Wisconsin Great River Road Trip

Embark on the Wisconsin Great River Road Trip and explore the beautiful sights and attractions along the 445km route from Dubuque to Minneapolis. Start in Dubuque and drive through Prairie du Chien, La Crosse, and Alma. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Wisconsin River, the Mississippi River, and the Great River Road. Stop to explore the historical sites, state parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The best time of year to drive this route is from May to October for the best weather and road conditions. It's a great trip for all drivers, and can be done on a moderate budget. Enjoy the drive and the sights along the way!

Dubuque, Iowa, is a great starting point for the Wisconsin Great River Road Trip. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Dubuque offers a wealth of activities and sights to explore. For nature-lovers, there are numerous parks, trails, and outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. Tourists can also visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium or take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator for beautiful views of the city. For those flying in, the closest international airport to Dubuque is the Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ). From there, visitors can rent a car and make their way to Dubuque. Once in the city, Dubuque offers a number of different car rental options to help you get around. No trip to Dubuque would be complete without a visit to the historic downtown area. Here, visitors can explore the city's many shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars and pubs offering live music and entertainment. Dubuque is a great starting point for the Wisconsin Great River Road Trip. With its gorgeous views, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, Dubuque is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Are you ready for an exciting road trip along the Mississippi River? Start your journey in Dubuque, Iowa, and drive 74 miles to Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Along the way, you'll get to explore some of the most interesting places in the area. First, you'll come across Potosi, a small town with a rich history. Here, you can visit the Potosi Brewery, the oldest brewery in Wisconsin, and the National Brewery Museum. You can also take a tour of the historic Potosi Riverfront and learn about the area's mining and logging history. Next, you'll reach Prairie du Chien, a charming town located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Here, you can explore the many shops and restaurants, as well as the historic Fort Crawford Museum. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront and admire the stunning views. This is just one of the many stages of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" section of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for a fun-filled road trip!

The road trip stage from Prairie du Chien to La Crosse is a great way to explore the Midwest. The route is around 60mi (96.5km) long and takes less than 2 hours to drive. On the way, you will find a lot of interesting places to visit. In Prairie du Chien, you should definitely check out the Villa Louis Historic Site, a mansion built in the late 1800s. The house is furnished with original furniture and offers a unique glimpse into the past. You can also visit the Effigy Mounds National Monument, which features Native American mounds and artifacts. In La Crosse, you can explore the Riverside Park, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River. The park is also home to the Grandad Bluff, a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. You can also visit the La Crosse Queen, a paddlewheel boat offering sightseeing tours of the river. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from La Crosse to Alma, a journey of just 55 miles (88 km) and less than 1 hour of driving. Start by exploring the Great River Bluffs State Park, where you can enjoy a scenic view of the Mississippi River Valley and its rugged bluffs. The park is home to several hiking trails, and there are also opportunities for fishing and bird watching. Be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding countryside. Continue your journey to Alma, a charming town located along the banks of the Mississippi. Here you can visit the Alma Aquatic Center and the Alma Historical Museum, both of which offer interesting insights into the area's history and culture. You can also take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the river. This is just one of the many stages of an incredible road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Start your road trip in Alma, United States and enjoy the journey to Minneapolis! This 88mi drive will take you fewer than 2 hours, so you can take your time to explore the most interesting places along the way. In Alma, take a moment to appreciate the historical sites and monuments. Make sure to take a few pictures of the monuments and buildings, so you can remember your trip afterwards. On your way to Minneapolis, you will pass through some interesting towns and villages. Make sure to take a break and explore each of them. You can find some great restaurants and cafes in each of them. Once you reach Minneapolis, you can explore the city and its attractions. Make sure to take a look at the iconic landmarks, such as the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Remember that more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and make sure to take lots of pictures!

The beautiful city of Minneapolis, Minnesota is the perfect ending point to the Wisconsin Great River Road Trip. Located on both banks of the Mississippi river, Minneapolis is a vibrant city with plenty to offer. Start off your visit to Minneapolis by exploring the downtown area. Take a stroll along the stone arch bridge, visit the Mill City Museum, and explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Visit the Walker Art Center for some of the best contemporary art in the area. With over 40,000 works of art, it's sure to delight visitors of all ages. Another great way to get a feel for Minneapolis is to take a boat tour on the Mississippi. See the city from a different perspective and check out the city skyline. You can also take a walking tour of the historic district and learn more about the city's history. Minneapolis is home to some of the best shopping in the area. Stop by the Mall of America for some of the best brands and stores. The nearby Uptown area also offers a great selection of shops and restaurants. For those traveling by air, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is the closest international airport. Minneapolis is the perfect ending point for the Wisconsin Great River Road Trip. With plenty of things to see and do, it's sure to be a memorable experience.

Before you set off

The Wisconsin Great River Road National Scenic Byway is a captivating journey spanning approximately 250 miles (402 km) from Kieler in the south to Prescott in the north, closely tracing the course of the Upper Mississippi River. This route is part of the larger Great River Road, which is a collection of state and local Roads that follow the course of the Mississippi River through ten states from Minnesota to Louisiana. The Wisconsin segment offers travelers the chance to experience the breathtaking landscapes along the Mississippi River, including towering bluffs, expansive wildlife refuges, and the rich cultural tapestry of riverside communities.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Dubuque: Although Dubuque is in Iowa, it serves as a starting point close to the Wisconsin border, offering cultural and historical attractions, such as the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.
• Potosi: Home to the Potosi Brewing Company, which houses the National Brewery Museum and offers insight into the region's brewing heritage.
• Prairie du Chien: Known for its rich history, this city is the second-oldest European settlement in the state and is near the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, as well as the Effigy Mounds National Monument across the river in Iowa.
• La Crosse: A vibrant city that offers beautiful riverfront views, outdoor activities, and the La Crosse Queen cruise paddle wheeler.
• Alma: A charming riverside town with scenic overlooks like Buena Vista Park and the Wings Over Alma Nature & Art Center.

Best Time to Go:

The most ideal period for this Road Trip is from late spring to early fall (May to October), when the weather is most favorable, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the outdoor activities and the beauty of the changing seasons, particularly the spectacular fall foliage.

Potential Risks:

• Outside the recommended travel window, inclement weather such as snow and ice may lead to hazardous driving conditions.
• Wildlife crossings can pose a hazard, especially during dawn and dusk — be cautious of deer and other animals on the Road.

Interesting Facts:

The Wisconsin Great River Road is designated as a Wisconsin Scenic Byway and is part of the larger Great River Road National Scenic Byway, recognized for its cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic qualities. It passes through or near several state parks and protected areas like the Wyalusing State Park and the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, offering a sanctuary for hundreds of bird species during migration seasons. Historical landmarks along the route include the Villa Louis Historic Site in Prairie du Chien and the Stonefield Historic Site in Cassville, which provide a glimpse into the region's past and the life of early settlers and prominent figures.

A good choice for:

The Wisconsin Great River Road Trip is a delightful adventure for those who appreciate nature's grandeur, vibrant history, and the allure of the open Road. With careful planning and consideration of the best travel times, Roadtrippers can have a memorable experience exploring this picturesque and culturally rich part of the United States. Whether it's the draw of the majestic Mississippi, the allure of quaint river towns, or the pursuit of outdoor recreation, this journey promises a wealth of discoveries for every traveler.