riverboat new orleans tours

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New Orleans Steamboat Cruises

This post compares the various different riverboat tours, paddleboat tours, and cruises available to you in New Orleans to help you choose the right one from you. 

• Meet the Boats
• Daytime/Lunch Cruises
• Evening/Dinner Cruises
• Public $2 Ferries

Combination Packages

• Swamp + Airboat Tours
• Things to Do in New Orleans

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

If you are considering purchasing tourist concession packages, keep in mind that some of these cruises are included at no additional cost in several New Orleans tourist attraction concession passes . 

The two most popular cruises are aboard the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler and Steamboat Natchez (details below), but you can hop on a ferry for just a few dollars.

Each offers a variety of cruises to choose from.

We narrowed down our favorites and compiled a list that describes each trip based on experience type, ticket price, and duration.

NATCHEZ STEAMBOAT

The Natchez Steamboat is the ninth boat with the name.

The current boat boasts modern safety mechanisms within a classic, exquisite oak exterior.

It was recently rennovated and is back to cruising down the Mississippi River on a daily basis!

Take part in her adventure with daily two-hour jazz cruises, including a daytime cruise or an evening cruise . You can cruise with or without lunch or dinner.

Listen to the Captain and crew, some of whom have been with the ship since the 1975 maiden voyage, operate like the seamen of a time gone by. 

This company has received a  4 out of 5 stars  average rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ). 

RIVERBOAT CITY OF NEW ORLEANS

This is the newest addition to the New Orleans Steamboat Company, and it took over for the Steamboat Natchez while that vessel was under repair.

Just like the Steamboat Natchez, this boat is also a paddlewheeler, so functionally, very little will change.

The Riverboat City of New Orleans operated all the sightseeing, lunch, brunch, and dinner Jazz cruises for the New Orleans Steamboat Company during the last few years while the Steamboat Natches was undergoing repairs.

Rest assured that even aboard this new vessel there is plenty of room across its multiple decks to accommodate plenty of guests and fill in for its sister boat.

CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEELER

Built in 1983 with the esteem and allure of the late 1850s paddlewheelers, the Creole Queen features an enormous 24-foot paddlewheel and modern amenities for elegance and safety.

Browse the list of tours below to pick which experience is best for you; gather on the 1,000-passenger deck for live music, dancing, a history lesson, or maybe enjoy lunch or dinner.

This vessel's review profile is a tad lower than its competitor's but still good with an overall average rating of 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ).

DAYTIME CRUISES WITH OPTIONAL LUNCH

There are basically two different cruises to choose from, one from each company.  

The main differences seem to be that the Creole Queen includes a stop at Chalmette Battlefield at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.

It is also included at no extra charge with the purchase of either the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass or the Go City New Orleans Pass .

The Steamboat Natchez offers jazz music on the lunch cruise during the high season. 

Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

An overwhelming majority of reviews for this jazz cruise are very positive ( read the reviews ).

Some reviewers have even described their band as “magnificent,” suggesting that the music played onboard was absolutely wonderful.

Some customers feel that the experience is a bit too touristy, but they are definitely in the minority.

Most guests leave excellent feedback stating that they loved this musical trip on the Natchez. This activity is particularly popular among couples.

What You’ll Experience:

• Live narration of the history of the area
• Live jazz concert
• Steam Engine room open to visitors
• Lunch (optional) in the dining area onboard

Duration: 3 hours total, 2-hour cruise

• Departs at 11:30 am and 2:30 am
• Adult - $39    $55 with lunch
• Child - $16     $25 with lunch
• Child (2-5) Free    $11 with lunch
• More information or to book .

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Creole Queen -  Historical River Cruise

This vessel has a daytime destination, Chalmette Battlefield at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.

• Highly Recommended for history buffs!
• Battle of New Orleans
• 1,000-passenger paddlewheeler on the Mississippi River, with a 24-foot paddlewheel
• Costumed re-enactor recounting history/stories of Louisiana's most historical places and events
• Disembark for a guided tour of Chalmette Battlefield by National Park Rangers from the Battle of New Orleans

Duration: 3 hours

• Departs at 10 am and 2 pm daily.

Lunch is only purchasable onboard.

• Adult $39   $59 with lunch 
• Child (6-12) $15   $24 with lunch
• Child (3-5) Free   $5 with lunch
• Infant (2 and under) Free   $10 with lunch
• Get more information or purchase tickets .

TIP: It is also included at no extra charge with the purchase of either the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass or the Go City New Orleans Pass .

Evening Jazz Cruises with Optional Dinner

Below is a brief comparison of the two paddlewheel boats that cruise the Mississippi River every evening. 

For a more in-depth look, including what's on the menu, read our post on NOLA dinner cruises . 

Steamboat Natchez - Mississippi River Jazz Cruise (optional Dinner)

Unlike their harbor cruise, this boat trip will take you down the Mississippi River.

Ratings for this excursion are similarly excellent, but it’s worth noting that not everyone was thrilled with the food selection ( read the reviews ). 

NOTE: Although this cruise was being offered on the Riverboat City of New Orleans for the last year or two, the newly rennovated Steamboat Natchez is once again the vessel you'll be riding during this outing!

What You’ll Experience

• Ride on the Creole Queen paddle wheeler
• Live jazz music
• Lavish buffet-style dinner | cash bar cocktails
• New Orleans skyline along the French Quarter
• Boards nightly at 6 pm and sails from 7-9 pm.
• $95 with dinner
• $41 with dinner
• $20.25 with dinner

Included free with the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass  (dinner is extra).

Creole Queen Evening Cruise (optional Dinner)

Just like their other services, the evening cruise offered by this company is also highly rated.

There are a few negative reviews, but they are overshadowed by positive comments (read the reviews).

• Ride on the Creole Queen paddlewheeler.

