Not Many People Know That You Can Take An 11-Day Cruise Along The Mississippi River In Missouri

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a cruise? Tropical islands? Crystal clear ocean water? Balmy temperatures? How about a cruise through Missouri? When you're looking for a unique getaway that won't take you that far from home, consider a cruise that meanders along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. It might even earn a coveted spot on your Missouri bucket list.

Set sail on an epic 11-day, 10-night cruise that will take you along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers - from Pittsburgh to St. Louis - aboard American Cruise Lines.

This one-of-a-kind cruise sets sail in the city of Pittsburgh, where you're free to embark on one of the complimentary excursions, including to the Heinz History Center.

For the most comprehensive experience, opt for the complimentary Pittsburgh Experience that will take you to a collection of the city's neighborhoods and atop Mount Washington, for some of the best views of a city skyline in the United States.

Join other travelers on the deck to bid farewell to the City of Bridges as the ship begins its journey along the Ohio River. You'll spend a day in Marietta, Ohio, before dividing your time between Ohio and Kentucky.

The ship includes stops in Marietta and Cincinatti, Ohio, and Maysville, Louisville, Henderson, and Paducah, Kentucky.

You'll have plenty of time to explore at each stop, with two days allotted in Louisville, where you'll visit both the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and The Kentucky Derby Horse Park and Museum.

When you're not docked in a city, drink in the gorgeous scenery that sits along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

On day nine of your epic journey, you'll arrive back in Missouri and to the darling town Cape Girardeau. Spend your day on one of two complimentary excursions - the Mural Walk or the Cape Girardeau Experience.

If you opt for the Cape Girardeau Experience, you'll stop by such popular attractions as St. Vincent's Church and the Crisp Museum.

For the final two days of the cruise, you'll while away the hours exploring St. Louis - from the Gateway Arch to the St. Louis Art Museum.

Cruises typically sail aboard the American Heritage, home to 84 rooms and a maximum of 150 travelers. The majority of rooms feature a private balcony, and you can choose from the single with private balcony to the top-tier owners suite.

Learn more or book your cruise on the American Cruise Lines website. Or, stop by its Facebook page.

Do you know of another cruise through Missouri that's the perfect getaway? Tell us about it in the comments! For another relaxing adventure, how about a night of stargazing? Just head to one of the best dark sky parks in Missouri for an evening under the stars.