Mississippi. In addition to the casinos, the destination is home to hotels, an outlet shopping center, the Hollywood Cafe blues club, and the Gateway to the Blues Museum […]

WaterView Casino & Hotel

With over 500 games on a 30,000-square-foot casino floor, the WaterView Casino in Vicksburg, Mississippi is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for action-packed, Vegas-style gaming excitement. Rack up big winnings on the high-limit slots, or try […]

Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall

Robinsonville

Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall in Tunica, Mississippi offers Las Vegas-style casino action and entertainment to residents of Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi. […]

1st Jackpot Casino Tunica

An odds-on-favorite, 1st Jackpot Casino Tunica offers an experience you won’t soon forget. Our casino hosts approximately 900 slot machines, 16 table games and a sportsbook. Catch great local bands at The Stage Bar on Fridays and Saturdays or indulge […]

Fitz Tunica Casino & Hotel

If you’re looking for a casino hotel in Tunica, Mississippi – you’ve found the best! Located right on the eastern banks of the Mississippi River – you’ll find more than 500 comfortable rooms and suites on nine floors in our […]

Horseshoe Tunica Hotel and Casino

Caesars Entertainment is one of the world’s most diversified casino-entertainment providers and the most geographically diverse U.S. casino-entertainment company. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, in 1937, Caesars Entertainment has grown through development of new resorts, expansions and acquisitions. Caesars […]

Riverwalk Casino Hotel

Set in a polished building on the Mississippi riverfront, this contemporary casino hotel is 5 miles from the Lower Mississippi River Museum and 5.7 miles from Vicksburg National Military Park. The straightforward rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and coffeemakers; some […]

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The riverboat twilight.

Since 1985, the Riverboat Twilight has delivered one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest. And it’s not just a cruise; it’s a conduit to reconnection, relaxation, and renewal.

Marvel at the majestic Mississippi river while relaxing in style aboard a stunningly replicated Victorian Riverboat. Allow yourself to be pampered by the Twilight’s attentive, informative, and welcoming crew. Delicious meals are prepared on board in the lower galley, while a full bar complete with top shelf liquors provides custom drinks to enhance your experience.

The Riverboat Twilight is family-owned and operated business, with a focus providing entertaining and quality cruises. The 140-passenger vessel has ample indoor, and outdoor seating on all three decks, and wrap-around windows give way to amazing views.

Our 2024 season offers 1-day, 2-day, and sightseeing cruises departing from LeClaire & Dubuque, Iowa.

Where the river runs deep, so do the discoveries.

Absolutely perfect in all ways!

My Friend and I went on the Riverboat Twilight and it was the most perfect/awesome adventure! From reserving our trip to our final walk to our car after the two day cruise, all was perfect! Staff are amazing, from the Captain to the servers, to the musical entertainers. The food is suburb and generous! Everything is very well organized, from our luggage/hotel in Dubuque/seating for meals, free shuttles in Dubuque, etc! The scenery and info along the way from the captain was wonderful! This was an absolutely perfect two day cruise, and we are going again in Mid October as we loved it so much!!.

The service by all involved was first class all the way!

We were very impressed by the personal service we received by the staff and everyone involved. The trip was very nice from a sightseeing perspective, interesting from a historical perspective and very relaxing overall. Plus the food was plentiful and excellent. We highly recommend this cruise to everyone!

Wonderful relaxing two days....

Extremely enjoyable trip. The cruise itself was delightful as you slowly moved up and down the river enjoying the wildlife and listening to the Captain explain the view and history. Unless you are a very big eater you have to be selective as they feed you FIVE times a day. Not only is the food plentiful but it is also very good. The Grand Resort in Dubuque was a nice stay as we had a view of the river. There was adequate time to explore some of the sights In Dubuque. I think we will do this trip again in the future…….

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Excellent team from the captain to the crew provide a relaxing time..The chefs do an excellent job and there is more great food than you can imagine. This is the most organized and professional staff that we have ever experienced. No detail is overlooked.

