20-Day Family Road Trip Along the Mississippi River from Minneapolis to New Orleans with Noah's Ark Waterpark

Day 1: Minneapolis Exploration

Minneapolis, Minnesota on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hell's Kitchen

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this iconic Minneapolis restaurant known for its family-friendly ambiance and creative dishes.
USD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Minnesota Children's Museum

Interactive exhibits provide hands-on fun for kids and parents alike. Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
USD14, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Punch Pizza

Famous for thin crust pizzas, this is a great spot for a casual family meal near the riverfront.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Mill City Museum

Explore the history of Minneapolis’ flour milling industry with interactive exhibits overlooking the Mississippi River. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
USD15, 2h

4:00pm

Walk and Play at St. Anthony Main Boardwalk

Enjoy scenic views of the river and let the kids play in the outdoor spaces and playgrounds.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Lowry

Family-friendly restaurant with diverse menu options including kid favorites near downtown Minneapolis.
USD30, 1h

7:30pm

Check-in at Hyatt Regency Minneapolis

Comfortable family rooms and located near the riverfront, perfect for relaxation and easy access to the next day’s drive.
USD180, Overnight
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Day 2: Noah's Ark Waterpark Adventure

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Have a quick and energizing breakfast before the drive to Wisconsin Dells.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive Minneapolis to Wisconsin Dells

Drive approximately 3.5 hours east to Wisconsin Dells, famous as the 'Waterpark Capital of the World'.
Fuel approx. USD30, 3h30m

11:30am

Check-in at the Wilderness Resort

Stay at a large family-friendly resort adjacent to Noah's Ark Waterpark with easy access to the park.
USD180, Overnight

12:00pm

Lunch at Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co.

Casual dining with great pizzas and kid-friendly menu, perfect for families in Wisconsin Dells.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Noah's Ark Waterpark

Spend the afternoon at the largest waterpark in the USA, featuring over 50 water rides and attractions suitable for all ages. Open 10:00am to 7:00pm.
USD50 per person, 4h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Del-Bar

A family-friendly upscale dining experience with a warm atmosphere, located in Wisconsin Dells.
USD40, 1h
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Day 3: Dubuque & Waterpark Stay

Dubuque, Iowa on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the Wilderness Resort to prepare for your drive south.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Drive Wisconsin Dells to Dubuque

Approximately 3 hours south, following I-90 E and then south along the Mississippi River route.
Fuel cost approx. USD30, 3h

12:00pm

Check in at Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark

Stay at this riverfront resort with an indoor waterpark, perfect for family fun continuing after Noah’s Ark.
USD150, Overnight

12:30pm

Lunch at The Beacon Restaurant and Lounge

Known for its river views and American classics, ideal for the family.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Grand Harbor Indoor Waterpark

Enjoy water slides, a lazy river and pools open till 9:00pm. Perfect spot for kids to cool down and have fun after the drive.
Included with hotel stay, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Alestine Eats

Family-friendly dining focusing on local cuisine and comfort food near the river.
USD28, 1h
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Day 4: Great River Road to Quad Cities

Davenport, Iowa; Moline, Illinois on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have breakfast conveniently at Grand Harbor Resort before starting your day.
USD18, 1h

9:30am

Drive along Great River Road to Davenport & Moline

Short drive of about 1 hour visiting several attractions along the Mississippi including river overlooks and small parks for breaks.
Fuel cost approx. USD10, 1h

11:00am

Visit Figge Art Museum in Davenport

Family friendly and offers special children’s programs. Open 10:00am-5:00pm Tue-Sun.
USD10, 1.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Machine Shed

Comfort food eatery ideal for families with big portions and welcoming atmosphere.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Explore John Deere Pavilion in Moline

Interactive exhibits focusing on agriculture technology, enjoyable for kids. Open 9:00am-5:00pm daily.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Check in at Isle Hotel and Casino, Bettendorf

Offers comfortable family rooms and good amenities.
USD120, Overnight

6:00pm

Dinner at Front Street Brewery

Casual and lively brewery with a varied menu including kid-friendly options.
USD30, 1h
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Day 5: St. Louis Gateway

St. Louis, Missouri on June 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast at Isle Bettendorf before departure.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Quad Cities to St. Louis, Missouri

A longer driving day of about 4.5 hours along the Mississippi River to St. Louis.
Fuel cost approx. USD40, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Blueberry Hill

Famous for its family-friendly vibe on Delmar Loop featuring burgers, live music, and memorabilia.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Explore the St. Louis Science Center

Large hands-on science museum with many exhibits for kids and a planetarium, open 9:30am-5:00pm.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Check in at Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch

Comfortable family accommodation located downtown within walking distance to major attractions.
USD170, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at Pappy's Smokehouse

Famous BBQ spot perfect for families wanting to try St. Louis style ribs and southern sides.
USD30, 1h

8:00pm

Sunset visit to Gateway Arch

Evening visit to the iconic Gateway Arch with elevator ride to the top (open until 7:00pm, check for seasonal variations).
USD15, 1h
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Day 6: Waterpark & St. Louis Zoo

St. Louis, Missouri on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rooster

Known for fresh ingredients and family friendly menu selections.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

St. Louis Zoo

One of the best free zoos in the country, open 9:30am-5:00pm and perfect for families.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Boathouse at Forest Park

A casual restaurant right inside Forest Park offering kid-friendly meals and river views.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Splash at St. Louis Waterpark

Indoor waterpark located nearby, ideal for rainy days or cooling off after the zoo, open 11:00am-7:00pm.
USD15 per person, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel rest

Relax and refresh at your hotel before dinner.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pastaria

Family friendly Italian eatery offering fresh pasta with many kid-approved options.
USD30, 1h
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Day 7: Memphis Bound

Memphis, Tennessee on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast at hotel

Prepare for the day with a convenient hotel breakfast.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive from St. Louis to Memphis

Approximate 4.5 hour drive heading south along the Mississippi River corridor.
Fuel approx. USD40, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Enjoy iconic Memphis fried chicken loved by locals and tourists alike.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Memphis Zoo

Large zoo with over 3,500 animals, open 9:00am-5:00pm daily, enjoyable for children and adults.
USD16, 2h

5:00pm

Check in at The Guest House at Graceland

Family-friendly hotel adjacent to Elvis Presley’s Graceland, offering great amenities.
USD160, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at The Arcade Restaurant

Historic diner with a large menu suitable for children and adults, great local experience.
USD25, 1h
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Day 8: Graceland & Riverfront

Memphis, Tennessee on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel.
USD18, 1h

9:00am

Tour Elvis Presley’s Graceland

Experience the life of Elvis with family-friendly exhibits and the mansion tour, open 9:00am-5:00pm.
USD45, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Central BBQ

Enjoy Memphis' renowned barbecue in a family-friendly setting.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Mud Island River Park

Outdoor park with pedal boats, a Mississippi River model, and playgrounds, open 9:00am-7:00pm.
USD5 parking, free entry, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at hotel or option for riverfront walk

Rest before dinner or take a scenic stroll by the Mississippi River.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Beauty Shop Restaurant

A unique spot with eclectic ambiance and creative menus, suitable for families.
USD30, 1h
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Day 9: Vicksburg History

Vicksburg, Mississippi on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a travel day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive Memphis to Vicksburg

About 3 hours south along I-55 with intermittent river views, ideal for progressing downriver.
Fuel approx. USD30, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Walnut Hills Restaurant and Catering

Local southern cuisine in a family-friendly environment.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Vicksburg National Military Park

Explore Civil War history with self-guided auto tours, museums, and monuments; open daily 8:00am-5:00pm.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Check in at Ameristar Casino Hotel Vicksburg

Comfortable accommodations with family-friendly amenities including a pool.
USD130, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at Boat Club

Casual dining with Mississippi River views and seafood options for the family.
USD28, 1h
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Day 10: Natchez & Scenic Drive

Natchez, Mississippi on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with breakfast at Ameristar before heading out.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Vicksburg to Natchez

Approximately 1.5-hour scenic drive following the Mississippi River south.
Fuel approx. USD15, 1h30m

10:00am

Visit Emerald Mound

Explore one of the largest Native American ceremonial mounds in the U.S. Open daily from 9:00am-4:30pm.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Natchez Trace National Scenic Parkway Visitor Center

