Category: Must Do Rides

This isn’t just any park, it’s the oldest and second-largest in Minnesota’s state park system.

With a whopping 30,000 acres to explore, it’s basically a wonderland for nature lovers and rubber ducks like yours truly. Here’s where the magic begins: sparkly Lake Itasca, the birthplace of the mighty Mississippi!

Fun fact: ‘Itasca’ comes from the Latin words ‘veritas’ and ‘caput,’ which mean ‘true’ and ‘head.’ So, Lake Itasca is literally the ‘true head’ of the river, perfect for a proud duck ready to start this epic float!

Feeling peckish? Paddle over to the Mary Gibbs Café or the Douglas Lodge Restaurant near the headwaters for snacks that’ll keep you fueled for adventure.

Trust me, a satisfied belly makes for a bouncier bob!

I can’t wait to dive beak-first into the Mississippi River Gallery to discover all the river’s wild twists and turns.

This gem floats right on the riverbank in St. Paul and is stuffed with ways to have fun and learn.

The Sample Room comes highly recommended with its lovely green star shining proudly on a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century brick building. From here you have a front-row seat to stunning skyline views, perfect for a duck like me who loves a good cityscape!

The tale of The Sample Room goes back to 1893, when Matthias and Rose Thies opened The Thies Hotel and Sample Room. They lived right above while running a lively saloon below.

For Bob, these memories, made with his beloved wife ,are the most treasured BOBortunity of all, and that makes my rubbery heart float!

I have to admit, I hadn’t heard of this legendary route before, so a gigantic thank you to Bob for sharing his river road adventure!

Even without pictures, I dove beak-first into research, and I’m ready to paint a vibrant, quack-tastic picture of the entire Great River Road journey. So grab your floaties and let’s paddle into the fun!

This isn’t just any park, it’s the oldest and second-largest in Minnesota’s state park system.

With a whopping 30,000 acres to explore, it’s basically a wonderland for nature lovers and rubber ducks like yours truly. Here’s where the magic begins: sparkly Lake Itasca, the birthplace of the mighty Mississippi!

Fun fact: ‘Itasca’ comes from the Latin words ‘veritas’ and ‘caput,’ which mean ‘true’ and ‘head.’ So, Lake Itasca is literally the ‘true head’ of the river, perfect for a proud duck ready to start this epic float!

Feeling peckish? Paddle over to the Mary Gibbs Café or the Douglas Lodge Restaurant near the headwaters for snacks that’ll keep you fueled for adventure.

Trust me, a satisfied belly makes for a bouncier bob!

I can’t wait to dive beak-first into the Mississippi River Gallery to discover all the river’s wild twists and turns.

This gem floats right on the riverbank in St. Paul and is stuffed with ways to have fun and learn.

The Sample Room comes highly recommended with its lovely green star shining proudly on a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century brick building. From here you have a front-row seat to stunning skyline views ,!

The tale of The Sample Room goes back to 1893, when Matthias and Rose Thies opened The Thies Hotel and Sample Room. They lived right above while running a lively saloon below.

Paddle your way out of the Twin Cities and make a splash at the Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center at Freedom Park in Prescott, Wisconsin.

Hope you are all set for an adventure as we float south to the enchanting town of Galena, Illinois!

As you paddle through its historic streets, it feels like you’ve slipped into a time machine, stepping back into the days of mining and bustling trade.

The Grafton Oyster Bar!

The menu overflows with delicious options beyond oysters.

Think mouthwatering crab cakes and savory shrimp po’boys: savoury shrimp po’boys: there’s something scrumptious for every hungry travellerthere’s something scrumptious for every hungry traveler!

With a fabulous selection of craft beers and cocktails, you can sip something refreshing while soaking in the delightful atmosphere.

The clinking your glasses, sharing laughs with good friends, and creating memories, of now that sounds like the perfect evening for a rubber duck like me!

And you can’t beat those fabulous river views while you dine.

Imagine watching the sunset over the Mississippi, nestled in nature’s best backdrop, it’s like dining with a side of magic!

Let’s start by exploring the fascinating town of Hannibal, Missouri! As I dream of bobbing along the mighty Mississippi, I can hardly contain my excitement. 

This lively river town is steeped in history, as it was the childhood home of the legendary Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain.

I’m not just any rubber duck, I’m a history-loving quacker with a flair for fun!

The haunted museum showcases Hannibal’s intriguing history, complete with a cemetery right next door!

It’s a perfect mix of spine-tingling and thrilling!

Hannibal’s Historic Downtown is like a ducky paradise, bursting with excitement at every corner.

This district offers nothing short of excitement and expedition as there are fun attractions at almost every corner in the area.

Built in 1898, Rockcliffe Mansion is a masterpiece filled with ornate fireplaces, grand rooms, and antiques that transport you back in time.

This no-frills eatery dishes up classic comfort food.

And if you’re a burger lover, you’re in for a treat. Finn’s burgers are legendary!

They even have seasonal specials to keep things fresh and exciting on each visit.

