An Unforgettable View of the Mississippi River
Venturing down the majestic Mississippi River is an unforgettable experience that every adventurous traveler should consider doing in their lifetime. Boasting endless bodies of water, wandering nature trails and pristine views, it is no surprise that the Mississippi River is the second-longest river in North America and a great site to explore.
Filled with plenty of opportunities for exploration, there are many must-see locations that are easily accessible if you choose to go by boat, kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or other vessel. There are a variety of communities to observe that provide great insight into the culture of the river, as well as a range of activities to participate in if you visit. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced traveler, the Mississippi River has something to offer everyone.
If you’re looking for awe-inspiring sights, take a trip to the Twin Cities to witness twin bridges spanning across the river. This iconic view of downtown Minneapolis and downtown Saint Paul is quite breathtaking. Spend the day viewing wildlife and the 24 locks and dams that provide abundant opportunities for some stunning photographs.
What about swimming in the Mississippi River? Despite its size, adventure seekers can find many coves, inlets and beaches to explore and take a refreshing dip in the water. Many parts are even suitable for scuba diving. Keep an eye out for jellyfish as you swim as they are seen quite frequently in the river. If you’re an experienced fisher, take advantage of local fishing spots along the Mississippi River to catch some tasty bass, catfish or walleye.
Of course, no traveler should miss a visit to the mighty Mississippi’s mighty historical cities. Discover a piece of history in Natchez, stay at the famous Cole Porter House in New Orleans or view the powdery white beaches in Gulfport. With so many historical cities situated along the Mississippi River, visitors have endless opportunities to explore, discover new cultures and indulge in never-ending attractions.
The Mississippi River offers an amazing opportunity to travel, explore and relax with nature. Whether you want to take a dip in the tranquil water or want to explore local cultural heritage, it is definitely worth your time to make a trip down the Mississippi River.
Tasty Treats Along The Way
During your river cruise along the Mississippi River, you will be met with a seemingly endless array of unique flavors. The region is home to some of the most delicious cuisine in the country. Each stop will provide an unforgettable gastronomic adventure with tastes inspired by the local culture.
If you traverse the waters near the Twin Cities, you should consider a meal at Pancho Villa. This Mexican-American restaurant is one of the most popular eateries in the area and serves a wide variety of classic dishes. Enjoy a hearty plate of tacos and vibrant Elote, a Mexican street corn.
Heading towards New Orleans? Be sure to try the famous Cajun and Creole cuisines. Sample delicious flavors of crawfish gumbo, oyster po-boy or traditional jambalaya. If you want the freshest seafood of the river, check out Cochon Butcher for a unique gastronomic experience. The Sausage Po’boy is a must-try in this region.
As you make your way further south, you will find the Gulf Coast where Southern BBQ is the star of the meal. An absolute must-try is the famed Mississippi-Style BBQ. Tangy, smoky and sweet, it is truly a treat to experience. Some of the best places to indulge in this delicacy include the Shed BBQ and Blues Joint or Old School BBQ.
Dive into the amazing Mediterranean cuisines in the area. Persian delicacies like dolma and Persian Chai provide an added flavor to the typical French-Creole cuisines. Levant is a great restaurant that offers an excellent range of Middle Eastern dishes, from Baba Ganoush to Shawarma.
No trip down the Mississippi River is complete without enjoying local seafood dishes, unique BBQ flavors, and vibrant and unexplored tastes from around the world. There is something for every taste and dietary preference along the mighty Mississippi River.
Adventures Beyond the Riverbanks
The Mississippi River is packed full of amazing and diverse activities that tempt adventure seekers of all levels. From thrilling boat tours to scenic hikes through the trees, you will find something that suits your interests.
Adventure-enthusiasts will love the range of outdoor activities available near the Mississippi River. Get your adrenaline pumping and enjoy a thrilling kayak or canoe to explore the river. You will find many areas along the river with a variety of locations to put in your boat. Bring the necessary supplies with you and make sure to take plenty of photos along the way to capture the beauty of the river.
