Explore and book Viking River Cruises 7 Night Heartland Of America on the Viking Mississippi departing from Saint Paul, United States on Aug 8, 2026 and ending in Hannibal, Missouri on Aug 15, 2026 Sail to Saint Paul, United States, Red Wing, Minnesota, La Crosse, Wisconsin, Dubuque, Iowa, Burlington, Canada, Hannibal, Missouri

Saint Paul, United States

Located near the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, St. Paul welcomed its first settler in 1838. And little more than a decade later, the thriving settlement was named the capital of the Minnesota Territory. By 1858, some 1,000 steamboats

Red Wing is known for its Red Wing Shoes, which produced footwear for soldiers in both world wars. The city was named after a Sioux chief whose red-dyed swan wing indicated his rank. The first settlers&mdash;many from New England&mdash;arrived in the mid-

Red Wing, Minnesota

Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, Red Wing boasts picturesque views and a charming historic downtown. Visitors can explore the renowned Red Wing Shoe Museum, showcasing the town's rich boot-making heritage, or hike the scenic Barn Bluff for panoramic vistas. The city’s quaint streets are lined with unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Red Wing’s vibrant arts scene and inviting atmosphere make it a delightful stop on your river cruise.

La Crosse has a deep connection to the towering bluffs and rolling farmland of the Norskedalen, or “Norwegian Valley.” Here, a Norwegian immigrant population has created a unique culture over generations. Historic immigrant villages dot the valley still, 

La Crosse, Wisconsin

Nestled along the Mississippi River, La Crosse offers a charming blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the scenic bluffs, enjoy riverboat cruises, and stroll through historic downtown with its eclectic shops and eateries. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Grandad Bluff and the serene Riverside Park. La Crosse provides a perfect mix of outdoor adventures and small-town charm.

One of Iowa&rsquo;s few cities laid out among rolling bluffs, Dubuque is called the &ldquo;Masterpiece on the Mississippi&rdquo; for its 19th-century ingenuity and modern-day cultural evolution. Timber and boatbuilding were central to the city&rsquo;s gro

Dubuque, Iowa

Dubuque, Iowa, is a city steeped in history and natural beauty, nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River. Visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium to learn about the region's aquatic life and river history. The Fenelon Place Elevator, the world's shortest and steepest scenic railway, offers breathtaking views of the river and the tri-state area. Dubuque's lively downtown and riverfront parks provide a perfect backdrop for a memorable stop.

Straddling the confluence of the Mississippi and Rock Rivers, the Quad Cities area comprises Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa, and Rock Island, Moline and East Moline, Illinois. As the only section of the Mississippi that flows from east to west, it is geog

The US flag was first raised over Iowa in Burlington&mdash;in 1805&mdash;by Lieutenant Zebulon Pike during his Mississippi explorations. Later, it became an outpost for the American Fur Company, a trading enterprise founded by John Jacob Astor. In 1834, i

Burlington, Canada

Hannibal is the childhood home of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, or Mark Twain, and the inspiration for his beloved stories of <em>Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn</em>. Prior to the 1803 Louisiana Purchase and arrival of European settlers, a variety of indigen

Hannibal, Missouri

Hannibal, Missouri, is famously known as the boyhood home of Mark Twain, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of the celebrated author. Explore the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum to see where Samuel Clemens drew inspiration for his beloved stories. The picturesque downtown area, with its historic buildings and charming shops, transports you back to the 19th century. A riverboat cruise along the Mississippi offers a relaxing way to take in the natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Alton is the gateway to St. Louis, which was a passageway into the Louisiana Territory during the 19th century. In 1904, St. Louis gained recognition as host of a world’s fair (officially called the Louisiana Purchase Exposition), whereby some accounts th

7 Night Heartland Of America

North America

A perfect spot for relaxation and conversation, this spacious area fosters camaraderie with its comfortable seating and enriching activities. The well-curated library invites you to browse and borrow any selection, making it ideal for even the most discerning readers.


The Living Room

Boasting two-story panoramic views, this lounge is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Ideal for those looking to relax while enjoying the ever-changing vistas.


Explorers’ Lounge

A serene lounge located at the front of the ship, offering spectacular views as you sail along the Mississippi. This quiet area is perfect for reflection and capturing the beauty of your journey.


The Bow

Experience relaxation at its finest with a unique glass-backed pool offering ultimate views. This serene space provides a tranquil escape with panoramic vistas.