Cost (does not include dinner):

• $52 - Adult
• $26 - Child (6-12)
• Kids under 6 are FREE

Cost (includes dinner):

• $95 - Adult 
• $40 - Child (6-12) 
• $15 - Child under 5
• Kids 2 and under are FREE

Get more information or to book . 

CANAL STREET/ALGIERS POINT FERRY

In operation since 1827, this ferry travels across the Mississippi River along Canal Street and ends at the second oldest neighborhood of New Orleans; Algiers Point. 

Unlike the paddlewheeler or steamboat, the ferry offers a cheap trip across the river from Canal Street. Just ask the locals who use this as their commute!

Once you arrive, consider taking our self-guided walking tour of Algiers Point .

This company has received a 4 out of 5 stars  rating on TripAdvisor. 

There are a few negative reviews, but most of them seem to come from customers who were expecting the typical tourist experience.

Although they don’t offer the same range of services as a boat tour or cruise, it’s clear that a lot of their customers are more than pleased with the transportation they provide.

Cost (cash only):

• Pedestrian $2 each way
• Senior (65+) $1
• Children (2 & under) Free
• Sunday - Thursday | 6:15 am - 8:45 pm
• Friday - Saturday | 6:15 am - 10:45 pm

Get more details on their website .

As we have stated above, the Go City New Orleans Pass  and the Sightseeing Pass, are all-inclusive tourist attraction passes, including one free daytime ride on the Creole Queen.  

Included in the cost of the pass is free entry into 25 other popular New Orleans attractions including:

• National World War 2 Museum
• City Bus Tour
• Swamp Tour Plantation House Tour
• New Orleans School of Cooking
• Audubon Zoo
• Audubon Aquarium
• Mardi Gras World Museum
• New Orleans Museum of Art
• + 18 other attractions and tours

Paddle and Wheel Combo by Gray Line

This combo package is a great buy, and with a total of about 4 hours, you can see the city and take a cruise full of historical information.

You save $7/adult with the combo ticket.  

This combination pairs the daytime historical cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez and the  Super City Bus Tour  (video below).

With an overall rating of 4 ½ stars on TripAdvisor, Gray Line New Orleans is very well received.

In particular, both of the services offered through this combo ticket are positively reviewed by their customers.

Much like the Steamboat Natchez, the Super City Bus Tour also enjoys mostly positive ratings.

Although there are a few negative reviews for both tours, they aren’t indicative of any significant problems. This combo deal is most popular among couples.

You’ll Experience…

• French Quarter
• Jackson Square
• Cabildo and Presbytere Museum
• Historic Cemeteries
• Bayou St. John
• Besthoff Sculpture Garden
• Tulane and Loyola University
• 2-hour cruise with a guided history of the region
• Adult $78 
• Child (6-12) $35.50
• Child (5 and under) Free 
• You save $7-$11/adult by purchasing together.  You don't appear to save anything for a child ages 6-12.

Get more information and purchase tickets .

NEW ORLEANS KAYAK TOURS

Want a more intimate excursion on the water? Try kayaking!

Explore the swamps of New Orleans, or paddle down the Bayou St. John neighborhood inside the city with the safety of a guide at a beginner-level pace.

Ratings for this kayak tour company are very impressive. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours has received an overall score of 5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor.

Only a half dozen customers have seen fit to give them a negative review, and their comments don’t represent the typical experience with this service.

An overwhelming majority of reviews for this service are incredibly positive, recommending this trip to anyone who wants to stay active while discovering the swamps of Louisiana.

Although couples are the most likely audience to leave great reviews, guests who bring their friends along for the journey also enjoy these tours.

Tours Offered

• Bayou St. John Tour (Beginner)

Located inside the city, Bayou St. John is one of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans.

Learn the history of the homes and landmarks, originally settled by Native Americans, and later used for French trading routes.

• Honey Island Swamp Tour (Beginner)

This is the crowd favorite!

Located 40 minutes outside the city, this tour takes you deep into the swamp bayous to see an abundance of wildlife amongst abandoned boat homes.

• Manchac Mystic Kayak Tour (Beginner)

This tour is popular for its serene setting and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.

You’ll weave through cypress trees and experience wildlife on this wetlands kayaking trip.

Never Kayaked?

No problem! The extent of physical skill needed is the ability to paddle, and a lesson is provided at the beginning of the tour.

The company provides all of the necessary equipment for your trip, but since you will be on the water for 2 to 2 ½ hours, you will want to be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe even a hat for shade on the water.

• Bayou St. John Tour  $49 per person
• Honey Island Tour  $59 per person without transportation
• Manchac Mystic Tour - $59 per person without transportation
• Extra $20 for transportation from French Quarter only for Honey Island and Manchac Mystic Tours

Tours last 2 to 2 ½ hours

Transportation adds 40 minutes each way outside New Orleans via car/shuttle for Honey Island Swamp and Manchac Mystic tours.

KAYAK-ITI-YAT TOURS

The categories (beginner, intermediate & intermediate to advanced) are based on distance, the necessary level of athleticism and exposure to variables/natural elements.

None of the tours require previous kayaking experience.

There are no shuttle transportation costs as all of their tours launch from the city and are reachable by public transportation, bike or a cheap cab ride.

• Big Easy Bayou (Beginner, 2 hours) $49 per person

Best for first-timers and non-athletic travelers.

This two-hour tour of Bayou St. John is a great way to see the neighborhood and see some wildlife in a relaxed atmosphere.

This is a history-based tour with culture, current events, ecology, and all things relevant to Bayou St. John, its surrounding neighborhoods, and New Orleans.

• Pontchartrain (Intermediate, 4 hours) $84

Looking for something more active? Check out this four-hour lake tour that runs the length of Bayou St. John and back!

Bonus, you’ll exit the kayak to stretch and walk over to Pontchartrain Lake, and maybe even take a quick swim!

Like the Big Easy Bayou above, expect to learn about the history and culture of the area.

The Big Easy Bayou is your best option for this company, and the only one recommended for beginners.

