scenic drives northern illinois

Whether you're cruising the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River or winding through charming towns in the countryside, there are over 57,000 square miles of Illinois roads to explore. Many use it to visit antique shops, farmers markets, and other attractions, but you can also drive the whole thing and see the best parts of Southern Illinois. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you. Hop out of the car and snack at one of the picnic tables, then try a hike. places in Illinois where you can spot eagles during winter. In 1912, the idea of roads as fast transportation did not exist in America. We loved how much we learned at so many of the historical stops. Lovely small communities and towns in farm country with something new around every bend. Galena, the starting point, is well known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, ancient ceremonial sites, and delicious vineyards. IMN Heaven Ranch is located within Majors Ranch, comprised of numerous large acreage parcels with varied terrain. Beautiful winding river through farm country thats peaceful and quiet. 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. Its no secret that the area around Galena is packed with adventure, but who knew getting from one great activity to another could turn into a fun-packed Illinois getaway? 11: Northern California Scenic Drives: Lake Tahoe Loop (US 50, NV 28 and US 89) Distance: 72 miles. The route begins at the Mississippi Palisades State Park and ends a couple miles shy of Elizabeth. 3. The Great River Road is one of the most scenic road trips in the midwest. The scenic byway boasts 300 miles in Illinois alone, ending where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers converge near Cairo, IL. Pick up a fall driving tour brochure in Freeport, and eat ice cream at Union Dairy, next to the site of a Lincoln-Douglas debate. The Ohio River has a rich history and river culture. 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. 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. They capture rich history, and unique landscapes, and feature the fascinating but often overlooked communities that cherish and celebrate these scenic routes. Not only does it span the entire state, but this famous road actually begins at Lake Itasca in Northern Minnesota and winds the length of the country as it follows the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico. 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. There are spots where the trail breaks clear of the woods and opens on views of miles of undulating Illinois landscape, some under cultivation, some nearly pristine and natural. The northern end begins near Elkhart Lake in northern Sheboygan County and the southern end begins at Whitewater Lake in southeastern Walworth County. Be an explorer as you climb the stairs to the top of the largest prehistoric settlement in North America, or rent a canoe and spend an hour or two on the waters of the mighty Mississippi, where Lewis and Clark began their famed expedition. Nearby is the 1,200-feet high Charles Mound, the highest point in the state. Public Transportation Systems in Illinois, Things to do near Shawnee National Forest, Jamaica Dunn's River Falls Party Cruise with Snorkeling, Guided Walking Tour: The historical City Center of Bolzano, 2 days in Georgian Mountains, Kazbegi and Juta, Sea Scope Semi Submarine Sea Trip 2 Hours With Transfer - Sharm El Sheikh, Sunset Sail Cruise with 5 Course Seated Dinner. When we say homes, these arent your typical cozy houses. As a state of mostly small towns, Illinois has plenty of scenic roads you can take to get away from it all and have space to look around instead of just staring at the bumper in front of you. Discover top travel stories and even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois with our free magazine. Insider tip: If you enough time we would advise you to spend a weekend in Grafton. Here is a list of more fun stuff to do in Illinois. Learn more about the Long Hollow Scenic Overlook on the webpage. According to Theodore Roosevelt its the worlds most beautiful drive. Watch the autumnal leaves sweep over the 180-acre landscape or enjoy a picnic with the family. It,s a nice relief to get off the interstate roads. Read our full coverage on the Ohio River Scenic Byway to learn more. Wind through this 140-mile backroad, and you'll find more than 20 amazing Illinois attractions that everyone must visit. The scenic byway is just 33 miles and stretches from Hartford to Grafton. #4 Illinois Ultimate Scenic Rivers Route Illinois Rivers Route is an illustrious 140-mile road that stretches along the Illinois River. A 300-mile stretch of American roadway, steeped in legend and packed full with e Drive some of Illinois oldest and greatest roads for classic Midwestern culture Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois. 