Sun Terrace

The Aquavit Terrace, revolutionary in its design, provides the ultimate al fresco dining experience along the river, blending indoor and outdoor settings seamlessly. Engage with fellow travelers over breakfast and lunch as you take in the tranquil beauty of the river, creating memorable moments in this inviting and relaxing space.


Aquavit Terrace

Discover a haven of literary delight in the onboard Library, where a thoughtfully curated selection of titles beckons the curious traveler. Choose a volume, find your cozy nook, and let the pages transport you as the world glides by.


Library

Dive deep into the art, culture, and history of your destinations with the expert-led lectures and port talks, providing insights into the landmarks and heritage of each place. These sessions are perfect for enriching your understanding and preparing for your adventures ashore.


Guest Lectures & Port Talks

Witness the artistry of local crafts and culinary traditions with demonstrations by artisans and chefs, from glassblowing to making Austrian apple strudel. These sessions offer a hands-on glimpse into the region's heritage and flavors.


Craft & Cooking Demonstrations

Revolutionizing casual dining, the River Café serves pastries and coffee for early risers, along with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dine on American favorites and Southern barbecue in a bright, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to passing landscapes.


River Cafe

The Restaurant presents a feast for the senses, serving multicourse meals that celebrate regional flavors alongside timeless classics. Dine in upscale elegance as panoramic windows frame ever-changing vistas, ensuring every meal is accompanied by a view.


The Restaurant

Experience the spirit of each region through the Destination Performances, featuring local cultural arts like Portuguese fado and Viennese opera. These performances are a captivating blend of entertainment and cultural immersion.


Destination Performances

Enjoy the soothing sounds of classical and regional music performed by talented musicians, from local ensembles to renowned choirs. This auditory journey is designed to enrich your mind and complement the scenic beauty of your travels.


Classical & Regional Musicians

Viking Mississippi offers a refined cruising experience with a strong emphasis on Scandinavian design, featuring river-facing cabins with balconies and luxurious suites. Guests can enjoy three distinct dining venues, including The Restaurant with panoramic views, the River Cafe with regionally inspired dishes, and the casual Aquavit Terrace. Onboard enrichment programs highlight the storied history and rich culture of the Mississippi River, complemented by an array of inclusive amenities such as specialty dining, complimentary beverages, and shore excursions.

Inspired by Southern living and the great outdoors, this terrace offers a casual setting to celebrate with friends. Enjoy sweeping views of America's heartland while dining in a relaxed porch-like atmosphere.


Aquavit Terrace 

Explore a literary haven in the onboard Library, featuring a curated selection of captivating titles. Pick a book, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in the pages as the world sails past.


Guest Lectures & Port Talks 

Craft & Cooking Demonstrations 

Enjoy daily changing menus featuring regional cuisine and timeless classics, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. This main dining venue ensures a delightful culinary experience with every meal.

Library 

Classical & Regional Musicians 

Sun Terrace 

Viking River Cruises

Heart of the Delta

New Orleans & Southern Charms

America's Great River

Tour Elvis' Graceland Estate

Viking Mississippi

See the town where Mark Twain grew up and where he drew inspiration for his most famous novels. Raised as Samuel Langhorne Clemens, the author later took the pseudonym Mark Twain, a unit of measurement used by Mississippi River pilots (his former occupation). You will see his boyhood home, with its iconic white picket fence that the fictional Tom Sawyer was required to whitewash. At the Museum Gallery, admire 15 original Norman Rockwell paintings depicting scenes from Twain’s novels. The museum complex also includes the homes of Laura Hawkins, Twain’s childhood sweetheart who inspired the character of Becky Thatcher, and Tom Blankenship, the real-life Huckleberry Finn.

Explore the culture and wildlife along the Mississippi at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. A Smithsonian-affiliated institution and one of only a handful in the nation to be accredited by both the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums, the facility showcases the cultural and natural history of the Mississippi, from its headwaters at Minnesota’s Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico. Acclaimed for its interactive displays, it has five aquariums and numerous exhibits. Upon arrival, you will receive a map, then set out to explore at your leisure. You may choose to see a working wetland and the restored dredge boat that William M. Black built in 1934 for the US Army Corps of Engineers. Or investigate the animal exhibits that include North American river otters, an American alligator and more. Afterward, you will walk back to your ship.

