BEST OF THE RIVER 2019 

Best of the River is focused on the best attractions, accommodations,  food & drink, and trails & tours along the Great River Road from northern Minnesota down to the Gulf of Mexico.

Best Historic Home 

1.The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum (Hannibal, MO)

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum preserves Mark Twain’s legacy in Hannibal, MO by preserving his boyhood home and 7 related properties along with thousands of artifacts.

2.Villa Louis Historic Site (Prairie du Chien, WI)

Walk through the doors of the Villa Louis Mansion and step into the life of one of Wisconsin’s most prosperous historic families. Located on the banks of the Mississippi.

3.McPike Mansion (Alton, IL)

Atop Mount Lookout Park, the highest point in Alton, stands the McPike House.  Monthly ghost tours with a local medium include stories of paranormal happenings.

4.Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin (Pepin, WI)

​Located Seven miles northwest of Pepin, Wisconsin is the “Little House Wayside” that includes a replica of the now-famous “Little House in the Big Woods”.

5.Oak Alley Plantation (Vacherie, LA)

Located between the historic Louisiana cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Oak Alley Plantation, is dedicated to preserving the history its inhabitants left behind.

See results for Best of the River 2019

In 2019, thousands submitted their Best of The River choices in categories ranging from best cultural trail, best monument, best public art, best river boat tour, best brewery and more.