Bluffs, Blues, and the Big Muddy

Mill City Museum

Explore the history of Minneapolis's flour milling industry in the ruins of what was once the world's largest flour mill, right on the banks of the Mississippi River.

Photo by Mister Jon

National Eagle Center

Get an up-close look at majestic bald eagles and golden eagles. This riverside center offers live eagle programs and viewing decks to spot wild eagles over the Mississippi.

Photo by National Eagle Center

Great River Bluffs State Park

Hike to breathtaking overlooks for classic Mississippi River Valley views. The park's trails wind through prairies and forests high atop the river bluffs.

Photo by Great River Bluffs State Park

The Charmant Hotel

Stay in a beautifully restored 1898 candy factory turned luxury boutique hotel, offering river views and a rooftop terrace.

Photo by The Charmant Hotel

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Walk among over 200 ancient, sacred mounds built by Native Americans, many in the shapes of animals like bears and birds. The trails offer serene walks and stunning views of the river valley from high bluffs.

Photo by Paige Lipsky

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

A must-see Smithsonian-affiliated museum that dives deep into the history, culture, and wildlife of America's rivers. Explore riverboats, an impressive aquarium, and interactive exhibits.

Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection

Spend the night in a historic, magnificently restored 1915 hotel that has hosted presidents and celebrities, blending classic elegance with modern luxury.

Photo by Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection

Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum

Step into the world of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn at the home and museum dedicated to Samuel Clemens. Explore the well-preserved buildings that inspired some of America's greatest literature.

Gateway Arch National Park

Ride a tram to the top of the iconic 630-foot arch for unparalleled views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. This monument symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States.

Photo by Rosie

The Last Hotel

Check into this stylish hotel housed in the former International Shoe Company building, featuring eclectic design, a rooftop pool, and a glimpse into St. Louis's industrial past.

Photo by Hotel & Public Parking

Pappy's Smokehouse

Experience legendary St. Louis-style BBQ. Known for its Memphis-style dry-rubbed ribs that are slow-smoked over apple and cherry wood, Pappy's is a local institution.

Photo by Pappy's Smokehouse

Lambert's Cafe

Dine at the famous 'Home of Throwed Rolls,' where servers literally throw hot, fresh dinner rolls across the dining room to waiting customers. It's a fun, unique dining experience with huge portions of Southern comfort food.

Photo by Lambert's Café

Sun Studio

Tour the legendary 'Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll' where icons like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King made their first recordings. You can even hold the same microphone that Elvis used.

Photo by Russ Seidel

National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel

A profoundly moving experience built around the former motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The museum traces the history of the American Civil Rights Movement from slavery to the present day.

Photo by M.S. Victor

Graceland

Make the ultimate pilgrimage for music fans with a tour of Elvis Presley's iconic home. See the famous Jungle Room, his collection of cars and planes, and pay respects at his final resting place.

Photo by Melody Browning

Central BBQ

End your trip with a taste of quintessential Memphis barbecue. Consistently ranked among the city's best, Central BBQ is famous for its slow-smoked meats, especially the pulled pork and ribs.

Photo by Central BBQ - Downtown

Mighty Lights at Big River Crossing

Take a final sunset stroll on the longest public pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi. As night falls, the bridge comes alive with a dynamic LED light show, a perfect farewell to the mighty river.

Photo by acchronicles