Five Things to Know About American Cruise Lines' Queen of the Mississippi Cruise Ship

One of the best parts about a trip on Queen of the Mississippi is being steeped in the history of the region—both on and off the ship. You can expect jazz and banjo performers on the Mississippi, for example. Also a highlight: The river historian (dubbed a “riverlorian”) who regales passengers with entertaining lectures on everything from Mark Twain to the Civil War.

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Staterooms are spacious, especially for a river cruise ship. Single rooms are 203 square feet, while standard double cabins start at 290 square feet. The biggest staterooms are the Owner’s Suites, which are 445 square feet and flooded with light. Most cabins have balconies—the perfect place for breakfast each morning. (It’s the only meal you can order for room service.)

Dinner happens in the dining room, which is large enough to serve every guest at once. Whenever possible, ingredients—and recipes—are locally sourced: Think Cajun and Creole dishes like chicken and andouille gumbo, Dixie lager braised chicken, and bourbon pecan pie.

Don’t stress about that excursion tab. Usually, at least one tour per port is free, as is beer and wine with lunch and dinner and Wi-Fi throughout your cruise.

Before dinner every night, the ship throws a cocktail party for all the passengers, and you can have beer and wine at dinner. But if you know you’re going to want an after-dinner drink, make a point of buying your own bottles when you’re off the ship.