5 of the Best Scenic Drives Through Illinois. Known as the Tunnel of Trees, M-119 is one of the most idyllic settings in the state. The 115-mile drive traverses six Wisconsin counties. Keyword Destination Bloomington/Normal Chicago Joliet Marion Quad Cities Rockford Springfield Utica Length Under 30 miles 30 to 75 miles Over 75 miles 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. It's a 39-mile loop drive with 16 designated scenic overlooks and eight hiking trails. Cutting through Illinois is a 300-mile stretch of the mythical Route 66. Places To Stay 2023 Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Eco-Friendly Hotels and GreenGetaways in Illinois, Five Champaign Restaurants Perfect for a Romantic Outing, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. It,s a nice relief to get off the interstate roads. Coastal Highway 1, Maine. Youll find the little town of Elizabeth along US Highway 20, where this road branches north and connects about 12 miles away with Stagecoach Trail. The route spanned the entire width of the state because it was part of the larger highway system that ran from New York to California. Why you should go: The ultimate great lakes drive when you have a few days to spare. See our full, 7 hours to drive the entire Byway, 2 days per loop for each of 7 nature activity loops. Visit state parks and recreation areas near Galena on our scenic loop drive. Illinois Scenic Drives Byways, Backways, Historic Routes,. Each of these wineries has its own styles, techniques, and grape varieties that create wonderfully delicious and unique flavors. Here you can find a list of more southern Illinois wineries. In addition to wine, the drive is filled with trails, creeks and lakes, small cabins, and sprawling orchards. Travelers keen on getting outside won't have to look far for thrilling . Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. THINGS TO DO 550 miles packed with adventure! Insider's Guide If you are looking for interesting cities in northern Illinois, click here. You may even find a new greasy spoon with all the comfort foods you could imagine. You will also pass several beautiful state parks including Cave-in-Rock and Fort Massac State Park. Six Romantic Spots Along the Great River Road in Illinois, Explore the Regions: Colorful Fall Getaways, Eco-Friendly Hotels and GreenGetaways in Illinois, Five Champaign Restaurants Perfect for a Romantic Outing, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Locations in Illinois, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. From red and yellow trees to roads dusted with vibrant leaves, this is an incredibly scenic fall drive in Northern Illinois. Things To Do Continue to Mobile Site places in Illinois where you can spot eagles during winter. In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. As one of the most scenic drives in Northern Ireland, Lough Neagh covers an area of 391 square km (151 square miles) in Mid Ulster. Shenandoah National Park Skyline Drive. Here is a list of more small cities in Illinois that are worth a visit. The Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Festival is a must-see every October. IMN Heaven Ranch is located within Majors Ranch, comprised of numerous large acreage parcels with varied terrain. 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. Travel back in time as you make your way through original one-room schoolhouses, an 1832 log cabin, century-old chapels, and a historic railroad depot. Considered the most beautiful state park, Starved Rock State Park is home to a surreal landscape of rock formations, canyons, forests, and waterfalls. It spans about 10 states and has become one of the most iconic byways in the United States. Also referred to as the Road that built the Nation, this byway started in Cumberland, Maryland and ended in Vandalia, Illinois. Along the way you might just discover that there's more to the road than the river. Wooded countryside fills your view, interspersed with neat farmsteads and regular roadside produce stands, in season. Wind through this 140-mile backroad, and you'll find more than 20 amazing Illinois attractions that everyone must visit. This post may contain affiliate links. Fabulous views and thrilling curves with the rivers right beside you. However, many of the houses are incredible some even look like a castle on a hilltop. Check out these cozy cabins. The road is quite smooth and the traffic volume is very low. Along the way, you will enjoy the farms, rolling hills, and stunning vista views. The popular soda fountain has been a fixture in town since 1937, and you'll quickly see . 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. Learn More Beautiful winding river through farm country thats peaceful and quiet. If youre in the mood for a drive, read on for some of the best scenic drives in Illinois. 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. 