A Storybook Christmas Stay in an 1847 Historic Riverfront Home

When I decorate the Mississippi Queen for Christmas, she truly comes alive. This 1847 historic home turns into a charming holiday retreat with twinkling lights, festive greenery, and touches of old-world Christmas magic in every room. If you’re looking for a cozy, memorable place to spend the season, this is it.

From the moment you walk through the front door, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas postcard—period-correct details, glowing lamps, a beautiful staircase wrapped in greenery, and warm décor that feels nostalgic and comforting.

The living room is my favorite place during the holidays. You can curl up by the Christmas tree, sip hot cocoa, and look out toward the Mississippi River and the Bill Emerson Bridge lit up at night. The original hardwood floors, tall ceilings, and antique charm make it feel like Christmas in a simpler time—just with the comforts you expect today.

The dining room is dressed for the season too, with seating for six and a bay window overlooking the winter garden and the river. It’s the perfect place for a holiday meal or board games after dark. The updated kitchen has stainless steel appliances and all the essentials you need to bake cookies, make breakfast, or cook your favorite holiday dishes.

Upstairs, all three bedrooms are cozy, quiet. Each room has a queen bed, nightstands with USB chargers, ceiling fans, dressers, and incredible views—Downtown Cape, the river, or the bridge. The original upstairs bathroom with its subway tile gives you that old-fashioned charm with modern convenience.

Outside is just as magical. The front porch is decorated for the holidays and has the perfect sunrise view over the river—sit on the swing with a blanket and coffee while the world wakes up. The backyard has a pergola draped in winter vines, rocking chairs on the back porch, and places to relax even on crisp, chilly days. On calm winter nights, you can enjoy the fire pit just like guests have done here for decades.

And if you’re here to enjoy Cape’s holiday season, you’re in the perfect spot—walk to the Historic District, the riverfront, Christmas events, the Glenn House (beautifully decorated for the holidays), local shops, and the farmers’ market.

If you love historic homes, twinkling lights, and the magic of Christmas, the Mississippi Queen is ready to welcome you.