Few American road trips feel as timeless as following the mighty Mississippi.
Through eastern Iowa, the legendary Great River Road winds between towering limestone bluffs, wooded islands, historic river communities and landscapes shaped by one of the world's great waterways. Yet some of the most memorable experiences begin when you stop the car and discover the places along the way.
Explore Dubuque from above aboard the historic Fenelon Place Elevator, uncover ancient Indigenous stories at Effigy Mounds National Monument and experience the Mississippi from the water. Continue through smaller river communities such as Bellevue, Muscatine and Burlington before discovering the arts, culture and riverfront attractions of Davenport. Along the way, working barges, wildlife, scenic overlooks and unexpected roadside discoveries reveal just how closely everyday life remains connected to the river.
And the Great River Road is only part of the adventure. Take an occasional detour and you could find yourself standing on the legendary Field of Dreams baseball diamond, exploring historic downtowns or discovering somewhere you hadn't even planned to visit.
Our latest blog, Along the Mississippi: River Towns, Scenic Drives & Unexpected Discoveries, reveals why Iowa's stretch of the Great River Road deserves to be experienced slowly, combining spectacular scenery, fascinating history, authentic communities and the freedom of a classic American road trip.
Read the full blog
https://bit.ly/4d8OKNi and discover why sometimes the places you know least about become the ones you remember most.
Experience the Great River Road for Yourself
Inspired to follow the Mississippi? We have two itineraries featuring Iowa's Great River Road, each offering a very different way to experience this legendary American journey.
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The Great River Road: From Minneapolis to Memphis https://bit.ly/3Tkd6wQ
Follow the Mississippi on an unforgettable multi-state road trip from Minneapolis to Memphis, travelling through historic river communities and changing landscapes as you journey south through the heart of America.
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Discover Iowa: From the Heartland to the Mississippi https://bit.ly/4yWNANp
Discover more of Iowa before reaching the mighty Mississippi, combining vibrant cities, iconic attractions, welcoming communities and spectacular landscapes with historic river towns and sections of the legendary Great River Road.
Or speak to a Discover North America Travel Specialist and let us create your own tailor-made journey along the Mississippi and through America's Heartland.
Posted by: Discover North America
Posted on: 27/09/2026