Explore and book Viking River Cruises 7 Night Nashville,Memphis & The Cumberland on the Viking Mississippi departing from Nashville, Tennessee on Nov 3, 2026 and ending in Memphis, Tennessee on Nov 10, 2026 Sail to Nashville, Tennessee, Clarksville, Tennessee, Paducah, Kentucky, Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Memphis, Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee

Nestled in the Central Basin of Middle Tennessee, Nashville is beloved as one of the South’s most influential country music cities. With its location on the Cumberland River, it experienced a rapid rise after its founding in 1779. In the 19th century, the

Clarksville is a city steeped in history and rich in culture. Nestled along the shores where the meandering Cumberland River meets the Red River, it was established in 1785 and named after General George Rogers Clark, a Revolutionary War soldier and front

Clarksville, Tennessee

Located on the Cumberland River, Clarksville offers southern charm with a rich history. Visit the Customs House Museum or stroll along the riverfront

Located at the confluence of the Tennessee and Ohio rivers, Paducah is one of Kentucky’s hidden gems. A UNESCO Creative City, Paducah is famed for its preserved 19th-century architecture and historic buildings that line the main street. The city’s Downtow

Paducah, Kentucky

Paducah, a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts & Folk Art, is a haven for art lovers and history buffs. Stroll through the picturesque downtown, visit the National Quilt Museum, and enjoy the public art installations along the riverfront. The city’s rich heritage is showcased in its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture. Paducah offers a unique blend of artistic inspiration and historical charm.

The largest city between St. Louis and Memphis, Cape Girardeau has a long and storied history. It was an important site during the Civil War and once housed a number of forts, including Fort D, which remains a well-preserved historic site to this day. Fon

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Cape Girardeau, Missouri, offers a blend of Southern hospitality and rich historical heritage. The town's scenic riverfront park is perfect for leisurely walks and features the impressive Mississippi River Tales Mural. Explore the historic downtown area with its charming shops, restaurants, and well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The city's vibrant arts scene and engaging museums provide a cultural treat for visitors.

The rich and varied landscape along the Mississippi River is characterized by wide floodplains, rocky outcroppings and sandy beaches nestled between fertile farmland and bustling bankside cities. Indigenous peoples used the river for thousands of years be

Situated on the Chickasaw bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, Memphis is revered for its blues music and barbecue. Some of the most famed names in blues, including B.B. King, got their start in Memphis, and the city has a well-deserved reputation as

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis, the home of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll, sits proudly on the banks of the Mississippi River. Explore the legendary Beale Street, visit Elvis Presley’s Graceland, and immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. The city’s vibrant culinary scene, featuring world-famous barbecue, adds to the allure. Memphis offers a dynamic cultural experience steeped in history and music.

7 Night Nashville,Memphis & The Cumberland

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

Visit the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum and witness some of the city’s historic music-related landmarks. Travel by motor coach through the city, passing the Memphis Pyramid, the world’s sixth-largest pyramid, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Then, view legendary Beale Street, its nightclubs a melting pot of delta blues, jazz, rock ’n’ roll and R&B; and Sun Studio, the “Birthplace of Rock ’n’ Roll” where pioneers such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, B.B. King and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their early records. Then, stop to explore the Smithsonian-affiliated Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum, its array of exhibits tracing the development of Memphis, Mississippi Delta and Midsouth music. At the end of your tour, you will have free time to explore on your own, perhaps visiting the historic Peabody hotel to watch the duck march. Afterward, return to your hotel at your leisure.

Make a rock ’n’ roll pilgrimage to Graceland, the legendary, memorabilia-filled home of Elvis Presley. The moment you pass through the sheet-music-shaped wrought iron gates, you will find yourself immersed in the world Elvis inhabited between 1957 and 1977. See the living room with its 15-foot-long couch; the famous Jungle Room, where many songs were composed; the Pool Room, covered in hundreds of yards of pleated paisley fabric; and the Trophy Building showcasing dozens of gold and platinum records as well as other Presley family mementos. You will also see Elvis’s collection of cars and his private planes before spending some reflective time near his grave in the Meditation Garden. This tour is for all Elvis fans—and anyone interested in the history of American music.

Discover where some of the most seminal moments of 20th-century civil rights history occurred in Memphis. Visit the Smithsonian-affiliated National Civil Rights Museum, housed on the site of the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Its Legacy Building features 260 artifacts and multimedia exhibits that chronicle five centuries of the civil rights struggle in America. See the Mason Temple, home of the Church of God in Christ, the second-largest black denomination in the country. It was here that Dr. King made his famous “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech. You will also stop at the “I Am a Man” Plaza created to honor the sanitation workers who went on strike in 1968. Your tour will also include a stop in Mound Bayou, where you will have time to learn the fascinating history of the US’s oldest all-African American community.

