Extended 20-Day Family Road Trip from Minneapolis to New Orleans Along the Mississippi River

Day 1: Minneapolis to Saint Paul

Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Hen House Eatery

Start your trip with a hearty classic American breakfast in Minneapolis known for fresh ingredients and family-friendly vibe.
USD20 per person, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Saint Paul

Short 15-minute drive to explore Minnesota's capital city.
USD0, 0h15m

10:00am

Minnesota State Capitol Tour

Free guided tours showcasing beautiful architecture and state history, ideal family educational stop.
USD0, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Bulldog Northeast

Relax with local pub fare and kid-friendly menu options in a casual setting.
USD15 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

Free admission to a zoo and gardens with engaging activities for all ages.
USD0, 2h

4:00pm

Hotel Check-in The Saint Paul Hotel

Historic and family-friendly accommodation in downtown Saint Paul.
USD200 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Meritage Restaurant

Enjoy farm-to-table Southern-inspired dishes in a warm atmosphere for families.
USD30 per person, 1h30m
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Day 2: Saint Paul Exploration

Saint Paul, Minnesota on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at French Meadow Bakery & Cafe

Tasty organic breakfast options with a cozy vibe for families to start the day.
USD18 per person, 1h

9:30am

Science Museum of Minnesota

Interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences perfect for kids and adults.
USD20 per adult, USD15 per child, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Urban Forage

Delicious sandwiches and shared plates crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
USD18 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Walk at Fitzgerald Park and the Mississippi River bluff

Enjoy scenic views, playgrounds, and a peaceful riverfront walk great for all ages.
USD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Hotel

Enjoy downtime at The Saint Paul Hotel with family-friendly amenities and comfort.
USD0, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Happy Gnome

Try kid-friendly comfort foods and a variety of craft beers in a lively atmosphere.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Saint Paul to La Crosse

Saint Paul, Minnesota to La Crosse, Wisconsin on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at French Meadow Bakery & Cafe

Organic breakfast to fuel up for the drive ahead.
USD18 per person, 1h

8:45am

Drive to La Crosse

Scenic drive following Mississippi River south; approx. 2.5 hours.
USD0, 2h30m

11:30am

Riverside Park Visit

Enjoy the riverfront playgrounds and paths, perfect for active family fun.
USD0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern

Casual dining with refreshing river views and tasty American fare.
USD20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Grandad Bluff Park

Drive or hike to scenic overlook with panoramic views of La Crosse and the Mississippi River.
USD0, 1h

4:00pm

Hotel Check-in at Radisson La Crosse

Comfortable family hotel with pool and convenient location.
USD150 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Pearl Street Brewery

Family-friendly brewery with tasty meals and a fun atmosphere.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 4: La Crosse Exploration

La Crosse, Wisconsin on May 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at JavaVino

Relaxed café with breakfast favorites and cozy vibes near downtown.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:30am

Hixon Forest Trail

Light family hike on well-maintained trails amid native forest and bluffs, great for nature appreciation.
USD0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Schmaltz Brewing Company

Enjoy a unique lunch experience with craft beers and kid-friendly menus.
USD22 per person, 1h

1:30pm

La Crosse Queen Riverboat Cruise (seasonal)

An exciting river cruise on the Mississippi providing historical narration and scenic views (check availability).
USD30 per adult, USD15 per child, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Hotel

Free time to enjoy pool or rest for the evening.
USD0, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Manna Restaurant

Diverse menu with family favorites and fresh ingredients in a welcoming environment.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 5: La Crosse to Dubuque

La Crosse, Wisconsin to Dubuque, Iowa on June 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at JavaVino

Delicious café breakfast to start the day.
USD15 per person, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Dubuque

Scenic one-hour drive along the great river.
USD0, 1h

9:45am

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

Interactive exhibits and aquatic life highlight the river’s cultural and environmental significance.
USD14 per adult, USD10 per child, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at the Bridges Restaurant

Riverfront dining with classic American dishes suitable for all ages.
USD20 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Explore beautiful gardens and open spaces perfect for kids’ discovery and family walks.
USD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Hotel Check-in Hotel Julien Dubuque

Historic, family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and easy access to downtown attractions.
USD170 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Vinny Vanucchi's

