Missouri offers us so many ways to sneak glimpses into yesteryear – even as we go about our daily lives. Next time you’ve got a free hour or so, climb aboard this historic ferry ride in Missouri that will make you feel as though you’ve traveled back in time.

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Have you been on this historic ferry in Missouri? Share your experience in the comments! For another boating adventure, climb aboard a riverboat at the Gateway Arch. Read all about this dinner boat in Missouri.

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Ferry Ride In Missouri

Do any ferries cross the Mississippi River?

Yes, ferries do cross the Mississippi River. These ferry services have been an integral part of the river's history, providing essential transportation long before the construction of bridges. While the number of ferries has decreased over the years due to the construction of bridges and the development of other transportation methods, some ferries still operate today, serving both practical and touristic purposes.

Several ferries operate across different parts of the Mississippi, catering to locals, tourists, and vehicles. Here are a few examples:

  • Ste. Genevieve - Modoc Ferry: Located in Illinois, this ferry connects southern Illinois with Sainte Genevieve in Missouri.
  • Golden Eagle Ferry: This ferry connects St. Charles County in Missouri with Calhoun County in Illinois. It primarily serves as a shortcut for locals, but tourists also use it to explore the scenic areas around the river.
  • Cassville Car Ferry: Connecting Cassville, Wisconsin to Iowa, offers a pleasant experience with views of the river bluffs.
  • Dorena-Hickman Ferry: This is one of Missouri and Kentucky's few remaining ferry services. It connects KY 1354 at Hickman, Kentucky, with MO Route A and Route 77 near Dorena, Missouri.
  • Algiers Ferry: Located in New Orleans, this ferry provides a picturesque way for pedestrians and cyclists to cross the river, offering fantastic views of the city's skyline and the Mississippi.

 

Where can I cross the Mississippi River in Missouri?

These are some of the primary crossings over the Mississippi River in Missouri. Depending on your exact location and destination, one may be more convenient than the others.

  • Poplar Street Bridge: Located in St. Louis, this bridge carries Interstates 55, 64, and 70.
  • Eads Bridge: Also in St. Louis, it's notable as the oldest bridge crossing the river.
  • Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge: Another bridge in St. Louis carries Interstate 70.
  • Martin Luther King Bridge: Originally known as the Veterans' Bridge, this is located in St. Louis as well.
  • Chain of Rocks Bridge: North of St. Louis, this was originally a motor route but is now used for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Jefferson Barracks Bridge: South of St. Louis, it carries Interstate 255.
  • Chester Bridge: It is located in Chester and connects Missouri Route 51 with Illinois Route 150.
  • Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge is in Cape Girardeau and carries U.S. Route 62.
  • Dorena-Hickman Ferry: While not a bridge, this ferry service offers another way to cross the river between Hickman, Kentucky, and Dorena, Missouri.

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