Overview
The Mississippi River is a powerful river that runs for more than 2,000 miles, connecting about two-dozen US states. One of its main characteristics is that it has a winding path, moving through multiple states along its journey. Its drainage basin covers more than one million square miles, making it the fourth-largest drainage basin in the world.
The river starts in Minnesota and flows south, bending, twisting and eventually emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. Along its path, there are several major cities. Some examples of these cities are Memphis, Nashville, St. Louis, St. Paul, Minneapolis and New Orleans. This article will take a closer look at these and other unique cities along the Mississippi River.
Memphis
Memphis is the largest city in Tennessee, located on the Mississippi River. It is known for its rich music culture and is the home of such famous musicians as Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin. There is a thriving music scene here, with many venues ranging from the blues of Beale Street to modern-day rock concerts. The National Civil Rights Museum is also here; visitors can take a sobering tour of the museum that marks the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination.
In addition to its music and museums, Memphis is also known for its delicious barbecue cuisine. Some of the most popular places to eat are Central BBQ, the Rendezvous and Gus’ Fried Chicken. Outside of downtown, families and visitors can enjoy beautiful parks, lakes, and golf courses. With its diverse culture and attractions, Memphis is an inviting destination for anyone interested in exploring along the banks of the Mississippi.
Nashville
Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and located only an hour north of Memphis. It is known for its country music and southern hospitality, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US. Visitors can go to iconic country music venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The Country Music Awards are held here every year and garner much interest from both locals and tourists alike.
In addition to its music culture, Nashville is home to many museums, art galleries, and historical monuments. There is something to explore around every corner in this vibrant city, making it a must-see for anyone passing through the Mississippi River corridor. From modern-day music venues to centuries-old monuments, Nashville is the perfect spot for an adventurous vacation.
St. Louis
St. Louis is located on the western banks of the Mississippi River in Missouri. The city, nicknamed the “Gateway to the West,” is known as the capital of the Midwest. There are many landmarks in St. Louis that pay homage to its rich history, such as the Gateway Arch and the Museum of Westward Expansion. The city is also known for its sports teams, including the Cardinals, Blues and Rams.
St. Louis also has a vibrant culture and entertainment scene. Families can enjoy a day at the St. Louis Zoo or the Missouri Botanical Garden. The Fox Theatre is another popular attraction that features musicals and concerts. Visitors can also explore the area’s breweries and try some of the city’s delicious food.
St. Paul
St. Paul is the capital of Minnesota and located right on the Mississippi River. It is often overshadowed by its twin city, Minneapolis, but it is known for its culture, history, and vibrant energy. Visiting the area includes exploring its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Whether it’s taking a walking tour of downtown or exploring the art galleries in Lowertown, there is plenty to do in St. Paul.
St. Paul is known for its outdoor activities, such as fishing and boating on the Mississippi River. Visitors can also explore its diverse parks and trails, such as Como Park Zoo and Conservatory and the Science Museum of Minnesota. With its combination of history and modern amenities, St. Paul is the perfect spot to explore along the Mississippi River.
Minneapolis
Minneapolis is located on both sides of the Mississippi River in Minnesota. It is known for its cultural attractions, vibrant music scene, and renowned restaurants. The city has several top-notch art galleries and museums, as well as a variety of theaters, live shows and comedy clubs. The Guthrie Theater is the most famous theater here and is the site of some of the most notable theatrical productions.
Minneapolis is also a great place to explore the outdoors. It has more than 20 lakes and numerous parks, biking and walking trails. Visitors can take a boat tour along the Mississippi River or rent a bike and take advantage of the city’s extensive bike trails. Minneapolis also offers many unique restaurants, including some of the best pizza in the US. With its mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food, Minneapolis is a great spot for anyone looking to explore a city along the Mississippi River.
New Orleans
New Orleans is located at the mouth of the Mississippi River and is the cultural capital of the Southeast. It is known for its rich history, culture, and music. The city’s main attractions include the French Quarter, the National WWII Museum, and the world-famous Mardi Gras festival. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of live music venues and dance clubs, such as Jazz Stop and Rebirth Brass Band.
New Orleans is also famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Visitors will find Creole, Cajun and soul food restaurants around every corner. Some of the most famous restaurants are Cafe du Monde, Camellia Grill and Cochon. The city has parks for visitors to enjoy, such as City Park and Audubon Park, as well as local and national monuments. With its mix of culture and cuisine, New Orleans is a must-see destination for anyone exploring the Mississippi River.
Environmental Impacts
The Mississippi River is one of the most important waterways in the US, but over the years, it has been subject to numerous environmental issues. Some of the main problems include pollution, lack of vegetation, and fish and wildlife degradation.
The pollution of the Mississippi River is caused by various sources, such as runoff from agricultural lands, wastewater discharge, and industrial chemicals. To counteract this, several organizations have been created to help restore and maintain the river’s ecosystem. Examples of this include The Nature Conservancy, the Freshwater Trust and the Mississippi River Network.
Other environmental issues include the lack of vegetation along the banks of the river, which can affect the river’s water quality. To help remediate this, numerous organizations and municipalities have created environmental initiatives to help restore native vegetation. The Mississippi River is also vulnerable to drought and flooding, which can affect the local ecosystems, wildlife and habitats.
Economic Impact
The Mississippi River has long been an important transportation hub for many US cities located along its path. Over the years, it has been a source of vital resources such as wood and food. It has also been responsible for the growth and development of many of these towns.
The city of New Orleans was a major port city during the colonial times and was the distribution hub for much of the US economy. Today, the Mississippi River remains an important waterway for many businesses, including trade, shipping and transportation. In addition, tourism is a major industry along the river. The cities of Memphis and Nashville are popular destinations due to their vibrant music and cultural scenes.
The Mississippi River also plays an important role in the economy of many of the states it runs through. It provides hydroelectric power, recreational opportunities, and flood control. In addition, the river is host to a variety of fish and wildlife, which provide jobs for many people in the industry.
Conservation Issues
The Mississippi River is an incredibly important waterway, but it is also subject to numerous conservation issues. One of the main concerns is the increasing levels of nitrates and phosphates in the river, which can have a deleterious effect on the surrounding ecosystem. Another major issue is the impact of climate change on the river’s water levels, which can cause flooding and endanger wildlife in the area.
To address these issues, many organizations have been created to help preserve and protect the river, as well as its ecosystems and wildlife. Examples of these groups include the Friends of the Mississippi River, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Great Rivers Conservation Network. Additionally, several states have implemented conservation initiatives such as the Mississippi River Conservation Plan and the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.
These organizations and initiatives are dedicated to helping protect and restore the river’s ecosystems, wildlife, and water quality. By addressing the conservation issues impacting the Mississippi River, these groups are working towards a healthier and more sustainable future for ourselves and the planet.
