Travel Tips
We want your Mississippi River Experience to be unique and interesting, safe and comfortable and everything you imagined… Use these Travel Tips and Information to plan your trip according to the events, attractions and activities you want to enjoy during your stay. If you have any questions about what to expect when you’re traveling, please contact us.
Best Time to Travel The best time of year to travel in the Mississippi River region depends on your interests, and what you plan to do on your trip. Each season has its own charm. Use the seasonal information below to decide the best season for your Mississippi River Experience!
Mississippi River Region Seasons: Fall (September – November)
Fall is a very pleasant time of year to visit any state along the Mississippi River with the leaves on trees changing brilliant hues of red, orange, yellow and many shades in between, and generally mild temperatures up and down the river. This season is perfect for taking a scenic drive, spending an afternoon on a golf course, visiting a local apple orchard or pumpkin patch, birding along the Mississippi River, or hiking in one of the many state parks in the states to enjoy the colors of fall.
How to pack: Pack clothes that you can wear in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Especially in the northern states, temperatures are generally warmer during the day and cooler at night. Southern states are still generally warm, but temperatures can still vary, so you may want a light jacket or sweatshirt in the evening.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in the Mississippi River region varies from north to south. Winters in the northern states including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa, and even occasionally Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas are likely to be cold with snow, and are perfect for snow-activities including cross-country or downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding or even ice fishing! Temperatures and weather in southern states are generally milder, but the weather can change at a moment’s notice. The winter months in the most southern states are still great for outdoor activities including hiking, biking, horseback riding, or golfing, attend holiday events, or enjoy year-round fishing!
How to pack: If you’re traveling to the Mississippi River region during the winter months, make sure to bring warm clothes, especially in the northern states. Suggested items include sweaters, a warm jacket, gloves or mittens, and a hat. In southern states, the weather will still be brisk, but not as cold as in the more northern states. Prepare to dress in layers. Spring (March – May)
Spring in the Mississippi River region is the ‘rainy season’ in most states. However, it’s also a beautiful time of year as the leaves and flowers begin to bloom and everything turns green again. Many days in the spring are ideal for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking or biking, and the rainy days are a great opportunity to enjoy an indoor sporting event, take a trip to a shopping mall or try unique cuisine at a charming diner along the river.
How to pack: Temperatures in the spring can vary, so dress in layers. As this is the season where states have a lot of rainy days, you may appreciate a light rain jacket or umbrella! During the day temperatures may be very warm, but can cool down in the evening, so you may want a light jacket or sweatshirt. Summer (June – August)
Summer in the Mississippi River region is typically hot and sunny! Some summer days may still be chilly and rain is still possible, but for the most part the weather in all ten states is warm and perfect for being outdoors. Summer days are filled with town and community festivals, sporting events and outdoor recreation. It is the perfect time of year for camping under the stars!
How to pack: If you’re traveling to any of the ten states during the summer months, bring shorts and tops for warm weather. As nights can sometimes be cool, you may also want to pack a light jacket or sweatshirt. Remember to also pack for the activities you have planned – if you will be near water bring a swimming suit or appropriate shoes if you plan to hike in a state or national park.
Whichever season you choose, be sure to check the weather forecast before you travel, so you can pack and make plans accordingly. Click here for current conditions in the Mississippi River region.
Best Ways to Travel
Options for “how to” travel the Mississippi River region are endless. However, just like seasons, we have a few helpful hints that may help you determine the best way to make your Mississippi River Experience memorable. Click here for some of our suggestions for How to Travel the Mississippi River region.
Welcome & Interpretive Centers
As you’re traveling, be sure to stop at Great River Road Interpretive Centers and welcome centers along your way. These centers not only have an abundance of travel information from every state along the Mississippi River, but many have staff that will be able to answer questions, give directions or help finalize your travel plans! Other Links
Click here for useful links as you're planning your Mississippi River Experience.
For more general visitor information, click here!
