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The Mighty Mississippi River

Explore the heart of America on the Mississippi River: a historic waterway, vital trade route, and haven for wildlife.

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The Mississippi River, the second-longest river in North America, flows 2,340 miles from its source at Lake Itasca, Minnesota, to the Gulf of Mexico. Known as 'America's River,' it has been a vital waterway for transportation, commerce, and culture for thousands of years.

A brief summary to Mississippi River

  • US

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall migration to witness the incredible diversity of birds along the Mississippi Flyway.
  • Take a riverboat cruise to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Mississippi from a unique perspective.
  • Explore the charming river towns and cities along the Mississippi, each with its own unique history and culture.
  • Check out the Mississippi River Visitor Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, to learn about the river's ecology and history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Mississippi River is accessible from many points within the cities and towns that border it. Riverfront trails and parks often provide pedestrian access. Check local maps for trails and access points nearest to your location.

  • Public Transport

    Many cities along the Mississippi River have public transportation options, including buses and light rail, that provide access to the riverfront. For example, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, the NRoute bus service has several routes with stops near the riverfront. A single ride is $2.00, with discounts for seniors and children.

  • Driving

    Major highways often run parallel to or cross the Mississippi River, providing vehicular access. Parking is typically available in designated areas near riverfront attractions and parks. Parking costs vary by location.

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Discover more about Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is one of the world's great river systems, renowned for its size, habitat diversity, and biological productivity. Draining approximately 40% of the continental United States, its watershed encompasses all or parts of 32 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces. For millennia, Native American tribes have thrived along the river's banks, utilizing it for sustenance, transportation, and spiritual connection. European explorers, including Hernando de Soto and Jolliet-Marquette, recognized its strategic importance, leading to centuries of territorial disputes. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 solidified American control, paving the way for westward expansion and economic development. During the 19th century, steamboats plied the river, carrying passengers and goods between bustling port cities like New Orleans, St. Louis, and Memphis. The river played a crucial role in the Civil War, with key battles fought for control of its strategic points. Today, the Mississippi remains a vital commercial waterway, supporting a multi-billion dollar shipping industry. Barges transport vast quantities of agricultural products, raw materials, and manufactured goods, connecting the heartland of America to global markets. The river also serves as a critical habitat for diverse fish and wildlife, including over 260 species of fish and 40% of North America's migratory waterfowl. Visitors can explore the river's natural beauty through various recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking along its scenic trails. Several visitor centers and museums along the river offer educational exhibits and interpretive programs, providing insights into its history, ecology, and cultural significance.

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