Plan Your Visit

Introducing the Park

Big cities and small towns. Cultural history and natural history. Hiking and bicycling. Gorges and waterfalls. Historic milling districts and museums. The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area stretches along the banks and islands of the Mississippi River for 72 miles through the heart of one of the United States' great metropolitan areas.

This section of our website will help you plan your exploration of this urban national park, whether that visit is for a few hours or a few days. You will find maps, places to go, things to do, suggested resources, and discover the backdrop of history, culture, nature, and science that forms the foundation of this national park. Of course, we also have rangers willing to help you with questions and additional suggestions at our visitor center (contact information and visitor center hours).

Wildlife, Landscapes, and Experiences in Photographs

Explore Your Options

There are many things to do and see at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. You can find favorite activities, or maybe a new interest, on our Things to Do page, which has activities arranged by both season and interest. Check out our Places to Go page if you want to investigate places that sound interesting.

Of course, we have friendly rangers available to help plan your visit and to answer questions. Call them at 651-293-0200, or visit them at either the Mississippi River Visitor Center.

Lastly, the Calendar lists programs led by NPS rangers or by our partners. Programs include ice and summer fishing, traditional ice harvesting, bird hikes and bike rides among other fun events designed for all ages.