Follow the Mississippi River on an epic road trip through the heart of the USA. The river connects vibrant cities from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast, offering unforgettable experiences at every turn. Travel the full route or explore it by section to discover local culture, cuisine, music, recreation, history and classic Americana.

Plan Your River Road Trip

Get to know the distinctive states that make up Mississippi River Country.

Regions States U.S. Territories

  • Southeast

  • Midwest

Major International Airports

Must-Sees Along the Mississippi

Legendary Music Cities

  • Follow neon lights to famous stages, museums and festive venues in the heart of Music City.

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  • Beale Street blues, legendary barbecue and vast green spaces define this soulful city.

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  • Visit the Delta Blues Museum and classic juke joints in the birthplace of the genre.

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Can’t-miss Culture Hubs

  • Savor live jazz, Creole cuisine and the historic charm of the French Quarter.

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  • Experience the world-class arts and global flavors of Minneapolis and St. Paul.

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  • Major festivals, museums and sporting events keep this city buzzing year-round.

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Iconic Americana

  • Spot neon signs, roadside diners and classic attractions along the Mother Road.

  • Trace the King’s cultural legacy from his Tupelo birthplace to his Memphis estate.

  • Road trip to architectural masterpieces across Illinois and Wisconsin.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Discover small towns and natural wonders on this iconic riverside route.

  • Gaze at sandstone cliffs and panoramic views in the Garden of the Gods.

  • Explore America’s largest river basin, home to diverse wildlife and deep-rooted cultures.

Foodie Finds

  • Savor slow-smoked favorites from the Midwest to the Delta on a riverside barbecue tour.

  • Sample artisan cheeses, orchard fruits and seasonal fare in lush Midwestern valleys.

  • Feast on crawfish boils, Gulf oysters and Creole classics by the river’s Southern shores.

History & Heritage Sites

  • Travel a historic route connecting cultural sites and ancient mound landmarks.

  • Soak in mineral-rich waters and mountain vistas at this historic wellness destination.

  • Walk or hop a trolley on 19th-century streets, and visit Ulysses S. Grant’s historic home.

River Country Riches

A family walks across the Mississippi River headwaters at Itasca State Park in northern Minnesota; Credit: Kvidt Creative

Mississippi River Headwaters

Walk across the river’s source at Itasca State Park in northern Minnesota.

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Exploring Mall of America’s Nickelodeon Universe theme park in Bloomington, Minnesota; Credit: Explore Minnesota

Mall of America

Shop, eat and enjoy rides at the USA’s largest shopping and entertainment complex.

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Kayakers paddling near sea caves at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Kayak past sea caves and shipwrecks on Lake Superior’s Wisconsin shore.

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ids run in front of the Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park, Chicago, Illinois; Credit: Illinois Office of Tourism

Chicago Landmarks

Enjoy this lakefront city’s sprawling parks, public art and diverse dining.

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Sampling moonshine in Tennessee

Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Sample Southern whiskey and moonshine at over 30 distillery stops.

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Exterior view of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas; Credit: Arkansas Tourism

Arts in Arkansas

Stroll galleries and gardens at the free Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

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Walking along the Gulf Coast near Biloxi, Mississippi

Mississippi Beaches

Stroll sandy shores, waterfront towns and casinos in Gulfport and Biloxi.

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A family visiting the Backstreet Cultural Museum in New Orleans, Louisiana; Credit: Justen Williams

Louisiana Mardi Gras

Celebrate Mardi Gras year-round, from lively parades to family-friendly museums.

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Trip Ideas & Itineraries

Browse articles featuring the best of Mississippi River Country, from music cities and scenic drives to outdoor adventures and regional flavors.

Where to Try Native American Cuisine in the USA

Unexpected States for Fresh-Air Fun

See Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi by Train: Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service

U.S. Cities That Shaped the Music of the World

Cultural Tour: Experience Broadway Across the USA

From Memphis, Tennessee: Musical Tour of the South

Tennessee Road Trip: From Memphis to the Smokies

Skyline to Summit: Map the Ultimate Colorado Adventure

Native American Cultural Sites in the Southeast

Explore the Great Outdoors with Indigenous Guides 

5 Places for One-of-a Kind Immersive Indigenous Experiences & Shopping

Low, Slow & Delicious: Regional Guide to U.S. Barbecue Styles

6 Iconic U.S. Landmarks Featured on the Silver Screen

Nostalgia And New Experiences On And Around Route 66 In Illinois

Road Trips Where Scenery Meets Culture in the USA

Step Back in Time: Historical & Cultural Highlights of the Eastern USA

Guide to Can’t-Miss U.S. Lakes Perfect for Your Next Summer Adventure

U.S. Spring Break Destinations for the Whole Family

Unforgettable Louisiana Experiences: New Orleans to the Great Outdoors

Where History Meets Adventure: Legendary Museums & Attractions

Engaging Trails Through U.S. History

Southern Rhythms: A Tour of 3 Iconic Music Cities
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Spirit of the South: Bold Flavors and Natural Wonders

Soundtrack of the South: Epic Music Road Trip

Artsy Destinations Across the USA

Must-See U.S. Museum Districts: Art, History & Family Fun

10 Rejuvenating Resorts in the USA

12 State Park Gems in the USA

Luxury Goods: High-End Shopping Districts in the USA

Fresh-Air Fun That’s Kid-Approved

Theme Park Capitals: Play & Stay With the Whole Family

Next-Level Dining: U.S. Foodie Destinations to Put on Your Radar

Heritage-Rich Experiences Across the USA

Honeymoon Your Way: Romantic U.S. Destinations for Your Unique Style

Epic Debuts and Milestone Celebrations Across the USA

Shopping Around the USA: Fabulous Finds from Coast to Coast

Bite into Barbecue at These 6 Great Festivals

Entertainment Epicenters Across the USA
14-21

Explore the Heart of the USA on Route 66

Culture & History in the USA: 10 Must-See Sites

8 Cultural Celebrations That Capture the Spirit of the USA 
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Southern Icons: A Route Rooted in Legends

Taste the USA: 6 Can’t-Miss Food Festivals

Route 66 Travel Tips

Mother Road Must-Sees: Route 66’s Iconic Roadside Attractions

6 U.S. Film Festivals Bringing Stories to the Big Screen

Must-See Music Festivals in the USA

Amazing Family Experiences Across the USA

Natural Wonders Near Route 66

Beyond the Bustle: 5 Peaceful Escapes Across the USA
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Charming Small Towns Along Route 66 in Illinois, Missouri and Kansas

Retro-Themed to Certified Green: 10 Unique Places to Stay on Route 66

Good Eats on Route 66: Road Trip Dining Guide

A USA Culinary Journey
The Mississippi riverfront in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Credit: Lane Pelovsky courtesy of Meet Minneapolis

Mississippi River Country

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