Italian dining offering hearty family-friendly meals and delightful desserts.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 6: Dubuque to Quad Cities

Dubuque, Iowa to Quad Cities (Davenport/Bettendorf/Moline), Iowa/Illinois on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Monogram Coffee

Independent coffee shop offering light breakfast and excellent coffee near Dubuque.
USD12 per person, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Quad Cities

Approximately 1.5-hour drive to this vibrant river metropolitan area.
USD0, 1h30m

10:15am

Visit Figge Art Museum

Art museum featuring engaging exhibits for children and diverse collections for the family.
USD10 per adult, USD5 per child, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Front Street Brewery

Relaxaed riverside pub favorite with handcrafted beers and tasty pub fare.
USD20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Niabi Zoo

Enjoy animal exhibits, train rides, and playgrounds — fun for all ages, family outing highlight.
USD8 per adult, USD5 per child, 2h

4:30pm

Hotel Check-in at Hotel Blackhawk

Iconic, centrally located hotel with family-friendly amenities.
USD160 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Quad City Botanical Center's On the River

Dine surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a seasonal menu suited for families.
USD30 per person, 1h30m
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Day 7: Quad Cities to Quincy

Quad Cities to Quincy, Illinois on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Uncommon Grounds

Artisan coffee and fresh breakfast items in a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Quincy

A scenic 1.5-hour drive south on the river to historic Quincy, Illinois.
USD0, 1h30m

10:45am

Visit Quincy Museum

Explore local history and enjoy kid-friendly interactive exhibits in the museum.
USD5 per adult, free for children, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Stone Cellar

Enjoy classic American cuisine in a historic building with a relaxed family environment.
USD20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Walk and Playground time at Clat Adams Park

Large park with playgrounds and picnic areas ideal for kids and family relaxation.
USD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Hotel Check-in at The Chancellor Hotel

Comfortable central hotel with family-friendly amenities and pleasant rooms.
USD140 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at La Bodega Tapas Bar

A casual, family-friendly spot offering light tapas and varied options for kids.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 8: Quincy to St. Louis

Quincy, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri on June 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Pastry Shoppe

Local bakery known for fresh breads and pastries, perfect for a quick but tasty breakfast.
USD12 per person, 1h

8:00am

Drive to St. Louis

A 4-hour drive south tracing the iconic Mississippi River toward the gateway city.
USD0, 4h

12:15pm

Lunch at Pappy's Smokehouse

Experience authentic St. Louis BBQ that appeals to the whole family's taste buds.
USD20 per person, 1h

1:45pm

Visit City Museum

A creative playground combining fun, art, and architectural elements that excite children.
USD15 per person, 2h30m

4:30pm

Hotel Check-in at The Westin St. Louis

Comfortable family-friendly hotel near Gateway Arch and riverfront attractions.
USD200 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Blueberry Hill

Casual dining with live music, burgers, and kid-friendly options in vibrant Delmar Loop.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 9: St. Louis Exploration

St. Louis, Missouri on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rooster

Popular brunch spot known for hearty dishes and warm family atmosphere.
USD18 per person, 1h

9:30am

Gateway Arch National Park

Visit the arch, take tram rides to the top for picturesque river views and explore the Museums.
USD18 per adult, USD9 per child, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at St Louis Union Station's The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

Unique dining experience with kid favorites and dessert creations in a themed atmosphere.
USD25 per person, 1h30m

2:30pm

Saint Louis Zoo

Free and renowned zoo offering animals and interactive exhibits appropriate for children.
USD0, 2h30m

5:30pm

Return to Hotel

Relax and rest before dinner.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory

Family dining favorite with generous portions and a budget-friendly menu.
USD20 per person, 1h30m
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Day 10: St. Louis to Cape Girardeau

St. Louis, Missouri to Cape Girardeau, Missouri on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rooster

Enjoy a filling breakfast to start the day in St. Louis.
USD18 per person, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Cape Girardeau

Approximate 2.5-hour drive south on the river to Cape Girardeau.
USD0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Katy's Kitchen

Southern comfort food with a family-friendly atmosphere in downtown Cape Girardeau.
USD18 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Cape Girardeau Heritage Museum

