Iowa Great River Road Trip

The Iowa Great River Road Trip is a scenic drive that takes you along the Mississippi River. Starting in Keokuk, Iowa, the route takes you 519km north to Lansing, Iowa. Along the way, you’ll pass through the towns of Burlington, Davenport, and Dubuque. Each of these towns offers a variety of attractions, from historic sites to museums. The best time to take this road trip is from spring to autumn, when the weather is most pleasant. The roads are in good condition, so the trip can be managed by drivers of all levels. This is a great trip for those who are looking for an affordable way to explore the area. With three days to complete the journey, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the sights and sounds of the Great River Road.

Keokuk is a charming small town located in the southeast corner of Iowa along the Mississippi River. It is the perfect starting point for the Iowa Great River Road Trip, a scenic journey along the mighty Mississippi River. Keokuk boasts a wide variety of attractions that are sure to delight visitors. The most iconic is the Keokuk-Hamilton Hydroelectric Dam, a marvel of engineering that offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. The nearby Geode State Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning sandstone formations, hiking trails, and wildlife. The city also features a number of historic sites, including the Rand Park and the historic Grand Avenue District. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Keokuk is the Quad City International Airport (MLI). From there, car rentals are available, making it easy to start your road trip. Keokuk is an ideal starting point for the Iowa Great River Road Trip, offering visitors a wide array of sights, attractions, and activities. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundance of recreational opportunities, Keokuk is the perfect place to begin your journey.

Are you ready for a memorable road trip from Keokuk to Burlington? This journey will take you around 46 miles and less than 2 hours of driving. You can start your journey by visiting the George M. Verity River Museum in Keokuk, a museum dedicated to the history of the Mississippi River. Then, take a stroll along the riverfront and admire the beauty of the Mississippi. After that, you can head to the Des Moines County Historical Society Museum in Burlington, which houses artifacts and documents that tell the story of the city's history. Next, you can visit the Snake Alley Art Center and the Burlington Public Library, both of which are great places to explore the city's culture. Finally, you can visit the Crapo Park and the Burlington Steamboat Days, two of the city's most popular attractions. At the park, you can take a leisurely stroll along the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery. At the Steamboat Days, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including live music, food, and entertainment. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Begin your journey from Keokuk to Burlington and make some amazing memories!

Welcome to the Burlington to Davenport road trip stage! This 81-mile journey will take you less than 3 hours of driving and will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the United States. Start your adventure in Burlington, the largest city in the state of Vermont. Here you can visit the Ethan Allen Homestead, a historic house museum where you can learn about the life and legacy of Vermont’s most famous Revolutionary War hero. Continue your journey to Davenport, a small town located on the west bank of the Mississippi River. Here you can explore the Putnam Museum and Science Center, a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. Along the way, you can also take a detour to the charming town of Winooski, where you can visit the Winooski Falls and take a stroll along the Winooski River. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Davenport to Dubuque! Enjoy the 104 miles of rolling hills and winding roads that stretch between these two cities, taking no more than 3 hours of your time. Start your journey in Davenport, the city that was once the largest in Iowa, and explore the Figge Art Museum, the Putnam Museum and Science Center, and the German American Heritage Center. Continue your drive to the city of Dubuque, known as the “Masterpiece on the Mississippi”, and visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, the friendly locals, and the charming small towns along the way, and make sure to take plenty of photos to remember this amazing road trip!

Embark on a road trip from Dubuque to Lansing and explore the best of the Midwest! Start off in Dubuque, Iowa, the oldest city in the state, and visit the Diamond Jo Casino, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, and the historic Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Then, drive 91 miles through the rural countryside to Lansing, Michigan, and explore its attractions, such as the Potter Park Zoo, the Impression 5 Science Center, and the Michigan State Capitol. With a driving time of fewer than 5 hours, you'll have plenty of time to explore both cities on this stage of your road trip. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

The Iowa Great River Road Trip is an incredible journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful places in the Midwest. After the trip, the journey will end in Lansing, a vibrant city located in the state of Iowa. Lansing is full of exciting things to do, from exploring the breathtaking Driftless Area to discovering the city’s unique culture and dining scene. For those looking to explore the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities, including biking, hiking, and fishing. The city also has several parks and trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous outing. Culture and history buffs will find plenty to appreciate in Lansing. The city is home to numerous historic sites, including the Lansing Historical Museum and the Lansing Historical Marker. Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant art scene, from galleries to street art. When it comes to food, Lansing offers a variety of options. The city is home to several local restaurants, offering everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Visitors can also explore the city’s farmers’ markets, which offer fresh produce and other local products. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Des Moines International Airport (DSM). The airport is located a short drive away, making it easy to get to Lansing after the Iowa Great River Road Trip. Lansing is the perfect ending point for the Iowa Great River Road Trip. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and amazing food, the city is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Before you set off

The Iowa Great River Road Trip is an enchanting voyage along the Mississippi River, spanning 519 kilometers (approximately 322 miles) from the southern gateway of Keokuk to the northern tip of Lansing, Iowa. Renowned for its stunning river views and lush landscapes, this journey offers a window into America's heartland, threading through a tapestry of quaint towns brimming with history and cultural richness.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Keokuk: Embark on your adventure in Keokuk, where you can witness the power of the Mississippi River and explore historic sites like the Keokuk National Cemetery and the Lock and Dam No. 19, one of the largest electricity-generating dams on the Mississippi.
• Burlington: Meander through the crookedest street in the world, Snake Alley, and delve into the architectural beauty of the Heritage Hill Historic District.
• Davenport: Be inspired at the Figge Art Museum, a hub for visual arts, and experience breathtaking river views from the Davenport Skybridge, especially captivating at night with its LED lighting display.
• Dubuque: Explore the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium for an interactive encounter with regional aquatic life and history, and ride the historic Fenelon Place Elevator, the world's shortest, steepest scenic railway offering panoramic views of the three states.
• Lansing: Culminate your exploration in Lansing by ascending Mount Hosmer Park for a spectacular vantage point over the Mississippi River, often graced by bald eagles soaring above.

Best Time to Go:

The prime season for embarking on the Iowa Great River Road Trip spans from spring through autumn. These months provide the most amiable climate for comfortable travel and leisurely exploration of the outdoor attractions and landscapes.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should be mindful of seasonal weather conditions such as thunderstorms in the summer or icy Roads during the colder months. It is prudent to consult local weather updates and Road conditions before and throughout your journey.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The route is navigable for drivers with varying levels of experience, making it an inclusive experience.
• Budget-friendly, this Road Trip is a cost-effective way to appreciate the alluring vistas and cultural sites of the Midwest.
• Dedicating at least three days for this excursion allows for a relaxed pace to fully engage with each town's unique charm and historical landmarks.

A good choice for:

The Iowa Great River Road Trip is a captivating fusion of picturesque landscapes, historical adventures, and cultural experiences lining the banks of the legendary Mississippi River. Offering affordability and straightforward navigation, it stands out as an exemplary retreat for those seeking to uncover the rich tapestry of America's rural heartland.