Roam the storied streets of Memphis during a guided tour highlighting the city’s history and musical heritage. You will meet your knowledgeable local guide, who will plot your course to several of the city’s most important landmarks. Set out on foot to admire views overlooking the Mighty Mississippi River from atop the bluffs that Memphis calls home. Stroll down iconic Beale Street, learning more about the city’s musical pedigree and its crucial role in the development of rock ’n’ roll, blues, jazz and R&B over the past century. Walk along Cotton Row, the historic hub of the important cotton industry, and gaze upon the historic neoclassical and Beaux-Arts style buildings that once housed merchants and brokers that line the waterfront. Cap your tour with an opportunity to browse the shops and assorted businesses along bustling Main Street.

Gain an appreciation of textile artistry during a visit to the National Quilt Museum. You may choose to walk or take the available shuttle service to the museum. Devoted to fiber art, the museum features tapestries by artists from all across the country, with more than 650 works on display. Upon arrival, enjoy an opportunity to explore on your own. View a wide range of quilting styles and techniques, from traditional patchwork to contemporary designs. Admire these intricate works of art that tell stories, evoke emotions and showcase remarkable craftsmanship. You will also learn about quilting’s rich tradition of community and collaboration, and how the museum fosters connections among quilters, artists and enthusiasts with educational programs. At the end of the tour, return to your ship at your leisure, either on foot or via the shuttle service.

Create a personal quilt block using established techniques and materials during a hands-on workshop. You may choose to walk or take the available motor coach to the National Quilt Museum. Devoted to fiber art, the museum features more than 650 tapestries by artists from across the country. Upon arrival, view a wide range of quilting styles and techniques, from traditional patchwork to contemporary designs. Admire these intricate works of art that tell stories, evoke emotions and showcase remarkable craftsmanship. Then, put your inspiration to work as you sit and create your own quilt block. Gain insight into how quilting has affected American culture as you learn firsthand the care and skill used to create this functional art. At the end of your class, you will have a memento of your visit to take home with you and, perhaps, a newfound hobby.

Discover the stately architecture of the Lower Town neighborhood, including a visit to one of its historic homes. Embark on a short drive by motor coach to the neighborhood, where you will set out along the sidewalks on foot with a local guide through one of the city’s oldest residential areas. Dating to 1836, Lower Town prospered in the years before and after the Civil War and was home to mayors, bank presidents, factory owners and Henry Wisdom—Paducah’s first millionaire. Admire the variety of Victorian-era architectural styles on display, such as Queen Anne, Romanesque, Italianate and Gothic. You will have an opportunity to step inside one of the homes for a closer look. Learn what this community means to Paducah and its residents and how they keep their history alive through its preservation. Afterward, return to your coach and transfer to your awaiting ship.

Explore an important part of African American history, the Hotel Metropolitan. Originally built in 1908, the hotel became part of the “Chitlin’ Circuit,” a network of music venues and hotels across the East Coast, South and upper Midwest of the US that served as safe havens for traveling African Americans during segregation. Today, it is an African American history museum and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a short drive to the Metropolitan, where you will meet Betty Dobson, a local resident who led efforts to preserve and restore this historic location. Betty will offer insight into the lives of those who worked here and notable guests such as US Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and entertainers Ella Fitzgerald, Ike and Tina Turner, Ray Charles and B.B. King. After your tour, you will return to your ship.

Delve into the world of Kentucky bourbon during in-depth visits to a distillery and a bourbon collector’s shop. Bourbon is a type of barrel-aged American whiskey made from a grain mixture, primarily corn. Introduced during the 18th century, it has become a cornerstone of commerce and the economy in Kentucky, the only place in the world that produces true bourbon. You will travel to a distillery, located in Hopkinsville. Here, you will meet your bourbon expert, who will provide firsthand knowledge about the bourbon-making process, which involves extra steps in fermentation, distillation and aging in charred oak barrels that impart the whiskey with rich flavors. Then, indulge in a tasting of four different bourbons, followed by a delicious lunch. Afterward, return to Paducah, stopping for a guided tour of one of the largest bourbon collections in Kentucky en route to your ship.

