Melvin Price Lock And Dam
Transportation
Hours:
Mississippi River, Alton IL 62002
Hours
About Melvin Price Lock And Dam
Melvin Price Lock and Dam is a great place for anyone of any age group. It is a good solid educational resource with no cost. The inside features a museum with interpretive displays that are informative and interesting, showing the history of the dam and the wildlife found along the river. There is a small theatre room to sit, relax, and watch a short documentary video about the river and the dam. For kids, there are activities and a scavenger hunt.
They offer excellent and informative tours of the lock and dam workings. The tour guide will take visitors outside on the side of the dam and to the very top for an incredible view of the mighty Mississippi. From above, you can see how the dam operates, the strong current, and birds, wildlife, and fish. If you're lucky, you may get to watch a barge or tugboat pass through as the gate opens and closes, which is truly amazing to see. The rangers and lock staff are very friendly, engaging, and eager to share their enthusiasm and expertise.
The gift shop is very nice and neat, with cute souvenirs and snacks and beverages for purchase. Outside, there are picnic areas, fishing, and trails along the levy for a leisurely stroll or an intense jog. It is a great place for groups or individuals, highly recommended for an hour or the whole day.
Most Recent Reviews
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June 2026
Patty was our tour guide and she was just amazing. So much information on this location and dam, how they work, and info on the area in general. Must see, even for a local.
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April 2026
Another dam to visit. I love a dam. Great for walking near and around.
Did you know... Just around the bend downriver is the giant confluence with the Missouri? What a great place to get to visit.
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August 2024
Jayson was great help..Suprised at the lenght of time and effort he put into helping me get educated on saftey and the condition on the river and many other topics. TOP KNOTCH information..I was very suprised..Best customer service Ive had ever!!...My fav place is that dam!..Who would have thought lol..Big Whiskerd cats...
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