Follow the stunning northern section of the Mississippi River to see the charming towns that call its banks home. This exciting road trip takes you through Guttenberg, McGregor, Harpers Ferry and Lansing, and shows off the best sights and flavors along the way.
FLY THROUGH THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Day One
Do: DNR Aquarium & Fish Hatchery, Guttenberg
Start your Upper Mississippi River adventure at the DNR Aquarium and Fish Hatchery. Located in Guttenberg’s charming downtown, exhibits include the diverse fish, mussels and turtle species that live in the Mighty Mississippi. Step inside to admire the live displays – they’re free to explore.
Do: Pikes Peak State Park, McGregor
Then, make your way north to discover some of the most scenic hikes in the state at Pikes Peak State Park near McGregor. Park the car and set off on 11 miles of trails to see massive bluffs and sweeping valleys as well as waterfalls, scenic overlooks and Native American burial mounds. Along the way, keep your eye out for brachiopods, gastropods and cephalopods fossils that may be visible next to the trail.
Eat: Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery, McGregor
When you’re ready for a break, head into McGregor and grab a table at Old Man River Restaurant and Brewery. Owned by a local family, the menu boasts a fine selection of mouth-watering food, including signature burgers, sandwiches and wraps alongside various local and commercial beers on tap. According to the locals, their pizzas are a must-try.
Stay: The Landing, Guttenberg
Make your way back to Guttenberg to spend the night in a beautifully renovated historic warehouse. Located right on the banks of the Mississippi River, The Landing is a three-story stone building that offers cozy rooms, many of which feature balconies overlooking the river where you can peacefully watch passing barges and boats.
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, make the short walk to the Guttenberg Brewery Company for a nightcap. Owned and operated by young brewmaster Kathryn Klaes, she’s focused on bringing local beer back to the community. Sample a collection of locally crafted beers and pair it with popcorn, Chex Mix and charcuterie boards.
Day Two
Do: Effigy Mounds National Monument, Harpers Ferry
Follow the river north to the Effigy Mounds National Monument, a must-see Iowa attraction near Harpers Ferry. It protects more than 200 prehistoric American Indian burial and ceremonial mounds on over 2,5000 acres of land, which you can admire from 14 miles of hiking trails. Be sure to also stop by the visitor’s center to learn more about the Effigy Moundbuilders, their culture and the area’s stunning geographical features.
Eat: Portside Bar & Supper Club, Harpers Ferry
After a morning of hiking, head into Harpers Ferry and refuel with a classic American meal at Portside Bar & Supper Club. The menu is packed with generous appetizers, delicious pizzas, burgers and sandwiches. Locals especially love their wings, tenderloin sandwich and prime rib.
Do: Yellow River State Forest, Harpers Ferry
After lunch, head back out into nature for a relaxing but stunning hike at Yellow River State Forest. It boasts over 8,900 acres, which are divided into units to allow you to find the adventures you crave. The Paint Creek Unit is the largest and most popular section as it features hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails. The Luster Heights Unit also includes three miles of hiking trails and scenic overlooks; Paint Rock Unit features eight miles of rugged hiking-only trails; and the Yellow River Unit is home to the forest’s best canoe/kayak launch.
Eat: Safe House Saloon, Lansing
By now, you’ve surely reached your step goal for the day. So, reward yourself with a craft brew and a delicious homemade meal from the Safe House Saloon in Lansing. Known as a gastro pub, it boasts a massive selection of craft beers that will perfectly accompany an appetizer, hand-tossed thin crust pizza or steaming hot wings.
Before you hit the road, be sure to also stop by the famous Horsfall’s Lansing Variety store, located just down the street. This old-fashioned general store merges the past and present with its collection of home goods, food, quirky gifts, clothes and more. Many shoppers joke if Horsfall’s doesn’t have it, you don’t need it.