Learn about the historic trail and local history; exhibits and family-friendly ranger programs available.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Camp Restaurant

Classic southern buffet perfect for families near the Mississippi River.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Natchez historic district

Walk or drive along historic streets and antebellum homes with guided tours available.
Tours from USD15 per person, 2h

5:00pm

Check in at Monmouth Historic Inn

Charming historic inn offering comfortable family accommodations.
USD160, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at Fat Mama's Tamales

Family-friendly spot known for spicy tamales and creative dishes.
USD25, 1h
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Day 11: Natchez to Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge, Louisiana on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at inn

Enjoy a southern style breakfast with homemade options at your historic inn.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive Natchez to Baton Rouge

About a 2-hour drive south by river route with opportunity for scenic stops.
Fuel USD20, 2h

10:30am

Visit LSU Rural Life Museum

Outdoor museum featuring authentic old Louisiana buildings and artifacts. Open 9:00am-4:30pm Tue-Sun.
USD10, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Parrain's Seafood Restaurant

Family-friendly restaurant serving fresh Louisiana seafood just outside Baton Rouge.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Blue Bayou Waterpark and Dixie Landin’ Amusement Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying rides and waterpark fun, perfect for the whole family. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
USD30 per person, 3h

5:30pm

Check in at Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center

Comfortable downtown hotel near many attractions and dining.
USD160, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at The Chimes

Casual and lively eatery offering a variety of Louisiana staples, great for families.
USD30, 1h
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Day 12: Final Stretch to New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with breakfast at the Hilton Baton Rouge before departure.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Drive Baton Rouge to New Orleans

Short 1.5 hour drive to New Orleans along I-10 crossing the Mississippi River multiple times.
Fuel approx. USD15, 1h30m

10:00am

Check in at the French Market Inn

Family-oriented accommodation located in the French Quarter with easy access to main attractions.
USD180, Overnight

10:30am

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Explore exciting sea life exhibits including touch tanks and a Caribbean coral reef, open 10:00am-5:00pm.
USD30, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Beignet

Enjoy classic New Orleans beignets and kid-friendly cafe fare in a casual setting.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Audubon Zoo

Spend the afternoon visiting over 2,000 animals in a beautifully landscaped park. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
USD25, 3h

5:30pm

Return to hotel rest

Rest and freshen up for the evening.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Old Coffee Pot Restaurant

Family-friendly with classic Creole dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
USD28, 1h
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Day 13: New Orleans Family Fun

New Orleans, Louisiana on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café du Monde

Famous for outstanding beignets and café au lait, great for a family breakfast experience.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

City Park Adventure Playground & Carousel Gardens Amusement Park

Enjoy a large playground and charming amusement park rides perfect for family fun. Parks open 10:00am-6:00pm.
USD20 entrance + rides, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Parkway Bakery & Tavern

Known for some of the best po'boy sandwiches in a casual setting with space for kids.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Steamboat Natchez Cruise

Take a family friendly paddlewheel steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River. The 2-hour cruise departs at 2:00pm and 4:30pm.
USD35 per person, 2h

4:30pm

Return to hotel

Relax after your cruise and get ready for dinner.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Mother’s Restaurant

A New Orleans staple offering classic Creole and Cajun dishes in a family-friendly environment.
USD25, 1h
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Day 14: Explore French Quarter & Departure Prep

New Orleans, Louisiana on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Willa Jean

Modern bakery with southern-inspired breakfast options, great for families.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Walking tour of the French Quarter

Explore kid-friendly sights like Jackson Square, street performers, and shops. Tours last about 2 hours.
USD15 per person, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Coop's Place

Laid-back venue with hearty Cajun and Creole dishes, family welcoming.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Louisiana Children's Museum

Interactive exhibits and creative play spaces for children, open 10:00am-5:00pm.
USD14, 2h

3:30pm

Free time for souvenir shopping or park visit

Explore local shops or relax at a nearby park such as Woldenberg Riverfront Park.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Deanie's Seafood

Casual family-friendly seafood spot with large portions and relaxed atmosphere.
USD30, 1h
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