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Shedd Aquarium
Sunset shining over water and a road beside the river

Western Illinois

Great Rivers Country

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.

Cars driving on the Great River Road.

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.

An aerial view of green hills at Cahokia Mounds

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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