Mississippi Riverboat Cruise

The Mississippi river was named so by the Indians that once lived on the shores of the waters. They named it "Messipi", or Big River. Today you can experience the wonder of this river that has carved itself into the soul of American History. A Mississippi River cruise is the leisurely way to experience river culture firsthand.

On the Mississippi Riverboat cruise, there is a lot to see and do. Local Mississippi River cruises are an excellent introduction to the river traditions. Ask questions, and the people of the river will be happy to share their stories with you. You can jump right into the heart of the river by taking a Mississippi River cruise.

The Mississippi River is the largest and longest river in North America. This body of water is host to a diverse mix of ecosystems. The northern part of the river, known The Headwaters, begins in Minnesota at Lake Itasca as nothing more than a small stream 2ft deep. The water makes a steep descent as it passes through swamps, glacial lakes, rapids and dams. The Minnesota River meets the Mississippi at St. Anthony Falls. This area, known as the Upper Mississippi River, is where the river widens tremendously.

You can make the most of your Mississippi Riverboat cruises if you decide in advance what you'd like to do. Nature lovers will love these trips, visit from January to March and be sure to bring your binoculars if you'd like to eagle watch. Some great fishing is to be has as well, you can bring your own pole but there is always one for rent. If you enjoy dinner there are lots of different offerings from dinner and dance cruises to candle-lit romantic evenings on an overnight excursion.

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn has inspired many a river lover, and created generations of Mississippi River Boat cruises. The Lower Mississippi is a faster moving body of water, and it is more remote, with large stretches of woodland on either side. Here, the cities and towns are further set back from the water.

Wisconsin is the second state on the rivers journey south. Next, the Mississippi stretches to a width 4 miles as it flows through Iowa. Illinois is the next city on the Mississippi, and here, at Lock AND Dam 18 is where you can see Bald Eagle watching and Walleye fishing. Further south as you pass Quincy, Illinois is the Governor John Wood Mansion, a stunning example of Victorian Architecture.

Next the river winds through Missouri, where at St. Louis it joins up with the Illinois and the Missouri river, which is the largest river in the United States.

The Mississippi delta is a music lover's dream. This area is the birthplace of Zydeco, Rhythm and Blues, Ragtime, and Gospel. Be sure to try some of the southern inspired food, like gumbo: a spicy stewed rice dish with meat and beans.

At its final stop, the Mississippi meets Louisiana. Its winds like a snake through the backcountry. Some nights the river is shrouded in the gentle fog. The sound of crickets chirping and the abundance Spanish moss, add to the magic of the tender southern evening. Here you can watch the river make its way out to sea at the end of its journey.