The Great River Road is a scenic byway that stretches for about 3,000 miles along the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route showcases the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures of America's heartland. The Mississippi River Valley, shaped by the mighty river over thousands of years, encompasses a wide range of ecosystems and has played a crucial role in North American history and development.
Marquette, Iowa, is a picturesque town located directly on the Great River Road, offering visitors a charming glimpse into life along the Mississippi. One of its main attractions is the Marquette Overlook, which provides stunning views of the river and surrounding bluffs. The nearby Effigy Mounds National Monument, just north of Marquette, preserves over 200 prehistoric Native American mounds, many shaped like animals. Visitors can hike through forested trails and learn about the ancient cultures that once inhabited the region.
In Marquette, the Casino Queen Marquette offers entertainment for adults, while the nearby Yellow River State Forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. The town is also known for its antique shops and local craft stores, perfect for those seeking unique souvenirs.
Cassville, Wisconsin, a charming river town nestled along the Great River Road, offers visitors a quintessential Mississippi River Valley experience. Perched on the eastern bank of the Mississippi in southwestern Wisconsin, Cassville boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. The town is home to Nelson Dewey State Park, which provides breathtaking views of the river valley from atop towering bluffs and offers excellent hiking and camping opportunities. History buffs will appreciate the Stonefield Historic Site, a living history museum showcasing Wisconsin's agricultural heritage. One of Cassville's unique attractions is its car ferry, one of the last remaining on the Upper Mississippi, which connects the town to Iowa and offers a nostalgic river crossing experience. With its combination of outdoor recreation, historical sites, and scenic river vistas, Cassville exemplifies the diverse attractions found along the Great River Road, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers exploring the Mississippi River Valley.
Further south along the Great River Road, Hannibal, Missouri, invites literary enthusiasts to explore Mark Twain's boyhood home and the real-world inspirations for his classic novels. The town offers cave tours, riverboat rides, and museums dedicated to preserving Twain's legacy and the history of life along the Mississippi.
Memphis, Tennessee, is a must-visit for music lovers. Home to Graceland, Sun Studio, and the vibrant Beale Street, Memphis played a crucial role in the development of blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel provides a powerful look at the struggle for equality in America.
Near the southern end of the Great River Road, New Orleans, Louisiana, offers a unique blend of cultures, famous for its French Quarter, jazz music, and Creole cuisine. Visitors can take steamboat cruises on the Mississippi or explore the nearby bayous and wetlands of the Mississippi Delta.
Thanks All.
~~~Russ
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1 comment
Hi Russ, I enjoyed your latest video. I would love to see you do the whole Great River Road along the Mississippi. If you ever get this way again around the Mississippi River be sure to stop at the Buffalo Bill birthplace and boyhood home in Princeton , IA. See the beautiful bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River at Eagle Point Park in Clinton, IA and Mississippi Pallisades State Park in Savanna, IL as well as the lock and damns along the way!
Safe Travels!
Lane Shaw