Why Visit the Mississippi River
It’s not hard to realize why the Mississippi River is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. The winding, 2,340-mile-long waterway, the fourth-longest river in the world, drains 1.2 million square miles of lands situated in the middle of the United States. As it reaches the Gulf of Mexico, it collects and transports the fresh, earthy taste of the heartland.
The Mississippi River has an extraordinary history and culture. The Native American Tribes, who initially lived along the river basins, relied heavily on it for food and transportation. European journeyers, lured by the potential for trading, also saw it as a means of navigating and developing this wilderness. Eventually, the Mississippi River emerged as the continent’s largest and most reliable route for water transportation.
Today, the Mississippi River is bustling with tourists who come for the sights and experiences it has to offer. From Memphis to Minneapolis, the riverbanks are spanned with restaurants, shopping outlets, galleries, and live music stages. You can hop on a boat tour or take a leisurely stroll to experience the scenic landscape. One of the best views comes along the stretch of the river that connects two states: Minnesota and Mississippi.
Experience a Boat Ride in the Mississippi River
If you’re starting from Rochester, Minnesota, and your ultimate destination is Mississippi, the best way to get there is by boat on the Mississippi River. There’s nothing quite like an up-close boat ride of this iconic American waterway.
The Mississippi River boat tour starts in North Mn, where experienced tour companies take patrons of all ages aboard their vessels. From there, it cruises up the Minnesota River and passes through some of the most scenic natural sights, such as gorgeous bluffs, extravagant wildlife, and lavish shorelines. As the boat winds along the river, passengers delight in the views of the natural-growth forest and wetlands.
During the tour, passengers can learn about the river and the local culture. Along the way, the tour operator, who is experienced in the area and knows the river, shares stories and information about the history and Native American tribes who lived in the area. With a knowledgeable tour guide, you will get to learn about the scenery, from old fishing spots to hidden marinas, making the experience educational, informative, and fun.
Visit Historic Attractions near the Mississippi River
The tour of the Mississippi River affords much more than magnificent natural sights. During the trip, passengers can also explore attractions from historic towns and historic monuments, like the American Indian mounds in southern Minnesota and the riverports of Mississippi.
The beauties of the Minnesota shoreline and bluffs can also be seen from the deck of the boat. It’s here where passengers have the opportunity to learn about the area’s past, which includes Native American stories, army fortifications, the Great Depression, and the growth of steamships and railroads.
Camping and Fishing on the Mississippi River
When the stars come out, camping and fishing offer a unique way of experiencing the river. As part of the tour, you will get the chance to see firsthand the wide array of birdlife and wildlife that call the Mississippi River home.
Camping is permitted at certain areas along the river and demands many of the same amenities necessary for long-term camping. To ensure a pleasant experience, it’s important to plan ahead and learn which areas are safe for camping and have the necessary supplies.
Meanwhile, the combination of trout, bass, and walleye makes the Mississippi River a tempting destination for fishermen. It’s not a bad idea to bring your fishing gear and lure supplies along with you.
Exploring the Delta Region on the Mississippi River
Your Mississippi River boat tour will end with a visit to the Delta region. Here, passengers marvel at the many delta oxbow lakes, which were once part of the riverbed but transitioned over time through a process of erosion, sediment deposition, and other natural forces. Numerous paddling, kayaking, and canoeing trails provide a tranquil retreat to explore the area.
In addition to the natural attractions, the Delta region is home to some of the oldest historic forts and military monuments in the country. During the early 19th century, the US Army constructed Fort Adams and Fort Snelling to protect the local population. These forts still stand at the mouth of the Minnesota River and provide educational tours to visitors.
Taking in the Sights along the Mississippi
The talent and artistry of local bands and musicians can be experienced along the Mississippi River. Every town and village along the river banks has made a unique contribution to the culture, festivals, and arts. Artists strive to capture the spirit of the river in their various display of work.
The Mississippi River is not short of places where one can find antiques, traditional restaurants, and cultural museums. With these attractions, visitors can take their time strolling along the riverfront, admiring the historical buildings, and soaking in the spirit of the Southwest.
Leaving Minnesota by Boat
The best way to get from Rochester to Mississippi, apart from taking a car, is to take a riverboat for the full Mississippi River experience. Riverboats offer the best view of the route and its surrounding sights. This cruise also provides passengers a chance to witness the natural landmarks, festivals, and activities along the way.
When leaving Minnesota, there are multiple routes from Rochester to Mississippi that passes through several fascinating places, such as Saint Paul, Iowa and the Quad Cities in Iowa and Illinois. Some of the options are the Mississippi River, Wisconsin River, Illinois River, and Missouri River, each with its unique set of attractions.
Enjoy the Visit with Experienced Tour Operators
The ideal way to explore the Mississippi River is with experienced tour operators who can offer the best and most safe journey. Not only do they provide comfortable vessel and experienced guides, they also offer a full range of activities such as fishing, camping, boating trips, and cultural tours.
Whether it’s the first time on a boat in the Mississippi River or you are looking for a lifelong journey, it’s important to book a tour with a reliable and experienced operator. This way, tourists can ensure an enjoyable, safe, and entertaining journey.
Traveling by Land and Rail Along the Mississippi River
Riverboats are not the only way to get from Rochester to the Mississippi River. Tourists can also take the scenic route by traveling on highways, roads, and railroads that run along the banks of the river.
By road, you can wind your way through Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri, passing through charming towns, breathtaking riverside attractions, and wildlife-filled rivers. Some of the notable landmarks on route include the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, Pikes Peak State Park, and the world-renowned National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.
If you opt for the rail route, you pass through towns such as La Crosse, Wisconsin and Prairie du Chien, where you can get off, explore the area, and experience the best of what small towns have to offer. The route stretches from Minnesota to New Orleans, so travelers can enjoy the ever-changing views of the river along the way.
Ending the American Road Trip in Mississippi
The American road trip ends with a visit to the Mississippi River. For its finale, the tour presents some of the most remarkable sights and iconic attractions. You can take a break to explore the culture, music, and architecture that defines the deep South.
As you make your way along the river banks, you will pass through many notable cities, such as St. Louis, Little Rock, and Memphis. Each one has a unique culture and a robust music scene. This is the perfect place to end your spiritual sojourn in the Mississippi River.
