Lansing man wins $500 in Drive the Great River Road Month Sweepstakes

Every September, as part of Drive the Great River Road Month, the National Mississippi River Parkway Commission hosts a sweepstakes. This year, $500 was up for grabs for one lucky traveler to use on his or her own trip along the national scenic byway.

Dan Fisher of Lansing was selected as this year’s Drive the Great River Road Month Sweepstakes lucky winner. Fisher entered the contest online and was chosen at random. Fisher and his wife, Tura, moved to the Lansing area from Wisconsin because they were drawn to the area’s unique geography. He plans to use the winnings to travel more of the Great River Road so he can write about it. His hobby is travel writing.

Fisher said, “Most of the Upper Mississippi River region of the Great River Road lies within the Driftless Region. This is an area that was untouched by the last glaciers, leaving landscapes consisting of deeply carved river valleys and picturesque bluffs, home to many rare species of plants, reptiles, animals and flowers. Traveling the Great River Road gives a person the opportunity to understand how life on the Mighty Mississippi was in years past, along with a look into how we live today. The Great River Road is our trail to the historical significance of this area. The best way to enjoy it is to put away all maps and GPS and follow the ‘Great River Road’ signs as best you can.”

Drive the Great River Road Month is an open invitation to plan a road trip along the nearly 3,000-mile National Scenic Byway that runs through 10 states, from Minnesota to Louisiana. It is one of the oldest, longest and most unique scenic byways in North America, offering a gateway to the Mississippi River Valley’s great history, the blending of cultures and a host of recreational options to all visitors.

The long list of attractions and family-friendly events is certainly a big draw for visitors along the Great River Road and includes natural wonders, historical sites and unique cultures to experience. Many travelers also take interest in the Great River Road’s agriculture, exploring the area’s orchards, cheese factories, nurseries, tree farms, wineries and farmers markets.
Online, www.experiencemississippiriver.com offers information on all the Great River Road states, interpretive centers (museums and historic sites showcasing the stories of the Mississippi), upcoming events and must-see attractions, along with suggested itineraries and maps to help plan any trip. More information about the Great River Road can also be found on Facebook, Pinterest or YouTube.