Mississippi River Excursions

There’s no better way to understand the Mighty Miss than from the river itself!

The River Museum is excited to announce our Big River C.A.A.R.E (Conservation Action through Advocacy, Research, & Engagement) canoe excursions!

With every paddle stroke, the living rhythm of the Mississippi River reveals itself- not just as water moving through the landscape, but a vibrant ever-changing world alive with shifting currents, eagles overhead, and stories carried in the winds.
Traveling on the river in a way that is as old as time- water level in our 14-foot cedar voyager canoes- lets you move with the river, rather than past it- feeling the pulse of the river below you.

These group excursions are a chance to create shared connection, with each other and the river. Along the way, our conservation department will deepen the experience, offering insights to the wildlife that calls the river home, ecology, and the living systems that make the Mississippi River the dynamic and powerful Mighty Miss.

It’s more than a tour. It’s history. It’s connection. It’s opportunity to meet the river as it truly is.

Canoe Excursion Pricing

Being out on the river is great for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a unique option for corporate outings, reunions, team-building, or a longer educational focuses guided excursion we have something that will fit your needs swimmingly.

Group offerings: 6 people minimum and 16 people maximum. Each of our canoes hold up to 8 guests and a pair of our River Museum Guides.

Guided Educational Tours:

Educational tours along the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. This 2–4-hour paddling expeditions program will be divided into segments where participants can explore the river by canoeing, observe wildlife, and engage with educational material about the refuge, its ecosystems, and conservation. Taking place at Mud Lake, Dubuque County, down the main channel and back up the backwater slough; The pace will be leisurely to ensure that participants can appreciate the surroundings, ask questions, and participate in activities.

*At peak migration for migratory birds, we offer bird watching paddle.

Pricing: $75/Guest

Group Events:

Corporate outings, family reunions, birthday parties, or team-building exercises. 2-4 hour guided tour as educational or purely recreational, like guided educational tours.

Pricing: $75/Guest

Sunset or Night Paddles:

Offering unique experiences like 2-hour sunset paddles or stargazing tours. These would take place at Mud Lake since it is farther away from downtown and the light pollution the city gives off.

Pricing: $65/Guest

Making a Reservation

Contact Codi Sharkey, Conservation Program Manager, at 563-557-9545 x215 or csharkey@rivermuseum.org with questions and to book your excursion.

faqs

Are there any age restrictions?

Yes, these excursions are ideal for preteens to adults (12-adult)

Do I need to know how to paddle?

No, first time paddlers are welcome. Every trip will come with a safety briefing and instructions before going into the water. We will also provide life vests for all paddlers.