Mississippi National River

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, located in the state of Minnesota, is a significant natural and historical site that spans over 72 miles along the Mississippi River. It was designated as a national park in 1988. This area showcases the beauty of the river and serves as a reminder of its historical significance.

The Mississippi National River is situated within the urban sprawl of the Twin Cities metropolitan area, comprising the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. The park stretches from the city of Dayton in the north to Hastings in the south, and covers a wide range of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and river bluffs.

The history of the Mississippi National River dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human presence in the area since ancient times. Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe, relied on the river for transportation, trade, and sustenance. In the early 19th century, European-American settlers began to establish settlements along the river, leading to the growth of the Twin Cities as major industrial centers.

Visitors to the Mississippi National River can engage in a variety of recreational activities. The park offers numerous hiking and biking trails, providing opportunities to explore the natural landscapes and observe the diverse wildlife. Fishing is another popular activity, with the river being home to several species of fish. Additionally, boating and canoeing are favorite pastimes, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the river up close.

Several attractions can be found in proximity to the Mississippi National River. The Mill City Museum, located in downtown Minneapolis, offers a glimpse into the city's milling history and the importance of the river in the flour-milling industry. The Science Museum of Minnesota, situated on the banks of the Mississippi River in St. Paul, provides interactive exhibits on science and natural history. Moreover, Minnehaha Park, located along the river in Minneapolis, offers beautiful scenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Overall, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area in Minnesota serves as a vital natural and historical resource. Its location within the Twin Cities allows for convenient access to visitors, offering a range of recreational activities and nearby attractions to explore.

The Mississippi National River is situated within the state of Minnesota, spanning from the northern part of the state near Lake Itasca to the southern border at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. As the name suggests, it primarily follows the course of the mighty Mississippi River, stretching across 72 miles within the state. The river flows through diverse landscapes, showcasing charming urban areas, rich farmlands, picturesque bluffs, and serene wetlands. Studded with iconic landmarks such as the Saint Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis, this region is a remarkable testament to the natural and cultural history of Minnesota.

Address & Contact

Mississippi River Visitor Center
120 Kellogg Blvd West
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Driving Directions
Phone: 651-293-0200
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Mississippi National River is during the months of May, June, July, and August. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 69°F to 84°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average minimum temperatures during these months range from 49°F to 65°F, ensuring comfortable evenings. The average monthly precipitation ranges from 3.9 in to 4.8 in, which allows for enjoyable outdoor experiences without excessive rainfall.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Mississippi National River are: Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Biking Road Biking Hiking Front-Country Hiking Boating Fishing Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Living History Snow Play Reenactments Historic Weapons Demonstration First Person Interpretation Mountain Biking Freshwater Fishing Compass and GPS Geocaching

Topics

Learn about these topics at Mississippi National River: Groundwater Freshwater Springs Arts Industry Transportation Photography Grasslands Waterfalls Forts Mills Prairies Dunes Dams Music

Visitor Centers

Mississippi River Visitor Center

Located in downtown St. Paul, in the lobby of the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Mississippi River Visitor Center serves as a gateway to adventure along the mighty Mississippi. Find interactive exhibits and get advice from park rangers as to things to do and places to go. Admission is free.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Mississippi River Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Mississippi National River

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Mississippi National River

InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, an IHG Hotel

A stay at InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront, an IHG Hotel places you in the heart of St. Paul, steps from Mississippi River and 3 minutes by foot from Minneapolis Museum of Art. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in St. Paul? This hotel has facilities measuring 44000 square feet (4088 square meters), including a conference center. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 11 Kellogg Blvd E, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101
Web: Link

Motel 6 Saint Paul, MN - I-94

With a stay at Motel 6 Saint Paul, MN - I-94 in St. Paul, you'll be steps from Mississippi River and a 2-minute drive from Regions Hospital - ADAP. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1739 Old Hudson Rd, St. Paul, Minnesota 55106
Web: Link

Quality Inn St. Paul-Minneapolis-Midway

With a stay at Quality Inn St. Paul-Minneapolis-Midway in St. Paul (Merriam Park), you'll be steps from Mississippi River and a 2-minute drive from Allianz Field. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in St. Paul? This hotel features 800 square feet (74 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: University Avenue West,1964, St. Paul, Minnesota 55104
Web: Link

Best Western Plus Como Park Hotel

Located in St. Paul (Como), Best Western Plus Como Park Hotel is within a 5-minute drive of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory and University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in St. Paul? This hotel has facilities measuring 1860 square feet (173 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1010 Bandana Blvd W, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express St Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts, an IHG Hotel

Located in Inver Grove Heights, Holiday Inn Express St Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts, an IHG Hotel is a 1-minute drive from Mississippi River and 10 minutes from Minneapolis Museum of Art. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5653 Bishop Avenue, Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota 55076
Web: Link

Hotel 340

With a stay at Hotel 340 in St. Paul (Downtown St. Paul), you'll be steps from Mississippi River and 9 minutes by foot from Minneapolis Museum of Art. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk.
Address: 340 Cedar Street, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101
Web: Link

Hotel 340

With a stay at Hotel 340 in St. Paul (Downtown St. Paul), you'll be steps from Mississippi River and 9 minutes by foot from Minneapolis Museum of Art. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 340 CEDAR STREET, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101
Web: Link

Coratel Inn & Suites Inver Grove Heights

Located in Inver Grove Heights, Coratel Inn & Suites Inver Grove Heights is on the Strip, a 1-minute drive from Mississippi River and 8 minutes from Fort Snelling State Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5492 S Robert Trail, Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota 55077
Web: Link

New Victorian Mansion Bed & Breakfast

With a stay at New Victorian Mansion Bed & Breakfast in St. Paul (Summit - University), you'll be steps from Mississippi River and 9 minutes by foot from Minnesota History Center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 325 Dayton Ave, St. Paul, Minnesota 55102
Web: Link

Oxbo St Paul

With a stay at Oxbo St Paul in St. Paul (Downtown St. Paul), you'll be steps from Mississippi River and Xcel Energy Center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 202 7th Street West, St. Paul, Minnesota 55102
Web: Link