Explore exhibits showcasing regional history with interactive displays for children.
USD5 per adult, free under 12, 1h30m

3:30pm

Cape Rock Park and Playground

Open green space with playgrounds and scenic river views great for family leisure time.
USD0, 1h

5:00pm

Hotel Check-in Drury Inn & Suites Cape Girardeau

Comfortable hotel with an indoor pool and free breakfast, great for families.
USD145 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Little Beirut Restaurant & Hookah Lounge

Enjoy family-friendly Mediterranean dishes in a welcoming setting.
USD20 per person, 1h30m
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Day 11: Cape Girardeau Exploration

Cape Girardeau, Missouri on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the complimentary breakfast at the hotel to start the day.
USD0, 1h

9:00am

Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge Walk and Riverfront Trail

Family-friendly walk with great views of the Mississippi River and photo opportunities.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Trail of Tears State Park

Explore hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas in this beautiful riverside state park.
USD7 vehicle entry fee, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Main & Market

A welcoming restaurant offering southern inspired dishes with kid-friendly options.
USD20 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Relax and play at the hotel pool

Enjoy family downtime at the hotel pool and amenities before dinner.
USD0, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Gill(Venue with outdoor seating)

Family-friendly spot offering casual dining with live music and kids’ dishes.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 12: Cape Girardeau to Memphis

Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Memphis, Tennessee on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with hotel’s complimentary breakfast before the drive.
USD0, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Memphis

Drive about 3.5 hours down the river to the lively music city Memphis.
USD0, 3h30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Central BBQ

Taste Memphis-style barbecue that the entire family will enjoy.
USD20 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Memphis Zoo Visit

Explore a diverse zoo with engaging exhibits and fun animal encounters for kids.
USD16 adult, USD12 child, 3h

5:00pm

Hotel Check-in Peabody Memphis

Stay at the historic hotel famous for its resident ducks, great for families downtown.
USD220 per night, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Enjoy finger-licking fried chicken in a casual, family-friendly environment.
USD18 per person, 1h30m
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Day 13: Memphis Exploration

Memphis, Tennessee on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bluff City Coffee

Cozy café for coffee and breakfast sandwiches near downtown Memphis.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:30am

Graceland Mansion Tour

Iconic Elvis Presley home with exhibits and family-friendly tours.
USD48 per adult, USD24 per child, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Arcade Restaurant

Historic diner serving Southern classics with a friendly atmosphere for families.
USD18 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Shelby Farms Park

Large urban park with playgrounds, paddle boats, trails and picnic areas great for all ages.
USD0, 3h

5:30pm

Relax at Hotel

Return to hotel for downtime over late afternoon.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Huey's Downtown

Family-friendly restaurant known for burgers and casual dining atmosphere.
USD20 per person, 1h30m
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Day 14: Memphis to Vicksburg

Memphis, Tennessee to Vicksburg, Mississippi on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bluff City Coffee

Enjoy a light breakfast before departing Memphis.
USD15 per person, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Vicksburg

3-hour drive south along the Mississippi River to a city rich in Civil War history.
USD0, 3h

11:45am

Vicksburg National Military Park

Explore extensive battlefield monuments, museums, and ranger programs for educational fun.
USD0, 2h

1:45pm

Lunch at Walnut Hills Restaurant

Down-home Southern cooking in a family-friendly atmosphere.
USD18 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Old Courthouse Museum

Learn about local history with exhibits suitable for families and kids.
USD0, 1h

4:30pm

Hotel Check-in The Grapevine Bed & Breakfast

Historic B&B with comfortable family rooms near downtown Vicksburg.
USD140 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Rusty's Riverfront Grill

Riverfront dining with a broad menu and kid-friendly options.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 15: Vicksburg to Baton Rouge

Vicksburg, Mississippi to Baton Rouge, Louisiana on June 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Home-style breakfast in Vicksburg before departing.
USD15 per person, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Baton Rouge

2-hour scenic drive down the Mississippi into Louisiana's capital.
USD0, 2h

10:15am

Louisiana State Capitol

Visit the tallest state capitol building, observation deck views, and grounds for photos.
USD0, 1h

