Where Does the Mississippi Cruise Start and End?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a cruise along the Mississippi river and wondering where it starts and ends? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore the starting and ending points of this scenic river cruise.

Starting Point

The Mississippi River starts at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota. Lake Itasca is a small natural lake that serves as the primary source of the river. The lake is located in Itasca State Park, which spans over 32,000 acres of land and offers several recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.

Getting to Lake Itasca

The closest major city to Lake Itasca is Minneapolis, which is approximately 200 miles away. From Minneapolis, you can either rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Lake Itasca.

Ending Point

The Mississippi River flows into the Gulf of Mexico near Venice, Louisiana. Venice is a small town located at the mouth of the river and serves as the ending point for most Mississippi River cruises.

What to Expect at Venice?

Venice is known for its world-class fishing opportunities due to its location near several oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. The town offers several fishing charters that cater to both beginners and experienced anglers.

Aside from fishing, Venice also has several restaurants that serve fresh seafood dishes such as oysters, shrimp, crab cakes, and more. You can also explore nearby attractions such as bird-watching areas and nature trails.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mississippi River cruise starts at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota and ends at Venice in Louisiana. While Lake Itasca offers several recreational activities such as hiking and camping, Venice is known for its world-class fishing opportunities and fresh seafood dishes. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly so that you don’t miss out on any of these amazing experiences.