22 Best Things to Do Along the Great River Road

We recently trekked the Great River Road on the scenic byway of Minnesota and Wisconsin sides. This is what we learned about how to have an incredible journey on the iconic Mississippi River.

Our trip started from Minneapolis and started along the Wisconsin side so we could do a massive circle around the Mississippi River to get both perspectives of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway.

We’ve documented all the best things to do and see on your Great River Road journey to help you make the most of your trip. This article will start from north to south to help you find the best places to see and visit along this historic road.

We’ll cover some key spots in Minneapolis along the Mississippi River and Great River Road before heading into Minnesota’s more small towns and outdoorsy spots along with Wisconsin. Then, proceed further down south to round out this epic road trip.

The short version: the Great River Road is a roughly 3,000-mile network of signed state routes that shadows the Mississippi River through ten states, from Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota to Venice, Louisiana. Driving the whole thing takes most people two to three weeks. The Minnesota and Wisconsin stretch covered in detail below – Minneapolis down to La Crosse, on both banks – is the most popular long-weekend section and runs about 250 miles.

What to Pack for a Great River Road Trip

Here is a packing checklist of key items on your trip to ensure you have all the travel essentials.

• Pack your camera at the top of this list because you will want to document all the incredible views.
• Food is necessary, so include snacks, lunch, and dinner in your packing plan. Remember that some river towns are more rural, with limited options for food or gas stations. Plan accordingly.
• Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to keep you safe from the sun’s rays or driving glare when looking at your camera phone screen in front of your face for hours.
• Pack water bottles, snacks, and a jacket because you will not know how long you will explore nature on your Great River Road journey.

Difference Between Driving Along the Mississippi River & the Great River Road National Scenic Byway

Okay, yes, this national scenic byway goes right along the Mississippi River. However, many people don’t realize it. Even though the river starts in Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota, the scenic byway doesn’t start until the Twin Cities.

That doesn’t mean that Itasca State Park isn’t a great Mississippi River attraction or that the Northern Minnesota section isn’t a scenic drive. Let’s break down our top attractions along the Mississippi River in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Great River Road History

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River, 3,000 miles from Minnesota’s headwaters on Lake Itasca to New Orleans.

This route inspires adventure and discovery on a historical journey that takes you through time as it winds alongside some of America’s most significant landscapes. With ghost towns, historic lighthouses, and unique architecture, this Great River Road trip is a must-do for any road trip.

About the Mighty Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in North America and starts at Lake Itasca at Itasca State Park, one of Minnesota’s best state parks.

The river winds and bends its way through the central part of the United States before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. It’s an incredible and fascinating body of water.

How long is the Great River Road?

The Great River Road runs roughly 3,000 miles. It follows the Mississippi south from the river’s source at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota, near Park Rapids, to the end of the road at Venice, Louisiana. Mileage estimates do vary with how the route is measured – the Federal Highway Administration has published both 2,069 and 3,000 miles – because each state signs its own alignment and several offer parallel routes on opposite banks.

The route passes through ten states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana. Kentucky is the one most often left off the list – the Kentucky Great River Road runs along the far western edge of the state between Wickliffe and Hickman.

Minnesota

We particularly liked Minnesota’s Great River Road’s abundance of excellent small towns to stop at along the way.

1. Itasca State Park

Minnesota’s Itasca State Park is the perfect place to start your Great River Road Trip. This park is home to the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the park’s natural beauty. You can hike or bike the park’s trails, go fishing or camping, or take a canoe trip down the river.

There’s also a visitor center with exhibits on the park’s history and ecology and a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs. If you’re looking for a more scenic way to experience the park, consider taking a guided tour. The park offers guided hikes, bike rides, canoe, and bus tours.

2. Stone Arch Bridge

Stone Arch Bridge is one of the most iconic spots on the Great River Road, and it’s easy to see why. It gives you a great view upriver and is just a short walk from downtown Minneapolis in either direction, so it’s an easy stop for anyone visiting this side of town.

3. Mississippi River Gorge in Minneapolis

You can visit the Mississippi River Gorge Park in Minneapolis along West River Parkway, which eventually becomes West River Road.

This gorge is among the most beautiful places along the Great River Road, with its limestone rock and eagles soaring above.

Check out the Winchell Trail during fall to see some of the best fall colors in the Twin Cities and the Midwest. This area is consistently our favorite park in Minneapolis to visit.

See Related: Minneapolis Murals You Need to Visit

4. Hastings, MN

Hastings is one of the larger towns on our list, but it’s still pretty small, with only around 22,000 people living there. Despite its size, Hastings is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year.