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. There is just nothing like the breathtaking views of Americas surging central artery of a river from the wooded bluffs and banks above it, and sometimes rolling right along just above the waterline. Insider tip: Ottawa is considered as being the heart of Starved Rock county. If you are looking for more hikes in Northern Illinois, click here. Note: The Great River Road uses different specific highways to stay close to the river and access great attractions. Discover top travel stories and even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois with our free magazine. 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. 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. About Advocate Aurora Health. AMAZING RIVER VIEW, LEAVES TURNING, QUAINT LITTLE TOWN OF Elijah. An incredible hike in southern Illinois. Gary Ennis/Getty Images/iStockphoto. Spanning a total of 20 miles, this beautiful route starts near Cross Village, eventually taking visitors up and along a bluff that towers over Lake Michigan. Enjoy the scenery and take a long, lovely drive down one of these 10 amazing roads and see the best parts of the state. It connects 13 community areas from North to South, from Edgewater to South Shore. Love Illinois? Not only is the drive peaceful and beautiful, but there are also fantastic spots to park, set up a blanket, and have a picnic on a bluff overlooking the river, enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding foliage. 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. 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. Site Map, Copyright 2023 Great Rivers Country. Here is a list of scenic drives in Central 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. 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? Initially, the land was an over 22,000 acre working cattle ranch, split in the 1990s into 172 parcels of 40 to . Galena, the starting point, is well known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, ancient ceremonial sites, and delicious vineyards. Notable sites along the route are Burnham Park, Chicago Yacht Club, Drake Hotel, Du Sable Park, Grant Park, Jackson Park, Lake Point Tower, Lincoln Park, Montrose Beach, Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Museum of Science and Industry, Promontory Point, Navy Pier, Soldier Field, North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, Belmont Harbor and Temple Sholom. 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're not one to hit the black diamond slopes out in Colorado, Trail Ridge Road is your best way to see the Rocky Mountains. Allen V. Peloquin and Y C Cheryl, 9254 Scenic Bluff Drive, Austin, TX 78733 Find homes for sale, market statistics, foreclosures, property taxes, real estate news, agent reviews, condos, neighborhoods on Blockshopper.com Click on the map to specific attractions and follow the directions through the drives. 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. As the paved two lane scrolls into view, and our guidebooks clue us in to some new highlight just around a few more curves, sometimes we hurry to get it all in. Scenic Drives in Illinois. If you are looking for a list of more Central Illinois attractions, click here. The history and cultural significance that is now preserved along the route makes the Lincoln Byway one of the best scenic drives in Northern Illinois. Long Hollow Scenic Overlook, 2918 US Hwy 20 W, Elizabeth, IL 61028, USA. Learn more about Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail on the webpage. What are some of the best small towns in Illinois? 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. Visit the largest state park in Illinois and one untouched by glaciers that once blanketed much of the state. The Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive is a 115-mile ramble through oak, maple and aspen fall color in the 50,000 acres of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. You dont have to go to Napa to enjoy great wine, scenic beauty, musical entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere. Get ready for a packed three-week adventure to some of the greatest locales in Africa. It really helps take your mind off all the stressors in life. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive. Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity. 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. Along the way, you'll pass many historic places including an old railroad depot, a log cabin from 1832, and a couple one-room schoolhouses. Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, 11304 N Prairie Rd, Lewistown, IL 61542, USA. Traveling along its namesake, this road is partially an old route marked by French explorers and other immigrants who were drawn to Illinois. 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. Keep an eye out for the Great River Road logo on signsa green icon of a riverboat pilots wheelto keep you on the designated scenic byway. The Great River Road is one of the most scenic road trips in the midwest. 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. Copyright 2017, 25 Top Easy-Care Plants for Midwest Gardens. You are in OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. 