In an age where overtourism threatens to strip popular destinations of their charm and authenticity, adventurous roadtrippers find solace in the hidden corners of America. Two such routes, the Mississippi Blues Highway and the Great River Road in Minnesota, offer a rare blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural depth. These lesser-known road trips are perfect for those looking to escape the well-worn tourist trails and experience the essence of America in its purest form.
The Mississippi Blues Highway, also known as Highway 61, is a legendary route that stretches from New Orleans to Minnesota. While the southern portion is well-trodden by blues enthusiasts, the northern section of this iconic highway is often overlooked. This part of the route offers a unique perspective, weaving through the heartland of America and offering glimpses into the cultural evolution of the Mississippi River region.
Starting in the Twin Cities, the journey along Highway 61 in Minnesota takes you through a landscape that gradually shifts from urban to rural, revealing the state's rich diversity. This road trip is not just about the destination but about the experiences and stories you collect along the way.
As you leave the bustling cities behind, your first stop should be Red Wing, a picturesque town nestled along the Mississippi River. Known for its historic architecture, Red Wing is like stepping back in time. The town is home to the iconic Red Wing Shoes, where you can visit the factory and learn about the craftsmanship that has defined this American brand for over a century.
Beyond its industrial heritage, Red Wing offers scenic views from Barn Bluff, a limestone bluff that towers over the town. A hike to the top rewards you with panoramic vistas of the Mississippi River, where you can trace the river’s path as it winds its way southward. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and studios showcasing local artists who draw inspiration from the surrounding landscapes.
Continuing south along Highway 61, you’ll encounter Lake Pepin, a naturally occurring lake on the Mississippi River. Often referred to as the birthplace of waterskiing, Lake Pepin is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. But for those seeking a more tranquil experience, the lake’s shores offer opportunities for quiet reflection and birdwatching. The area is a migratory stopover for bald eagles, and it’s not uncommon to spot these majestic birds soaring above the water.
The small towns that dot the shores of Lake Pepin, like Lake City and Pepin, offer a quintessential Midwestern charm. Here, you can stroll through quaint streets, visit antique shops, and dine at local eateries that serve up comfort food with a side of hospitality. The lake’s serene beauty and the warmth of its communities make it a perfect stop on your Highway 61 journey.
As you continue your journey, a stop in Wabasha is a must. This town is home to the National Eagle Center, where you can get up close and personal with America’s national bird. The center offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that highlight the importance of eagle conservation. Standing on the banks of the Mississippi, watching eagles dive for fish, is an experience that connects you to the natural rhythms of this mighty river.
Wabasha itself is a town that seems to defy time, with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and a strong sense of community. The town's riverfront is perfect for a leisurely walk, where you can take in the views of the Mississippi River and reflect on the history that has shaped this region.
Further down Highway 61, you’ll find Winona, a town that balances its industrial past with a vibrant cultural present. Winona is home to a surprising array of museums, theaters, and festivals that celebrate everything from Shakespeare to classical music. The Minnesota Marine Art Museum is a standout, featuring works by masters like Monet and Van Gogh, as well as a stunning collection of American landscapes.
Winona’s riverfront is another highlight, with parks and walking trails that offer unobstructed views of the Mississippi. This is a place where you can slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of a small town that thrives on its connection to the river.
While the Mississippi Blues Highway offers a journey through history and culture, the Great River Road in Minnesota provides a scenic alternative that hugs the Mississippi River from its headwaters in Itasca State Park to the Iowa border. This route is part of a larger network of roads that trace the river’s course for over 3,000 miles, but the Minnesota section is particularly special for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Your journey on the Great River Road should begin at Itasca State Park, the source of the Mississippi River. Here, you can walk across the headwaters, where the river is a mere trickle compared to the mighty waterway it will become. The park itself is a natural wonder, with miles of hiking trails that wind through old-growth forests and around pristine lakes. It’s a place to reconnect with nature and marvel at the humble beginnings of the great river.
As you follow the Great River Road south, you’ll come to Bemidji, a town steeped in Native American heritage and folklore. Bemidji is often referred to as the “First City on the Mississippi,” and it proudly displays its connection to the river. A visit to the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues is a must, a nod to the town’s logging history and its place in American mythology.
Bemidji is also a gateway to the great outdoors, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking in the surrounding forests and lakes. The town’s vibrant arts scene and local cuisine, featuring walleye and wild rice, make it a rewarding stop on your journey.
As the Great River Road winds its way through southeastern Minnesota, you’ll enter the Driftless Area, a region untouched by glaciers during the last Ice Age. This unique landscape is characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and limestone bluffs that rise dramatically above the Mississippi River. The towns of Lanesboro and Harmony are perfect places to explore this region, offering everything from biking on the Root River Trail to spelunking in the Niagara Cave.
The Driftless Area is also known for its Amish communities, where you can experience a way of life that has changed little over the centuries. Visiting these communities offers a glimpse into a simpler, slower pace of life that contrasts sharply with the hustle and bustle of modern society.
The Minnesota section of the Great River Road ends near La Crosse, Wisconsin, but the town itself is worth a visit before you cross the state line. La Crosse’s historic downtown is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and breweries that invite you to linger. The town’s riverfront is especially beautiful, with parks and walking trails that offer some of the best views of the Mississippi River.
As you reflect on your journey along the Mississippi Blues Highway and the Great River Road in Minnesota, you’ll realize that these routes offer something that the more popular road trips often lack—a sense of discovery. These roads lead you not just to destinations, but to experiences that connect you with the land, the people, and the history that have shaped America.
So, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and embark on a road trip that offers both adventure and tranquility, the Mississippi Blues Highway and the Great River Road in Minnesota should be at the top of your list. These routes offer a chance to explore the uncharted, to connect with the past, and to find your own rhythm as you travel through some of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in the country.
