Want to drive one of the best road trip routes in America?
Look no further than the Great River Road. This 2,000-mile route runs alongside the Mississippi River going from Minnesota to Louisiana.ย
Along the way, you’ll see much of America’s heartland, all sorts of cool spots, and plenty of beautiful vistas along the Mighty Mississippi. So, if you have the chance, this is a trip well worth taking.
In this post, we’re going to highlight some of our favorite stops along the Great River Road to help you plan your next trip.ย
Let’s get to it.
Fort Snelling
If you’re starting your road trip in Minnesota, be sure to hit up Fort Snelling. This old Army outpost was built in the early 1800s. Today, you can tour the fort and learn about the history of the are.
Field of Dreams
Ever heard the phrase, “if you build it they will come?” It’s from a famous baseball movie starring Kevin Coster called Field of Dreams. The site where the movie was filmed in Iowa still has the baseball diamond built into a cornfield to visit.
Trail of Tears State Park
Missouri’s Trail of Tears State Park was constructed to cover the sad chapter in US history where thousands of members of the Cherokee tribes were forced to endure a long winter march to relocate to new lands.ย
Galena
There are many quaint and cute river towns along the Mississippi and one not to miss is Galena, Illinois. It’s also home to former President and Civil War General Ulysses S. Grant.
Graceland
While there’s no shortage of things to do (and especially bbq to eat) in Memphis, one really popular attraction is Graceland. This is the estate of Elvis. You can tour his former home and take in various events here too.
Mississippi River State Park
Looking for a place to relax and take in some nature along your drive? Arkansas’ Mississippi River State Park is a perfect spot to do it. You can have a picnic, hike, camp, and kayak throughout the park.ย
Delta Blues Museum
This part of the Great River Road moves swiftly along into blues country. If you’re a fan of this type of music or want to learn more about it, be sure to visit the Delta Blues Museum.
Vicksburg National Military Park
This part of the country saw some of the most important battles of the Civil War. In Mississippi, you can visit Vicksburg National Military Park, which President Lincoln called the key to victory for the Union.ย
New Orleans
For anyone making the full trip down the Great River Road, you can’t beat the city of New Orleans as the destination. There are plenty of things to see and do in the Big Easy from amazing food to jazz and a wander down Bourbon Street.
Regardless of how long you have to explore the Great River Road, a few hours or a few days, be sure to enjoy one of America’s greatest scenic byways.
