Ahead of America’s 250th anniversary celebration, we asked our fans to submit some of their favorite things about the Great River Road, an All-American Road that follows the Mississippi River for nearly 3,000 miles through 10 states. Here’s what they said.

See more fan submissions and submit your own favorites here.

Wading the Mississippi

“You must wade down the knee-deep Mississippi River at its source in Lake Itasca State Park in Minnesota.” –Roger D.

Windsor Ruins

“Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi, are must-stops on the Great River Road, but there is also an interesting stop located about halfway between—Windsor Ruins. A short drive off US Hwy 61 and close by Alcorn State University (first black land grant college established in the United States).” –Sue & Bill P.

Grandad Bluff

About 2 miles from Mississippi River is a road up to the top of granddad Bluff in La Crosse, WI. The views from the top of the Bluff are out of this world on a clear day you can see Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. –Lynn W.

America’s Best Sunset

“Best view for a sunset in the 48 contiguous states is from the Natchez [Mississippi] bluff. Watching the sun set over the Louisiana delta.” –Derick B.

National Eagle Center

“Fantastic experience seeing eagles up close in a small but in-depth museum. In Wabasha, MN, beautiful location on the river. Great programs, eagle viewing cruises. Well worth a visit.” –Lynne E.

Views and Vistas

Taking a drive along the Great River Road is always an amazing adventure filled with the wonders of Natures gifts to us. The mighty Mississippi rolling along next to you, spying an Aerie of Bald Eagles scanning for a meal in the river, pausing to cast a line and wondering what might be waiting in the river to reel in from boat or shore, or Hiking the bluffs to catch a sunset or wildlife above the river or the Beautiful Colors of Fall.” –Larry K.

(Photo: Greenville Bridge along the Great River Road in Lake Village, Arkansas/Robert Goosney)