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. Lake Shore Drive's origins date to 1882 when hotel magnate Potter Palmer built his "castle" at 1350 North Lake Shore Drive and coerced the city to build the street adjacent to his lakefront property to enhance its value. Routes will begin to appear on map approximately 10 seconds after the map loads at a rate of one route per second. Youll experience towering bluffs, rolling hills, river communities, farmlands and sweeping views. flanked by a lavish residential area in the west and fantastic panoramic views of the. We have been enjoying visiting several of the Presidential libraries, museums, historic homes, etc. The wildlife and foliage on the drive is absolutely beautiful and the wine is a plus! 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. The Great River Road follows the mighty Mississippi, the nations longest river, along Illinois western border. The scenic byway boasts 300 miles in Illinois alone, ending where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers converge near Cairo, IL. You'll also pass by some of the state's most beautiful rivers, including the Spoon River and the Illinois River, and the river starts . The southern end is at Whitewater Lake in southeastern Walworth County. Route 66 starts its long journey to the West Coast in Chicago. Sprawling through 33 miles of southwestern Illinois, this gorgeous road travels through the Mississippi flood plain and coincides with a portion of the Great River Road. You can read our complete privacy policy here. Algarve Itinerary: the best itinerary for 3-10 days, 19 Illinois breweries that are worth a visit, Globetrotters in heart and soul. This byway actually follows the Mississippi River for about 3,000 miles, starting in Minnesota and ending at the Gulf of Mexico. Driving on this old road, with some replicas of old signs and vintage billboards, took us back in time we could imagine what it was like to drive Route 66 a hundred years ago. All Rights Reserved. But the Galena end of the highway yields to no other area in its River Road attractions. Each of these routes is so much more than a simple drive through Illinois. There is so much history and pride in the locals here. Thank you! 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. 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. From there take US 30 west to the Mississippi River. 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. Order a copy of Enjoy Illinois and also receive the Illinois State Park Guide and an Official Highway Map. The Lincoln Highway was the first highway in America to be paved all the way across the state in the early 1900s. 3. The views over the Illinois River are beautiful and well worth the drive. Explore the region for yourself and find little-known treasures, perhaps using one of our favorite Illinois scenic drives as a starting point: No. Glacial Park in northern Illinois is a lesser-known park filled with wetlands formed by a glacier that was once here. Fall the Spoon Valley Scenic Drive Festival falls on the first two weekends of October every year. For an overview of amazing wineries in Grafton, click here. Curves twisting through walls of rugged rock pinnacles, buttes, and multi-colored spires. Home . Learn more about the Long Hollow Scenic Overlook on the webpage. Ohio River Scenic Byway, Cairo, IL 62914, USA. Schaumburg's many lush, tree-dense neighborhoods contain an array of apartments, condos, townhomes, and houses available for rent, in an overall peaceful environment. 10 Tiny Towns In Illinois That Are Always Worth A Visit. Find out what's on in Illinois and Chicago with your guide to events, festivals, markets, music, theater, sports and more. This Illinois motorcycle route gives motorcyclists a great ride along the Trail of Tears State Forest with tree-lined roads that cascade down into panoramic views of the rolling countryside. A flowing stream to drop a line for trout or crappie is never far with the Noblett Lake Recreation Area, where two streams and a lake reside, being a prime location for fishing and other water fun. Your multi-country journey begins in Zimbabwe at Victoria Fallsthe largest waterfall in the worldfollowed by camping in Botswana's Chobe National Park. It was the widest and longest bascule bridge in the world when it was constructed in 1937, a year after LSD was completed by architect Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe. An amazing way to travel across the state and immerse yourself in the different cultures and communities across Illinois. Whether you are looking for a day trip, weekend getaway or planning a road trip, our guides provide you with the perfect scenic drive. Enjoy the beauty, variety and geology of southeast Wisconsin by driving the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive. Take the weekend and even consider camping out under a blanket of stars. If you want to take a unique boat tour along the Illinois River and Lake Michigan, check out Chicago Fireboat Tours. Not only will you connect with these stories, but youll have the opportunity to do so while enjoying great food, fun attractions, and lively festivals. 