Looking for more options? Consider looking at New Orleans Kayak Tours (above) for more newcomer-friendly trips.

Before you book...

WARNING: There is NO exiting these tours halfway through and the Bayou Bienvenue 3 hour tour has no bathroom breaks. Be sure you are committed before you buy your tickets.

This tour company is featured in several top travel recommendations for New Orleans, and explorers wishing to see more than Bourbon Street have given it rave reviews!

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The Best Riverboat Tours To Take On Your Next Visit To New Orleans

Despite New Orleans (NOLA) being largely known for its Mardi Gras parties, Bourbon Street beverages, beignets, and po'boys, there's so much more to this dynamic city. That's especially true if you see it from the perspective of its neighbor, the mighty Mississippi River. The city's proximity to water is part of how it became such a storied metropolis, so visitors should know how vital these waterways are. What better way to experience that history than by traveling on the river itself?

For the most part, the riverboat tours you take in New Orleans will either be on the Steamboat Natchez or the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler. Both of these paddleboat riverboats are esteemed parts of NOLA's tourist culture and provide a wide range of tour options. There are numerous ways to take on and experience the grand, muddy Mississippi, so let's dive in to our list of your best options.

Creole Queen Historic Cruise

Hop on board the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler, and you can learn all about three centuries of history found in New Orleans. Enjoy the sights along the river as a local historian revels in the city's storied past. You'll hear about how NOLA was founded by the LeMoyne brothers, how the French Quarter area came to be and you'll be reminded of all those details you forgot in school about the Louisiana Purchase.

You'll feel like royalty during a ride on the Creole Queen with its bright red paddlewheel and ivory paint. From the deck, you'll get views of the city and the surrounding areas that you'll never forget. You can even get bottomless mimosas for an additional fee for a slightly more upgraded experience.

This tour option also includes a one-hour excursion and tour of Chalmette Battlefield. There, you will hear from a designated park ranger about exactly what happened on that field. You can bring your lunch on the boat or you can choose to include lunch with your ticket, which would feature options like New Orleans-style shrimp pasta, Creole jambalaya and authentic red beans and rice.

Creole Queen Jazz Brunch

There's nothing like brunch with a view, which is exactly what you'll get if you brunch with the Creole Queen. During this jazz brunch experience (brunch is optional), you can greet the midday in style, including with bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys in hand, if you wish. For NOLA party-goers, the brunch timing is perfect for a late morning after a long night. The boat doesn't board until 10-11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday mornings with sailing from 11 a.m. to 12:30 pm.

Here, the jazz band is the star of the show. The sounds of trumpets and horns and unsuspecting melodies pair perfectly with the consistent views from the Mississippi River. You can still learn about the history of the town from this tour, too. A historian will be on board to offer stories and answer questions, helping create this picturesque memory of a fun morning in a history-filled part of America.

Creole Queen Jazz Cruise

You couldn't possibly visit New Orleans without enjoying the sounds of the city's jazz culture at night. The Creole Queen has a nighttime jazz option that can come with dinner or not. From on board this riverboat, you can watch the city light up as the sun sets, followed by views of the city lights and the twinkling sky. 

A longer tour than the brunch version, also with a slightly more elevated price point, the nighttime jazz cruise is a romantic exploration of the river. Accompanied by the allure of a jazz band, the cajun seafood pasta will taste like home to even first-time visitors. Like the brunch tour, you do also get some historical narration even with the jazz focus.

This is the tour for the NOLA night owls. Sailing ends at 9 p.m., which means the night is still young enough to explore the city, especially if you plan to bar hop over on Bourbon Street or find some live music to dance the night away.

Steamboat Natchez Spring Fling Option

Technically an add-on to their dinner and lunch cruises, the Spring Fling add-on can elevate a Steamboat Natchez river cruise experience. This package includes the river tour, the lunch or dinner option, a sweet snack, a decorated reserved table, as well as three alcoholic beverages from their special menu. Not to worry, kiddos aren't left out of the fun here — they get unlimited soft drinks or juice.

This deal is only offered, rightly, during the spring to help make spring breaks even more special. Usually, the package is offered by Steamboat Natchez from mid-March through most of May. If you plan on utilizing the cash bar, the package is well worth the price. You can get the Spring Fling option for lunch or dinner cruises as well as the Sunday brunch cruise. Obviously, between the three options the lunch ticket will be the most reasonable price for budget spring breakers while the dinner ticket will be more of a splurge at almost double the cost of lunch.

Steamboat Natchez Dinner Jazz Cruise

Available with or without dinner, this cruise showcases the Mississippi River from dusk until the stars come out to shine. Accompanied by Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland Jazz, guests will also hear the history of NOLA. Like the Creole Queen, the Steamboat Natchez cruises down the river with its vibrant red wheel and charming white paint job. A bright Steamboat Natchez sign is splashed along the side of the boat to ensure you don't accidentally board the wrong paddlewheel boat.

For those who opt for dinner, there are two dinner seatings: the first from 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. and the second from 7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. If you want to watch the sunset glow from the boat's deck, consider doing the second dinner seating. You are welcome to leave your table before the seating time is over. Likewise, if you'd rather see the city shimmering under the stars, you'll want to eat dinner sooner to get back to the deck after sunset.

Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Cruise

For the brunch crowd, the Steamboat Natchez also offers a brunch jazz cruise along the river. Whether or not you indulge in some tasty brunch offerings, you can enjoy the historical narration, a calliope concert, and Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio. A Sunday cruise is a great way to finish a trip to NOLA or start one, especially if you've never been to this fascinating city before.

Some of the tasty brunch foods you can indulge in on this cruise include chicken and sausage gumbo, grits, and pain perdu, which is a sweet treat similar to French toast. There are a wide variety of foods available during brunch to accommodate a range of dietary needs or the pickiest of kiddos.

If you somehow miss live music during a trip to New Orleans, a jazz cruise is an excellent way to fit in some jazz tunes you won't hear in the same way anywhere else. Steamboat Natchez is a great option for music-lovers and first-timers alike. 

