Upper Mississippi River Map Travel Guide

Introduction

The Upper Mississippi River Map is a stunning region that stretches from Minnesota to Missouri. This area of the country is rich in natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, or cultural immersion, the Upper Mississippi River Map has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more.

Top Attractions

Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa, is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Upper Mississippi River Map. This museum and aquarium offer a fascinating look at the history, culture, and ecology of the Mississippi River. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, see live animals, and learn about the importance of this great river.

Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, is an iconic symbol of the American West and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Upper Mississippi River Map. This stunning monument offers breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River. Visitors can ride to the top of the arch and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Hidden Gems

Effigy Mounds National Monument

The Effigy Mounds National Monument in Harpers Ferry, Iowa, is a hidden gem that is worth a visit. This national monument features more than 200 prehistoric mounds, including animal-shaped effigies. Visitors can explore the trails and learn about the Native American cultures that created these fascinating structures.

Lock and Dam No. 1

Lock and Dam No. 1 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a hidden gem that is worth a visit. This lock and dam system is a marvel of engineering and offers a fascinating look at the importance of the Mississippi River to commerce and transportation in the region. Visitors can watch as boats and barges pass through the lock system.

Food Scene

Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a must-try when visiting the Upper Mississippi River Map. This delicious pizza features a thick crust, hearty tomato sauce, and plenty of cheese and toppings. Some of the best places to try deep dish pizza include Giordano’s in Chicago and Pizza Luce in Minneapolis.

Barbecue

Barbecue is another must-try when visiting the Upper Mississippi River Map. This region is known for its delicious barbecue, which is slow-cooked over wood and served with a variety of sauces. Some of the best places to try barbecue include Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis and Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que in Kansas City.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Many museums in the Upper Mississippi River Map are free or offer discounted admission on certain days. This is a great way to save money and still experience the culture and history of the region. Some of the free museums include the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the St. Louis Art Museum.

State Parks

The state parks in the Upper Mississippi River Map offer a variety of outdoor activities and are a great way to enjoy nature without spending a lot of money. Many of the state parks offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites. Some of the best state parks include Itasca State Park in Minnesota and Pere Marquette State Park in Illinois.

Outdoor Adventures

Canoeing and Kayaking

The Mississippi River and its tributaries offer some of the best canoeing and kayaking opportunities in the country. Visitors can paddle through scenic waterways and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Some of the best places to go canoeing and kayaking include the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota and the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri.

Hiking

The Upper Mississippi River Map is home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. Visitors can explore scenic vistas, waterfalls, and forests. Some of the best hiking trails include the Superior Hiking Trail in Minnesota and the Ozark Highlands Trail in Arkansas.

Family-Friendly Activities

Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a must-visit attraction for families visiting the Upper Mississippi River Map. This museum offers interactive exhibits and activities that are designed to engage and educate children. Some of the highlights include the Dinosphere exhibit and the SpaceQuest Planetarium.

City Museum

The City Museum in St. Louis, Missouri, is a unique and fun attraction for families. This museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, including a 10-story slide and a giant hamster wheel. Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring this one-of-a-kind museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in Hannibal, Missouri, is a unique and fascinating attraction that is worth a visit. This museum offers a look at the life and work of one of America’s most beloved authors. Visitors can explore the boyhood home of Mark Twain and see artifacts related to his life and career.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, is a hidden gem that is worth a visit. This museum offers a stunning collection of American art, including works by Norman Rockwell, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Andy Warhol. Visitors can explore the galleries and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the museum’s grounds.

Natural Wonders

Great River Bluffs State Park

Great River Bluffs State Park in Winona, Minnesota, offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. Visitors can hike the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. This park is also a great place for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is home to the world’s longest known cave system. Visitors can explore the caves and see stunning rock formations, underground rivers, and unique wildlife. This park also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and horseback riding.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Loop

The Loop in St. Louis, Missouri, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy live music, comedy shows, and theater performances. Some of the best places to visit in The Loop include Blueberry Hill and The Pageant.

North Loop

The North Loop in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a trendy and lively neighborhood that is known for its nightlife. Visitors can enjoy craft cocktails, local beer, and live music. Some of the best places to visit in the North Loop include Marvel Bar and First Avenue.

Local Markets

Minneapolis Farmers Market

The Minneapolis Farmers Market is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking for fresh produce and local goods. This market offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other products from local farmers and artisans. Visitors can also enjoy food trucks and live music.

Soulard Farmers Market

The Soulard Farmers Market in St. Louis, Missouri, is a historic market that has been in operation since 1779. This market offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and other goods from local farmers and vendors. Visitors can also enjoy live music and other entertainment.

Beaches and Mountains

Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin, is a stunning park that offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can swim in the lake, hike the trails, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This park is also a great place for rock climbing and birdwatching.

Ozark National Forest

The Ozark National Forest in Arkansas offers stunning mountain scenery and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike the trails, fish in the rivers, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This forest is also a great place for camping and wildlife viewing.

Cultural Immersion

The Gateway to the West

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, is a symbol of the American West and a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition, the fur trade, and the exploration of the West.

The Minneapolis Institute of Art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art is a world-class museum that offers a wide variety of art from around the world. Visitors can see works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso, among others. This museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events.

Art and Music Scene

The Walker Art Center

The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a world-renowned contemporary art