Self-Guided Mississippi River Tour in Saint Paul
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Explore the mighty Mississippi River on your own with the Mighty Mississippi Self Guided Minneapolis Riverside Tour. Led by award-winning storyteller Frank Bures, this tour takes you from Nicollet Island to Gold Medal Park, revealing 12,000 years of vibrant river history along the way.
As you walk along the river, you'll pass iconic landmarks like the Stone Arch Bridge, Guthrie Theater, and Spirit Island. Discover fascinating stories about St. Anthony Falls, the Grain Belt Sign's revival, and even tales of paddling records and local legends. Frank's personal stories, including a near-death experience in the river, add a unique touch that makes this tour memorable.
Whether you're at home or exploring Minneapolis, you'll have unlimited access to this virtual tour. It's perfect for history buffs, river lovers, or anyone curious about how the Mississippi has shaped the city and its people.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.
What do I need to participate?
You'll need a smartphone, headphones, and the VoiceMap app, which provides offline access to audio guides, maps, and geodata.
Can I do this tour from home?
Absolutely! Once purchased, you'll get unlimited access, including a virtual tour option you can enjoy from anywhere.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it's designed for adults aged 6 to 99 and is accessible for all physical fitness levels.
Are there any additional costs?
No. The tour includes lifetime access in English and the necessary app, but it does not cover entrance fees to attractions or transportation.
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 45 minutes – 1 hour
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English
- VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Not included
- Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
- Smartphone and headphones
- Transportation
- Food and drink
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Embark on a captivating journey along North America's most important waterway, exploring 12,000 years of river history.
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Stop 2
Begin on Nicollet Island, named after cartographer Joseph Nicollet, and explore its vibrant surroundings to set the stage for your tour.
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Stop 3
Discover the Bell of Two Friends, a landmark symbolizing camaraderie and local connections.
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Stop 4
Pass by the Grain Belt Sign and learn about its story of revival after two decades in darkness.
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Stop 5
Cross the Hennepin Avenue Bridge and enjoy standout facts about the Mississippi River from this vantage point.
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Stop 6
At First Bridge Park, follow the river along the western bank, absorbing natural beauty and stories of resilience.
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Stop 7
See the Minneapolis Post Office, an Art Deco architectural gem designed by Léon Arnal, and learn its significance.
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Stop 8
Visit the St. Anthony Falls Visitor Center to explore stories about the falls' upstream journey and limestone erosion.
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Stop 9
Wander through Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park, with tales of Spirit Island and its importance to the Dakota people.
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Stop 10
Experience the grandeur of St. Anthony Falls and its historical role in local communities.
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Stop 11
Pass the Stone Arch Bridge and hear stories about its engineering marvels and river history.
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Stop 12
Explore Mill Ruins Park and learn about the industrial past and the 450-mile canoe race from Bemidji to Minneapolis.
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Stop 13
Visit the Mill City Museum to understand its role in shaping the river’s industrial history.
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Stop 14
Reflect beside the Guthrie Theater, appreciating the cultural significance of the river and its stories.
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Stop 15
Pause at the 35W Bridge Memorial, honoring community resilience after tragedy.
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Stop 16
End your tour at Gold Medal Park, gaining a new perspective on how the Mississippi shaped the city and its people.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
The tour begins on Nicollet Island at the intersection of Merriam St and East Island Ave, at the west end of the Merriam Bridge. Parking is available on the island and at St. Anthony Main, across the Merriam Bridge.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations.
- 0% refund if cancelled at least 0 day(s) before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $8.99 per person
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
