National Mississippi River Museum

Blending history, culture, and nature, the National Mississippi River Museum explores America’s great rivers through interactive exhibits, aquariums, historic vessels, and archives. The museum offers a fascinating look at how waterways shaped the nation.

MUST-DO CHECKLIST

• Trace the Mississippi River’s Journey – Interactive exhibits follow the river from source to sea, explaining erosion, flooding, locks, dams, and their effects on ecosystems and wildlife.
• Board the Historic William M. Black – Explore this sidewheeler dredge boat, a designated National Historic Landmark. Step inside its engine rooms, crew quarters, and pilot house.
• Visit the National Rivers Hall of Fame – Get to know the river people whose legacies shaped America, including pathfinders, artists, writers, musicians, builders, and inventors.
• Explore the Boatyard – Discover traditional boatbuilding and blacksmithing demonstrations, plus hands-on displays that highlight historic river life, trade, and daily work along the Mississippi.
• Step Aboard a Historic Towboat – Tour the Logsdon Sand & Gravel Barge and experience what daily life was like working and living on the Mississippi River.

Itinerary Idea: Set out on a 90-minute sightseeing cruise aboard the Riverboat Twilight, gliding along the Mississippi River from LeClaire. Cruises operate from late May through August, offering an easy, scenic way to experience the river’s charm.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium