Hannibal is the childhood home of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, or Mark Twain, and the inspiration for his beloved stories of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. Prior to the 1803 Louisiana Purchase and arrival of European settlers, a variety of indigenous Native American tribes called the area home. Hannibal grew into the primary port for steamboats and flatboats traveling the Upper Mississippi. “The Unsinkable Molly Brown,” the early 20th-century socialite, philanthropist and survivor of the Titanic tragedy, was also born here.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
The World of Mark Twain
See the town where Mark Twain grew up and where he drew inspiration for his most famous novels.
Jim’s Journey: The Huck Finn Freedom Center
Tour Hannibal’s first African American History Museum and see the town where Mark Twain grew up.
Belvedere School for Historic Preservation
Explore a renovated historic brick mansion with owner, preservationist and PBS host Bob Yapp.
History & Heritage of a Mississippi Rivertown
Discover the intertwined histories of Hannibal and Palmyra, as well as their connection to the Civil War.
The World of Mark Twain: Behind-the-Scenes
Delve into the life of renowned author Mark Twain, including a Privileged Access visit to his namesake museum.
