River Cruising in the United States: American Cruise Lines Destinations & Itineraries Think river cruising is only for Europe? Think again. In this episode of All Things Travel, travel advisors Ryan and Julie — co-owners of Wonder and Beyond Travel — dive deep into river cruising right here in the United States, spotlighting American Cruise Lines and what makes them a standout option for domestic travelers. What makes American Cruise Lines different? Ships built in the USA (Salisbury, Maryland) Staterooms nearly the size of hotel rooms — all with private balconies Truly all-inclusive: food, drinks, onboard enrichment & most excursions Vessels range from classic Mississippi paddleboats to modern catamarans Ships carry fewer than 200 guests for a boutique experience Flights and pre-cruise hotel often included Itineraries covered in this episode: 🎵 Mississippi Explorer — 12-day cruise between New Orleans, LA and Memphis, TN, stopping at Oak Alley, Natchez, Vicksburg, and more. Music-themed sailings available. 🌲 Columbia & Snake Rivers — 9-day cruise from Portland, OR to Clarkston, WA following the Lewis & Clark Trail through stunning Pacific Northwest landscapes and wine country. 🍂 Hudson River Fall Foliage — 9-day cruise from New York City to Albany, NY, with stops at Sleepy Hollow, West Point, Hyde Park, and the Catskills. 🐋 Alaska Explorer — 19-day journey from Fairbanks to Juneau covering Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords, Glacier Bay, Sitka, and the Inside Passage — no Canadian port stop required. Best for: Travelers with 10–14+ days, history lovers, nature enthusiasts, grandparent-grandchild trips, and anyone who wants to cruise without a passport. 🌐 Ready to book? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress!