If you want to take a unique boat tour along the Illinois River and Lake Michigan, check out Chicago Fireboat Tours. Read our full coverage on the Ohio River Scenic Byway to learn more. As you explore the trail, you'll come across several highlights. If youre looking to escape the bustle of the city, pack up the car and set out on one of these scenic drives in Illinois. This project was funded in whole or in part through a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation, This project was funded in whole or in part through a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation. Bring your fishing rod or your canoe and commune with nature. Click here to view all the guides avialable for Illinois. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive. Besides the history; the lovely scenery; the bountiful fertility of the region giving rise to wineries, farm-to-table dining, fun-packed U-pick orchards, pumpkin, strawberry and sweet corn destinations, half the fun is just in getting there. 4. Check out five more scenic drives in Illinois at Reboot Illinois, including routes that take travelers through Starved Rock State Park and the Cohokia Mounds. This post may contain affiliate links. Share your experiences and photos with us! Insider tip: Ottawa is considered as being the heart of Starved Rock county. Where can I take a scenic boat ride in Illinois? If you're not one to hit the black diamond slopes out in Colorado, Trail Ridge Road is your best way to see the Rocky Mountains. 1. Take the weekend and even consider camping out under a blanket of stars. The 115-mile drive traverses six Wisconsin counties. Read this post in which we share the best things to do in Grafton. Hop in the car and enjoy the best scenic drives in Illinois, from bluffs along the Mississippi River to winding roads through a national forest and the famous Route 66. Navigate the charming small towns of Knox County on this self-guided car tour. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeths articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals. The best part? Step back in time to the golden age of train travel and settle in for a peaceful ride to discover some of Illinois most charming towns and hidden treasures. One day we were driving to Galena Cellars Vineyard along Stagecoach Trail. Explore the regions of Illinois with getaways perfect for exploring the fall col Find unexpected ways to enjoy Illinois in this biannual magazine that explores every corner of the state. There are festivals and celebrations happening every month of the year along the Great River Route. If you are looking for interesting cities in northern Illinois, click here. Check out these 10 Tiny Towns In Illinois That Are Always Worth A Visit. If you are interested in participating in or advertising with the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Fall Festival, please contact the Area Representative for that community, call 309-647-8980, email - spoonriverdrive@mail.com, write Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Fall Festival, PO Box 525, Canton, IL 61520, or go to our Contact Us page. Learn more about Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail on the webpage. Scenic drives in Illinois: 12 amazing scenic routes you must explore. We had the best afternoon exploring and even came home with some beautiful handicrafts. Insider's Guide There youll find flea markets, tasty meals like homemade chili or pie, handcrafted art, soaps, furniture, and collectibles. Click on the map to specific attractions and follow the directions through the drives. Road Trip. Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Illinois Area. Road Trip 59 helpful votes. Here you can find a list of more southern Illinois wineries. This gorgeous road spans three states: Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. Along your drive, you'll see the convergence of the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers, gorgeous limestone river bluffs, glorious trees, and local plants. Learn more about The Morton Arboretum on the website. By the editors of MidwestLiving.com Getting around Chicago and Illinois is easy with our guide to ways to travel around the state. Pack a delicious picnic and enjoy a relaxing day at this peaceful spot before hopping back in the car and taking in the rest of the beautiful landscape laid out before you. Read our full coverage on the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway to learn more. Last but not least on our list of the best scenic drives in Illinois is the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. Enjoy the slow-moving waters of the Illinois River, the roadside stands selling fruits and vegetables, and the cultural history of the Native Americans, French explorers, and American settlers that built their communities around this river. Peoria Grandview Drive ("World's Most Beautiful Drive"), The "castle" on Grandview DriveScenic overlooks of the Illinois River ValleyForest Park Nature Center, Long Hollow Scenic OverlookDutch Windmill "De Immigrant"Black Hawk State Historic Site, Ginkgo Restaurant and CafTrails around Meadow LakeSterling Morton Library. To celebrate the people and customs of this region, the riverside towns are known for hosting a variety of festivals and events with art, music, and loads of food. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Along the way you might just discover that theres more to the road than the river. I was there in the morning and had a beautiful blue sky. All 26 of Colorado's scenic and historic byways (11 of which are also designated America's Byways), and countless other scenic drives that crisscross the highest and lowest altitudes of Colorado, welcome motorcycle riders, leisure drivers and all others hungry for a taste of Colorado's history and scenic beauty. Ohio River Scenic Byway, Cairo, IL 62914, USA. It spans about 10 states and has become one of the most iconic byways in the United States. Get ready for a packed three-week adventure to some of the greatest locales in Africa. THINGS TO DO 550 miles packed with adventure! These are prestigious, towering estates that have looked over Grandview since it was built over 100 years ago. Thats easy; everywhere you go turns into a classic Illinois road trip. Spoon River Valley is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Illinois. 