See Dubuque’s main sights, explore its historic downtown and learn about its intriguing history. Take a short drive to the downtown port area, gaining insight into the city’s economic transformation through the years. Stop at Cable Car Square to board the Fenelon Place Elevator; spanning 292 feet, it is one of the world’s shortest and steepest funiculars. Embark on a panoramic ascent to the top of the bluff, where you will admire sweeping views over the city and, depending on weather conditions, can glimpse the neighboring states of Wisconsin and Illinois. Return to the bottom of the bluff, then make the short transfer to the downtown district. Here, enjoy free time to explore on your own. Immerse yourself in the city’s charm as you browse local shops for the perfect memento or sample local fare (at your own expense), before returning to your ship.

Experience the charm of small town America along a quaint Midwestern mainstreet. Boasting half a mile of more than 125 independently owned shops and restaurants, Main Street is the vibrant center of Galena, a small town nestled in a rural corner of Northwestern Illinois. During your visit, you will have free time to explore its many attractions, from candy and ice cream shops to spas and wine tasting rooms. Admire the street’s original 19th-century buildings, featuring architecture as diverse as the businesses that occupy them. Nearby, you may also wish to visit other notable Galena sights, including the Old Blacksmith Shop, Belvedere Mansion and Ulysses S. Grant Home, a former residence of the 18th president of the United States.

Delve deeper into the impact of the Mississippi on America’s cultural, economic, natural and conservation history. Nestled in Dubuque’s Ice Harbor, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium honors river life and history. Your guided tour includes a visit to exclusive conservation spaces, where you will see how rare and endangered species are being preserved. Continue your tour on the deck of the 1934 William M. Black, built for the US Army Corps of Engineers, and explore portions of the engine room and crew quarters. Watch a 19th century belt-driven machine in operation and learn about the history of racing boats on the Mississippi. Other exhibits provide insight into the various Native American communities that have thrived along the river. You will also have an opportunity to explore the contributions of many European immigrants to river art, music, literature and more.

Explore the home and landscape that most completely embody Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture. Taliesin served as the architect’s private residence, studio and school from 1911 until his death in 1959. A National Historic Landmark in Spring Green, Wisconsin, the estate is among the eight Wright buildings collectively named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. It is an exemplar of the innovative architectural style that made Wright’ work so ahead of his time. You will learn about Wright’s profound influence on 20th-century architecture as you explore his personal residence and learn how he used his own home as a laboratory for experimenting with new ideas. During the tour, enjoy a locally sourced lunch in a historic Wright-designed space.

Get a glimpse into traditional Midwestern farm life at the Stonefield Historic Site in rural Wisconsin. Journey to the village of Cassville and explore the Site’s distinctive areas and buildings, which include the Wisconsin State Agricultural Museum and a 1901 progressive farmstead. Tour the home of Wisconsin’s first governor, Nelson Dewey, an 1890s-era Gothic Revival house that still has its original Ice and Smoke Houses intact. At the Stonefield Farming Village, meet with a “farm wife” to discuss how the farm worked in the 1900s, and discover how farming techniques have advanced in modern times. Refresh yourself with cookies and lemonade before enjoying free time to shop and explore the area on your own.

Discover the artistic and architectural treasures of Dubuque on an enriching tour. Your exploration of Dubuque begins with a stroll along the city's Riverwalk to view its many sculptures, followed by a trip to St. Luke’s Methodist Church for a look at its 105 Tiffany stained-glass windows. Created by Louis Comfort Tiffany in New York, these meticulously crafted windows are the fifth largest collection in the United States. From here, view the photography of Edward Curtis at the Dubuque Museum of Art, which includes a behind-the-scenes tour and a private showing of his masterpiece, "The North American Indian." Learn how Curtis lived among Native American tribes in the early 1900’s, capturing their authentic ways of life. At the conclusion of your visit to the museum, get a glimpse of Dubuque's colorful murals before returning to your ship.

Tour the real-life Field of Dreams and a historic local brewery. Enjoy a scenic drive through Iowa farmland to the set of the film Field of Dreams. While there, see the Lansing family farmhouse and learn how it became part of an American film classic. Sit on the porch swing, step back in time and see movie props that are still a part of the home today. During your visit, you will also speak with a “ghost player,” a senior baseball player who entertains local audiences at the field to this day. Your next stop will be the Textile Brewing Company, originally built in 1906 as a gasoline engine factory, converted later into a sewing factory to employ local women. At the brewery, guests will hear about the history of the building and sample two of the company’s famous beers.

