AbstractThis chapter describes the current situation of tourism and recreation on the Mississippi and Colorado Rivers in the USA. It highlights the unique trends and problems associated with each river, and then examines how they are used in contemporary society and how they assist in forming regional tourism products. It is clear that rivers are among America's most significant outdoor assets for tourism and recreation. Another interesting pattern is that many rivers of the USA are ostensibly associated with gambling. Finally, the rivers of America are both a cultural and natural resource for recreation and tourism.