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If you are not vaccinated, we strongly encourage you to do so, however, at this time the Riverboat Twilight does not ask for proof of vaccination. Mask wearing is the choice of the individual. The Twilight offers ample indoor and outdoor seating on all three decks and plenty of fresh air.

We will continue to maintain our increased sanitization efforts of the TWILIGHT and our boarding facilities, and we continue to provide hand sanitizer aboard the boat and employ a strong air purifier that uses UVC lighting that has been proven to destroy viruses and other bacteria.

For the safety of our passengers and crew and to maintain proper cleanliness, we have implemented the following guidelines for parents of children under the age of 14. While onboard the vessel and when making use of our food and beverages services, children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. With your cooperation and understanding, we will be able to continue to offer a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

As an owner, of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Le Claire, IA and the President of Great Lakes Management Group which manages the hotel’s day to day operations, I wanted to say thank you. The business relationship with the Riverboat Twilight and her passengers is valued and much appreciated. We all know businesses from every industry has been operating in a different environment the last 8 weeks and will encounter new changes in the future.

We continue to monitor the franchise, local, state and federal safety guidelines to insure our guest and staff safety. For example, we anticipate a few changes in the near future which will include the following: a plastic shield / barrier at the front desk check,  revised breakfast offerings without a buffet setting, hand sanitizer located in the lobby and all floors at the elevator landings, continued use of hospital grade products to clean and sanitize the guest rooms, individual sanitizer wipes as an in-room amenity, removal of all products in the rooms that are reusable for example, pens, pads, laundry bags, and throw pillows, these items will be available upon request. We hope to see you soon. Stay safe and healthy!

  Respectfully, Neil Densmore | President glmg | hotels

Casinos in Mississippi

We count on Jane to inform our readers about the latest slot games in the US market. With her passion for video games and a degree in engineering, she's our gambling tech expert . Jane's also active in our blog section, where she tackles the curiosities and changes in the industry.

There are over 30 legal land-based Mississippi casinos, where you can enjoy NL Texas Hold'em, Omaha Hi-Lo, Pai Gow Poker and many more. Which one should you pick? ... This MS gambling guide has it all – casino maps, resorts and trips in the state plus vital information about all rules and regulations applicable for that part of the US.

• Mississippi Casino List & Map
• Mississippi Gambling and Games
• Mississippi Legal Situation
• Mississippi Resorts and Trips
• Need more info? FAQ &About MS

Mississippi Casino Map - List of Gambling Locations

Where should you try your luck gambling? It depends on what you want to play, where you are based and how much are you willing to travel. There are 30 active halls offering a wide range of gambling games for every taste. This is the casino map of Mississippi where you can see which one is the most suitable for you.

• Best Casinos (1)
• Biggest Casinos (3)
• Indian Casinos (5)
• Racinos (0)
• Cruise Ships/Riverboats (1)
• To See the Full List Casinos (31)

The Best Casino in Mississippi

• Beach Casino Stage
• Blue Shell Spa

The Biggest Casinos in Mississippi

Are There Indian Casinos in Mississippi?

The tribal casinos in MS belong to Native Americans, federally recognized and operating on their lands. Indian gaming is just like any other, combining full casino establishments with gambling options stretching from Vegas-style to bingo and lotteries. Some law forms of tribal sovereignty provide immunity from a handful betting regulations. Here is more detailed data regarding the Indian casino in the state.

The state of Mississippi doesn’t host racinos. That is a kind of establishment that combines casino and racing tracks. Usually, gambling is limited to slot machines, but in many locations, you can find table games such as poker, roulette or blackjack as well.

Are There Cruise Ship or Riverboat Casinos in Mississippi?

There are no cruise ship or riverboat casinos in Mississippi, even when they are quite popular in some parts of the United States. The cruise industry is an immense means of income and it is preferred by many tourists as an alternative to bookings and even flying. The interested gamblers among you can enjoy Alabama or Louisiana, where a variety of river casino cruises awaits.

Full Mississippi Casino List

The list with land-based Mississippi casinos spreads in more than 10 cities. Bear in mind, that the type comes with gambling laws and regulations in MS, which differ in some ways. Key points are implemented further in the article.

Expected New Casinos

Mississippi looks forward to the new Foxwoods Resort Casino, which will be located at the former Heinz plant, Back Bay area of Biloxi. With this new betting location, the state will have 9 in total . The project's plan reveals about 50,000 sq. ft of gaming space filled with 1,380 slots and tables. There will be also a cosy hotel part, with bars and restaurants.

Gambling in Mississippi

Here are some tips on the gambling key factors for Mississippi dating for more than 10 years. You will get familiar with the opening hours, smoking and drinking regulations, betting limits and more.

Casino Games in Mississippi

This section is based on every available game you can gamble on in Mississippi. They are divided by categories, in order to help you scan faster and find exactly what you are looking for. During your stay, you can try numerous casino games:

• Game of Thrones
• Buffalo grand
• Monopoly luxury diamonds
• Colossal diamonds
• Over 35,000 slot machines
• Machine types: Traditional reel, Video reel, Video Poker
• Free Slot Tournaments
• Texas hold'em poker
• Mississippi st
• Pearl river poker
• No limit high hand poker

Additional Details In the state of Mississippi there are 85 live poker tables in different casinos.

• Three-Card poker
• The hot birthday bash

Additional Details There are poker tournaments daily in several casinos in the state of Mississippi: Beau Rivage, Horseshoe Casino, Golden Nugget, Hollywood Casino, Pearl River Resort, Imperial Palace, Ameristar Vicksburg

• Single Zero Roulette
• Double Zero

Additional Details You can find roulette in the following casinos: Silver Star, Island View, Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis, Hollywood Casino Tunica and Horseshoe Casino.

• TriLux Blackjack
• Single Deck
• Double Deck

Additional Details Single Blackjack Tournaments at Hard Rock Bet, Biloxi, Mississippi

• Crapless Craps

Additional Details People say that the best places to play Craps is in the Beau Rivage, Hollywood Casino or Palace Casino.

• Wheel of fortune

Additional Details It is expected in 2020 the official interstate lottery to be legislated.

• Mini-Baccarat
• Video Poker
• 412+ active video poker machines
• Auto Racing

Additional Details Online betting is permitted but horse racing / dog racing is prohibited, so the only choice is Auto Racing

Gambling Legal Situation in Mississippi

Taxation of winnings.

Mississippi levies local tax, on top of the 24% federal law. The first $2,000 of taxable income is immune, where the next $3k is taxed at 3%, then the $5k at 4% and so on until $10,000. Every amount above that is taxed at 5%. It is the same structure with the married filing of each taxpayer’s taxable income.

Mississippi Gambling Laws

The main gambling laws in Mississippi serve both sides and maintain the order in the gaming world of MS. There are lines explaining the connection between money, mortgage, losses, sues and the casino or gambling institution on the other side. Read those carefully:

Related to granted contracts, where the whole or just a part of the consideration shall be for any valuables on any wager, or for reimbursing any money knowingly lent for the purpose of such gambling, or on any sport shall be utterly void.

Section 87-1-1, or any part thereof, shall inure to and vest in the wife and children of anyone involved, the whole estate and anything transferred, as though such person had died intestate. All the parties within this chapter shall be compelled to answer any related bill.

If any person, by playing at any game shall lose anything of value, may sue for and recover everything lost and paid or delivered from the person knowingly receiving the same, with costs. This section shall not apply to gambling on a cruise vessel in the waters within the State of MS, south of the State, including the Mississippi Sound, St. Louis Bay, Biloxi Bay and Pascagoula Bay.

This section will explain how and when casino gambling become legal in Mississippi. Which were the first races, that people in the state could bet on? Look for these and other answers no more, just check the timeline below.

1790 The first thing Mississippi citizens could bet on were horse races

1990 The National Indian gaming Act was approved and the control of that act was in the hands of the state voters. 2 years later, dockside gambling flourished in Biloxi

1994 Tribal casinos started their path with the MIS Band of Choctaw Indians and their Silver Star Casino.

2005 Due to the hurricanes and the damages they have caused to the gaming vessels. For extra protection on the gulf coast the barges were elevated on pilings. This way weather events were no threat to the gulf casinos. Unfortunately, in August the same year, a storm tested the precautions, but they ended up requiring more work in that direction.

2016 Fantasy sports betting in Mississippi became legal

Upcoming Changes in the Gambling Regulation

At the time the article is written, the state of Mississippi had no plans for changes in the gambling regulations. Things are going smooth. Stay tuned for any future changes.

Mississippi Casino Resorts and Trips

Gambling in Mississippi presents wide range of opportunities. Casino trips can be done within the state or from other parts of the US. Each location offers deluxe accommodations, transport and tasty restaurant menus. You can also check out the best US casinos in neighboring states if you want to travel to new and exciting casinos

Casino Resorts

Resorts offer additional games and gambling opportunities even when traveling from one place to another. Casinos also combine amazing experiences with relaxing SPA packages and convenient trips. Here are the top brands serving the state of Mississippi.

Casino Trips

Once you stop your finger at Mississippi, all you have to do is pick a casino trip. The gambling establishments in the state want to offer you pleasant and well-timed transportation. Here are the leading companies:

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to provide only accurate and up-to-date information, please be aware that casinos.us shall not be held responsible for any inaccuracies in the offer packages or other details listed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do the casinos in mississippi help education, how are state revenues from gambling distributed in mississippi, why are casinos on water in mississippi, what cities have casinos in mississippi, where can i get help regarding gambling addiction, about mississippi.

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5 Top Mississippi Riverboat Casinos of Louisiana

• Bojan Lipovic
• March 12, 2021

The mighty Mississippi River is the jugular vein of the Unites States, connecting its northern and southern parts.  The river is also renowned for its legendary riverboat casinos that used to traverse its banks from Minnesota to Louisiana.

The Mississippi River represents one of the most important topographic features in North America.  In its entirety, it zigzags through ten states and covers an impressive distance of 2,320 miles.  The river birthed some significant settlements along its winding flow, including St Paul, St Louis, Baton Rouge, La Crosse and New Orleans, all of which were once directly connected by stately riverboats that traversed the Mississippi.

However, these riverboats were more than just modes of transport, with many of them housing plush apartments and glitzy casinos, since gambling on land was strictly forbidden at the time.  As a result, the legend of riverboat casinos was born, the allure of which lives on to this very day.

Back in the 19 th century, the slow-cruising riverboats attracted a colourful spectre of guests, as they lazily steamed down the river and the bayou waterways.  While the Louisiana riverboats no longer cruise along the Mississippi on gambling adventures, you can still relive the experience of floating casinos by embarking on one of Louisiana’s moored riverboat gambling houses.

Here are the top five riverboat casinos of Louisiana that you should not miss:

1. Isle of Capri Casino

The Isle of Capri Casino has been moored in Louisiana’s Lake Charles, where it still floats amidst its former grandeur.  The boat is decked with 11 poker tables, 34 tables with other games and an impressive 1,175 slots.

For those searching for gastronomical delights, restaurants like Otis Steakhouse, Lone Wolf Express, Farmer’s Pick Buffet and Henry’s Bar & Grill offer a sumptuous mixture of Cajun, creole and French colonial cuisines.  And, after a good dinner, what better way to end your evening than by listening to a performance of good old Louisiana swamp pop.

2. Treasure Chest Casino

To find the Treasure Chest Casino riverboat, head off to the pristine waters of Lake Pontchartrain.  The lake shares its shores with New Orleans itself, so you can enjoy the Big Easy while raiding your treasure chest on the lake.

The Treasure Chest Casino is a classic riverboat oozing old-world charm, with plush interiors, jazz bands and good chow. The gaming floor, which is open until 5 am each morning, houses 36 tables that include blackjack, roulette, craps and the ever-present Mississippi stud poker.

3 Sam’s Town

Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino riverboat is moored on the banks of the Red River in Shreveport.  The boat follows an Old West theme, complementing the Southern charm of its host city.  The riverboat itself forms part of a larger casino complex, so you can pick and choose your gambling flavours.

There’re craps, baccarat, roulette and poker tables, as well as progressive slots that are open 24 hours a day.  And, when it’s time to sink your teeth into some good grub, William B Steakhouse or Smokey Joe Café are there to cater to your craving.

4. Amelia Belle

Amelia Belle is a grand old lady of the river, exuding glitz and glamour across its four floors.  This classy ship is docked in the bayou town of Amelia and offers a good selection of Texas hold’em, Mississippi stud and 3-card pokers.  For food and drinks, pay a visit to the Bayou Café or the renowned all-you-can-eat Cajun Buffet.

5. Hollywood Casino

There’s no shortage of Hollywoods in the US, with the best-known ones located in California and Florida.  Not surprisingly, there’s a Hollywood in Louisiana, too, moored on the banks of the mighty Mississippi in Baton Rouge.  The boat is peppered with over a thousand slot machines, as well as dozens of table games such as roulette, craps, blackjack, 3-card-poker and Cajun stud poker.

The Hollywood Casino riverboat combines Hollywood’s allure with Las Vegas’s ostentatiousness, all mixed with a Southern flair. To tantalise your tastebuds, indulge at the Epic Buffet, grab a Cajun snack at the Take Two Deli, or hobnob at the Celebrity Grill. And there’s the champagne brunch each Sunday, or the monthly Jazz lunch, to celebrate the sights and sounds of the Big Easy and the birthplace of cool.

Bojan Lipovic - Digital Project Manager

Besides polishing his SEO skills, Bojan has a penchant for creative writing. With over half a decade of experience in the online gambling industry under his belt, his written take on the latest news from the Canadian and global gambling industries is an indispensable source of information for the CASINOenquirer team. Bojan’s primary goal is to ensure that players get a superior experience through the top-notch content that he shares.

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

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Riverboat casino that sank in Mississippi River resurfaces amid historic drought

The Diamond Lady, a once majestic riverboat, rests with smaller boats in mud at Riverside Park Marina in Martin Luther King Jr. Riverside Park along the Mississippi River on October 19, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Record-low water levels in the Mississippi River have unearthed a flurry of rare finds . The latest? The nation’s first riverboat casino that sunk during a storm last year.  

The Diamond Lady, America’s first riverboat casino, set sail in 1991 and operated for a few years before a bigger riverboat replaced it. Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White reportedly christened the paddlewheel boat before its maiden voyage took off from Bettendorf, Iowa 31 years ago.

It had been stored on the Mississippi River in Memphis, Tennessee , since 2008, but the Diamond Lady sank in 2021 during a winter freeze, according to WPSD. It wasn’t seen again until the Mississippi River receded to its lowest levels in 10 years.

River levels are so low, saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico is moving in, FOX Weather reports.

Drought drives Mississippi River to historic low levels, impacting agricultural exports

Drought has driven the Mississippi River to historic low levels, impacting the agricultural exports. The crisis has increased shipping prices, and that cost may fall on consumers and creating problems for barges.

According to the Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center, water levels are at or below the low-water threshold along a nearly 400-mile stretch of the river from near where the Ohio River meets the Mississippi River south to near Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Other finds from a drought-stricken Mississippi River

Rare Civil War relics found lying in rocks along Mississippi River (Photo credit: Riley Bryant)

Also in Memphis, history lover and relics collector Riley Bryant made a fascinating discovery along the banks of the drought-stricken Mississippi River.

Bryant said the artifacts — a Civil War-era Union army cartridge box plate and bullets — were just sitting there among the rocks under the I-55 bridge waiting to be picked up.

Just weeks before Bryant made his discovery, a Baton Rouge, Louisiana, resident was walking along the Mississippi River there and found a shipwreck that’s more than 100 years old, FOX Weather reports.

According to Louisiana state archeologist Chris McGimsey, it belongs to a ferryboat called the Brookhill, which started sailing in the late 1880s or early 1890s. It was originally 250 to 300 feet long.

FOX Weather contributed to this report.