The Great River Road connects the ten states that border the Mississippi River as it flows out into the Gulf of Mexico. Check out these must-visit destinations as you drive along the Mississippi River on the Great River Road.
GREAT RIVER BLUFFS STATE PARK – MINNESOTA
After you begin your journey in Minnesota, you won’t drive far before noticing signs for the Great River Bluffs State Park. Hop out of your car and climb your way to the East Overlook for expansive views of the Mississippi River, and then hike over to the Hill of Many Timbers Overlook to see Kearns Valley hillsides roll on for miles.
EFFIGY MOUNDS NATIONAL MONUMENT – IOWA
Travel from Minnesota and along Wisconsin into Iowa for a pit stop on your journey. Take some time to stretch your legs and relax at the Effigy Mounds National Monument, a sacred place to many Americans and Native American tribes. Walk along 14 miles of park trails and see rivers, wetlands and wildlife creatures among these intriguing animal-shaped effigies.
TRAIL OF TEARS STATE PARK – MISSOURI
The Trail of Tears State Park serves as a memorial for the Cherokee Native Americans who died on the Trail of Tears in the 19th century. Visit the park on your way down the Great River Road to learn more about these Indian tribes and to see amazing views of the Mississippi River from the scenic overlook.
VICKSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK – MISSISSIPPI
Pull into Vicksburg, Mississippi during your journey along the river to check out the Vicksburg National Military Park. What was once the scene of a Civil War battle now stands as a commemorative landscape housing more than 1,400 monuments, tablets and memorials.
Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum – Mississippi
And, while you’re in Vicksburg, discover the rich history of the Mississippi River at that Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum. The museum’s exhibits let you explore what life is like on the Mississippi River, and there’s even a flood model. Admission is free.
New Orleans – Louisiana
After driving for several days or several weeks, you’ve finally made it to the end of the Great River Road in Louisiana. What better way to celebrate your travels than by hanging out in the Big Easy? Enjoy spicy Creole cuisine, beautiful architecture and a vibrant nightlife in New Orleans.
Contact Visit Vicksburg to plan your trip along the Great River Road.