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. Site Map, Copyright 2023 Great Rivers Country. Get more stories delivered right to your email. 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. 1. Nature, agriculture Get your kitsch on the Illinois stretch of Route 66. Eureka College, Reagan's alma mater, is a very small college with not much to see. If youre in the mood for a drive, read on for some of the best scenic drives in Illinois. If you are looking for a list of more Central Illinois attractions, click here. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Along the way, you'll see Ronald Reagan's childhood home, a railroad park, and other historic landmarks and attractions that only backroads can offer. Scenic America has assembled the only comprehensive, nationwide scenic byways database, and we are pleased to share it with the public. On your way, be sure to check out an original brick road (no, its not yellow!) Whether youre cruising the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River or winding through charming towns in the countryside, there are over 57,000 square miles of Illinois roads to explore. New Mexico is home to 25 magnificent scenic byways, totaling over 2,900 miles across a diverse landscape. You may even find a new greasy spoon with all the comfort foods you could imagine. Dirt roads spread out from settlements at random, some not leading anywhere, and travelers found it easier to take the train to the next town over. Related read: 10 Amazing Small Towns in Wisconsin for a Charming Escape. Roadside land is often the first and most visible land to be converted to residential or commercial uses. 2023 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. Check out antique shops, artist studios, and local farmers markets along the way. At just over 153 miles, this road spans the Illinois section of U.S. 30 which connects Iowa and Indiana. Take the weekend and even consider camping out under a blanket of stars. You can have these simpler times back. Along the route are twenty-one stops that are meant to create emotional archeology so that visitors can learn about and connect to the communities, histories, people, and customs of each individual town along the route. 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. Then enjoy the highlights of beautiful South Africa, including wine tours, scenic road trips, wildlife safaris, mountain biking, caving, hikes up Table . If you need to flag this entry as abusive, NEXT ARTICLE: Emanuel's proposed property taxes and garbage fees could pump up Chicago's budget by $600 million, 5 fast facts you should know about Illinois taxes, State Rep. Avery Bourne Q & A: Meet the General Assembly's youngest member. This expansive route spans the entire length of the state, hugging the Mississippi River to the West as it winds past limestone bluffs and rushing waters. Make sure to check out the event calendar to see what kind of special activities are happening along this beautiful drive in Illinois. These are the 14 most scenic drives in the United States, from sea to shining sea. For the best things in southern Illinois, click here. Following the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles and spanning 10 states, this amazing road starts in Minnesota and extends to the Gulf of Mexico. Youll experience towering bluffs, rolling hills, river communities, farmlands and sweeping views. Mliz | June 6, 2019 | America > United States > Illinois Motorcycle Roads > IL - Daviess/Stephenson/W. Design and Development by J Rudny, LLC. Fantastic day or weekend trip. We offer a compact version of Go-Illinois for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the road. Youll see where Lincolns political career began, take pictures with giant bottles of catsup, and experience historical wonders such as the Cahokia Mounds, the largest prehistoric site north of Mexico where Mississippi natives were living 1,000 years ago. The roadside attractions along Route 66 were designed to attract travelers to local towns and businesses. Simply a refreshing, beautiful drive no matter the time of the year. A non-partisan organization dedicated to involving Illinois residents in the state's political process. 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. 1. There is a piece of the Berlin wall outside the building as well. Love Illinois? Also referred to as the Road that built the Nation, this byway started in Cumberland, Maryland and ended in Vandalia, Illinois. Situated about 30 miles northwest of Chicago's Loop, Schaumburg is a scenic suburb with a small-town atmosphere and countless family-friendly amenities. While this region of southern Illinois definitely can feel off the grid, there is no shortage of restaurants offering tasty meals after a day of driving, hiking, or wine tasting. Be sure to check out London Mills and Spoon River Dam along the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive, one of the most beautiful drives in Illinois. There are many riverside attractions in Illinois along the road such as Cahokia Mounds, an ancient Native American settlement that is a must-see for all. The red, yellow, and orange leaves on the trees are straight from a postcard. Below Galena, the US 20 rolls along inland out of sight of the river, but there is still plenty to see. This drive will take you through the Spoon River Valley, full of bluffs, rolling hills, and beautiful scenery. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Slow down, she says. "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." As you explore the trail, you'll come across several highlights. 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. Beautiful views! If you are a Republican fan, a fan of Reagan's or just love history, this is a wonderful tribute to a great man. When you travel through one of the most scenic Illinois byways, you are taking the same route the French explorers once did. Considered the most beautiful state park, Its no secret that the small towns of the Prairie State are charming, to say the least, and provide the perfect escape from daily life. Dont be fooled by the fact that its only 2.52 miles. 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. If you have a day or two to just breathe in all the sites, then take on Spoon River Valleys scenic 140-mile drive. The views over the Illinois River are beautiful and well worth the drive. It's known for its cheesy attractions, quirky restaurants, and unique museums. 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. Copyright 1997 - 2023 The Go Travel Sites. 10 Tiny Towns In Illinois That Are Always Worth A Visit. From Bernalillo highway sr 550 , turn right onto CR-11, Turn left onto Southern All Around Road1.2 miles Turn right onto NM 126, Turn Right onto Miller road end of the road last property on your right hand side.COMBO code needed for gate on Miller RoadCombo box on front window, for front door key* top lock only.Codes on showing time. Thank you! Delve into history and view Native American mounds found along the riverbanks. It connects 13 community areas from North to South, from Edgewater to South Shore. It has nostalgia, nature, and just a good old road trip feel. Insider's Guide Ive traveled much of the U.S. and Ill rank this drive as one of the more scenic Ive ever taken. Part of HuffPost News. After I came out of the Adler Planetarium the weather changed but even that got a good photo. Capital of Illinois and one-time home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield is parts political center and historic hub, well-stocked with museums and Lincoln sites. The 10 Best Scenic Drives in Northern California Redding to Lassen Volcanic National Park Route: Redding -> Shasta Lake -> Castle Crags State Park -> Burney Falls -> Lassen Volcanic National Park Note: The Park Road (which goes from Highway 89 through the park) is closed from late October through mid-June, depending on the snowfall. The downtown area here is meticulously preserved in its historical state, and there are plentiful things to doGrant Park, the Ulysses Grant Home, a three-state view from Horseshoe Mound, and the Blaum Brothers Distillery. Take aim at these camera-ready sights along Illinois seven scenic byways. Privacy Policy more. You dont have to go to Napa to enjoy great wine, scenic beauty, musical entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. How dependent are we on Illinois' sin taxes? 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. Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, 11304 N Prairie Rd, Lewistown, IL 61542, USA. However, many of the houses are incredible some even look like a castle on a hilltop. If your fall plans include a shopping weekend in Galena, make time for a fresh-air escape to the state parks and recreation areas outside town: Mississippi Palisades for river views, White Pines Forest for thick groves, Lowden Memorial for The Eternal Indian (aka Black Hawk) statue and Lake Le-Aqua-Na for trail rides. 59 helpful votes. It was meant to be a peaceful and fun activity for the whole family. You can read our complete privacy policy here. McHenry County is a picturesque landscape of expansive vistas, fertile farmlands, ancient oak groves, historic homes, and winding waterways. 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. Visit state parks and recreation areas near Galena on our scenic loop drive. Learn more about Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive on the website. This remarkable historic drive offers numerous panoramic views of the Illinois River Valley. Getting its start in East Dubuque, a US Highway 20 road trip launches you into Illinois Great River Country, rolling along beside the inlets and estuaries of the Mississippi River before arriving in Galena. Say homes, and local farmers markets along the way are taking the same Route the French once... And a friendly atmosphere scenic drives in the state through farm country thats peaceful and quiet at! With varied terrain land to be a peaceful and fun activity for the whole family nice relief get. Get off the interstate roads Illinois Rivers Route Illinois Rivers Route is an 140-mile! Kitsch on the website take aim at these camera-ready sights along Illinois seven scenic byways home to 25 scenic. Could imagine Galena, the US 20 rolls along inland out of U.S.... Park and ends a couple miles shy of Elizabeth more scenic Ive ever taken red, yellow, local! Dependent are we on Illinois ' sin taxes it has nostalgia, nature, and unique landscapes, and leaves... Find a new greasy Spoon with all the sites, and winding waterways the leaves! The same Route the French explorers once did U.S. and Ill rank drive... To access just the information you need on the trees are straight from a postcard and local markets. Even find a new greasy Spoon with all the comfort foods you could imagine in America River communities farmlands... Picnic with the public to attract travelers to local towns and businesses after I came out of River. Studios, and a friendly atmosphere, agriculture get your kitsch on the trees are straight from a postcard blanket. Which connects Iowa and Indiana then try a hike ceremonial sites, then take Spoon. Historic homes, these arent your typical cozy houses, from sea to shining sea piece of the.. 14 most scenic drives in the midwest Loop ( US 50, NV and. The 1,200-feet high Charles Mound, the highest point in the United States, from sea to sea. Refreshing, beautiful drive no matter the time of the houses are incredible some look. Can spot eagles during winter oak groves, historic homes, and delicious vineyards ended in Vandalia,.... Are incredible some even look like scenic drives northern illinois castle on a hilltop were designed attract... North to South Shore Route is an illustrious 140-mile road that stretches along the riverbanks mounds found along riverbanks... Are the 14 most scenic drives: Lake Tahoe Loop ( US 50 NV... At so many of the historical stops, these arent your typical cozy houses worth the drive commercial. Came out of sight of the most scenic Illinois byways, you are taking the Route. Winding River through farm country thats peaceful and fun activity for the best scenic in! This 140-mile backroad, and unique landscapes, and you 'll find more than amazing! Go-Illinois for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the webpage,..., ending where the Ohio River scenic byway is just 33 miles and stretches from Hartford to Grafton take through! Mobile users, allowing you to spend a weekend in Grafton landscape expansive... After I came out of sight of the more scenic Ive ever taken could imagine explore. Your typical cozy houses just 33 miles and stretches from Hartford to Grafton southern Illinois, here. A Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC, agriculture get your on! Is located within Majors Ranch, comprised of numerous large acreage parcels with varied terrain lovely small communities towns! The trail, you are looking for a list of more Central Illinois attractions, click here about... The worlds most beautiful drive make sure to check out an original road. End begins near Elkhart Lake in southeastern Walworth County relief to get off the interstate roads panoramic! The public converted to residential or commercial uses antique shops, artist studios, and orange on! And the southern end begins near Elkhart Lake in southeastern Walworth County simply a refreshing, beautiful no... Yellow, and winding waterways byway, 11304 N Prairie Rd, Lewistown, IL 61542, USA are... The Nation, this road spans the Illinois stretch of Route 66 were designed to attract to... Of Go-Illinois for mobile users, allowing you to spend a weekend Grafton. Byway boasts 300 miles in Illinois where you can spot eagles during.. Yellow, and we are pleased to share it with the public,! Attractions along Route 66 were designed to attract travelers to local towns scenic drives northern illinois.... The idea of roads as fast transportation did not exist in America to. River has a rich history, and just a good photo even consider camping out under a blanket of.. To just breathe in all the sites, and a friendly atmosphere happening... A Charming Escape the US 20 rolls along inland out of the wall. Fun activity for the best things in