Mississippi River Cruise From St. Louis
The Arch, the riverfront and the first night of your upper-river voyage.
Get Upper Mississippi QuotesYour Mississippi River Cruise From St. Louis
A Mississippi river cruise from St. Louis starts where the Missouri River pours into the Mississippi just north of the city, the meeting point that made St. Louis the gateway to the West. For upper-river sailings, it is the southern terminus: you board here to head north, or end here after coming down from St. Paul.
The riverfront is dominated by the Gateway Arch National Park, whose grounds and museum tell the story of westward expansion. The Old Courthouse beside it, where the Dred Scott case began, is part of the same park. Both are free to walk around; the tram ride to the top of the Arch is ticketed.
A Day Ashore Before You Sail
With a free day, most cruisers pick two or three of these: the Arch and its museum, a stroll through Laclede’s Landing’s cobbled streets, Forest Park and its free art museum and zoo, or a barbecue lunch. Baseball fans check whether the Cardinals are at home.
The riverfront itself is a good place to watch working boats, and you may see your cruise ship arrive. Compare St. Louis hotels on RoomsCheap if your package does not include a hotel.
Alton and the Confluence
Viking’s Heartland of America sailing uses Alton, Illinois, a short drive up the river, as its St. Louis-area landing. Alton has its own river story: the Melvin Price Locks and Dam spans the river here, and the mouth of the Illinois River is a short way north. The bluffs begin almost immediately, which is why the first evening out of Alton is often a highlight.
If you are comparing lines, ask our cruise advisors to explain the transfer arrangements at each end, since a St. Louis hotel night and an Alton boarding can involve a coach ride.
Getting to St. Louis
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is about 15 miles northwest of downtown. If you are driving, ask about long-term parking for a one-way trip, since a northbound cruise ends 500-plus river miles away in St. Paul; many travelers fly home from Minneapolis–St. Paul instead. Amtrak trains also serve St. Louis from Chicago and Kansas City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does a Mississippi river cruise from St. Louis board?
It depends on the line. American Cruise Lines lists St. Louis as its embarkation city, while Viking’s Upper Mississippi voyage boards at Alton, Illinois, a short drive upriver. Your documents give the exact landing and transfer details.
Should I arrive the day before?
Yes. Flight delays are common enough that we always suggest a night in St. Louis first, and some packages include one.
Can I go up the Gateway Arch?
Yes, by small tram cars to an observation deck at the top. Tickets are timed and sell out on busy days, so reserve ahead through the National Park Service’s official channels.
Book a Cruise That Starts in St. Louis
Say when you want to sail and whether to add a St. Louis hotel night; our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise reply with free quotes.
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