The oxygen-filled air will get you in the mood for some hiking. Spend some time in the trees on one of the many trail networks around the region. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ramble or an easier level route, the Mississippi has it all. Take the Grand Rounds tour in Minneapolis, the Oaks Trail near Natchez, the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, and many more.
In the mood for some cultural exploration? Then head over to the many museums located near the Mississippi River. Take a tour through the architectural marvels in New Orleans, appreciate the African-American history represented by blues music in the Delta or dive into the 19th-century history at Vicksburg. A day spent indulging in culture is a great addition to your Mississippi cruise.
The possibilities to explore outside of the riverbanks are seemingly endless. An adventure along the Mississippi River is sure to ignite your creativity, inspire you and leave you with a lasting impression.
Great Places to Stay
If you’re looking for an unforgettable river cruise, the Mississippi River can offer you plenty of accommodation options. From cozy cabins to luxurious resorts, there are accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences.
For a rustic and bohemian feel, opt for a cabin stay. Cool Woods Cabins provides a great opportunity to explore the tranquility of the area by providing intimate cabin experiences near the water. If you are on a budget, there are many camping sites available in the area, such as the Kampgrounds of America near Memphis or the St. Croix State Park.
These options are also perfect for travelers looking to commune with nature and get back to basics. If you are looking to take a luxurious cruise, there are also some great cruise lines and resorts to choose from. The Good Sam RV Resorts provide luxury cruises and resorts along the river with 5-star amenities. The American Queen Steamboat Company also offers some great cruises with an array of modern amenities.
Of course, there are plenty of hotels and inns to choose from too. Stay at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort located in Phoenix, the Radisson in Little Rock or the Union Hotel in Natchez. These establishments provide comfortable accommodation and a great starting point for your Mississippi River adventure.
No matter what type of accommodation you choose, a stay along the Mississippi River is bound to be a surreal experience.
Fun for the Whole Family
Visiting the Mississippi River offers families a chance to make memories and enjoy activities together. Many attractions are located nearby the river and make for a great day out with the kids. If you’re looking to take a break from the river, a visit to the renowned Memphis Zoo is sure to keep the children entertained. Anyone of any age is sure to enjoy the educational animal shows, thrilling rides and educational attractions.
For a bit of culture and some fun for the whole family, make a trip to the Mississippi Children’s Museum. The Kids Town exhibit provides interactive and exciting displays for kids of all ages. Don’t forget to check out the live shows, featuring notable guest performers from all over the country.
Another great activity that children are sure to enjoy is a visit to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. This facility offers children an amazing opportunity to explore the natural world. From the Animal Discovery Room to the Nature Pavilions, kids (and adults!) can explore different environments and appreciate the world’s natural beauty.
Heading further down the river, kids can enjoy an aquatic adventure at the Splashwater Bay Waterpark. This vibrant park provides a wide variety of fun and educational activities. Grab some inner tubes and take a ride on the rapids or race to the bottom of the four-story speed slides.
No matter what your family is into, the Mississippi River offers plenty of exciting attractions for all.
Event Opportunities
The Mississippi River is rich in culture, the locals are bustling with energy, and plenty of fun events take place along the river all year long. Whether you’re a music lover or an art connoisseur, you will find many events to experience along the river.
The world-renown Jazz and Heritage festival is an absolute must-see. Held in New Orleans every year in April, Jazz Fest is a seven-day celebration of the city’s culture and the music of the area. The South is also home to plenty of blues music festivals, such as the Delta Blues Festival and the Mississippi Delta Blues Festival.
Culture vultures can enjoy the Paul G. Allen Great American Bagel and Biscuit Bake-Off in Hollywood, Mississippi. Taste the biscuit recipes that have been passed on for generations or simply indulge in some of the most delicious bagels you can find on the Mississipi.
Foodies can also enjoy the Flavors of the Delta, which is held in the summer. Taste the creations of the many local chefs and appreciate their commitment to bring the flavors of the area to life.
Every region has something to offer and the Mississippi River is no exception. If you’re looking to experience culture and take part in some vibrant events, make a trip to the Mississippi River.