Gain insight into the somber circumstances surrounding an infamous part of American history, the Trail of Tears. You will travel by motor coach to the Trail of Tears State Park. Established in 1957, it is a memorial to the thousands of members of the Cherokee nation who perished during the arduous forced removal from their ancestral lands in the eastern US during the 1830s. At the visitor center, learn more about the park’s purpose, watch a poignant video about Indigenous American removal and explore exhibits that detail the removal’s impact and the park’s natural history. Later, board your coach for a panoramic tour to important sites within the park, including Moccasin Springs Road and the commemorative Bushyhead Memorial, culminating in a stop at a scenic lookout overseeing the Mississippi River. Afterward, transfer to your awaiting ship.

Step back in time and discover what life was like on the frontier during the early 19th century. Travel by motor coach to the Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, home to landmarks that predate the Civil War. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the historic grist mill, a four-story brick mill dating to 1825. Learn about its fascinating history, the family who owned it and view various machines and equipment on display that chart the evolution of milling technology during the era. Later, you will transfer to the Red House Interpretive Center, originally a trading post built by community founder Louis Lorimier that overlooks the banks of the Missouri River. Here, you will have an opportunity to browse exhibits that showcase the lives of early settlers and the visit from Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who stopped here to purchase supplies for their famous expedition.

Explore the Crisp Museum and go backstage for a Privileged Access look at theater productions. Located on Southeast Missouri State University’s River Campus, Missouri’s only campus dedicated solely to the performing arts, the museum is housed in a world-class entertainment and education venue. Browse its diverse collection that highlights different aspects of Cape Girardeau’s history and culture. Then, enjoy behind-the-scenes backstage access to witness what goes into making a stage production in areas not typically open to the public. Learn about set design and props while touring different workshops and immerse yourself in the world of costumes and dressing rooms. Cap your tour with a peek into the technical control room to gain insight into lighting and sound’s pivotal role in setting the ambiance of a production. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Discover downtown Cape Girardeau, learning its history while savoring local culinary favorites. From the pier, set out on foot through the city’s historic Main Street with your guide, who will provide insights into the area’s heritage. Your roundtrip, 1½-mile journey will take you to five different local businesses that will showcase the diversity and quality of food and drink available to residents and visitors alike. Depending on the timing of your visit, you may have the opportunity to taste olive oils and balsamic vinegar, indulge in beer or country wines with appetizers, and sample organic foods and delicious chocolates. Each visit will allow you time to interact with your guide and the vendors, who will happily regale you with the stories behind their businesses and life in Cape Girardeau. At the end of your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

Get acquainted with Cape Girardeau during visits to three of its key attractions. Embark on a scenic drive, passing through the beautiful campus of Southeast Missouri State University en route to your destinations. At the Old St. Vincent’s Church, you will explore a majestic example of Renaissance architecture. Admire intricate details of the church’s English Gothic Revival-style design and learn about its historical significance. Continue to Glenn House, its restored historic museum showcasing the Victorian-era lifestyle—including period architecture, furnishings, clothing fashions and more—and offering a glimpse into life during the late 19th century. Then, transfer to the Cape River Heritage Museum, housed in a historic police and fire station dating back to 1908, to discover regional history exhibits, dioramas and interactive presentations.

Immerse yourself in life during the Civil War at the historic Fort D. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the fort was one of four earthen defensive works built in 1861 by Union soldiers and local militia to protect the strategic city of Cape Girardeau; today, it is the only surviving fortification following a restoration project to preserve it during the 1930s. Upon arrival, you will have an opportunity to interact with Civil War reenactors and witness demonstrations of common wartime activities, such as drills, musket firing and other aspects of a soldier’s life. You will also explore the fort, where you will learn more about its period architecture and layout while touring the stone blockhouse, barracks and officer quarters. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Savor the flavors of Memphis during a mouthwatering journey to several of the city’s best eateries. Memphis boasts a rich and diverse food culture deeply intertwined with its history. With its prominent role in the cotton and river trade, the city welcomed a mix of cultures that shaped its culinary landscape. Today’s food scene is a culmination of Indigenous American, African, European and Southern traditions. You will set off with your knowledgeable local guide, who will choose your route based on the best destinations available at the time of your arrival. Depending on the venue, you may have an opportunity to sample slow-cooked pork ribs, tangy pulled pork, soul food staples such as fried chicken and collard greens with cornbread or tamales. As you eat, learn the history behind these delicious dishes, further enhancing your culinary experience.

