There's something about being in a historic river city, full of river lore; one expects to spy a paddle wheeler steaming down river.

Memphians were thrilled that overnight river voyages would return to Memphis in 2012, as the American Queen Steamship Company added routes to New Orleans and St. Louis. With Elvis, holiday and Civil War themed cruises, there's something for every interest aboard the luxury steamship.

The American Queen — Photo courtesy of American Queen Steamboat Company

With stops along the way to New Orleans in spots like Vicksburg, MS and Helena, AR, or Paducah, KY and Cape Girardeau, MO for the St. Louis voyage, each trip is filled with restful scenes of nature, colorful local history, and oftentimes, fascinating stories about the people and places for whom the Mississippi represented a route of commerce, war or adventure.

Most of the cruises offered from Memphis are nine-day, one-way trips; fares run from $1900 to almost $6,000 and include everything from meals to most shore excursions and select libations. Staterooms are outfitted in lush appointments, evoking the feel of the 1800s in terms of furniture and fabric, with modern luxuries including televisions.  Entertainment on board includes table games, live music and dancing in the saloon. A spa offers a variety of body treatments for both men and women.