Louisville Emerges as a Key River Cruise Destination

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (February 26, 2026)— Louisville is seeing renewed interest from the river cruise industry, giving travelers a new way to experience the city — arriving by boat along the Ohio River.

Viking® has announced new Mississippi and Ohio River cruise itineraries for 2027 that feature Louisville as a key destination and final port, further expanding opportunities for visitors to discover the city from the water. Sailing aboard the Viking Mississippi, the new routes bring guests to Louisville via America’s iconic inland waterways.

The newly announced itineraries include the 15-day Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass voyage operating between New Orleans and Louisville, as well as the 8-day Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer itinerary sailing from Memphis to Louisville. Both journeys highlight Louisville as a cultural port, connecting the city to a broader narrative of American music, cuisine, and river heritage.

Louisville’s growing presence on river cruise itineraries is also reflected in the return of American Cruise Lines, which is once again calling on the city as part of its Ohio River Cruise in 2026 from destinations like Pittsburgh, PA and New Orleans, LA. The cruise line has dozens of cruises planned to Louisville during 2026.

Together, these itineraries offer visitors a scenic and immersive arrival into Louisville — a city shaped by the Ohio River and known for iconic attractions like the Kentucky Derby Museum, Louisville Slugger & Factory and Muhammad Ali Center as well as its Bourbon distilleries and tasting experiences.

River cruise operators note that today’s travelers are increasingly drawn to destinations rich in history, culture, and culinary traditions, and the towns and cities along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers offer authentic experiences many guests have yet to discover. Louisville’s inclusion on multiple itineraries underscores its appeal as a welcoming river city and a destination offering well-rounded travel experiences from the water.

“Louisville’s history and identity are deeply connected to the Ohio River,” said Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. “Welcoming travelers who arrive by river offers a memorable way to experience Louisville’s award-winning waterfront and walkable downtown — just steps from the city’s main attractions, bourbon experiences and the historic Main Street architecture that make Louisville unique.”

View itineraries for the 2027 Viking® cruises: https://www.vikingrivercruises...
View itineraries for the 2026 American Cruise Lines ships: https://www.americancruiseline...

While planning a trip to Louisville, guests can download a copy of Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city's top attractions and bourbon distilleries. Visitors also can get additional city attraction, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.