Steamboat Natchez Daytime Jazz Cruise

Like the Sunday Jazz Cruise, the Steamboat Natchez brings back its calliope concert as well as Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio for daytime adventurers. The difference is that the lunch cruise is only available from Monday-Saturday each week.

An optional lunch is offered on this sightseeing cruise that also includes a narrated history of the city. Like the dinner cruise, there are two seatings during lunch: the first from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the second from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Either way, do not miss the red beans and rice! It's simple but so very tasty. The menu is referred to as "casual," denoting that there are not a lot of foods on offer during the buffet. Even so, there is plenty to make a meal.

Since these cruises take place during the parts of the day when the sun is highest, be careful of the heat. This is particularly important if you're visiting in the summer months because the sun can be brutal on the decks of the boat. Be sure to pack a hat, wear your sunscreen and stay hydrated!

Hop aboard the Canal Street Ferry

New Orleanians know that the best way to see the Mississippi River is aboard the $2 Canal Street to Algiers Ferry. These rides might not be luxe, though you get to enjoy the same sights as the other river boats at a much cheaper cost. For roughly thirty minutes, ferry riders can enjoy the riverfront and make their way to the other side of NOLA.

The ferry has been part of life in NOLA since 1827, so not only would you be saving a lot of money by taking it instead of a cruise, but you'd be experiencing the views as New Orleanians have for almost two centuries! Find the ferry right off Canal Street next to the Aquarium of the Americas.

The Canal Street Ferry runs every day of the week with varying hours. You could take it to Algiers Point and explore the historic neighborhood, visit the Jazz Walk of Fame, or use it as an excuse to find a new lunch spot. Since the ride is only 30 minutes each way you can easily fit it into the busiest NOLA vacation with ease. It's also a great way to still get that river experience without the cruise price tag.

Booze Cruise on The Cajun Queen

This mega-peddle boat can host up to 22 guests. Think of it like a river cruise meets street peddle-bar, the Booze Cruise is an excellent smaller option for folks looking for a good time on the river. Cruising on the Cajun Queen can either be a public or private experience, depending on what you're looking for. Guests also don't have to be 21 to enjoy the ride either, the boat can accommodate riders aged eight and up.

In addition to the peddle boat, you can also rent a pontoon boat for up to a dozen people for a different kind of cruise experience. The pontoon allows guests to bring their drinks as well as snacks and comes with a sound system and coolers with ice for all your BYOB needs. You may not get a full-on narrated history experience, though you could always hire a captain that offers narration. Or maybe you could invite a longtime New Orleanian who likes to spin a good yarn. Either way, you get some much-needed river time and get to experience NOLA from the Mississippi.

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Steamboat NATCHEZ

• Toulouse Street and the Mississippi River, New Orleans, LA 70130 ( Directions ) | P: (504) 569-1401 | F: (504) 587-0708
• Toulouse Street and the Mississippi River, New Orleans, LA 70130 ( Directions ) P: (504) 569-1401 F: (504) 587-0708
• Toulouse Street and the Mississippi River New Orleans, LA 70130 ( Directions ) P: (504) 569-1401 F: (504) 587-0708
• Neighborhood: French Quarter

11am - 1:30pm, 2pm - 4:30pm, 6pm - 9pm cruise times. check schedule

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Harbor jazz brunch and dinner jazz cruises on the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River. Enjoy a unique visit to the engine room to see the workings of 100-year-old steam engines, it is timeless.

Xplorit Virtual Tour

Discover The Steamboat Natchez with one of the most comprehensive, completely immersive and interactive virtual experiences in the world.

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Convenient Location at 613 Decatur St downtown New Orleans. NOLA is a city like no other, with a rich history and vibrant culture that draws from all over the world. From the lively of the French Quarter to the tranquil beauty of the bayou, there's something for everyone in this unique destination. Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a good time, your ultimate New Orleans experience awaits. Let us take you on a journey from Bourbon to the Bayou and show you all that this incredible city has to offer.

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Discover the heart and soul of New Orleans with Tours New Orleans (TNO), your premier adventure tour company in the Big Easy. Located at 613 Decatur St, we offer an unforgettable array of experiences, including steamboat cruises, swamp explorations, thrilling airboat rides, ghostly encounters, cemetery walks, historic plantation tours, and more. Our expert local guides and Cajun captains bring the rich culture and history of New Orleans to life, ensuring an authentic and immersive journey. With convenient hotel shuttles and a prime downtown location, TNO makes it easy to embark on your NOLA adventure. Whether you're seeking the supernatural, craving Cajun cuisine, or yearning to explore the bayou, Tours New Orleans is your gateway to the best experiences in the Crescent City.

Cemetery Walks Downtown New Orleans

Closest Natural Swamp to New Orleans

Tours New Orleans also offers exciting swamp tours, including alligator tours and airboat swamp adventures. Explore the natural beauty of Louisiana's swamps and wetlands, and get up close and personal with the wildlife. Book your tour today for an unforgettable bayou swamp tour!

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Harbor Cruise - Brunch Cruise - Dinner Cruise - It's Jazz Time on the Mississippi 

Beautiful Steamboat Cruise Experience - Book Online

Mississippi River Steamboat Cruise

Steamboat NATCHEZ - Sunday Jazz Cruise with Brunch Option

Welcome aboard the most unique blend of "real New Orleans." Combine a two-hour Mississippi River cruise on the Steamboat NATCHEZ with traditional live jazz by some of the most talented musicians of the genre - The Steamboat Stompers. For the crowning achievement, add a delicious casual New Orleans Brunch. Brunch is a staple in New Orleans life – a time to enjoy food, music, and refreshing beverages with friends and family. Whether a visitor or local, you can "pass a good time" at the Steamboat NATCHEZ with our Jazz Brunch or Cruise Only option.

