Exploring the Great River Road of Illinois

Introduction

Illinois is a vibrant state filled with a variety of attractions, from the bustling city of Chicago to the stunning natural beauty of the banks of the Mississippi River. The Great River Road, a 2,340-mile route along the Mississippi, is a great way to explore the best of what this region has to offer. From the vibrant city of St. Louis, Missouri, to the historic towns of Nauvoo and Galena in Illinois, the Great River Road is a great way to explore the diverse history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. In this post, we’ll explore the best of what the Great River Road has to offer, and provide tips for making the most of your road trip.

The Great River Road

The Great River Road is a network of highways and roads that follow the Mississippi River from Minnesota in the north to Louisiana in the south. In Illinois, the Great River Road runs from the state’s western border with Missouri to the southern tip of the state. Along the way, you’ll pass through cities like St. Louis, Alton, and Cairo, and you’ll have the chance to explore the many historic towns and sites, as well as the stunning natural beauty of the Mississippi.

St. Louis

St. Louis is the gateway to the Great River Road, and it’s a great place to start your journey. This vibrant city is home to world-class museums, iconic attractions like the Gateway Arch, and a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a great place to have fun, St. Louis has something for everyone.

Alton

Just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis is the city of Alton, a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can explore the many historic sites, including the Alton Museum of History and Art, and the Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument, which commemorates the abolitionist newspaper editor who was killed in Alton in 1837. You can also take a tour of the many beautiful Victorian homes in the city.

Grafton

Grafton is a small town along the Great River Road in Illinois, and it’s home to a variety of unique attractions. One of the most popular is the Grafton Winery and Brewhaus, which offers a wide selection of wines, beers, and spirits. The town also hosts a variety of events, such as the Annual Grafton Oyster Festival, and it’s a great place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Elsah

Elsah is a small town along the Great River Road that’s full of charm and character. This quaint village is home to some of the most well-preserved historic buildings in the region, and it’s a great place to explore the area’s history and culture. You can also take a stroll along the many trails in the area, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding bluffs.

Nauvoo

Nauvoo is a historic town with a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. This small town was once home to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and it’s now a popular tourist destination. Here, you can explore the many historic sites, including the historic Nauvoo Temple and the Joseph Smith Homestead. You can also enjoy a variety of shops and restaurants in the town.

Galena

Galena is a small town along the Great River Road that’s filled with charm and character. This bustling town is home to a variety of historic sites, including the Galena Historic District and the Ulysses S. Grant Home. You can also explore the many shops and restaurants in the area, or take a stroll along the picturesque River Trail.

Savanna

Savanna is a small town along the Great River Road that offers plenty of outdoor activities. Here, you can explore the Savanna State Fish & Wildlife Area, which is home to an abundance of wildlife and a variety of outdoor activities. You can also take a stroll along the Mississippi River Walk, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the nearby lakes and rivers.

Rock Island

Rock Island is a historic city along the Great River Road that’s home to a variety of attractions. Here, you can explore the Rock Island Arsenal, a National Historic Landmark, or take a stroll through the Rock Island Historical Museum. You can also visit the iconic Rock Island Swing Bridge, one of the oldest and longest bridges in the United States.

Quincy

Quincy is a city along the Great River Road that offers a variety of attractions. Here, you can explore the city’s many historic sites, such as the John Wood Mansion and the Quincy Museum. You can also take a stroll through the Quincy Riverfront Park, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the nearby rivers.

Peoria

Peoria is a vibrant city along the Great River Road that’s home to a variety of sights and attractions. Here, you can explore the Peoria Riverfront Museum, or take a stroll through the Luthy Botanical Garden. You can also take a tour of the Caterpillar Visitors Center, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Illinois River.

Making the Most of Your Trip

When exploring the Great River Road, there are a few tips to keep in mind to make the most of your trip. First, plan ahead and map out your route so you can make the most of your time. Secondly, be sure to bring along a camera to capture the stunning views along the way. Finally, don’t forget to bring a map and some snacks, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in the car.

Summary

The Great River Road is a great way to explore the best of what the region has to offer. From the vibrant city of St. Louis, Missouri, to the historic towns of Nauvoo and Galena in Illinois, the Great River Road offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Along the way, you can explore a variety of attractions, take a stroll along the many trails, and enjoy the stunning views of the Mississippi River. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the most of your journey along the Great River Road.