The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States, stretching 2,320 miles from its source at Lake Itasca in Minnesota to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico. The river has played a significant role in American history and culture, serving as a vital transportation route for trade and commerce.
If you’re interested in exploring this iconic river, a Mississippi River cruise is an excellent way to do so. But where does the Mississippi River cruise start and end? Let’s find out.
Where Does the Mississippi River Cruise Start?
Most Mississippi River cruises begin in one of two cities: St. Louis, Missouri or New Orleans, Louisiana. St. Louis is located towards the northern end of the river and serves as a popular starting point for cruises that travel upriver towards Minneapolis.
If you’re starting your journey in St. Louis, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and cultural attractions before setting sail. You might want to visit the Gateway Arch, which stands at 630 feet tall and serves as a symbol of St. Louis’ role as the “Gateway to the West.”
Another popular starting point for Mississippi River cruises is New Orleans. Known for its vibrant music scene, Cajun cuisine, and colorful architecture, New Orleans is a bustling city that sits near the mouth of the river.
If you’re starting your journey in New Orleans, you can explore famous sites like Bourbon Street or take a stroll through one of the city’s many historic neighborhoods before boarding your ship.
Where Does the Mississippi River Cruise End?
The end point of your Mississippi River cruise will depend on where you started your journey. If you embarked from St. Louis and traveled upriver towards Minneapolis, your journey will likely end in Red Wing, Minnesota.
Red Wing is a charming town situated along the banks of Lake Pepin – a widening of the Mississippi River that stretches for 21 miles. Here, you can explore the town’s quaint shops and restaurants or take a scenic hike through nearby Barn Bluff.
If you started your journey in New Orleans, your Mississippi River cruise will likely end in Memphis, Tennessee. Memphis is a vibrant city that’s known for its rich musical history – it’s the birthplace of blues music and home to iconic sites like Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home.
In Memphis, you can explore the city’s many museums and cultural attractions or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this Southern gem.
Conclusion
Whether you’re starting your journey in St. Louis or New Orleans, a Mississippi River cruise is an excellent way to explore one of America’s most iconic waterways. From the bustling cities at the river’s mouth to the charming towns that dot its shores further upstream, there’s no shortage of sights and experiences to be had on a Mississippi River cruise.
So pack your bags and get ready to set sail – an adventure along this majestic river awaits!