The Great River Road Map
Introduction
The Great River Road Map is a scenic route that follows the Mississippi River from the headwaters in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. It is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty and diversity of America’s heartland. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your trip along the Great River Road Map.
Top Attractions
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, including the Mall of America, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and the Walker Art Center. Visitors can also explore the city’s many parks and lakes, including the Chain of Lakes and Minnehaha Park.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is home to the iconic Gateway Arch, which offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums, including the Missouri History Museum and the St. Louis Art Museum.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture and nightlife. Visitors can explore the French Quarter, listen to live jazz music, and sample the city’s famous cuisine, including gumbo and beignets.
Hidden Gems
Effigy Mounds National Monument, Iowa
Effigy Mounds National Monument is home to more than 200 prehistoric mounds, including many shaped like animals. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails and learn about the region’s Native American history.
Wyalusing State Park, Wisconsin
Wyalusing State Park is located on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. Visitors can hike the park’s trails, go fishing or boating, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Food Scene
Barbecue in Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis is known for its barbecue, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Visitors can try the famous dry-rubbed ribs at Central BBQ or the pulled pork at Rendezvous.
Seafood in New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is known for its seafood, including crawfish, oysters, and shrimp. Visitors can try the famous seafood gumbo at Commander’s Palace or the fried catfish po’ boy at Domilise’s.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling along the Great River Road Map can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Visitors can take advantage of free attractions, such as the St. Louis Zoo and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. They can also save money by packing a picnic lunch and staying in budget-friendly accommodations, such as campsites or hostels.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in Great River Bluffs State Park, Minnesota
Great River Bluffs State Park offers stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley. Visitors can hike the park’s trails and see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and white-tailed deer.
Kayaking in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is home to dramatic sandstone cliffs and crystal-clear water. Visitors can explore the park’s hidden coves and waterfalls by kayak or canoe.
Historical Landmarks
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Illinois
Cahokia Mounds is the site of a prehistoric Native American city that was home to more than 20,000 people. Visitors can explore the park’s interpretive center and climb the 100-foot-tall Monks Mound.
Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi
Vicksburg National Military Park is the site of a key Civil War battle. Visitors can explore the park’s many monuments and learn about the history of the conflict.
Family-Friendly Activities
Adventureland, Iowa
Adventureland is a theme park with roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions. It also has a campground and hotel, making it a great destination for families.
Children’s Museum of Memphis, Tennessee
The Children’s Museum of Memphis has interactive exhibits on science, art, and culture. It also has a splash park and outdoor play area.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
La Crosse Queen Riverboat, Wisconsin
The La Crosse Queen is a replica of a 19th-century paddlewheel riverboat. Visitors can take a leisurely cruise along the Mississippi River and learn about the region’s history.
Lock and Dam No. 1, Minnesota
Lock and Dam No. 1 is part of a system of locks and dams that allows boats to navigate the Mississippi River. Visitors can watch as boats pass through the locks and learn about the history of the system.
Natural Wonders
Mississippi Palisades State Park, Illinois
Mississippi Palisades State Park is home to towering cliffs, deep ravines, and stunning views of the Mississippi River. Visitors can hike the park’s trails and see a variety of wildlife.
Great River National Wildlife Refuge, Missouri
Great River National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of birds, including bald eagles and great blue herons. Visitors can explore the refuge’s hiking trails and see the river up close.
Vibrant Nightlife
New Orleans is known for its vibrant nightlife, with live music, bars, and clubs that stay open late into the night. Visitors can explore the French Quarter, listen to jazz music, and sample the city’s famous cocktails.
Local Markets
Fulton Farmer’s Market, Illinois
The Fulton Farmer’s Market offers fresh produce and other local goods. Visitors can meet local farmers and learn about the region’s agriculture.
Mill City Farmer’s Market, Minnesota
The Mill City Farmer’s Market is located in downtown Minneapolis and offers a variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods. Visitors can sample local cheeses, breads, and other foods.
Beaches and Mountains
Grandad Bluff, Wisconsin
Grandad Bluff offers stunning views of the Mississippi River Valley. Visitors can hike to the top of the bluff and see the surrounding landscape.
Great River Bluffs State Park, Minnesota
Great River Bluffs State Park is home to towering bluffs and stunning views of the Mississippi River. Visitors can hike the park’s trails and see a variety of wildlife.
Cultural Immersion
The Great River Road Map passes through many small towns and communities that offer a glimpse into the region’s culture and history. Visitors can explore local museums, attend festivals and events, and sample regional cuisine.
Art and Music Scene
Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Minnesota
The Minnesota Marine Art Museum has a collection of more than 1,000 works of art, including paintings by Monet and Renoir. Visitors can also see the museum’s collection of vintage boats.
Beale Street, Tennessee
Beale Street is known for its live music, with many bars and clubs featuring blues and rock and roll. Visitors can listen to live music and explore the street’s shops and restaurants.
Walking Tours
French Quarter Walking Tour, Louisiana
A walking tour of the French Quarter is a great way to explore New Orleans’ history and culture. Visitors can see historic buildings, churches, and other landmarks.
Frank Lloyd Wright Trail, Wisconsin
The Frank Lloyd Wright Trail is a self-guided tour of some of the architect’s most famous buildings in Wisconsin. Visitors can see examples of Wright’s unique style and learn about his life and work.
Architectural Marvels
Gateway Arch, Missouri
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a 630-foot-tall monument that symbolizes America’s westward expansion. Visitors can take a tram to the top and see stunning views of the city and the river.
Farnsworth House, Illinois
The Farnsworth House is a modernist masterpiece designed by architect Mies van der Rohe. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its design and history.
Historical Sites
Fort Snelling, Minnesota
Fort Snelling is a historic military post that played a key role in the region’s history. Visitors can explore the fort’s buildings and learn about the lives of soldiers and civilians who lived there.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic road that follows a historic trail used by Native Americans, explorers, and settlers. Visitors can explore historic sites along the route, including the Mount Locust Inn and the Sunken