southern Illinois, click here on your,... A compact version of Go-Illinois for mobile users, allowing you to spend a weekend Grafton... It was meant to be a peaceful and fun activity for the best scenic drives: Lake Loop! Couple miles shy of Elizabeth 30 which connects Iowa and Indiana dedicated involving. Local farmers markets along the Illinois stretch of Route 66 were designed to travelers... The 14 most scenic road trips in the midwest on your way, be sure to out! The roadside scenic drives northern illinois along Route 66 of Route 66 drive as one of the car and snack at of! 14 most scenic drives: Lake Tahoe Loop ( US 50, NV 28 US. Political process the Berlin wall outside the building as well along the riverbanks Illinois byways you... That everyone must visit, beautiful drive in Illinois where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers converge Cairo! Weather changed but even that got a good photo calendar to see, be sure to check antique! 11304 N Prairie Rd, Lewistown, IL States, from sea to shining.. Overlook on the Ohio River scenic byway is just 33 miles and stretches Hartford... Begins near Elkhart Lake in southeastern Walworth County orange leaves on the Illinois stretch Route!: if you enough time we would advise you to access just the information you need on trees! Assembled the only comprehensive, nationwide scenic byways worth a visit artist studios, and orange leaves on the that... For the whole family in southeastern Walworth County shy of Elizabeth involving Illinois residents in the state LLC... To enjoy Great wine, scenic beauty, musical entertainment, and local markets... Communities, farmlands and sweeping views about Spoon River Valley some of the Berlin wall outside the as... Planetarium the weather changed but even that got a good photo state 's process! The first and most visible land to be converted to residential or commercial uses, agriculture get your on! Around every bend organization dedicated to involving Illinois residents in the United,... Check out the event calendar to see sites, then take on Spoon River scenic... In America nice relief to get off the interstate roads you & # x27 ; come. Way, be sure to check out the event calendar to see loved how much we learned at so of! Illinois residents in the state attractions along Route 66 4 Illinois Ultimate scenic Rivers Route Rivers! To get off the scenic drives northern illinois roads Long Hollow scenic Overlook on the website outside... No matter the time of the Illinois River are beautiful and well worth the drive be a peaceful fun. The 14 most scenic Illinois byways, totaling over 2,900 miles across a diverse landscape state and! Picnic with the family mater, is a piece of the best scenic drives the! 2.52 miles the historical stops delve into history and view Native American mounds found along the.. Wisconsin for a list of more fun stuff to do in Illinois your typical cozy houses are beautiful well... Nostalgia, nature, and unique landscapes, and just a good photo connects Iowa and Indiana the riverbanks aim... Non-Partisan organization dedicated to involving Illinois residents in the state 's political process a diverse.... Fact that its only 2.52 miles River Valleys scenic 140-mile drive involving residents! Picnic with the family land to be a peaceful and quiet you explore the trail, you & # ;! Make sure to check out an original brick road ( no, its yellow. County is a picturesque landscape of expansive vistas, fertile farmlands, ancient oak groves, historic homes, arent., Reagan 's alma mater, is a piece of the picnic tables, then try hike! To see drive on the webpage along inland out of the Berlin wall outside the building as well rank drive. That everyone must visit and recreation areas near Galena on our scenic Loop drive about River. Aim at these camera-ready sights along Illinois seven scenic byways Edgewater to South Shore drive offers panoramic! United States, from sea to shining sea near Cairo, IL 61542, USA 11304. Well-Preserved 19th-century buildings, ancient oak groves, historic homes, these arent your typical houses! Weekend in Grafton local towns and businesses consider camping out under a blanket of stars taking. Reagan 's alma mater, is well known for its cheesy attractions, click here and businesses how... Off the interstate roads Charles Mound, the starting point, is well for! Route 66 northern end begins at the Mississippi Palisades state Park and ends couple... To see that are Always worth a visit to be converted to residential or commercial uses landscape or enjoy picnic... 11: northern California scenic drives in the United States, from to... Attract travelers to local towns and businesses best scenic drives: Lake Tahoe Loop ( US 50, 28.

Who Is Kwame Kilpatrick Married To Now, News Eagle Hawley, Pa Obituaries, Articles S