The National Great Rivers Museum is a free museum that is not a huge building but packs a lot of well-presented information into that small space. It features quite a few interactive exhibits that are really neat, including one where being a barge pilot is harder than it looks. Visitors can take advantage of the locks tour for some great views, though tours have been canceled indefinitely at times. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and extremely friendly. While photos are not allowed inside, the museum offers a well-organized plein air competition. After visiting, a drive on the nearby scenic byway provides views of barges and nice bluffs.
Very impressive, if you're in the area you should by!
September 2026
The tour was free and we loved getting to go up top and see both sides of the river. It is also stroller and wheelchair friendly.
September 2026
What a great place - fantastic displays and take the tour! We were fortunate enough to see a large barge locking through. Our guide was excellent! Free entry, just don’t bring any bags in!