Don’t forget to quench your thirst with an impressive selection of local brews and creative cocktails.

I recommend trying a fruity drink to toast your river adventures, cheers to floating fun! 

They treat everyone like family, complete with cheerful quacks and friendly smiles.

It’s the perfect perch for a duck to sip a cocktail, bask, and watch the humans stroll by. Imagine: delicious food, a sparkling Mississippi, and the happy hum of Hannibal all around you.

That’s what I call living the ducky dream!

Even though Bob and his late wife only completed as far as Missouri, we are studying all the way to where the mighty Mississippi flows into the Gulf.

With its detailed model train displays and a thrilling train simulator, it’s a railroad adventure. Moreover, it lets visitors experience the excitement of being an engineer!

If you’re lucky, you might even spot a classic riverboat cruising by, adding to the picturesque scenery.

You can even add a riverboat cruise to your journey!

It’s filled with unique art galleries, music venues, and cozy restaurants set among historic streets.

Whether you’re seeking a creative outlet, a fun night out, or a relaxing place to soak in the sights, this district has something special waiting for you.

We’re heading to the vibrant city of Memphis, Tennessee, for the next segment of the Great River Road!

Let your feathers fly as you bop to the rhythm of live music. Let the savoury aroma of barbecue tickle your bill.

And guess what? The locals shared some fantastic spots to check out while you’re here!

The history here is just as delicious as the food!  Charlie Vergos started in the basement after a disagreement with his brother-in-law at their original spot.

He transformed an old elevator shaft into a smoker, and with a bit of creativity, he turned the humble rib into a Memphis-style masterpiece.

And the secret recipe? A blend of his father’s Greek chilli spices with a splash of paprika for that perfect barbecue colour, still making mouths water decades later!

The smoky aromas of grilling meat, the sounds of soulful music, and laughter fill the air. It’s like heaven for your taste buds, and it all happens right there at the Rendezvous.

Here, you can stroll along an elevated boardwalk that takes you right to the river’s edge while learning about the local ecosystem and Civil War history through informative panels.

This shady boardwalk looks like the ideal spot for me to stretch my webbed feet and savour the refreshing Mississippi breeze.

Dive into captivating exhibits that showcase the rich tapestry of Delta life, complete with tales that will float right into your heart.

Opened back in 1990, the Delta Cultural Center started with a single building: the Depot.

Now, it has expanded to multiple properties, each one filled with a treasure trove of Arkansas Delta history!

“King Biscuit Time” is not just a show; it’s a slice of musical history!

Since 1941, legends like Sonny Boy Williamson II and Robert Lockwood Jr. have graced the airwaves, spreading blues magic into homes across the Delta.

B.B. King himself has said that listening to this legendary broadcast inspired his dreams of becoming a musician!

And get this, “King Biscuit Time” boasts an astounding record of nearly 20,000 broadcasts!

There’s something undeniably magical about being part of a legacy that has inspired generations of musicians!

Every October, the King Biscuit Blues Festival rolls into town, celebrating this iconic musical style with three days of electrifying performances right along the banks of the Mississippi River.

With exquisite quarter-sawn oak panelling and original mantels crafted by skilled artisans from Chicago, it’s like stepping into a charming time capsule!

Most of the original door and window hardware still adorns the home, along with elegant 1915 chandeliers that light the front foyer.

Each guest room is historically furnished and decorated, helping transport you to yesteryear.

The Inn sits on over 40 acres of nature’s tranquillity, so explore the grounds or sit on the expansive front porch as you reflect on your Arkansas adventures!

This enchanting town provides a deep dive into the soul of the South.

You can feel the presence of Southern belles, brave Civil War soldiers, and trailblazing Civil Rights pioneers.

Walking through its historic streets feels like stepping back in time!

Stunning antebellum mansions line the way, just waiting to share their secrets.

This beauty was born around 1858, thanks to Thomas Henderson, a cotton mogul whose original home stood right where this grand structure now proudly resides.

With plaster magnolia blossoms decorating the parlour ceiling, it oozes charm, and the Natchez Garden Club has lovingly restored it into a mesmerizing house museum.

Fun fact: they even transformed the city’s name into IHOP for a day to celebrate and invite all biscuit lovers for a delicious feast!

Who would want to miss out on their legendary biscuits slathered in apricot butter? 

Not a chance! 

This historic trail has guided all sorts of travellers: Native Americans, explorers, and traders between Natchez and Nashville for centuries.  As you bob along, keep your eyes peeled for remnants of the Old Trace nestled within the lush landscape. Talktalk about a trip back in time!

Imagine floating blissfully beneath ancient oak and graceful willow trees that have witnessed centuries of river tales.

You can’t miss Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, the oldest operating bar in the whole country! 

Built between 1722 and 1732 by the crafty Nicolas Touze, this venue is a delightful gumbo of French, Spanish, African, Cajun, and American history.

Grab something cool to sip, let the lively music fill your soul, and join in the fun, let the good times quack!

Venice is a cozy little town perched at the mouth of the Mississippi River Delta.