Upgrade your cruise experience with our "Party Package" which includes a two-hour cruise, Brunch Buffet (1st seating option),  three alcoholic beverages from our special drink menu  (unlimited soft drinks and juice for children), a decorated reserved table in an air-conditioned dining room, and a sweet treat.

Sunday Departure:

Boarding Time:  11:00am Dockside:  11:00am - 11:30am Cruising:  11:30am - 1:30pm

Monday - Saturday - Please refer to Daytime Jazz Cruise - Sightseeing & Lunch  options available .

Cruise Features:

• Group Rates  available for 10 or more adults
• Optional  Brunch  served buffet style ( menu subject to change due to availability )
• Optional upgrade to a "party package experience" - includes a meal, a reserved and decorated dining table, three alcoholic beverages for adults (unlimited soda & juice for anyone under 21), lanigappe items, and a special sweet treat!
• Live narration of historical facts and highlights of the port
• Calliope concert at 10:45 am
• Riverboat Gift Shop for souvenirs
• Children under 6 cruise free with paid adult. Food and beverage costs apply
• Departs daily from the Toulouse Street Wharf behind Jax Brewery in the heart of the historic French Quarter
• Cocktail, wine and wine options available for purchase onboard
• Duke Heitger's Steamboat Stompers Jazz Trio plays each Sunday Jazz Cruise

Monday - Saturday - Please refer to Daytime Jazz Cruise - Sightseeing & Lunch options available

First look: The cool new paddlewheeler that will take you from New Orleans to Memphis

Note: American Queen Voyages ceased operations in February 2024, following financial difficulties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Booked passengers seeking refunds can request them by filling out a form on the dedicated website American Queen Voyages set up to handle claims.

It's been a big week for the comeback of cruising in North America -- and not just because two of the world's biggest big-ship cruise lines, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises , opened bookings for their first sailings on the continent since the coronavirus pandemic forced the industry to a halt.

This week also saw some of the first sailings by small cruise vessels on U.S. waterways in more than a year, including the first voyage of a new riverboat on the Mississippi River.

The new riverboat, the 245-passenger American Countess, is the latest Mississippi River paddlewheeler from American Queen Steamboat Company -- the company behind the iconic American Queen steamboat. And its arrival is something of a big deal in the world of cruising.

Christened on Sunday in New Orleans , American Countess is the first new cruise vessel of any kind to be christened and go into service in North America since the coronavirus-related cruising shutdown began in early 2020.

TPG is one of just a handful of travel outlets getting exclusive access this week to the first sailing of American Countess — a nonrevenue "preview" cruise from New Orleans to Memphis with company executives, their friends and family, and local dignitaries.

As I'm seeing this week, American Countess offers an alluring mix of both traditional and contemporary riverboat design. From the outside, it resembles a classic paddlewheeler of old -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see on the cover of a Mark Twain novel. But on the inside, it's as modern as any newly built hotel on land, with a stylish, contemporary vibe.

Here's a first look at some of the most notable features of the vessel, which will begin its first sailings with paying passengers on Sunday:

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A classic steamboat exterior

If you've always dreamed of cruising the Mississippi on a riverboat that (on the outside, at least) evokes the golden age of steamboats, American Countess could be your vessel.

The exterior of the four-deck-high paddlewheeler is a red-and-white, gingerbread trim-festooned confection that would look right at home in an 1800s period piece.

Among the old-timey touches that make the exterior of American Countess a delight for the eyes is its classic (and fully functional) giant red paddlewheel, which churns through the water with a mesmerizing, bump-bump-bump-bump rhythm.

The exterior of the American Countess also is embellished with two large white "booms" at its bow that project forward like giant antennae -- a classic touch of riverboats of old. The booms, which swing from side to side, support long mobile walkways known as stages, which in turn swing down onto land to let passengers off onto the shore.

The stages are an old-style way of getting passengers off riverboats that are, notably, not just evocative of a bygone era but also practical for Mississippi River cruising even today. The flexible nature of the stages means American Queen can "dock" just about anywhere it wants along the river. It just needs to find a relatively open area along the shore to tie up.

We saw this sort of flexible docking in action during a stop near White Castle, Louisiana. The American Countess just pulled up the side of the river, in a place where there was no formal dock, to let passengers off.

Modern interiors

Despite its exterior, the inside of American Countess is as stylish and modern as anything you'll find in a just-built city hotel.

The main gathering space on the vessel is the Grand Lobby, a soaring bar and lounge area with a classy, contemporary feel. Running for 80 feet along the port side of American Countess, its standout feature is what is essentially a wall of glass offering lounge-goers stunning panoramic views of the passing scenery. Few American river cruise vessels can boast such a spectacular interior space for river-gazing while underway.

The Grand Lobby is located at the center of American Countess' main public deck, appropriately called the Main Deck, which also is home to an elegant and contemporary dining space. Called the Grand Dining Room, it's where passengers eat most of their meals.

Also located just off the Grand Lobby is a full-blown theater (called, simply, The Theater) and a small lounge called Perks that offers self-serve coffee beverages, tea, cookies and soft-serve ice cream. Both spaces also are designed in a contemporary style.

Passengers can also enjoy a small library, card room, fitness center and a deck-top lounge area.

Contemporary cabins

The American Queen Steamboat Company's best-known vessel, American Queen, is famous for the 19th-century-style opulence of its cabins (think: Victorian-style wooden armoires, four-poster beds and red patterned wallpaper). Staying in a cabin on the vessel is a little like going back in time.

Not so for the American Countess.

Like American Queen Steamboat's last new vessel, American Duchess (unveiled in 2017), American Countess has unmistakably contemporary cabins that match the aforementioned public spaces. You can expect clean-lined sofas and desk areas; queen beds topped with crisp white-on-white duvets; and large, flat-panel televisions mounted on the wall.

Bathrooms in American Countess cabins feature glass-walled showers with sleek chrome Grohe fixtures, white-tile floors and minimalist toilets and sinks. They're also unusually large for cabins on a cruise vessel.

