Local News
River boat tourism on the rise in lower Mississippi River region
By 
Publisher
Little Rock, Arkansas – Riverboats filled with tourists are becoming more common along the Mississippi River and it could provide an economic spark for the city of Memphis and parts of Northeast Arkansas.
According to AAA Travel advisors, a significant increase in U.S. River cruise interest and bookings has been reported.
2022 domestic river cruise bookings have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, up 25% from 2019 year-to-date, the latest data from AAA Travel showed.
“U.S. river cruising offers a completely unique travel experience, especially when compared to traditional oceanic voyages,” said Jan Borje, vice president of travel services, AAA Missouri. “The modest passenger guest counts on many domestic river cruises create an intimate and personalized setting that more and more travelers are seeking.”
In order to accommodate more tourist traffic from the riverboats, renovations have been ongoing along Memphis’ riverfront.
The Beale Street Landing was completed in 2014 to accommodate boats that are up to 400 feet in length.
According to the Memphis Commercial Appeal, riverboats landing there were up 32% in 2019.
The economic impacts to the region from riverboat tourists visiting the region are expected to exceed $100 million annually by 2022.
-
Local News2 weeks agoRollout of USPS Connect expands next-day delivery options for local businesses
-
Local News2 weeks agoNorth Little Rock sales tax early voting begins Aug. 2
-
Arkansas2 weeks agoArkansas named 5th-worst state for healthcare
-
Local News2 weeks ago1 person is dead after homicide occurs in the Heights
-
Local News2 weeks agoFormer Razorback Bobby Portis gives back to community with charity events
-
Local News1 week agoArkansas gas prices continue to drop
-
Local News6 days ago10-year-old participates in 50 yard challenge in Little Rock
-
Local News1 week ago1 man injured in shooting at North Shackleford Apartment