Discover the history of La Crosse during an informative stroll with visits to important downtown businesses. At the pier, meet your guide and set out on an approximately 1-mile roundtrip walk along the city’s well-maintained sidewalks, passing landmark buildings dating from the 1860s to the 1940s. Gain insight into La Crosse’s socio-economic history, including the legacies of its lumber and brewing industries. Learn about the drive for historic preservation and adaptive reuse, as well as the important role of family-owned small businesses. Your route will take you to several of these foundational businesses, where you will meet the respective owners and listen to their stories. Depending on the timing of your excursion, you will either enjoy a morning coffee and pastry at a bakery or an afternoon flight of locally crafted beers at brew pub before returning to your ship.

See the best of La Crosse—from top to bottom—on this tour that blends scenic views with historic landmarks. Begin your journey at one of the city’s parks where you will enjoy vistas of La Crosse, the Mississippi and the three states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. As you make your way downtown, view St. Rose Convent and learn the story of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. Next, visit the Hixon House, the former home of the 19th-century lumber baron Gideon C. Hixon. The modest exterior belies the rich interior filled with furnishings and objects Hixon acquired during his international travels. At the end of your tour, you can stroll the downtown area, whose shops and restaurants are housed in architecturally interesting historic buildings.

Relive Norwegian immigrant life at Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School. Nestled amid the rolling hills of Decorah, Vesterheim features 33,000 artifacts, 12 historic buildings, a Folk Art School and library. In the museum, learn about the history of American immigration and its influence on the Midwest. Gain Privileged Access to the museum’s education center where you can admire items not available to the public, including Norwegian folk art and hand-carved furniture. Tour the Norwegian Lutheran Bethania Church—relocated from North Dakota—and explore the museum’s Heritage Park with its original mill, blacksmith shop and stovewood house. Later, enjoy an included lunch and spend time exploring this quaint Midwestern town on your own.

Explore Norwegian immigration in America at Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School. On a guided tour of the museum, learn about the history of American immigration and its influence on the Midwest. Gain Privileged Access to the museum’s education center where you can admire items not available to the public, including Norwegian folk art and hand-carved furniture. Tour the Norwegian Lutheran Bethania Church—relocated from North Dakota—and explore the museum’s Heritage Park with its original mill, blacksmith shop and stovewood house. Later, enjoy an included lunch in scenic Decorah before attending an intimate kroting class. Discover the history of this Norwegian carving technique before creating your own piece with a Viking-exclusive design.

Relive Norwegian immigrant life at Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School. On a guided tour of the museum, learn about the history of American immigration and its influence on the Midwest. Gain Privileged Access to the museum’s education center where you can admire items not generally available to the public, including Norwegian folk art and hand-carved furniture. Discover the Norwegian Lutheran Bethania Church—relocated from North Dakota—and explore the museum’s Heritage Park with its original mill, blacksmith shop and stovewood house. Later, enjoy an included lunch in scenic Decorah before attending an informative sølje earring class, where you will learn how to make your own silver- or gold-washed sølje.

Cruise the streets of La Crosse in a classic car, then explore an iconic automobile museum. Transfer to the Dahl Auto Museum, where you will take your seat in one of several original classic cars on hand. Then, sit back and enjoy the views as your driver and guide navigates the streets of La Crosse’s historic downtown residential neighborhoods, providing you with a glimpse into the rich history of the city. Upon returning to the museum, you will have free time for an in-depth exploration of its large collection of Ford Motor Company automobiles from the early 20th century to the present day. Get an up-close view and admire the expertly restored vehicles and memorabilia, including Model Ts and limited-edition Mustangs and GTs. Or bask in the nostalgic ambiance of the Starlite Drive-In Theater, which offers a selection of hor d’oeuvres, wine and local beers for sale.

