Great River Road
United States
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River through ten states, linking river towns, levee roads, historic downtowns, and wide floodplain scenery. Drive from Itasca State Park in Minnesota to the Gulf coast at Venice, Louisiana for a classic American road trip rich in birdlife, steamboat history, and changing river landscapes.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Itasca State Park
Stand at the headwaters of the Mississippi and step across the first shallow stones. Pine forest and lake country set the tone for the route.
- Grand Rapids
A classic North Woods river town with mills, trails, and easy lake access. It is a good place to pause before the river widens.
- Dubuque
Bluffs rise over the river and the old downtown still feels tied to steamboat days. Museums and river views make this a strong Midwestern stop.
- St. Louis
The riverfront turns urban here, with the Gateway Arch marking the meeting of history and skyline. It is one of the route's most iconic city stops.
- Cairo
At the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio, the landscape feels broad and watery. Levees and low floodplain views define this quiet river junction.
- Memphis
Music, barbecue, and river history give Memphis major road trip energy. The levee and downtown river views add a strong Mississippi feel.
- Vicksburg National Military Park
This hilltop battlefield overlooks the river bends and tells one of the route's deepest history stories. Monuments, roads, and earthworks spread across the park.
- Natchez
Natchez sits high above the river with graceful old homes and long bluff views. It is one of the most scenic towns on the lower Mississippi.
- Baton Rouge
The riverfront grows more industrial and southern as you approach Louisiana's capital. Waterfront paths and historic streets keep the stop lively.
- Venice
The road ends where the Mississippi breaks into marsh, delta channels, and open Gulf air. It feels remote, wild, and unmistakably river-born.
Where to Eat
- The Local BlendCafe
A reliable stop for coffee, sandwiches, and a relaxed small-town break in the North Woods. Good for an easy meal before or after Itasca.
- Mullarkey's Irish PubPub food
A casual downtown option with hearty plates and a river-town atmosphere. It works well for a simple dinner in Dubuque.
- Pappy's SmokehouseBarbecue
A famous St. Louis barbecue stop for ribs and smoked meat. Expect a line, but the payoff is a classic roadside-worthy meal.
- Central BBQBarbecue
A Memphis staple for pulled pork, ribs, and dry-rub flavor. It is a strong lunch stop while exploring the city's music district.
- The Chicken on the BoneSouthern
A local favorite in Baton Rouge for fried chicken and Southern plates. It makes an easy, satisfying stop near the river.
Things to Do
- Itasca State Park Headwaters TrailNature walk
Walk the short trail to the Mississippi headwaters and cross the river on stepping stones. It is the most symbolic stop on the whole route.
- National Mississippi River Museum & AquariumMuseum
Explore river ecology, boats, and the history of life on the Mississippi. The exhibits give useful context for the entire drive.
- Gateway ArchLandmark
Ride to the top for sweeping views over St. Louis and the river. The monument is a must-see symbol of the route.
- Vicksburg National Military ParkHistoric site
Drive the battlefield loop and stop at the overlooks and monuments. The park pairs Civil War history with dramatic river scenery.
- Old River Road DriveScenic drive
Follow a levee road or riverfront stretch for classic floodplain views and big skies. This is where the Great River Road feels most open and unhurried.