Great River Road

States: Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, and Wisconsin
Length: 2069.0 mi / 3329.7 km
Time to Allow: Allow six days to drive or ten days to enjoy the entire byway.

Throughout history, the Mississippi River influenced many lives: the Dakota, Chippewa, and Hopewell cultures; early French voyagers; African-Americans seeking freedom on the Underground Railroad; and many more. Through its charming river towns and metropolitan cities, historic sites and cultural artifacts, today's Great River Road still links resources, people, and history.

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  • America's First Interstate: The Mississippi River

    America's First Interstate: The Mississippi River

    Updated May 8, 2012

    As one of the great transportation arteries on the western frontier, the Mississippi River played a crucial role in 19th century America. The mighty river represented the same ideas that our modern highways have come to symbolize: commerce, discovery, and freedom. In this way, the Mississippi River was America's first interstate.

  • Birding along the Great River Road

    Birding along the Great River Road

    Updated Feb 27, 2012

    The Great River Road showcases the mighty Mississippi River and highlights the historic importance of the river in the development of the United States. While appreciating the Mississippi River, be sure to not miss out on the impressive array of North American bird life along the expansive river.

See all 12 Stories for Great River Road

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See all 9 Road Trips for Great River Road

The following byways are part of the designated byway Great River Road: