DETAILS
Join us for a deep dive into U.S. history and culture aboard the 185-berth American Splendor, a riverboat built in 2016 in the classic paddle-wheeler style, on a voyage up the Mississippi River from Memphis to New Orleans. What makes this Mississippi River experience stand apart is the incredibly rich educational program, beginning with a keynote address in New Orleans by presidential historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Doris Kearns Goodwin.
- Pricing from
- $8,990
- Trip Type
- Closer to Home, Individual Travel Tour
- Departure Dates
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Mar 3, 2026 - Mar 11, 2026
American Splendor allows guests to experience the nostalgia of classic paddlewheeler travel while enjoying modern comfort and amenities. Recently renovated, American Splendor features serene color palettes, luxurious textiles and linens, new furniture and carpets, and updated artwork and flourishes. From the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining rooms, the new décor pays homage to the legendary Mississippi River. On board, guests can relax in a casual ambiance while admiring panoramic views of the passing scenery. Each spacious stateroom is outward-facing, allowing commanding views of the riverside landscape, and includes all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. These staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk, and full-size bathrooms, and most feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony. With only 180 guests, fellow travelers will quickly become new friends.
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John Meffert
John Meffert, consultant on Heritage Conservation Services, has a long tradition with the National Trust. He has served as the Director for our Southern Office and was the director of the Preservation Society of Charleston, the oldest nonprofit organization in the United States, responsible for preserving the historic resources of Charleston, S.C. John has delighted many study tour groups with his lectures and insights on preservation, and receives rave reviews as study leader.
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS Upon payment of the $1,000 per person deposit, all reservations are subject to the cancellation provisions set forth below and by which the passenger agrees to be bound. Cancellations shall not be in effect until they are received in writing and confirmed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Deposits are refundable (less a $250 per person administration fee) if written notice of cancellation is received within 30 days of reservation; after that, deposits are 100% nonrefundable. After final payment deadline on November 6, 2023, all payments are 100% nonrefundable, regardless of booking date. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. NOTE: Neither the National Trust for Historic Preservation nor Criterion Travel, the tour operator, accepts liability for any airline cancellation penalties incurred with the purchase of non-refundable tickets.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1
Home/Memphis, Tennessee
Depart home and arrive in Memphis independently and check into the Guest House at Graceland. Just steps away from Elvis’ Graceland, this property reflects Elvis’ iconic style combined with the Southern charm of Memphis. This evening, meet fellow travelers at a festive welcome reception and dinner, featuring a keynote address by eminent Pulitzer-winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin.
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day 2
Memphis, Tennessee
Following an opening lecture, spend the morning exploring Memphis’ diverse heritage. Choose between three optional tours: 1) Stroll down Beale Street, the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll; 2) Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which has preserved a multitude of soul music artifacts within vibrant and interactive exhibits; or 3) Tour the National Civil Rights Museum, a moving and historically significant museum built on the site of the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. In the afternoon, board the American Splendor and begin the journey down the mighty Mississippi River.
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day 3
Cleveland, Mississippi
Today the American Splendor arrives in Cleveland, Mississippi. Choose between a visit to the Grammy Museum, a guided tour along the Mississippi Blues Trail, or an excursion to the nearby town of Mound Bayou, an all-Black community known as an oasis during the turbulent beginnings of the Civil Rights movement.
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day 4
Natchez, Mississippi
Having suffered little destruction during the Civil War, Natchez is home to the largest concentrations of restored pre–Civil War properties in the United States. Today visit your choice of three of these historic homes: Longwood, with its unique octagonal design; Rosalie, which served as Union headquarters during the Civil War; and Stanton Hall, constructed in 1851 and regarded today as one of the most opulent historic mansions in the country. There will also be an opportunity for free time in central Natchez with an optional lunch ashore.
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day 5
St. Francisville, Louisiana
St. Francisville, Louisiana Today visit the once-thriving cotton port of St. Francisville to learn about the town’s rich legacy. In the Historic District, take optional excursions to magnificent mansions and plantation homes including a walking tour of historic St. Francisville; Rosedown Estate and Garden, one of the few privately maintained formal gardens of the 19th century; Myrtles Plantation, reputed to be one of the most haunted homes in America; the Oakley Plantation, the home of John James Audubon; and Port Hudson Historic Site, where you will learn about the culminating battle and Campaign to open the Mississippi River.
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day 6
Vacherie, Louisiana
Disembark on the west bank of the Mississippi River to explore historic Oak Alley, a grand Greek Revival plantation home famous for its namesake double row of 18th-century canopy oak trees lining the approaching path. Nearby Laura Plantation, a restored Creole plantation, is a fascinating contrast to Oak Alley, illuminating the personal stories and culture of its inhabitants and boasting twelve buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, including slave quarters. For those that feel adventurous, embark on a swamp tour through the ecologically rich Louisiana Bayou and navigate through cypress and pine for an upclose look at waterfowl and other Bayou creatures. Arrive late this evening in New Orleans, where American Splendor will remain docked for the next two nights.
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day 7
New Orleans, Louisiana
Spend the day exploring New Orleans with optional tours of the extravagantly styled and landscaped Garden District and the highly acclaimed National World War II Museum. Here immersive galleries tell the story of American courage and sacrifice in the war that changed the world. American Splendor will remain docked overnight, allowing for time to enjoy all that New Orleans has to offer.
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day 8
New Orleans, Louisiana/ Home
After breakfast disembark and transfer to the airport for afternoon flights home.
Everything you need to know about the tour
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