Scenic Views & Small Town Charm
Western Illinois along the Mississippi River
Find the essence of Americana along the glorious river communities of Western Illinois. Whether you’re interested in preserved 19th-century towns, unique wines straight from their glorious vineyards, or the exciting history of French forts and ancient civilizations at a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this hub of hospitality offers just the right balance of adventure, excitement and small-town serenity. And you get to enjoy it all alongside the glorious views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers.
Travel Along the Mississippi
Plan Your Great River Road Adventure
At 550 miles long, the Great River Road runs almost the entire length of the state alongside the Mississippi. With both northern and southern sections of the byway, this gorgeous river drive offers everything from outdoor adventure and quiet charm, to presidential and colonial history and some good old fashioned kitsch.
Galena
Western Illinois
Carefully preserved nineteenth-century buildings set into the Mississippi River Valley paint the backdrop of this northwest hideaway. Shop the iconic downtown, sip wine at local vineyards, visit championship golf courses, hit the slopes for a day of skiing or explore the lush rivers and hiking trails dotted throughout the area.
Moline/Rock Island
Western Illinois
John Deere's legacy thrives in Moline at a reimagined hands-on pavilion. Nearby Rock Island is home to the area’s vibrant nightlife, centered around a downtown pedestrian mall, lively restaurants and clubs, and a playhouse in the modern-vintage arts district.
Peoria
Western Illinois
Stay in one of Peoria’s historic hotels while you explore a transformed riverfront teeming with restaurants, bike trails, local shops and spectacular museums. Beyond the riverfront, you’ll discover shopping, scenic drives like the famous Grandview, farm-to-table cuisine and more.
Alton, Elsah & Grafton
Western Illinois
Situated along the Mississippi River, these iconic river towns offer plenty to explore. Visit Alton for bald eagle watching and some of the best haunted tours in the Midwest, drive along the bluffs in Grafton on your way to Pere Marquette State Park and don’t miss the rich history in Elsah on your way out.
Collinsville
Western Illinois
History meets modern allure in Collinsville. Take a photo with the World's Largest Catsup Bottle and visit the Cahokia Mounds UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travel Inspiration for Great Rivers Country
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Galena Getaway
Enjoy a romantic getaway to Galena. Experience a charming historic town with shopping boutiques, cozy bed and breakfasts and a thrilling balloon festival. Read more about Galena Getaway -
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Zero Emissions on the Great River Road
Great River Road Illinois, where zero emissions meet breathtaking beauty. Explore our curated guide to zero emissions. Read more about Zero Emissions on the Great River Road -
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Where the River Meets the Road
Experience breathtaking views, quaint towns, and more. From a sunset over the mighty Mississippi River to the ruins of an ancient civilization, the Great River Road’s striking vistas are something... Read more about Where the River Meets the Road -
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Quad Cities River Adventure
Be the captain on your own boat. Explore the Mississippi river and discover history and family communities along the way. Read more about Quad Cities River Adventure -
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Meeting of the Great Rivers
Meet America’s mighty rivers along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway in southwest Illinois. This 33-mile stretch of roadway is the only place in the country where... Read more about Meeting of the Great Rivers -
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Six Romantic Spots Along the Great River Road in Illinois
Bluff-top views, river sights, charming B&Bs and sprawling vineyards sprinkle the Illinois portion of the road on the western boarder of the state. We rounded up six spots along the... Read more about Six Romantic Spots Along the Great River Road in Illinois