In a "keep-things-simple" strategy that was aimed, in part, at making it easy to sell the ship to groups, the line has essentially just put two types of cabins on the vessel. Most of the rooms are balcony cabins that measure either 192 or 226 square feet. Then there are some windowless "inside" cabins that mostly measure 153 square feet.

That's a notable change from American Queen Steamboat's last vessel, American Duchess, which offers a broader array of cabins including some very large suites.

Overall, the rooms are comfortable and inviting -- and they have a lot of wonderful little modern touches. I'm particularly smitten with the electric outlets that are built right into the side tables on each side of the bed. There are three U.S.-style electric outlets and two USB outlets at the top of each side table, which is a dream for people like me who travel with all sorts of gadgets. Four more outlets and two USB outlets are built into the desk across the room.

Each side of the bed also features a perfectly placed light fixture with both a lamp to provide ambient light and a small spotlight that can be directed any-which-way for reading in bed. The latter allows you to lay in bed reading without wayward light bothering someone who is trying to sleep right next to you.

The cabins do have one noticeable flaw that could leave someone a bit flustered upon arrival, depending on his or her packing habits: There's relatively limited storage space. There is just one modest-sized closet with a single row for hanging clothes, two drawers and nowhere logical to put your shoes.

If you're thinking about booking a trip on American Countess, be strategic about what you pack -- or assume you'll keep some of your clothes and other items in your suitcase, which you can slide under the bed.

Lively entertainment

American Countess is notably smaller and more intimate than American Queen Steamboat's 436-passenger American Queen, which is the world's largest river steamboat. It has just 123 cabins vs. 222 on American Queen. But despite its relatively small size, it offers a lot of entertainment.

A small theater group that includes four performers and a four-person house band sails with American Countess and performs most nights in its theater, with musical medley-type productions that offer everything from classic songs of the South to 1970s music.

In addition, the house band entertains passengers most nights in the Grand Lobby.

The vessel's theater also welcomes special guest performers such as Steve Spracklen, a pianist who often entertains passengers on American Queen Steamboat vessels with ragtime music, weaving in some of the history of the genre as he goes.

Passengers also will find lots of daily activities such as bourbon tastings and talks from the vessel's "riverlorian" -- an onboard river expert who recounts local river lore and history.

On this sailing, well-known Natchez-based chef Regina Charboneau also was on board to host cooking demonstrations.

Comfortable river views

One of the great things about American Countess is that it's filled with spaces that use the main attraction of a Mississippi River cruise -- the river itself -- as a focal point.

In addition to having interior spaces such as the Grand Lobby that are built around panoramic views of the river through huge glass windows, the vessel also offers lots of outdoor areas where you can sit and watch the river roll by.

The bow of the vessel features particularly wonderful outdoor deck spaces that are lined with rocking chairs where passengers can lounge for hours, watching the activity of the river.

There's also a large deck-top lounge area with comfortable outdoor furniture that can be covered or uncovered, depending on the weather.

Included tours

As is typical for all American Queen Steamboat vessels, American Countess offers tours to passengers in every destination it visits.

On this sailing, that included a tour of Nottoway. Due to high water levels on the Mississippi River this week, American Countess wasn't able to tie up right there, but it was able to get close. Passengers were then taken to the site in custom-built American Queen Steamboat motorcoaches.

A signature feature of the line is that its motorcoaches -- each specially designed with extra glass up top for viewing -- follow its vessels up and down the Mississippi and other rivers for daily use during touring.

American Queen Steamboat is particularly known for included-in-the-fare "hop-on, hop-off" tours in the river towns its vessels visit that allow passengers to explore at their own pace while stopping at multiple attractions. For now, as part of the anti-coronavirus measures American Queen Steamboat is implementing, such touring has been scaled back in the interest of safety. But the line is offering alternative included-in-price tours that are more closely managed.

During these new tours, passengers travel together as a group by motorcoach for sightseeing with a more limited number of stops.

American Queen Steamboat executives have said the new touring system is likely just a temporary measure until it implements a new COVID-19 vaccine requirement for passengers in July.

American Countess this year initially will sail week-long voyages between New Orleans and Memphis with stops in places such as Natchez and Vicksburg, Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Louisiana. But the vessel also will operate on the upper part of the Mississippi River and also on the Ohio and Cumberland rivers later in the year.

The itineraries will take the vessel as far north as Red Wing, Minnesota, and as far east as Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

All American Countess itineraries include a pre-cruise overnight stay at a hotel in the departure port.

Bottom line

American Countess is an enticing option for travelers hoping to cruise on the Mississippi River or one of its tributaries. While it has a classic Mississippi paddlewheeler look on its outside -- something that, to many people, just seems right for Mississippi River cruise vessels -- its interior isn't a throwback to the 19th century.

If you cruise on American Countess, you'll find interior public rooms including lounges and dining venues that are as modern and stylish as any new-build boutique hotel, with cabins to match.

Just keep in mind that American Countess, like most river cruise vessels, is a relatively small vessel when compared to the typical ocean cruise ship. You'll find fewer restaurants, lounges and other venues on American Countess than you'll find on the typical ocean ship. You'll also find far fewer crowds. As is typical for small cruise vessels, American Countess has much more of the feel of a boutique hotel than a large resort.

The Points Guy cruise writer Gene Sloan is traveling on American Countess this week as a guest of the cruise line.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Immerse yourself in local culture with local by loews hotels.

Experience the unparalleled culture of New Orleans with exclusive experiences curated by Loews New Orleans Hotel. Local by Loews is your custom connection to the inspiring community surrounding our hotel, where you engage with historians and inspiring artisans who preserve the city’s allure.   

As a hotel guest of Loews New Orleans Hotel, we invite you to enhance your visit with an immersive experience to remember for a lifetime.