2023 Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. Experience what the American Dream really felt like while driving along legendary Route 66. This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. There are also loads of other historical tidbits along the route ranging from Civil War heroes, river pirates, and more. We always enjoy visiting Galena Cellars, but the Stagecoach Trail also gives access to Apple River Canyon State Park, a wonderland of canyons and rugged rock formations great for hiking. My wife and I drove through and the beauty is amazing. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive - Pass through six beautiful Wisconsin counties and 50,000 acres when you explore the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive. In Illinois, the highway begins in Chicago and cuts through the suburbs before heading straight to Fulton. Time needed: 2.5 hours to 2 days. Route 66 starts its long journey to the West Coast in Chicago. Each two-page document includes information about that state's scenic byways program, in addition to a listing and map of all state and national scenic byways within its borders. If being near water calms your soul then you wont want to miss out on spending time near the Illinois River. Copyright 2017, 25 Top Easy-Care Plants for Midwest Gardens. Beginning in Hartford, take Illinois Route 3 northwest to The Great River Road and cruise past the idyllic waterfront villages of Wood River, East Alton, Alton, Elsah, Chautauqua, and Graftonall. Illinois River Road: Route of the Voyageurs, Click here to add your listing to Go-Illinois.net, Complete the form below to email this page to a friend or family member's email. In the midst of vast Illinois farmland, weekend travelers discover a topographic Kitsch, awe inspiring, quirky, colorful, beautiful and unforgettable. It has run every year since 1968, attracting tourists from all over to drive through 17 little towns and appreciate the local history and culture while being surrounded by fall colors. Ronald Reagan Exhibit at Eureka College, his alma mater. The road is quite smooth and the traffic volume is very low. As summer comes to a close and the leaves morph from a vibrant green to even more vibrant oranges, reds and yellows, there's no better way to appreciate the shifting seasons than by taking a drive through Illinois. Doing the road one way is just half the funits a new and different experience retracing your drive the other direction, and one youll enjoy just as much. We've driven this route, mainly Alton to Pere Marquette State Park, numerous time, and always enjoy the river scenes, the bluffs, the small towns and in the fall, the foliage. If you are a Republican fan, a fan of Reagan's or just love history, this is a wonderful tribute to a great man. Here, the Illinois forest crowds in close to the roadside, and low speeds and open windows will treat you to birdsong and the buzz, drone and plaintive croaks of a myriad of insects and hopping residents of the woods vernal pools. Here is an overview of more great things to do in Northern Illinois. Downtown Chicago on E. Jackson Boulevard and end at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge in Granite City. There is no better place to take a selfie than at this scenic overlook in Galena, with its picturesque rolling countryside that will make you feel like you are in rural England (no passport needed!). The scenic byway is just 33 miles and stretches from Hartford to Grafton. Step back in time to the golden age of train travel and settle in for a peaceful ride to discover some of Illinois most charming towns and hidden treasures. Wooded countryside fills your view, interspersed with neat farmsteads and regular roadside produce stands, in season. The northern end of the 115-mile route begins at Sheboygan County's Elkhart Lake. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The Reagan exhibit is housed in the Cerf Bldg and takes about 30 minutes (or a little more if you read everything). The road has its northern source near Galena before tracking the Mississippi River all the way to Cairo, at the far south end of the state. The River Road National Scenic Byway showcases Illinois natural wonders and theyre truly breathtaking. Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, 11304 N Prairie Rd, Lewistown, IL 61542, USA. Along the way youll pass Hanover (site of Whistling Wings, a mallard duck hatchery), Blackhawk and Marcus, not to mention Hanover Bluff Nature Preserve and Palisades State Park. A scenic driving guide to Kentucky state. Some of the most popular stops along the way include the restored 1891 opera house, the Spoon River Dam, and the London Mills Docks along the Illinois River where visitors can enjoy a picnic or spend time fishing. The America's Byways Program is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, and was established to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the states. Travelers keen on getting outside won't have to look far for thrilling . A non-partisan organization dedicated to involving Illinois residents in the state's political process. Bird watchers add to their Life Lists at every casual stop along this natural migratory flyway, and the sharp-eyed will spot the telltale white heads of bald eagles soaring above the tree line. Each of these wineries has its own styles, techniques, and grape varieties that create wonderfully delicious and unique flavors. With about 300 miles of highway in Illinois alone, you could make a whole day of sight seeing. One of Chicago's most attractive attractions. And the long lines of barges being carefully shepherded up and downstream by powerful tugs are a fascinating sight to see. You may even find a new greasy spoon with all the comfort foods you could imagine. Nearby is the 1,200-feet high Charles Mound, the highest point in the state. The roadside attractions along Route 66 were designed to attract travelers to local towns and businesses. Facebook/Saults Drug Store. hand laid back in the 1930s and Harrys Rabbit Ranch, which contains old Route 66 memorabilia and other kitschy items that made