Learn about the meticulous work involved in maintaining the architectural heritage of a La Crosse landmark. You will travel to Hixon House, a historic residence built in 1858 for Gideon Hixon, a wealthy lumber baron, bank president and Wisconsin legislator. Upon arrival, meet Site Manager and Restoration Curator Margaret Lichter, who will lead you on a Privileged Access tour of the house, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Explore behind-the-scenes restoration efforts, including detective work to uncover historic interior finishes, that are being undertaken to restore the house to its turn-of-the-20th-century appearance. You will also hear captivating stories about the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and reconstruction of historic buildings in La Crosse and in other towns along the Mississippi River. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Experience the spiritual and the serene during a visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Dedicated to the Mary, the mother of Jesus, this modern, neoclassical church sits atop a 600-foot bluff nestled on 70 acres in the Mississippi River Valley. Upon arrival, you will have the option to either walk uphill along the half-mile “Pilgrimage Path” or ride in a cart to the shrine. Here, you will have an opportunity to pay your respects at the Our Lady of Good Counsel Votive Candle Chapel. Then, set out on a guided tour of the church to learn about the shrine’s history and spiritual significance in the local Catholic community. Admire its striking architecture, frescoes and large mosaic, then enjoy the tranquility of the beautiful surrounding gardens, often described as a “piece of Italy dropped into Wisconsin.” Afterward, you will return to your ship by motor coach.

Gain insight into three major North American Indigenous cultures during a visit to various ancient mounds. Embark on a drive by motor coach to Perrot State Park, set along a beautiful stretch of the Mississippi River and a witness to more than 13,000 years of human history. Here, the Effigy Mound, Hopewell and Mississippian cultures constructed burial mounds, effigy mounds and ceremonial platforms, the oldest dating back almost 2,000 years. Upon arrival, you will meet Jim Gallagher, a professor of archeology at the University of Wisconsin, who will lead you on a guided, approximately half-mile nature walk over the uneven and sometimes hilly terrain. Learn the theories behind these ancient earthworks—their purpose remains a mystery to researchers to this day—and enjoy wildlife sightings and scenic views of Trempealeau Bay. After, you will return to your coach and your ship.

Discover the natural beauty of Wisconsin with an expert during a visit to The Nature Place. A bucolic nature preserve, The Nature Place is a local hub for environmental education and community programs. Upon arrival, meet your knowledgeable guide, who will offer insights into the facility’s history and unique features. You will also learn about the local ecology, including the Driftless Area, a unique geographical location known for its scenic beauty and lack of glacial drift, and the La Crosse River Marsh, a wetland area with diverse flora and fauna that provides an important habitat for wildlife. Afterward, you may choose to follow your guide on an informative nature walk along a flat trail path for further exploration or remain at The Nature Place and partake in the activities available there. Afterward, transfer back to your ship.

Savor a delicious meal of Wisconsin favorites, then enjoy a private show at the historic Rivoli Theatre. Embark on a short drive by motor coach to The Hatchery, a National Register of Historic Places-listed property located in an iconic parkland along the Mississippi River. Here, you will dine on a private five-course meal of northern delicacies prepared specially for Viking guests, including walleye, beer cheese soup, bratwurst, creamy curds and puff pastries. Appetite sated, board your coach for the short transfer to the historic Rivoli Theater, a charming local landmark full of character. You will have an opportunity to learn about the theater’s history from the owner before settling in to enjoy a performance of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, a stage rendition of the classic 1953 musical comedy that starred Marilyn Monroe. Following the curtain call, you will return to your ship.

Get acquainted with Red Wing and learn about America’s national symbol at the National Eagle Center. Red Wing is set among scenic bluffs and a majestic harbor, which you will see en route to the eagle interpretive center in Wabasha. Your guide will point out the many sites you may wish to visit on your own during your free time. There are 26 museums and many eye-catching, historic and architectural gems. The waterfront features three parks: Colvill, Bay Point and Levee Parks. And the downtown area abounds in art and craft galleries, cafés and shops. Arriving at the National Eagle Center, you will see majestic American bald eagles and golden eagles up close, and learn about the ecology, biology and natural history of these magnificent raptors.

Learn about the city’s famed stoneware industry at the Pottery Museum and enjoy a hands-on lesson. Red Wing’s stoneware and pottery industry began in 1861, when a local potter named John Paul, a German immigrant, discovered some large, glacially deposited clay pit beds northwest of the city. From this emerged several production companies including Red Wing Pottery and Red Wing Stoneware, some of whose historic pieces are on display at the Pottery Museum of Red Wing. During your visit, a local artist will offer a presentation explaining the history and techniques for making salt-glazed products, a kiln tour, demonstrations and a hands-on lesson.

See how cider is produced and learn about Midwestern agriculture at a small artisanal orchard. Upon your visit to Maiden Rock Winery & Cidery, enjoy a welcome presentation that explores the history of apple production, followed by a cider tasting with cheese and crackers. As your tour continues to the orchard, you will learn about the process of growing and grafting apples specific to the Lake Pepin area, one of North America’s ideal microclimates for the cultivation of apples. Get a glimpse into the techniques that are used to make Maiden Rock’s fresh-pressed, non-alcoholic cider, which has won awards in the state for several years. You will also have the opportunity to roam the orchard on your own or browse the gift shop before returning to your ship.

