The journey begins at Lake Itasca, Minnesota, where the mighty Mississippi River originates.
You start in the fabulous Itasca State Park, an absolute gem nestled in the northern wilds of Minnesota.
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!
When you’re waddling through, don’t miss the Aiton Heights Observation Tower!
The views of the Great North Woods from up there? Absolutely *quacktastic*, even for a rubber duck with a plastic beak.
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!
Next up, let’s float more than 200 miles downstream to the fabulous Twin Cities: Minneapolis and St. Paul!
Did you know that this splashy metro area is the largest along the entire Mississippi? It’s a prime spot to get soaked with river facts, fun, and a whole lot of excitement as you paddle along!
First, let’s paddle into the Science Museum of Minnesota!
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.
Want to stay close to the river to grab a bite to eat in Minneapolis!
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.
Can you imagine the fun they must have had rolling kegs over from the nearby Gluek Brewery and sampling the freshest beer around? That’s how the name “sample room” came to be! Fun Fact – Gluek Brewery opened before the State of Minnesota existed and was one of three breweries to supply beer to the US Army during World War II.
The current owners swooped in, took a leap, and restored the building to its former glory, even unveiling a magnificent original tin ceiling! They opened their doors to the public on July 16, 2002, and still make every visit feels like a special occasion in this beloved historic space.
Another fabulous find in the Twin Cities!
Picture this: a hidden gem right south of downtown St. Paul: Pig’s Eye Island Heron Rookery! It’s like a bustling neighbourhood where over 1,600 pairs of herons have decided to make their nests.
It’s quite the spectacle! The great blue herons stretch their long necks and show off their elegant wings, while the great egrets strut around in all their white plumage glory.
But don’t dry your feathers yet, the river adventure is just getting started! Next up Great River Road Wisconsin!
NEVER MISS A