this one of the most renowned Illinois byways. Find out what's on in Illinois and Chicago with your guide to events, festivals, markets, music, theater, sports and more. Illinois Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. If you're looking to escape the bustle of the city, pack up the car and set out on one of these scenic drives in Illinois. From Peoria's Grandview Drive-deemed the "world's most beautiful drive" by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1910-to Illinois' seven nationally designated Scenic Byways, there are plenty of routes you can take to appreciate the state's autumn landscapes. Beginning with America's First Mile in Fort Kent, Maine, U.S. Route 1 stretches the length of the eastern United States for more than 2,400 miles from Maine to Key West. From Peoria's Grandview Drive-deemed the "world's most beautiful drive" by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1910-to Illinois' seven nationally designated Scenic Byways, there are plenty of. Downtown, eight building exteriors have been painted with large murals depicting local history. The northern end begins near Elkhart Lake in northern Sheboygan County and the southern end begins at Whitewater Lake in southeastern Walworth County. Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. After I came out of the Adler Planetarium the weather changed but even that got a good photo. "and they come into 66 from the tributary side roads, from the wagon tracks and the rutted country roads, 66 is the mother road, the road of flight." The scenic byway boasts 300 miles in Illinois alone, ending where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers converge near Cairo, IL. Each community has its own contribution, but one of the most scenic drives is in Alton, Illinois which is known for its historic homes that are perched on the bluffs overlooking the river. Hiking the Robberg Nature Reserve on the Garden Route, The ultimate Seoul itinerary for 3-7 days (2023 edition), EPIC 7 days Korea itinerary for first-timers (2023), 3 Amazing 2 Weeks South Korea Itinerary Suggestions, The Perfect 14-Day Japan Travel Itinerary for First Timers, The River Road National Byway is one of the best scenic fall drives in Illinois but can be enjoyed throughout the year, Self-guided route is available year-round but the county festival is in October. All Rights Reserved and. With more than 24 different attractions, there is something for the whole family. Scenic drives to consider in Illinois are listed below. Situated about 30 miles northwest of Chicago's Loop, Schaumburg is a scenic suburb with a small-town atmosphere and countless family-friendly amenities. This incredible route is the iconic American road trip. Trail, Bird Watching, with many great shops in became a one-way street in 1955, Right here at Adams St. became the new starting point for Route 66 one. A must-see for everyone. Read more Photograph:. 1. Enjoy observing wildlife in their natural habitat or pull out the trusty snowmobile during the winter and check out 61.5 miles of pristine, snowy trails. The popular soda fountain has been a fixture in town since 1937, and you'll quickly see . Illinois Great River Road: Follow the river But no road trip in the region would be complete without a journey down the Illinois Great River Road, one of the most scenic drives in Illinois. Cutting through Illinois is a 300-mile stretch of the mythical Route 66. The M-119, aka the Tunnel of Trees, is one of Michigan's most popular scenic drives. Home Whether you are a professed history buff, a lover of nature, or a boatman you will enjoy all that these sweeping 96 miles of the Illinois and Michigan canals have to offer. Here is a list of more places in Illinois where you can spot eagles during winter. 1. Location South Dakota. They capture rich history, and unique landscapes, and feature the fascinating but often overlooked communities that cherish and celebrate these scenic routes. To request a listing, please fill out the form below and press "Submit.". Originally, the Illinois portion was an attempt to make it easier for farmers to get their crops to the markets but then began to draw in travelers in automobiles. 581 South Deere Road | Macomb, Illinois 61455 Learn more about Illinois Lincoln Highway on the website. It stretches 15.83 miles from Hollywood Avenue or 5700 North to Marquette Drive and Jefferey Drive at 6600 South and is often described as the "most scenic roadway in the country" as it embraces the lakefront, the city's skyline and most major tourist attractions. It stretches 15.83 miles from Hollywood Avenue or 5700 North to Marquette Drive and Jefferey Drive at 6600 South and is often described as the "most scenic roadway in the country" as it embraces the lakefront, the city's skyline and most major tourist attractions. To satisfy your hunger, you'll need to drive for about 40 minutes to reach Cliff Droppers, a popular family-run burger restaurant in the area. A spectacular train trestle bridge crosses the Illinois River near Allen Park and the Old Town business district. Youll find local businesses and vendors from all over the county delivering amazing food and homemade treats, handcrafted goods, unique art, and plenty of antiques. Plan Your Trip You don't need much time to conquer this route, making it perfect for a day trip. While it doesnt boast an intimidating amount of driving miles (only nine miles, to be exact) you will still enjoy driving through about 1,700 lush acres of bountiful gardens and trees. A Sunday drive elicits connotations of happier, simpler Rockwell-esque times. . An amazing way to travel across the state and immerse yourself in the different cultures and communities across Illinois. Popular stops along the road include the Paramount Theatre built in 1931, Rochelle Railroad Park with locomotives from the 1920s, and the unique communities that span the rolling prairies and riverfront towns on this scenic route in Illinois. Map: Illinois property taxes are the second-highest in the U.S. Want to tell your elected officials what you think of the state of government in Illinois? This drive is stunning with the valley on one side and the river on the other. 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