Discover the timeless sounds and legendary performers from two seminal genres of American music. Head to historic Sun Studio, “the Birthplace of Rock ’n’ Roll,” where legendary producer Sam Phillips launched the careers of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, Ike Turner and more. Hear session outtakes and see priceless memorabilia of the pioneers who blended blues and country into a new and electrifying genre. After, continue to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, standing on the site of the onetime recording studio dubbed “Soulsville USA.” Started by siblings Estelle Axton and Jim Stewart, Stax Records is where artists like Otis Redding and Wilson Pickett brought Memphis soul to a worldwide audience. Tour the studio, then browse the museum’s expansive collection of vintage equipment, costumes and personal items. After, return to your hotel.

Celebrate American popular music in the studios where it incubated and the museums that catalog its flowering. Your tour begins at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, standing on the site of the onetime recording studio dubbed “Soulsville USA.” Started by pioneering siblings Estelle Axton and Jim Stewart, Stax Records is where artists like Otis Redding and Wilson Pickett brought Memphis soul to a worldwide audience. You will also visit the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum, a Smithsonian-affiliated institution tracing the music of Memphis, the Mississippi Delta and the Midsouth.

Explore the Edge Motor Museum’s classic cars, each selected for its historical and cultural significance. Memphis may be known for Elvis and BBQ, but the Edge Motor Museum has its own claim to fame with a unique collection of classic cars. As the only auto museum in the city, it puts you up close and personal with the likes of a 1913 Ford T Runabout, 1950 MG TD, 1953 Glasspar G2 and many more. Explore this one-of-a-kind collection and learn about world events that occurred at the time each automobile was built. If you have a passion for cars, this is the place to be.

Explore the Memphis Botanic Garden, a 96-acre oasis in the heart of the city. Disembark your ship in Rosedale and travel by motor coach to Cleveland, where you will have free time to browse the city’s shops or savor delicious local fare, such as hot tamales (at your own expense). Afterward, continue your drive to Memphis and its idyllic botanical garden. Enjoy a short guided tour, then set off on your own for an opportunity to explore more at your leisure. Admire the beauty and diversity of nature on display throughout the 30 specialty gardens, from the fragrant Rose Garden to the tranquil Japanese Garden. See a variety of plants from around the world, including cacti, orchids and azaleas, and view the sculptures and art installations that dot the grounds. Following your visit, you will transfer to your Memphis hotel and check in.

Discover the myths and legends surrounding herbs during a workshop at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Disembark your ship in Rosedale and travel by motor coach to Cleveland, where you will have free time to browse the city’s shops or savor delicious local fare, such as hot tamales (at your own expense). Afterward, continue your drive to Memphis and its idyllic botanical garden, a 96-acre oasis in the heart of the city. Admire the beauty and diversity of nature on display throughout the 30 specialty gardens, from the fragrant Rose Garden to the tranquil Japanese Garden. See a variety of plants from around the world, including cacti, orchids and azaleas. Then, gain insight into the history and present-day uses of herbs, such as indigo, artemisia and more, during a hands-on workshop. Following your visit, you will transfer to your Memphis hotel and check in.

Experience a night of live music and Southern-inspired fare at the legendary Lafayette’s Music Room. Originally opened in 1972, during its short, four-year existence, this historic venue on Madison Avenue played a crucial role in shaping Memphis’s vibrant music scene, playing host to up-and-coming artists, as well as superstars from a diverse range of genres. Reopened in 2014 at a new location in lively Overton Square, today’s incarnation continues in the tradition of its predecessor. Upon arrival at this intimate setting, take a seat at your reserved table and prepare to dine on delicious Southern cuisine that draws on dishes from the Delta down to New Orleans. While you eat, enjoy a rousing live music performance as some of the area’s best musicians take to the stage. At the end of the evening, you will return to your hotel.

Pay your respects to influential Memphis musicians and enjoy a private blues performance at a historic cemetery. Meet Willy Bearden, a writer, historian and filmmaker, who will take you on a tour of Elmwood Cemetery. A National Register of Historic Places site, the cemetery dates back to the 1850s, its park-like setting spread across 80 acres and home to the final resting place for more than 75,000 individuals. Enjoy a presentation from Willy, who will offer insight into the legendary Memphians that influenced the music and history of the city. Then set out on a leisurely walk through the idyllic grounds, stopping along the way to visit the graves of a big band legend, blues singers, horn players and more. Cap your stroll at the cemetery chapel, where Willy will entertain you with a rollicking blues performance and explain how it influenced music in Memphis and across the US.

Cruisebound

7 Night Nashville,Memphis & The Cumberland

About the ship

Viking Mississippi

What’s Included

7 Night Nashville,Memphis & The Cumberland Save

About the ship

Viking Mississippi

What’s Included

7 Night Nashville,Memphis & The Cumberland