Lagniappe with Loews

Gather in the lobby lounge to learn the urban legends, myths, and unparalleled ethos of New Orleans from a culture bearer. In partnership with Pelican New Orleans , the city’s leading immersive tour provider for those who desire an authentic Louisiana experience, their culture bearers will lead a 20-minute conversation with a cultural expert covering a jambalaya of local topics, where guests will walk away with a taste, touch or feel of something truly unique to South Louisiana and gain a deeper understanding of New Orleans.

As an added perk, guests of Loews New Orleans Hotel will receive an exclusive $15 savings off a variety of tours provided by Pelican New Orleans, such as swamp tours, ghost tours, distillery tours, and kayak tours.  

To receive more information or to book for a large group (10 or more people), please contact our concierge by calling 504-595-3300 .

Parish Hall

Newly renovated, this expansive 3,000-square-foot function space is perfect for registration, meals, and breaks. Brides often chose it as the venue for a flawless ceremony or cocktail hour reception. 

Some features may require additional costs.

Louisiana Ballroom

The newly renovated Louisiana Ballroom boasts magnificent views of the city skyline and Mississippi River with floor-to-ceiling windows. The ballroom, divisible in two sections if needed, can transform into the perfect space for up to 300 guests.  Seated beneath awe-inspiring chandeliers suspended from 16-foot ceilings, the striking venue pays homage to the city’s historic architecture while still maintaining a modern aesthetic. Ideal for large general sessions or lively social events like awards dinners, weddings and galas. 

• Newly renovated
• Divisible into 2 sections
• Magnificent views of the Mississippi River

A newly renovated space equipped with all the necessities for a meeting-of-the-minds, Feliciana is divisible by two sections. It features floor-to-ceiling windows with inspiring views of the magnificent city line. With expert catering and banquet services provided by our dedicated team members, attendees will appreciate innovative dining options that will keep them fueled and focused with the built-in credenza for coffee breaks.

• Built-in credenza for coffee breaks and/or storage
• Magnificent views of the city skyline

Beauregard Boardroom

This newly renovated space features floor-to-ceiling windows with amazing views of the city skyline. Plus, it can host up to 50 guests with plenty of power outlets and WiFi to keep everyone connected and productive!

Piazza d'Italia

Book our fully renovated Piazza D’Italia for a distinctive outdoor backdrop that features stunning water features and colorful, dramatic lighting. The Charles Moore-designed Renaissance revival plaza is a local treasure and perfect for an unforgettable experience that guests will long remember once the event is over. Located adjacent to the hotel, it is ideal for receptions for up to 400 guests, as well as for luncheons, dinners, and themed parties. 

Lykes Boardroom

Modern and sleek, this newly renovated boardroom seats up to 12 guests. The built-in credenza provides the perfect space for a coffee break or refreshments while the rest of the room is expertly equipped for conference calls and small private meetings. 

Pointe Coupee

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide magnificent views of the city and Mississippi River in this newly renovated meeting space. Equipped with a built-in credenza for coffee breaks and all the necessities for your business meeting, expert catering and banquet services also provide innovative dining options that will keep your guests fueled and focused. Expandable to 1,791 square feet to include adjacent Lafourche Meeting Room.

St. Tammany

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light and views of the Mississippi River for this newly renovated 889-square-foot space that is expertly equipped for any sort of meeting with a maximum capacity of 75 guests. Built-in credenza provides the perfect space for a coffee break or refreshments.

This newly renovated 889-square-foot meeting space is equipped with all the necessities for any event. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light and magnificent views of the Mississippi River while the built-in credenza provides the perfect space for a coffee break or refreshments. Maximum capacity: 75 guests.

Pre-Function - 9th Floor

This newly renovated 2,971 square foot space is ideal for breakouts, meals or mixing and mingling during a cocktail hour reception. Take in amazing views of the city skyline through the floor-to-ceiling windows and enjoy a gallery of local, contemporary art pieces inspired by Tennessee Williams’ plays accenting the walls. 

This meeting planner’s office space is newly renovated and offered complimentary with any large group booking. Equipped with multiple outlets and a built-in credenza.

Providing the perfect atmosphere for conference calls and small private meetings, this 333-square-foot newly renovated space can also accommodate up to 30 guests. The multiple built-in credenzas provide an ideal space for coffee breaks or refreshments.

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide magnificent views of the city and Mississippi River in this newly renovated meeting space. Equipped with a built-in credenza for coffee breaks and all the necessities for your business meeting, expert catering and banquet services also provide innovative dining options that will keep your guests fueled and focused. Expandable to 1,791 square-feet to include adjacent Pointe Coupee Meeting Room.

A built-in credenza provides the perfect space for a coffee break or refreshments while this newly renovated 889 square-foot space is perfectly equipped for any sort of meeting with a maximum capacity for 75 guests. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light and amazing views of the Mississippi River.

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Southern heritage and quaint towns

Discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi, and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history. Learn about Natchez’s French and Acadian heritage and pay your respects at the Vicksburg battlefield. Savor delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous barbecue, as you celebrate musical legends in the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll.

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To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

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Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

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More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

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2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from August 1-31, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by March 31, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by November 30, 2025. Offers expires August 31, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  $25 DEPOSIT: For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to January 2025 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to March 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

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NOTE: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

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• THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2024

Voyage of discovery in Westport

Retired mariner, watershed alliance share love of westport river with those who don’t have access.

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Capt. Bill Chace has loved the ocean all his life. Now he is sharing his passion with families who in many cases have never seen the water’s beauty for themselves.

Chace, a retired commercial fisherman who volunteers with the harbormaster and as part of the town’s shellfish relay program, has taken on a new “job” in his retirement — volunteer captain for a new river tour pilot program started this summer by the Westport River Watershed Alliance.

Just after 1 p.m. Sunday, Capt. Chace shoved off from a private dock at Westport Point and steered his 24-foot Phoenix toward The Let. Aboard was a family from New Bedford and a few other guests, including river guide Bill Sherden, an alliance board member.

