Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary
A free sanctuary offering diverse birdlife, scenic trails along the Mississippi River, and an engaging visitor center for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bird migration
Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Best Time
Peak bird migration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free sanctuary offering diverse birdlife, scenic trails along the Mississippi River, and an engaging visitor center for all ages.
"This huge nature preserve with visitors center offers bird exhibits as well as educational programs."
Bring Your Own Map
Hard copies of maps can be scarce. Grab one if available, or use your phone to navigate the extensive grounds. :iphone:
Dress for the Elements
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Layers are recommended as weather can change. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Audubon Center
Visitor Center
Interactive exhibits, educational programs, and friendly staff make this a great starting point for all ages.
Ellis Island Peninsula
Peninsula between Mississippi and backwater
Offers scenic loops and water views, ideal for spotting eagles and other waterfowl. A popular local hiking spot.
Mississippi Riverfront Trails
Along the Mississippi River
Paved trails provide easy access for walking and driving, with numerous pull-offs for photography and wildlife viewing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Birdwatching
Navigating the Sanctuary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Map
Hard copies of maps can be scarce. Grab one if available, or use your phone to navigate the extensive grounds. :iphone:
Dress for the Elements
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Layers are recommended as weather can change. :athletic_shoe:
Visit the Audubon Center
Great for kids and beginners, with engaging exhibits and helpful staff. Opens at 8 AM. :child:
Donation Appreciated
Admission is free, but a small donation helps support the sanctuary's conservation efforts. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Map
Hard copies of maps can be scarce. Grab one if available, or use your phone to navigate the extensive grounds. :iphone:
Dress for the Elements
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Layers are recommended as weather can change. :athletic_shoe:
Visit the Audubon Center
Great for kids and beginners, with engaging exhibits and helpful staff. Opens at 8 AM. :child:
Donation Appreciated
Admission is free, but a small donation helps support the sanctuary's conservation efforts. :moneywithwings:
Photography Spots
Numerous pull-offs along the riverfront offer great opportunities for capturing wildlife and scenery. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary for its free admission, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly atmosphere, particularly the engaging Audubon Center. However, some find a lack of clear maps and inconvenient bench placement at the visitor center to be drawbacks.
"Whether you are an experienced bird watcher or just beginning,this is definitely a place you want to visit .
This huge nature preserve with visitors center offers bird exhibits as well as educational programs.
We spoke to one of the employees who told us where to go to see various birds.
You can walk the trails or drive around as there are numerous pull offs for picture taking.
Plenty of parking as well as public restrooms and picnic tables.
There is no admission fee but a small donation is suggested."
John Moore
"This environment flourishes with an array of different species and wild plants. This is an amazing place to visit for nature enthusiasts or romantically inclined individuals. There is several vantage points to set up equipment for artists to capture that perfect picture or paint a portrait of wonder. There are trails of light terrain or well maintained sidewalks. The visitors center has handicap accessible entrance and plenty of parking. Many secluded areas for privacy and close enough to the visitors center in case of an emergency. This area is nature at its best and family friendly."
Mrs. Stephenie Stephen Carter
"Great place for seeing and learning about birds and other wildlife and native plants. FREE! Great for kids, too."
Steve C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located at 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386. It's situated on the banks of the Mississippi River. Many visitors arrive by car, and there is ample parking available. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient method.
Information on direct public transport routes to the sanctuary is not widely available. It's recommended to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
The sanctuary is easily accessible by car. It's located near the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Use GPS navigation to the address 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386 for precise directions.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the sanctuary, including near the Audubon Center and along the trails. This makes it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While there aren't dedicated bike lanes leading directly to the sanctuary, it is possible to bike there. The paved trails within the sanctuary are also suitable for cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary is free. However, a small donation is suggested to help support the sanctuary's conservation efforts and educational programs.
The Audubon Center at Riverlands is open from 8 AM. It's a great place to start your visit, especially if you have young children.
Yes, the sanctuary hosts various educational programs and stewardship projects. They were even selected as a Leave No Trace Spotlight destination for 2025.
The sanctuary is generally accessible year-round for outdoor exploration. The Audubon Center has specific operating hours, so it's best to check those if you plan to visit the indoor exhibits.
No, tickets are not required as admission is free. You can visit at your leisure. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory.
🎫 🐦 Birdwatching & Wildlife
The sanctuary is a haven for a wide array of bird species, especially during migration seasons. You can spot sandpipers, gulls, eagles, and various waterfowl.
Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the most active times for birdwatching. Migration seasons, typically spring and fall, offer the highest diversity of species.
While official guided tours aren't always advertised, the staff at the Audubon Center are very knowledgeable and can offer advice on where to find specific birds.
Besides birds, the sanctuary is home to native plants and other wildlife. The diverse habitats support a rich ecosystem.
Absolutely! The Audubon Center has exhibits that can help beginners. Bringing a field guide or using a bird identification app on your phone is also recommended.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The sanctuary features paved trails throughout, making them accessible for walking and easier for strollers. Some areas might have unpaved paths, so comfortable footwear is advised.
Yes, there are public restrooms and picnic tables available, making it a convenient spot for a day trip or a family outing.
Yes, it's very family-friendly! Kids can enjoy the exhibits at the Audubon Center, explore the trails, and learn about nature. The center has activities like building with blocks and coloring.
The visitor center offers bird exhibits, educational materials, and a gift shop selling books, puzzles, and apparel. Staff are generally very helpful.
Yes, there are numerous pull-offs along the riverfront perfect for photography. Artists also find many vantage points to capture the natural beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The paved trails are easy for little legs to navigate, and the open spaces provide room to explore. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated tables. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature and learn about local wildlife in a fun and accessible environment.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and maximize your chances of spotting a wider variety of birds. The free admission and suggested donation make it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers.
📸 Photographers & Artists
Artists will also find inspiration here, with many secluded areas and vantage points suitable for painting or sketching. The Ellis Island Peninsula is noted for its picturesque landscapes. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset can yield particularly dramatic lighting for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Audubon Center
Staff at the center are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. They can offer valuable tips on where to spot specific birds and provide information about the sanctuary's layout. The center also features a gift shop with a selection of bird-related books, puzzles, and apparel, perfect for souvenirs or further learning.
For families, the Audubon Center is a gem. It offers hands-on activities for children, such as building with blocks, coloring, and using binoculars, ensuring an engaging experience even for the youngest visitors. The center opens at 8 AM, making it an ideal starting point for an early morning adventure.
Navigating the Trails and Landscape
Beyond the paved paths, some areas might feature unpaved trails, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended. The sanctuary's landscape is a mix of riverfront areas, backwater zones, and woodlands, each supporting different species of birds and plants. The Ellis Island Peninsula is a particularly noted area for its scenic loops and water views, popular for hiking and wildlife spotting.
While the sanctuary is generally well-maintained, some visitors have noted a lack of readily available maps. It's advisable to either download a map beforehand or ask for one at the visitor center if possible. This will help you make the most of your exploration and avoid missing out on key areas.
Birdwatching Hotspots and Tips
For the best birdwatching experience, early mornings and late afternoons are generally recommended, as this is when birds are most active. The diverse habitats within the sanctuary, from the Mississippi Riverfront to the backwater areas, provide crucial resting and feeding grounds for migratory birds. The Ellis Island Peninsula is often highlighted for its potential to spot eagles and other water-associated birds.
If you're new to birdwatching, the Audubon Center is an excellent starting point. The staff can offer guidance, and the exhibits can help you identify common species. Bringing a pair of binoculars and a field guide or using a bird identification app on your smartphone will significantly enhance your birdwatching adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit