The call of the mighty Mississippi is perhaps best expressed by Johnny Cash in his song “Big River” – “Then I heard my dream was back downstream cavortin’ in Davenport, And I followed you, Big River, when you called.” Most of us won’t follow the Father of Waters’ call of freedom and danger as Huck Finn did, by floating down with only a few planks of wood between him and the watery brown muscle. But there is another option: grab your keys and follow the Mighty Mississippi along The Great River Road in Iowa, a drive that was named among the most scenic in America by Prevention, at your own carefree pace. It’s easy to see why this is one of the best scenic drives in Iowa — not to mention the country as a whole. 

From New Albin in the northeastern tip of Iowa down to Keokuk in the southeastern corner, the Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the Mississippi for 328 miles through Iowa - just a portion of the 3,000-mile network of roads along this river. There is so much history, scenery, culture, and recreation found along this road, and you'll discover new ways to experience it with each changing season.
Axcen28 / TripAdvisor
Some highlights may whet the appetite. On your way, take time to notice the locks and dams; it's worth a stop to watch the ships navigate the waters of the Mississippi loaded with cargo! History buffs and nature enthusiasts alike will have a blast.
When starting from the north, you'll encounter a truly captivating view in Lansing atop the 450-foot bluff in Mount Hosmer City Park. This must-see stop shows off approximately 50 miles of the Mississippi, which seems to extend endlessly.
Tevalee / TripAdvisor
Effigy Mounds National Monument in Harpers Ferry has one of 18 visitor interpretive centers along the Great River Road and gives a description of the 200 American Indian mounds located on-site. In addition, travelers will find plenty of informative displays with details about the surrounding land and its storied past.
CaseyDwyer / TripAdvisor

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Another great view can be had at Pikes Peak State Park, situated near where the Wisconsin River joins the Mississippi. Be sure to bring along your camera as you travel along this spectacular route, as you'll want to remember every beautiful view.
MMM_and_MPM / TripAdvisor
Stop at Balltown for an absolutely lovely country panorama and some good eating at Breitbach’s Family Dining, located just a stone's throw from this vista. After all, road trips can be exhausting and it's important to stay fueled up.
Shawni_and_Buck / TripAdvisor
The middle stretch of our beloved Great River Road between Dubuque and Muscatine is absolutely loaded with stops, including the must-see National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. When you stop by, you'll encounter interactive displays, riverboats, and a great variety of marine creatures in the aquarium. There's a little something here for every member of the family to embrace and appreciate.
MSWMom50 / TripAdvisor
The charming Island town of Sabula is also included in this stretch, along with Clinton, which houses the Sawmill Museum and the River Arts Center. You could drive the route dozens of times and always find something new to love.
rod b / TripAdvisor
Muscatine itself has its fair share of interesting stops, including an 1840s working-condition grist mill and the Muscatine History and Industry Center. On the southern end of Iowa’s Great River Road lies the town of Keokuk, home to the George M. Verity River Boat Museum. Talk about a perfect way to round out your journey.

While we’ve highlighted plenty of worthwhile stops along the Great River Road in Iowa, there are endless treasures just waiting to be unearthed. If you’ve always wanted to check out this scenic drive in Iowa but haven’t quite followed through, now is the time to start planning. After all, priceless memories and incredible scenery await around every bend. Grab your keys and start exploring this magnificent road and river! Or, to recommend another beautiful scenic drive in Iowa, fill out our official nomination form. 

Looking for another adventure you can enjoy in your car? Check out an affordable road trip through Iowa. And be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list to make your planning a breeze!

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More to Explore

Scenic Drives In Iowa

Sophie Boudreau | September 06, 2022

Are there any other must-experience scenic drives in Iowa?

Absolutely! Some of the most brilliant drives in Iowa can be found along country roads, no matter the season. If you're inspired by hopping in the car and appreciating views from the comfort of your own vehicle, check out some of the prettiest country roads in Iowa for a peaceful, relaxing adventure. These roads provide a dreamy way to take it slow, unwind, and see some of the hidden treasures that set rural Iowa apart. Your drives will take you along roads such as:

  • Loess Hills Scenic Byway
  • Delaware Crossing Scenic Byway
  • Grant Wod Scenic Byway

 

What are some drives similar to the Great River Road in Iowa?

Nothing beats an adventure along one of the best byways in Iowa. For those on the lookout for more designated routes, there's nothing better than exploring the top scenic roads in Iowa. Routes include:

  • The Delaware Crossing Loop
  • Driftless Area (also known as the Paleozoic Plateau) in Elkader
  • Lincoln Highway

You can plan a trip that perfectly suits your needs, whether you're looking for natural views, small towns, or some combination of the two.

What are the most worthwhile road trips in Iowa?

For an extended adventure, it's hard to go wrong with a full-blown road trip. If you're in the mood to make memories with friends or family, read about eight of the best road trips in Iowa. Types of trips range from:

  • Highlighting wonderful waterfalls
  • You don't have to wait until Halloween to take a haunted Iowa road trip
  • The most charming small towns in the state

Fill up your gas tank and head out to have a blast.

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Featured Addresses
Great River Road, Great River Rd, New Albin, IA, USA