However, ski and snowboard enthusiasts will probably want to be here during the winter because it’s located right next to some of the best ski resorts in Minnesota. The town is usually covered in snow for most of the winter, and the locals know how to make the most of it. 

See Related: Things to Do in Minneapolis

5. Red Wing, MN

Red Wing is a town of 16,000 people with a long history. It is one of the coolest towns in the state because of its impressive architecture and enviable natural environment.

Many buildings on the main street were built in the 1850s, and you can still see them today. The city is a great place to get those small-town vibes while having much to do. There are lots of small, family-owned restaurants and shops.

Red Wing is also home to the famous Red Wing Shoes, which has been around since 1905 and is one of the best footwear brands in the world. You can even tour their factory and check out how they make shoes! The Red Wing Marine Museum and the Pottery Museum of Red Wing round out an easy afternoon downtown.

Outside in Red Wing, there are many fun things to do, like cycling, golfing, fishing, birdwatching, and skiing.

Red Wing is also close to Wabasha, so you can visit both towns on the same trip. We recommend spending time in both cities.

6. Frontenac State Park

Established by the Minnesota Legislature in 1957, Frontenac State Park has been attracting Great River Road tourists. The best time to visit this place is probably in the fall because the leaves turn red.

But it’s still a sight in the other seasons, too. This is a paradise for campers, although camping here isn’t free, and you’ll need to book in advance. There are 58 designated camping sites.

Frontenac State Park overlooks Lake Pepin. It’s a great place to fish for walleye, northern pike, and channel catfish. This popular park features several things to see and do, including its walking trails, bike trails, and a scenic loop that goes through the numerous bluffs of the Mississippi River.

See Related: Best Parks in St. Paul, Minnesota

7. Lake City, MN

Lake City is a beautiful small town on the banks of the Mississippi River. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a quiet getaway, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. My favorite activities include fishing, hiking, and exploring the local history.

Check out the local restaurants – some great places to eat in Lake City for classic Minnesota comfort food. If you’re looking for a place to stay, I recommend the AmericInn by Wyndham Lake City.

8. Wabasha, MN

Wabasha is a small town that most people have never heard of. There are only around 2,000 people who live here. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have much fun here. This town is a great place to visit because of its various activities. One of the best things is the National Eagle Center.

The exhibition center has numerous observation decks where you can see bald eagles and learn about their habitat. If you visit with your kids or if you love America, this is the place for you.

But there’s more to this town than the National Eagle Center. The city is filled with festivals, including The Grumpy Old Men Festival in the winter, the Watermelon Festival after Labor Day, and Riverboat Days in the summer. Festival dates move year to year, so check the city calendar before you build a trip around one.

There are also multiple top hotels here, so if you need a break during your road trip, this is the town to do so. Check prices on Booking.com for the best possible rate. 

See Related: Best Rental Cars You Can Take Out of State

9. Winona, MN

Winona is a picturesque town you’ll want to visit while traveling on Great River Road. You can enjoy gorgeous river vistas and charming shops and restaurants there. Check out the iconic Winona Bridge while you’re in town.

If you’re searching for a place to stay in Winona, I recommend the following hotels: The Great River Road Inn, a beautiful historic hotel centrally located near downtown. It’s within walking distance of all the shops and restaurants and has a great breakfast buffet.

Another excellent choice is the AmericInn by Wyndham Winona. It’s in downtown Winona and features an indoor pool and free Wi-Fi.

If you’re searching for an affordable option, I recommend the Days Inn Winona. It’s just outside downtown and has a complimentary continental breakfast.

See Related: Best Honeymoon Destinations in Minnesota

10. Lake Pepin

Lake Pepin is a beautiful lake that stretches from Minnesota to Wisconsin. It is well-known for its charming river towns with world-class dining options. The best views of the lake can be found on State Highway 35.

It’s stunning for its dramatic cliff backdrop, heart-wrenching history, sweeping view over Lake Pepin, and surrounding bluffs of the mighty Mississippi River.

See Related: How to Go on a Road Trip With Kids

Wisconsin

Technically, you can’t see all of both the Minnesota (west side of Great River Road) and Wisconsin (east side of Great River Road) sides of the Great River Road if you were planning on only heading south. But, frequently, people loop or circle both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides of this scenic road.

You can cross the Minnesota state line at Hastings to see a part of both sides, or you can do it at Wabasha. These are the two most well-known spots for the river crossing.

11. Prescott, WI

Prescott is located across the river from Hastings and is a quaint town with several historic places to visit. It’s also home to the Prescott Cheese Factory, which produces some of the best cheeses in the US.

