Historic Mississippi River Cruise

From$47
2 hours
New Orleans, USA

About this activity

Set sail on a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise featuring live jazz, a buffet meal, and insights into New Orleans' history aboard a classic paddlewheeler.

Highlights

  • Cruise along the historic Mississippi River
  • Enjoy live jazz music onboard
  • Savor a delicious buffet meal
  • Learn about New Orleans' rich history
  • Experience the iconic paddlewheeler ambiance

Full description

Step aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen for a captivating 2-hour journey along the historic Mississippi River. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of New Orleans' past as you glide past iconic landmarks, all while enjoying live jazz music that sets the perfect mood. Indulge in a delectable buffet meal, offering a taste of the city's renowned cuisine. This cruise offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to connect with the soul of New Orleans.

Included / Excluded

  • 2-hour narrated river cruise
  • Live jazz music
  • Buffet lunch or dinner options
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary

1

Disembark at the site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, where you can tour the Chalmette Battlefield including the Malus-Beauregard House and the Chalmette Monument before re-boarding for the return cruise.

Duration: 45 minAdmission: YES
2

Chalmette Battlefield is located in the Jean Lafitte National Park, making it an exciting and special addition to your river cruise!

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Cruise operates rain or shine; cancellations due to weather are rare but possible.
  • Advance reservations are recommended to secure your preferred date and time.
  • Gratuities for the crew are not included in the ticket price and are appreciated.

Know before you go

  • Arrive at the dock at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure timely boarding.
  • Dress comfortably and consider bringing a light jacket for cooler evenings.
  • Parking is available near the dock; however, public transportation options are also accessible.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • No outside food or beverages are allowed on board.
  • Bags are checked before boarding the vessel to ensure safety during the cruise.
  • Subject to favorable weather conditions. If altered or canceled due to poor weather, cruise may remain dockside in the event of unfavorable sailing conditions.
  • Due to limited capacity, refund requests made less than 24 hours prior to departure will NOT be considered. This includes missing the attraction for any reason. However, your ticket is transferable and valid for up to one year.
  • The Creole Paddlewheeler is Wheelchair accessible with a weight-restricted mechanical lift. However, the Chalmette Battlefield Park is not wheelchair accessible for handicap passengers at this time.
  • Boarding begins at 1:30 PM and the vessel departs at 2 PM sharp. Due to Coast Guard regulations, we are unable to extend departure time to accommodate individual guests.

Traveler reviews

4.4
2,058 reviews
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78

Meals have limited...

Meals have limited selections... especially desserts and you only have water not even tea as a "free" drink selection

Mae_RJul 4, 2026VIATOR

Good time!

Buffet is good. Crew is friendly. The historian was entertaining while recounting the facts of the battle.

Tim_SJul 4, 2026VIATOR

We had a wonderful time! ...

We had a wonderful time! Everyone was super nice and very helpful! It was a nice relaxing ride full of interesting information.

MANDY_LJul 3, 2026VIATOR

amazing boat ride

I believe this was my favorite active on my vacation because. it was return back in time.

happyg836Jul 2, 2026TRIPADVISOR

A Must Do

A very relaxing trip down the Mississippi River. Wonderful historian giving a very interesting narrative.

Lori_LJun 25, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

No outside food or beverages are allowed on board. Bags are checked before boarding the vessel to ensure safety during the cruise. Subject to favorable weather conditions. If altered or canceled due to poor weather, cruise may remain dockside in the event of unfavorable sailing conditions. Due to limited capacity, refund requests made less than 24 hours prior to departure will NOT be considered. This includes missing the attraction for any reason. However, your ticket is transferable and valid for up to one year. The Creole Paddlewheeler is Wheelchair accessible with a weight-restricted mechanical lift. However, the Chalmette Battlefield Park is not wheelchair accessible for handicap passengers at this time.