St Louis
Often considered to be the Gateway to the West, St. Louis has a unique history and culture that is strongly tied to the mighty Mississippi River. Dating back to 1764, St. Louis is the only major city to have been founded by the French. It played an important role in the development of the West, serving as an important port city and transportation hub throughout the 19th century. Despite its rich history, St. Louis has faced an economic downturn in recent decades, as its downtown remains blighted by urban decay. Nevertheless, St. Louis remains an important capital city on the Mississippi River and a top tourist destination in the Midwest.
St. Louis’ incredible location right on the Mississippi River is one of its most defining features. The city is rich in history and has been a vibrant port town since its earliest days. St. Louis is home to a wide variety of attractions, from busy riverfront cafes to the impressive Gateway Arch. Art aficionados will appreciate the city’s rich cultural offerings, as St. Louis is home to several noteworthy museums and art galleries. Visitors will also get to enjoy the city’s impressive skyline, which stretches for miles and offers unbeatable views of the Mississippi River.
The popularity of St. Louis as a tourist destination has only grown in recent years. Riverboat cruises along the mighty Mississippi provide an incredible experience, as do the many outdoor activities available. The city is also home to numerous shopping and dining opportunities, as well as parks and open green spaces. From the vibrant city streets to the peaceful riverside, St. Louis has something to offer everybody.
Memphis
Situated in the southern part of Tennessee, Memphis is one of the oldest capital cities to rest along the Mississippi River. This city has a rich and vibrant history, having served as an important port since its establishment in the early 19th century. As a major hub for blues and jazz music in the United States, Memphis has a rich but often overlooked cultural heritage and is home to many iconic landmarks, such as Graceland and the National Civil Rights Museum.
Memphis has long been a popular destination for road trips and continues to attract tourists from around the world. The city is known for its deep connection to the Mississippi River, offering wonderful views of the river from the banks of the city. There are a variety of restaurants and bars along the riverfront, providing visitors the opportunity to enjoy the city in a unique and exciting way.
The city has plenty of other attractions as well, from its rich music and culinary heritage to its modern art installations. There are also plenty of parks to explore and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. With its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural legacy, Memphis is a great destination to experience America’s deep south culture and the vibrancy of a city along one of the country’s great rivers.
Vicksburg
Located in the southern part of Mississippi, Vicksburg is a small city full of history and charm. Having stood on the banks of the Mississippi River since its founding in the early 19th century, Vicksburg has witnessed a great deal of history, including the Civil War battle that took place in its very own backyard. Nonetheless, Vicksburg remains an important capital city on the Mississippi River, offering visitors an amazing glimpse into a unique part of American history.
Today, Vicksburg is an increasingly popular tourist destination, offering a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages. Those with an interest in history will love exploring the city’s many war-related sites, from the observation towers to the Vicksburg National Military Park. The city is also home to numerous museums, galleries and other attractions, making it the perfect destination for an educational and inspiring day trip.
Vicksburg is also something of a foodie haven. With its blend of Southern and Cajun cuisine, the city offers an eclectic mix of flavors that is sure to please. There are also several excellent restaurants on the riverfront offering riverfront dining with stunning views of the Mississippi. With its unique history, vibrant nightlife and an array of attractions, Vicksburg is a great destination for those looking for a little slice of the American South.
Baton Rouge
The capital city of Louisiana, Baton Rouge is one of the longest standing capital cities on the Mississippi River. Dating back to its founding in 1699, Baton Rouge has since served as an important port and numerous industries have flourished in the area. A state capital since 1849, Baton Rouge is now home to a vibrant urban center filled with arts, culture and entertainment.
Baton Rouge is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as it has a number of parks, trails and recreational areas along the river. For those looking to explore a little more, the city is home to numerous museums and galleries, along with live music venues and great restaurants. There are also several parks located right on the Mississippi River, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
Those looking for a unique and exciting experience will love Baton Rouge’s Mardi Gras celebrations, which take place each year in February and March. This vibrant event draws in people from all around the world, as it marks the start of the carnival season and all of the festivities that go along with it. From its incredible river views to its fantastic nightlife, Baton Rouge is one of the top capital cities on the Mississippi and should continue to thrive for many years to come.
New Orleans
One of the most iconic capital cities on the Mississippi River, New Orleans has a colorful and vibrant history that needs little introduction. Known as “The Big Easy” this city is famous for its incredibly diverse cultural heritage and the unique twist it puts on old traditions, such as jazz music and Cajun cuisine. New Orleans also holds the distinction of being the only major port in the United States that relies on an artificial irrigation system that was constructed in the 1800s.
For visitors, New Orleans offers a plethora of attractions and activities that make it one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. From its incredible food scene to its unique music, New Orleans has something for everyone. For those looking to dive into the city’s culture, museums, galleries and other attractions offer a great way to explore the city’s past. There are tons of restaurants, bars and nightclubs located on the riverfront, providing visitors with an amazing view of the Mississippi River.
And of course, no visit to New Orleans would be complete without taking inspiration from the city’s vivacious nightlife. World-renowned jazz clubs, dance clubs and other venues keep the city buzzing all night long. There’s something to do in every corner of the city, especially along the riverfront. With its amazing sights, sounds and tastes, New Orleans is one of the most captivating cities on the Mississippi River.
Minneapolis-St. Paul
Separated by the Mississippi River and linked by six bridges, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are among the most iconic capital cities to rest along the Mississippi. Both cities have a lot to offer tourists and a vibrant culture steeped in diversity. Minneapolis-St. Paul is known for its top-notch restaurants and its vibrant music scene, its ample shopping opportunities and its spectacular parks. The lively downtown districts offer an abundance of activities and attractions, from the extensive art galleries and museums to the unique cultural events that take place throughout the year.
Minneapolis-St. Paul also offers a great way to explore the Mississippi with its network of trails, parks and recreation areas that line the banks of the river. The city’s vibrant cultural life is on full display along the shores of the Mississippi, from the lively cafes to the busy ports. The region also boasts one of the longest recreational waterways in the United States, and there are tons of opportunities to enjoy the river’s pristine beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
From its lively downtowns to its undisturbed nature, Minneapolis-St. Paul is a great city to explore. With so much to do and explore, the Twin Cities are incredibly popular with tourists and residents alike. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience along the Mississippi, Minneapolis-St. Paul is a great place to start.
Natchez
Natchez is one of the oldest cities to rest on the banks of the Mississippi River and its unique culture and history reflect thousands of years of storytelling and legends. Established in 1716, Natchez was once the site of a major antebellum port and was frequented by traders, merchants and settlers from all parts of the country. The city has since seen its population decline, but it still maintains its distinct character and is home to an impressive array of historic sites and attractions.
From the picturesque city parks to the stunning riverfront views, Natchez offers plenty to do and see. Visitors can explore the numerous antebellum mansions, or take a ride on the Mississippi Queen, one of the oldest riverboat cruise ships in the United States. The city is also home to numerous museums, art galleries and other attractions, making it the perfect place for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Those looking for a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life will appreciate Natchez’s peaceful setting, with its graceful nature and leisurely pace. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from fishing, kayaking and other water sports to hiking, biking and camping. With its abundance of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Natchez is a truly special destination along the Mississippi River.