There are a few great places to stay in Prescott, such as the King Suites, Upscale Boutique Hotel, which offers a boutique hotel experience on the riverbank.

The hotel is perfect for couples or small families and includes all the amenities you need for a relaxing getaway. Check Booking.com for the best possible hotel rates and vacation rentals in the Prescott and Hastings area along the Great River Road.

12. Mount Horeb (Inland Detour)

Be clear on the geography before you plan around this one: Mount Horeb is not on the Great River Road. This small town sits in Dane County on US 18/151 west of Madison, about an hour inland from the river, and it is worth the detour only if you are already looping east. Locally billed as “The Garden Spot of Southern Wisconsin,” it is known for its Norwegian trollway, gardens and nearby vineyards.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Mount Horeb, we recommend the Best Western Plus InnTowner. This hotel is conveniently located near the downtown area and offers a range of amenities, including a free breakfast buffet and free Wi-Fi.

See Related: Things to Do in St. Paul

13. Maiden Rock State Natural Area

The Maiden Rock Bluffs is one of Wisconsin’s most well-known rock formations. The bluff is a state natural area, the Maiden Rock State Natural Area, which protects one of the state’s most distinctive limestone cliffs.

Overlooking Lake Pepin, the rock faces a bluff high above the river. The bluff continues for almost a mile and is 400 feet tall. The bluff is one of only six sites on the Mississippi River where peregrine falcons nest successfully, and the 263-acre natural area has no developed facilities or official trails – just an informal path of about 1.5 miles. In addition, because you may observe from the bluff, it is incredibly scenic.

This All-American Road runs alongside the bluff, so you can get a truly fantastic perspective of this beautiful road and understand why it’s a national scenic byway – this magnificent mosaic of cornfields, forested bluffs, and rocky vistas.

Then, if you walk the route, you’ll be treated to a fantastic perspective of the beautiful river road and Lake Pepin.

If you are coming from Stockholm, Wisconsin, the south end of the town will be on your right. Turn off State Highway 35 onto County J, then County E, then Long Lane, which ends at a very small parking lot. After a while, you will see the entrance to Maiden Rock Bluff.

14. La Crosse, WI

La Crosse is the largest city on Wisconsin’s western border, with a population of about 52,000, and it is the county seat of La Crosse County. It is located on the northern bank of the Great River, which separates it from Minnesota.

The La Crosse Bridge, a vertical-lift bridge crossing the river, links La Crosse to Minnesota. There are a few great places to stay on this all-American road trip.

The Radisson Hotel La Crosse is a great option if you’re looking for a place to stay near the action. If you’d like your accommodation to be a bit more rural along the scenic drive, the Gunderson Hotel & Suites is a great place to stay.

See Related: Things to Do in Marinette, Wisconsin

Things to Do on the Iowa Great River Road

15. Dubuque, IA

Dubuque is a city in and the county seat of Dubuque County, Iowa, United States. Located along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, it is the largest city in the tri-state region of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

Dubuque has been one of the Upper Midwest’s most important economic and cultural centers since the early nineteenth century. The city is best known for its rich architectural heritage and as a tourist destination. The area, now known as Dubuque, was first settled by Julien Dubuque, a French-Canadian fur trader, in 1785.

In 1788, he obtained a large tract of land on the east bank of the Mississippi River, where he built a stone house and purchased the surrounding land from the Native Americans.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the heart of the action, The Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark is an excellent choice. This luxurious resort offers everything from a relaxing spa to a thrilling waterpark, making it the perfect place for families or groups.

See Related: Day Trips from Des Moines, Iowa

16. Davenport, IA

Davenport, Iowa, is located on the eastern shore of the Mississippi River and is one of the Quad Cities, which also includes Bettendorf, Iowa; Rock Island, Illinois; and Moline, Illinois.

The Quad Cities is a great place to visit if you’re interested in spending time on the Great River Road. Davenport has plenty to do, including museums, parks, and restaurants.

One of the most popular museums in Davenport is the Putnam Museum of History and Natural Science due to its history, science, and art exhibits.

Another popular museum in Davenport is the Figge Art Museum. This museum features many art pieces, including Modern Art, American art, European painting and sculpture, African art, Asian pieces, and more. There are plenty of options if you’re looking for a place to stay in Davenport, Iowa. Here are some of our favorites:

• The Hotel Blackhawk is a historic hotel that offers guests a range of amenities, including a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a spa.
• The Radisson Quad City Plaza is an excellent choice if you desire affordability. This hotel features an on-site restaurant, bar, indoor pool, and fitness center.
• The Hancock House Bed & Breakfast Inn is a bed and breakfast offering guests a room with river views. This inn also features an on-site restaurant.

