Winona to Moline Road Trip: Scenic Mississippi River Drive

Beginning in Winona, MN, this road trip follows the Great River Road (US 61 and IA 9) for 190 miles along the Mississippi River. The drive takes about 3.5 hours without stops, but you'll want to linger at the many scenic overlooks and historic towns. A fascinating fact: the route crosses the Mississippi twice—once at La Crescent, MN via the I-90 bridge, and again at Dubuque, IA via the Julien Dubuque Bridge. For more on uncovering hidden gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. Below is a quick overview of the route.

Fuel stations are plentiful along the corridor, especially near larger towns like La Crosse (just north of Winona), Prairie du Chien, and Dubuque. Expect gas prices slightly higher at remote stretches. Tolls are nonexistent; the route is entirely toll-free. Road quality is excellent on US 61 and IA 9, though watch for occasional farm machinery on county roads. Rest areas occur every 30 miles, with picnic tables and restrooms.

• Best fuel stops: BP in Onalaska, WI (exit 5 on I-90) and Casey's in Dyersville, IA.
• Rest area highlights: Wyalusing State Park overlook (mi 50) and the Mississippi River Visitor Center in Clinton, IA.
• Road conditions: US 61 is four-lane divided; IA 9 is two-lane with passing lanes.

Road safety is high, but watch for deer at dawn/dusk and fog near river bottoms. Family-friendly stops include the National Mississippi River Museum in Dubuque and the Putnam Museum in Moline. Pet-friendly rest stops: Wyalusing State Park allows leashed pets on trails. Fatigued drivers can rest at scenic overlooks like the one at Grandad Bluff (La Crosse) or the Eagle Point Park in Clinton.

• Hidden off-route spots: The Spook Cave in McGregor (boat tour) and the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville.
• Fatigue management: Plan a break every 90 minutes; recommended stops are the Prairie du Chien welcome center and the Quad Cities' Isle Casino rest area.
• Child suitability: Children love the interactive exhibits at the Riverview Center in Guttenberg and the playground at Riverside Park in Moline.

The Driftless Area defines the landscape—steep bluffs, river valleys, and karst topography. The Mississippi River is a Ramsar wetland, though no UNESCO World Heritage sites lie on the route; the closest is Taliesin in Wisconsin, a 90-minute detour. Local commerce thrives in towns like McGregor (antique shops) and Galena (wineries and boutiques).

1. Natural attractions: Great River Bluffs State Park (Winona), Effigy Mounds National Monument (Harpers Ferry), Pikes Peak State Park (McGregor).
2. Farmers markets: Dubuque's Saturday market (May-Oct) and Moline's Freight House Farmers Market.
3. Unique industry: John Deere Pavilion in Moline showcases agricultural heritage.