Explore the history of Red Wing at the Pottery Museum and the Goodhue County History Center. At the Pottery Museum of Red Wing, view exhibits featuring both common and rare stoneware, art pottery and dinnerware from local pottery factories, displayed in a timeline that shows how the art and use of pottery has changed over time. You will also have access to the museum’s treasure trove of historical photographs, depicting the history of local pottery companies and illustrating how the ware was manufactured. From here, journey to the Goodhue County History Center, which features over a dozen exhibit spaces, a full-service research library and gift shop. Home to the Goodhue County Historical Society, the center serves as the steward for county history by collecting, preserving, and promoting the area’s natural and cultural history through education and outreach.

Celebrate Minnesota’s Nordic roots during a Privileged Access visit to the American Swedish Institute. You will travel to the institute, where you will gain insight into Swedish culture and its impact on the state through art, history and culinary experiences. Set off on an after-hours tour through the historic Turnblad Mansion, known as Minnesota’s only castle, with insights into its construction, the Turnblad family and Swedish immigration. Admire the mansion’s unique craftsmanship and historic preservation, then explore the Karin Larsson, Let the Hand Be Seen exhibition, which showcases the work and legacy of Karin Larsson, a pioneering designer from Sweden through her paintings, furniture and textiles. Cap your visit with a New Nordic-style aquavit, dessert and cocktail tasting curated by FIKA Café, the institute’s acclaimed café known for its Nordic cuisine.

Explore the University of Minnesota’s extensive campus and admire artworks at the Weisman Art Museum. Transfer to the university’s Twin Cities campus, located within a national park and the former homeland of the Dakota people. Here, you will meet a professor who will lead you on a guided walking tour. View significant areas of the campus, including the Northrop Mall Historic District, the College of Science and Engineering and the Health Sciences campus, while gaining insight into the university’s academic and research endeavors. Gaze upon the unique-looking facade of the Weisman Art Museum, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, before stepping inside to enjoy free time to explore on your own. Known for its important collection of American art, the museum’s collection features more than 25,000 works of art, spanning a wide range of periods, styles and mediums.

Delve into Minneapolis’s vibrant art scene during a visit to the Walker Art Museum and its sculpture gardens. Travel by motor coach to the museum, where you will meet a knowledgeable Walker Educators guide who will offer insights into the artworks and the ideas behind them during your visit. Enjoy views of downtown Minneapolis while strolling through the 11-acre gardens, admiring iconic installations such as Spoonbridge and Cherry by Claes Oldenburg, and interactive installations that encourage visitor engagement. Continue into the museum, home to a significant permanent collection of more 15,000 works, including pieces across a range of mediums by influential artists from around the world. Your tour will also include a stop at the historic Basilica of Saint Mary, a striking example of Beaux-Arts architecture with a dome reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Discover the rich culture and resilience of the Hmong community in Minnesota during a market visit. Following the withdrawal of US forces from Southeast Asia after the Vietnam War, many Hmong fled the conflict in Laos, resettling in Minnesota. They have become an integral part of the state’s social, cultural and economic fabric, enriching Minnesota with their traditions, cuisine, entrepreneurship and vibrant community. Travel to the market, where you will be introduced to Hmong cultural tools, clothing, medicine and beliefs. Then, set out to explore the more than 100 vendors offering a variety of products and services, including traditional crafts, fashion, spices and street food. Immerse yourself in Hmong heritage and listen to stories from the owners. You will also have time to enjoy a lunch of Hmong delicacies and explore the market at your leisure.

Experience the culture and history of small-town America during a full-day excursion to Stillwater. Nestled along the banks of the St. Croix River and one of Minnesota’s oldest towns, Stillwater possesses a special charm with its historic architecture and vibrant downtown. Upon arrival, enjoy time to browse the artisanal wares at the Smith & Trade Mercantile, then set out for a guided walk around town. Immerse yourself in Stillwater’s quaint ambiance while viewing the iconic Lift Bridge, touring Minnesota’s first commercial sawmill and exploring the downtown. After a delicious lunch created using locally sourced ingredients, travel to an award-winning winery for a behind-the-scenes look at its vineyard and facilities. Get a glimpse into the art and science of wine production before indulging in a memorable tasting of crisp whites and bold reds.

