In today’s world, there are fifty US states and many of them can be found on both sides of the Mississippi River. This majestic water source separates the US geographically in two sections, east and west. One of the most important rivers in the world, the Mississippi River stretches across the US, covering ten states. These states are known to have some of the most spectacular attractions and they also offer abundant recreational activities. It is important to understand what these states are and what they offer.
The ten states that are situated west of the Mississippi River are Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Wyoming. Each state has its unique characteristics and most are known for some spectacular natural attractions. Arkansas’ natural beauty has made it a popular destination for its famous Hot Springs National Park. The many outdoor activities that can be experienced in Louisiana, from fishing and hunting to camping and wildlife watching, draw people from all over the world. Mississippi is known for its beautiful golf courses, beaches and its rich cultural heritage. Minnesota is a nature-lover’s paradise, while Iowa is well-known for its farmlands, rivers and rolling hills. Missouri is home to the Ozark Mountains, which are the perfect destination for outdoor adventure. North Dakota is known for its Badlands and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. South Dakota is home to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore National Monument. Montana’s Glacier National Park and Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park are both renowned for their magnificent natural beauty.
Visitors and residents of these states can experience all the pleasure of outdoor activities. With the many lakes, rivers, forests and prairies, the ten states offer a wide variety of recreational activities such as fishing, rafting, kayaking, biking and hiking. There are also plenty of indoor activities, including music and theatre performances, museums, spas and shopping. Additionally, all of the states nourish vibrant and culturally inspired cities, from New Orleans, LA to Little Rock, AR.
Real estate is another popular activity for those living in the states west of the Mississippi River. The ten states all show promising potential for healthy home appreciation rates and rental markets. Since the area has some of the most magnificent landscapes in the US, investors and developers often seek out properties in these states and their capital cities. As the economy improves and tourism continues to attract more visitors, these states are sure to see their real estate markets soar.
Although these states are often overlooked in comparison to coastal regions, they provide a unique and thoroughly enjoyable experience. Whether you are looking for outdoor activities or cities to explore, the ten states west of the Mississippi River offer something for everyone. From outdoor adventure to breathtaking sights, these states have a lot to offer and it is important to appreciate their special characteristics.
Agricultural and Livestock Industries
The ten states situated west of the Mississippi River play an important role in the US agricultural sector. They have long been a deep well of agricultural resources, with thousands of acres of arable land, numerous livestock, and some of the most abundant natural fauna and flora. Arkansas is the most agriculturally productive state of those situated west of the river, with cotton, soybeans and rice as the major crops. Louisiana is known for its various aquatic farming, such as shrimping and oyster farming. Mississippi is the country’s top producer of broiler chicken. Iowa and Missouri both boast huge farming industries in pork, grains, corn and soybeans. North and South Dakota produce strong exports of wheat and soybeans, where Montana’s top crop is wheat and it is also known for its timber and livestock production. Last but not least Wyoming’s main agricultural products are hay, wool and beef.
These states also play a major role in the US livestock industry. Arkansas is a major poultry producer, with the state’s top livestock being broilers and its second most important being cattle. Louisiana’s top livestock are cattle and hogs, while Mississippi has hogs and poultry as its main animals. Iowa is the nation’s leading producer of hogs, while Missouri boasts hogs, poultry and cattle. North and South Dakota are evidently big on cattle, with the latter also producing lambs and sheep. Wyoming is known for its bison, cattle and horses.
Economic Considerations
The GDP of the states west of the Mississippi River is strong. Arkansas, the smallest of the ten states, has a GDP of $142.3 billion annually. Louisiana contributes $260.3 billion in GDP to the US and its top industries are transportation and logistics, energy, tourism and construction. Mississippi contributes $97.6 billion to the US economy and its biggest industry is manufacturing. Minnesota is a leader in advanced manufacturing and is also an IT and medical technology hub. Iowa contributes $183 billion to the US economy and its automotive and energy industries are the most significant. Missouri’s top industries are aircraft manufacturing, aerospace engineering and biotechnology and it contributes $302 billion to the US GDP. North and South Dakota contribute $44 billion and $44.6 billion respectively and both benefit from their agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Montana’s GDP is $45.4 billion and its top industries are timber and tourism, while Wyoming’s principal industries are energy and tourism and it adds $37.7 billion to the US GDP.
Cultural Capital
The ten states situated west of the Mississippi River are home to many creative and innovative people. Arkansas, for example, is famous for its rich literary and musical heritage, with jazz and the blues being prominent influences. Notable cultural figures from Arkansas include artists such as Memphis Minnie, Willie Dixon and Lonnie Johnson, who have all been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. Louisiana is known for its lively Mardi Gras celebrations, while Mississippi has its historic blues, gospel and jazz traditions. Minnesota is well-known for the folk music of its beloved Singer/Songwriter, Bob Dylan. Iowa’s most famous cultural figure would be actress and philanthropist, Sally Field. Missouri is the birthplace of many prominent authors such as T.S. Eliot, William S. Burroughs and Harper Lee. North and South Dakota have both seen their share of prominent figures, with North Dakota being the birthplace of musicians Lawrence Welk and Krista Detor, and South Dakota being home to songwriter, musician and composer Laura Ingalls Wilder. Montana’s famous cultural figure is actress, singer and songwriter Danni Levy, and Wyoming has produced many fine writers and musicians such as poet Kash Schnack and musician, Eddie Junks.
Outdoor Activities
The ten states situated west of the Mississippi River are especially known for their incredible outdoor activities and natural attractions. Arkansas is a paradise for outdoor adventurers, with its abundance of trails, lakes, parks and historic sites. Louisiana is the ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts, with its wild swamps, coastal marshes and fishing spots. Mississippi is known for boating, fishing and hunting, while Minnesota offers great skiing and snowboarding opportunities and many lakeside camping sites. Iowa is great for mountain biking and horseback riding, Missouri offers canoeing, rafting and ziplining, and North and South Dakota both boast beautiful mountain and national parks which are great for all kinds of outdoor activities. Lastly, Montana is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding resorts, while Wyoming is the perfect destination for fishing, hiking and camping.
Climate Considerations
The ten states situated west of the Mississippi River have very diverse climates, which can be attributed to the variety of landscapes that each state has to offer. Arkansas enjoys a sunny, albeit humid climate, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. Louisiana has why what is known as a “subtropical climate”, where the summers are usually hot and humid while the winter months can be mild. Mississippi has what is called a “temperate humid subtropical” climate, meaning that the summers are hot, humid and rainy and the winters are cool and dry. Minnesota has a continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. Iowa is known for its warm and humid summers, snowy winters and heavy spring rain. Missouri has a humid, continental climate, meaning that the summers are hot and humid and the winters are cold and snowy. North and South Dakota both have a continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers, while Montana’s climate is typified by high mountains, warm summers and cold winters. Wyoming is considered one of the most mountainous states in the US and it is known for its hot summers, cold winters and heavy snowfall.
Tourism & Recreation
The ten states west of the Mississippi River all have countless attractions and activities to offer visitors and locals alike. Arkansas is popular for its outstanding state parks and hiking trails, while Louisiana is a tourist’s paradise due to its remarkable cultural heritage and cities such as New Orleans. Mississippi is a great destination for sports fans, with several professional teams and the Biloxi Shrimp Festival. Minnesota’s stunning natural beauty is a draw for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities. Iowa is known for its charming cities and famous farmlands, while Missouri offers sweeping plains, rivers and woodland activities. North and South Dakota both have a unique culture and charm that are truly unique. Last but not least, Montana and Wyoming are two of the most beautiful states in the US and offer some of the most incredible adventures and activities for visitors.