See Related: Best Family Vacations in Iowa

Other Things to Do Along Great River Road

17. St. Louis, Missouri

Gateway City is one of the most popular Great River Road trip stops. Visitors can see the magnificent Gateway Arch and other exciting sites like the Missouri Botanical Gardens and the quirky City Museum. Families will also enjoy the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station.

St. Louis has several great restaurants, including Lona Lil Eats, the International NDO Balkan Treat Box, and Olive + Oak. The city also offers a variety of hotel options, from approachable to luxurious.

There are various places to stay in St. Louis, Missouri, including the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, The Ritz-Carlton, Saint Louis, and The Westin St. Louis. These hotels offer luxurious accommodations coupled with a range of amenities and services.

See Related: Things to Do in St. Charles, Missouri

18. Memphis, Tennessee

Known as the birthplace of rock and roll, Memphis is a must-see destination for music lovers of all types. Beale Street is where you can experience the best Memphis music, from blues to gospel and soul.

In addition to great music, Memphis is also home to the National Civil Rights Museum, which tells the story of the American civil rights movement. Peabody Hotel is a great place to stay in Memphis if you want to see the famous ducks in the lobby.

See Related: Best Raod Trips in the USA

19. Marianna and Helena, Arkansas

Marianna and Helena, Arkansas, are charming towns near the Mississippi River. These towns offer kayaking, camping, fishing, and walking opportunities at the state park. You can also find Delta barbecue at Marianna’s award-winning Jones Bar & Cheddar Diner.

The historic port town of Helena is approximately 10 miles north of Marianna and is the only township along the Great River between Memphis and Vicksburg. There are spectacular riverfront views and legendary annual blues festivals in Helena.

There are a few decent places to stay in Marianna, Arkansas. Some of the best places include the Hampton Inn and Suites, the Comfort Inn, and the Holiday Inn Express.

These hotels offer great amenities like free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and outdoor pools. They’re also conveniently located close to the best attractions in town.

20. Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez is a beautiful town known for its antebellum architecture, famous throughout Mississippi. There are many historic sights to see in Natchez, and it is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about American history.

There are also some great restaurants and hotels in Natchez, and the people who live there are amicable and welcoming. When visiting Natchez, there are a few great places to stay.

The Natchez Grand Hotel and Hampton Inn and Suites Natchez are great options. Both offer comfortable rooms and excellent service and are within walking distance of the town’s main attractions.

21. Baton Rouge, LA

When taking a Great River Road road trip, you can’t miss a stop in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as this historic city is located at the mouth of the river and has amazing sights and attractions.

One top attraction in Baton Rouge is the USS Kidd Museum, a naval museum dedicated to the USS Kidd, a World War II destroyer that saw action in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The exhibition center features interactive exhibits, audio-visual presentations, and over 20 restored naval vessels.

Also, the Capitol Building is a great landmark to visit. This beautiful Beaux-Arts building is home to the Louisiana state government and features stunning architecture and artwork. Guided tours are available and include stops in the House and Senate chambers and the Governor’s ceremonial office.

When traveling on Great River Road, one of the best things you can do is stay in fantastic towns and cities that dot the route. Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is an excellent example of a town with plenty to offer travelers. Here are our picks for the best places to stay in Baton Rouge:

• The Hampton Inn & Suites Baton Rouge Downtown: This centrally located hotel is perfect for anyone who wants to be close to all the action in Baton Rouge. The Hampton Inn offers free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, and a pool and fitness center.
• L’Auberge Casino & Hotel: This luxurious casino and hotel is located on the banks of the river and offers the finest in Louisiana hospitality. The hotel features rooms with river views, free WiFi, and access to the casino’s non-stop action.
• Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge: This eco-friendly boutique hotel offers affordable accommodations for travelers exploring Baton Rouge. It has a rooftop deck, pool, and fitness center.

22. New Orleans, LA

What’s the completion of a river road trip along the Mississippi River if you don’t finish at the endpoint? The Crescent City is one of the most popular destinations in the United States, and for good reason.

From the French Quarter to Jackson Square to the French Quarter, New Orleans is oozing with culture. There are plenty of options for finding a place to stay in New Orleans.

The Windsor Court is a great luxury hotel in the Central Business District, offering guests rooms with fantastic city panoramas.

If you want a charming, historic option, the Hotel Monteleone is a great choice. This hotel, located in the French Quarter, has operated since 1886. It features winding staircases, wrought-iron balconies, and marble floors.

The Monteleone sits a short walk from most of the French Quarter dining scene, which is the real argument for staying inside the Quarter.

See Related: Do You Need a Rental Car in New Orleans

FAQ

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