Gain insight into the art of fermentation and distillation at three unique venues. At the Lake Monster Brewing Company, you will be regaled with tales of the mythical creatures that inspire the brewery’s creations, followed by a tour of the production area and a tasting session featuring Lake Monster’s signature beers. Continue to nearby King Coil Spirits, where you will be greeted by the owners, who will share the company’s storied past and guide you through the intricate process of distillation. A curated tasting flight of three distinct liqueurs, paired with local delicacies, awaits to delight your palate. Cap your journey at the Metronome Brewery, where you will savor a selection of beers while interacting with the brewery staff in an informative Q&A session. Afterward, enjoy a live musical performance before departing.

Tour an enduring emblem of Minnesota’s wool industry past, followed by lunch at a historic airfield. Step into the historic Faribault Woolen Mill, a family-owned bastion of American craftsmanship since 1865 and a National Register of Historic Places listee. As you explore the storied halls, learn about the mill’s pivotal role during World War II, when it produced blankets for soldiers on the front lines. Witness the intricate operations that have woven threads of quality for more than a century and peruse the Mill’s store where the legacy of fine woolen goods continues to this day. Afterward, travel to Holman’s Table, a St. Paul gem located on a historic airfield. Enjoy a meal of local favorites while gazing out at a collection of World War II-era aircraft. Following your meal, you may choose to take a flight in one of the historic aircraft, at your own expense.

Uncover stories from Minnesota’s past, enjoy a panoramic drive and tour a local brewery. Embark on a panoramic drive by motor coach through St. Paul to the Minnesota History Center, a museum and library. Upon arrival, tour its collection of exhibits exploring the state of Minnesota’s history through installations that feature the voices of real people reminiscing about their experiences. After, continue your scenic drive through downtown St. Paul, passing notable local landmarks, such as the neoclassical Union Depot, bucolic Harriet Island and the Victorian-era homes lining Summit Avenue. Cap your journey with a stop at a local brewery, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the facilities, including the copper kettles, and learn about the traditional brewing methods behind the great handcrafted beers that once dominated the American Midwest.

Discover the rich history and culture of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC). Part of the Great Sioux Nation, the Dakota SMSC people were the original inhabitants of Minnesota. Transfer to the Hocokata Ti Cultural Center, where you will meet your welcoming hosts and delve into an immersive narrative that traces the roots of the region’s Dakota people from the era before European settlement to the treaties with the US government, leading to the present day. The private collection is a treasure trove of more than 10,000 artifacts, each telling a story of the more than 130 cultures from the US, Northern Mexico and Canada. Browse archeological finds, marvel at intricate basketry and admire the craftsmanship of pottery, beaded items and regalia. Cap your visit with a shared meal of delicious Indigenous cuisine with your hosts.

Witness the majestic St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam, the heart of Minneapolis’s riverfront. You will visit the only true waterfall on the Mississippi River, observing the tallest lock’s pivotal role in the city’s navigational history. Constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1963, this engineering marvel was instrumental in Minneapolis’s economic surge, channeling goods like grain that powered the rise of iconic brands like Pillsbury and General Mills. Continue to the Mill City Museum, located in the historic Washburn A Mill. Here, detailed exhibits and interactive displays will bring you face-to-face with the legacy of companies that thrived thanks to the lock and dam system. Learn how the Mississippi fueled the mills, propelling Minneapolis’s industrial ascent. Cap your visit at the museum’s Flour Tower, enjoying sweeping views of downtown Minneapolis.

Explore the St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam, where history and engineering merge. Admire the only true waterfall on the Mississippi River, showcasing the tallest lock’s role in Minneapolis’s industrial growth. Since its completion in 1963 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the lock has been a cornerstone of commerce in the city, enabling the flow of goods and bolstering the economy. Then, travel to Minneapolis’s Public Works Water Treatment plant. Here, witness the transformation of the Mississippi’s waters into a lifeline for millions; each year, the plant’s impressive operation pumps 21 billion gallons, ensuring 57 million gallons of clean water daily. Gain insight into the meticulous process that makes this possible and ensures this essential service is safeguarded, guaranteeing the highest quality drinking water for Minneapolis’s residents.

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7 Night Heartland Of America

About the ship

Viking Mississippi

What’s Included

7 Night Heartland Of America Save

About the ship

Viking Mississippi

What’s Included

7 Night Heartland Of America