Mississippi River

The river divides New Orleans in two, and experiencing it is a fundamental part of any trip to the city. One of the most iconic Mississippi River experiences is a river cruise aboard a paddlewheel riverboat to the sound of live music, with options for brunch and dinner experiences. Swamp and bayou tours of the Mississippi River Delta show off the region's wildlife (alligators, raccoons, snakes, turtles, and native birds).

• Don't forget your camera: The Mississippi River affords stellar views of the city's skyline.

• Many visitors to New Orleans take cruises on the Mississippi River, so tickets should be booked in advance to ensure you get a spot.

• Some of New Orleans' riverboats are wheelchair accessible on certain decks.

The Mississippi Riverfront is an easy walk from anywhere in the historic French Quarter. The Riverfront streetcar follows the banks of the river, stopping at Canal Street, Toulouse, Dumaine, Ursulines, and the French Market.

The best time to enjoy the Mississippi River in New Orleans is from February to May, when the weather's comfortable and plenty is going on in the nearby streets and neighborhoods. Expect high temperatures and humidity in the summer.

Many of New Orleans' most popular attractions are on or near the Mississippi Riverfront, including the Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Mardi Gras World, Harrah's New Orleans casino, Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Crescent Park.

There are a couple of ways to tour the Mississippi River. One is to hop aboard a boat, either for a short cruise or a multi-night tour covering some or all of the river's length. You can also drive along the course of the river via the Great River Road National Scenic Byway.

The best time of year to go on a Mississippi River cruise is either spring or fall, when temperatures are usually pleasantly warm but not sweltering. Summer is hot, humid, and can be stormy. Winter can be pleasant, too, if chilly, but expect holiday crowds.

There is a range of Mississippi cruises available, and the length of sailing can range from a couple of hours to a few weeks, depending on how much of the river you want to see—most steamboat tours departing from New Orleans last about two or three hours.

Most overnight Mississippi cruise ships departing from New Orleans leave from near the Garden District, at or near the Julia Street Cruise Terminal or the Erato Street Cruise Terminal. Shorter trips, such as dinner cruises, leave from the Steamboat Natchez dock on Toulouse Street in the French Quarter.

Yes, the Mississippi River is worth seeing. It's the second-longest river in the United States (second only to the Missouri River, which is a mere mile longer). The river has a rich history and has been used as a source of water and a means of transportation for thousands of years.

Yes, you should book a Mississippi River tour in advance. Doing so guarantees that you'll have a place on board and will save you the hassle of waiting in line to buy tickets before you board. If you're taking a multi-day tour, booking in advance is necessary.