They headed east, under the Route 88 bridge, into Horseneck Channel and Taber Point, meandering, listening and looking. Along the way, Sherden spoke about the river’s ecology and answered questions about osprey and fish, a commercial oyster farm they passed, and countless other topics. When the hour-long tour ended, Chace’s smile was as big as the family’s.

“Just to have the ability to maybe ignite that spark in one of the little ones, makes it worth it,” he said. “I get a lot out of it.”

Filling a boat and a need

River tours have long been a dream at the WRWA, executive director Deborah Weaver said Monday, and indeed research by the organization during its recent development of a strategic plan clearly shows the need, she said.

“We did a whole lot of interviews; what people think about us, what they think about the river,” she said. “One thing that came through loud and clear was that families that didn’t have any opportunity to access the river had a hard time connecting with why it was important. We realized there was a big gap out there.”

Even as they confirmed the need and benefit of running tours, WRWA officials didn’t have the means to start conducting them on their own, for a variety of reasons.

Then one day months back, Chace walked through the door.

“I was looking for something to do and feeling the need to give back a little bit,” he said. “It seemed like a good fit for me — I had the skill and a boat and the time. They needed a good platform and somebody who knows the river.”

So Chace was welcomed warmly and over the spring and early summer the pilot program evolved. In June, Weaver led volunteers interested in guiding tours on test trips, serving as the guide while volunteers served as families and asked questions. A handbook was created, a series of dates were settled on, and the tours started in July.

Though they didn’t do any advertising, alliance officials had no problem filling the boat for each of the 11 trips run so far, by reaching out to the families of kids enrolled in the organization’s summer programs.

“I didn’t know if anyone would respond, but in two days we had all 11 spots filled,” Weaver said.

So far, the trips have been fantastic, Weaver said, and “everyone who’s done it has had a terrific time.”

They aim to start the tours at high tide if possible, and to date families have traveled into The Let and the Westport River’s east and west branches. The tours generally last at least an hour, and a big component is education — Weaver said it’s endlessly rewarding to watch guests as they see things they’ve never seen before.

“They really love it,” she said. “A lot of them have never seen what it’s like and there’s so much to see.”

Change of pace

Chace feels the same way, and said he loves showing off his “beloved Westport.”

It’s been a long love affair.

His family owned a 65-foot commercial fishing boat, and he started fishing commercially in 1972. He went from trapping lobster to working in Westport’s swordfish fleet in the 70s, using spotter pilots to chase the lucrative fishery as far out as Georges Bank. After a stint in the Coast Guard, he headed west, working in Alaska and the Bering Sea on a trawler and also long-lining for codfish.

“We had a great time up there. Then I realized I was getting kind of old for it so I went into the Merchant Marine” and ran tugs and barges up and down the East Coast. He retired in 2020.

Chace said the trips have been rewarding and he believes the program has the potential to make a difference, as some things are only appreciated when they’re seen and experienced firsthand. And he joked that “if Georges Bank and the Bering Sea didn’t get me, I’ll be OK in the Westport River.”

What’s next?

Weaver said that as of this week, tours are done for the season. But they’ll be back in late Spring 2025, though the alliance needs more volunteer tour guides (contact the WRWA if interested).

And Weaver said the program’s early success proves there is plenty of potential for growth:

“If I could find a funder it would be clear that we can do so much more than this,” she said. For now, “we are very thankful” to Capt. Chace. “It would do a lot of good for the community to have this as a robust program.”

Added alliance president Michael Sullivan:

“We are so grateful to Bill for helping us move forward on our long-standing desire to provide a fun and educational experience for individuals and families who may not have ready access to the river.“

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History | Today in History: Hurricane Katrina strikes Louisiana

Today in history:

On Aug. 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the U.S. Gulf Coast near Buras-Triumph, Louisiana, breaching levees and spurring floods that devastated New Orleans. The costliest storm in U.S. history, Katrina caused nearly 1,400 deaths and an estimated $200 billion in damage.

Also on this date:

In 1814, during the War of 1812, Alexandria, Virginia, formally surrendered to British military forces, which occupied the city until September 3.

In 1825, the Treaty of Rio de Janeiro was signed by Portugal and Brazil, officially ending the Brazilian War of Independence.

In 1862, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing began operations at the United States Treasury.

In 1944, 15,000 American troops of the 28th Infantry Division marched down the Champs Elysees in Paris as the French capital continued to celebrate its liberation from the Nazis.

In 1958, the U.S. Air Force Academy opened in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

In 1966, the Beatles concluded their fourth American tour with their last public concert, held at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.

In 2004, marathoner Vanderlei de Lima was attacked by a spectator during the running of the Olympic marathon in Athens; de Lima, who was leading the race at the time, eventually finished third and received the Pierre de Coubertin medal for sportsmanship in addition to his bronze medal.

In 2008, Republican presidential nominee John McCain picked Sarah Palin, a maverick conservative who had been governor of Alaska for less than two years, to be his running mate.

In 2013, in a sweeping new policy statement, the Justice Department said it would not stand in the way of states that wanted to legalize, tax and regulate marijuana as long as there were effective controls to keep marijuana away from children, the black market and federal property.

In 2021, Hurricane Ida blasted ashore in Louisiana as one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the U.S., knocking out power to all of New Orleans, blowing roofs off buildings and reversing the flow of the Mississippi River.

Today’s Birthdays: Actor Elliott Gould is 86. Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin is 86. Olympic gold medal sprinter Wyomia Tyus is 79. Olympic gold medal long jumper Bob Beamon is 78. Animal behaviorist and autism educator Temple Grandin is 77. Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew is 69. Dancer-choreographer Mark Morris is 68. Actor Rebecca De Mornay is 65. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch is 57. Singer Me’Shell NdegeOcello is 56. Actor Carla Gugino is 53. Actor-singer Lea Michele is 38. MLB pitcher Noah Syndergaard is 32. Rock singer Liam Payne (One Direction) is 31.

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