11:30am

Lunch at Parrain's Seafood Restaurant

Family-friendly spot offering authentic Louisiana seafood specialties.
USD20 per person, 1h

1:00pm

LSU Rural Life Museum

Free outdoor museum depicting 19th-century Louisiana life suitable for all ages.
USD0, 2h

3:30pm

Hotel Check-in Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center

Comfortable family-friendly hotel located downtown.
USD180 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at The Chimes

Casual dining with extensive Louisiana-inspired menu and kid-friendly dishes.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 16: Baton Rouge Exploration

Baton Rouge, Louisiana on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Magpie Cafe

Popular spot for fresh farm-to-table breakfast fare.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:30am

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

View local wildlife, walking trails and interactive educational activities for kids.
USD5 per adult, USD3 per child, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Roux 61 Seafood

Taste classic Cajun and Creole dishes in a family-friendly setting.
USD20 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Baton Rouge Zoo

Small but engaging zoo with animals and play areas great for family fun.
USD7 per person, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Hotel

Rest and enjoy hotel amenities.
USD0, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Jefferson Bar & Grill

Casual eatery with a large menu including kid favorites and healthy options.
USD22 per person, 1h30m
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Day 17: Baton Rouge to New Orleans

Baton Rouge to New Orleans, Louisiana on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Magpie Cafe

Enjoy a fresh breakfast before departing Baton Rouge.
USD15 per person, 1h

8:30am

Drive to New Orleans

1.5-hour drive along the Mississippi Riverboard to the vibrant city of New Orleans.
USD0, 1h30m

10:15am

Hotel Check-in Hotel Monteleone

Historic French Quarter hotel perfect for family stays and exploration.
USD250 per night, N/A

11:00am

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Explore aquatic life and river creatures in an engaging environment for all ages.
USD30 per adult, USD20 per child, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Cafe du Monde

Enjoy iconic New Orleans beignets and cafe au lait in the French Market.
USD10 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Woldenberg Park Stroll

Relax by the Mississippi River, enjoy playgrounds and watch street performers.
USD0, 1h

5:00pm

Return to hotel to rest

Rest and freshen up.
USD0, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Deanie's Seafood

Authentic seafood dishes with a kid-friendly atmosphere near the French Quarter.
USD30 per person, 1h30m
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Day 18: New Orleans Exploration

New Orleans, Louisiana on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Beignet

Sample New Orleans' famous beignets and cafe in a family-friendly café setting.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:30am

Audubon Zoo

Sprawling zoo home to native and exotic animals with engaging kids' activities and playground.
USD25 per adult, USD17 per child, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Ruby Slipper Cafe

Casual, Southern breakfast & lunch spot with generous portions and kid-friendly options.
USD20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

French Quarter Walking Tour

Explore the historic streets, culture, and architecture with a family-friendly guide.
USD25 per adult, USD15 per child, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at Hotel

Return to hotel for rest.
USD0, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Coop’s Place

Enjoy casual Cajun and Creole dishes in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
USD25 per person, 1h30m
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Day 19: New Orleans Culture Day

New Orleans, Louisiana on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mother's Restaurant

Classic New Orleans comfort breakfast and lunch dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit The National WWII Museum

Engaging exhibits telling WWII stories with interactive components suitable for older kids.
USD30 per adult, USD20 per child, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cochon Butcher

Deli-style eatery offering sandwiches and local specialties with a casual vibe.
USD20 per person, 1h

2:00pm

City Park and New Orleans Museum of Art

Explore vast green spaces, playgrounds and art galleries to keep the family entertained.
USD15 for museum adults, free under 12, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel

Relax before dinner.
USD0, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Jacques-Imo's Cafe

Enjoy lively, authentic Creole cuisine with family-friendly portions.
USD30 per person, 1h30m
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Day 20: Departure or Leisure Day

New Orleans, Louisiana on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Beignet

Enjoy a final indulgence of beignets and coffee to conclude your trip.
USD15 per person, 1h

9:30am

Optional Last sightseeing or shopping

Spend the morning visiting any missed attractions or souvenir shopping in the French Quarter.
Varies, 2h

12:00pm

Check out and prepare departure

Pack up and check out or proceed with onward travel plans.
USD0, N/A
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