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. It is also known as "The Old Pike" or "The Road That Built the Nation" and it has existed since 1811, making it one of the oldest backroads in the state. You'll experience towering bluffs, rolling hills, river communities, farmlands and sweeping views. 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. 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. Bring your fishing rod or your canoe and commune with nature. After I came out of the Adler Planetarium the weather changed but even that got a good photo. The endpoint is in Cairo, an abandoned town that is packed with history. Use our easy Lodging Search to find exactly the type of accommodation you are looking for at the right price. One day we were driving to Galena Cellars Vineyard along Stagecoach Trail. At the confluence of the Illinois and Fox rivers, Ottawa marks the northeast gateway to the Illinois River Road. Plan on visiting in October if you want to participate in the countys annual drive event and witness the activities and entertainment. Thank you! You may enjoy watching the changing leaves in a local forest preserve. All Rights Reserved and. In Illinois, the highway begins in Chicago and cuts through the suburbs before heading straight to Fulton. Read our full coverage on the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway to learn more. Click on any scenic byway or backway listed below for complete information. We were most recently there and counted 40 bald eagles on our drive. It has nostalgia, nature, and just a good old road trip feel. #4 Illinois Ultimate Scenic Rivers Route Illinois Rivers Route is an illustrious 140-mile road that stretches along the Illinois River. 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. Lovely small communities and towns in farm country with something new around every bend. Rewrite your bucket list as you soar through the forest on a zipline, take a gondola ride to the top of the bluffs, experience the flavor of Illinois wines, satisfy your sweet tooth with a banana split inspired by a paddlewheel boat, or take a cruise on an actual paddlewheel boat. Heavenly diningOn the way back to Galena, stop for a steak or seafood dinner in Elizabeth at The Holy Mackerel in a renovated white clapboard church. 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. How dependent are we on Illinois' sin taxes? 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. Run by Veterans, youll board a historic fireboat for one of the most memorable tours in the state. Who doesnt love an adventure along one of the best scenic drives in Illinois? On your drive, youll likely see many of these community members on the land working hard on their harvest. Scenic America has assembled the only comprehensive, nationwide scenic byways database, and we are pleased to share it with the public. Dont be fooled by the fact that its only 2.52 miles. Start in Murphysboro, south to Anna, and back up north to Carbondale. Experience what the American Dream really felt like while driving along legendary Route 66. 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. 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. 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. 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. Related read: 10 Amazing Small Towns in Wisconsin for a Charming Escape. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. It's known for its cheesy attractions, quirky restaurants, and unique museums. Scenic Drives Carroll County Carroll County Barn Quilt Trail Various locations Carroll County, IL Barn quilts enhance the beauty of the countryside and are enjoyed by those who pass by. Follow the Mother Road to discover a myriad of quirky roadside attractions, or hit one of the scenic highways crisscrossing the state. 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. Scenic drives to consider in Illinois are listed below. The sky was a deep blue, the windows were rolled down, Patricia sailed her hand out the window. Sometimes there is nothing more relaxing than getting into nature and breathing in that fresh, crisp air. Routes 127, Old Hwy 51, 51DISTANCE: 46 milesTIME: 1 hour. The Scenic Byways program is a cooperative effort between local communities and WisDOT to identify and promote state and local highway corridors with scenic and/or historical attributes that provide travelers an enjoyable visual, educational and recreational experience. I think best place to see the Chicago skyline. The scenic byway boasts 300 miles in Illinois alone, ending where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers converge near Cairo, IL. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Fermanagh Lakelands - for incredible views of Lough Erne. Slow down, she says. As you explore the trail, you'll come across several highlights. There youll find flea markets, tasty meals like homemade chili or pie, handcrafted art, soaps, furniture, and collectibles. Holly Ann . Time needed: 2.5 hours to 2 days. The short stretch of the Lake Michigan Circle Tourthrough Illinois travels along Route 137 and then joins Lakeshore Drive (US-41) right at the Lake Michigan coastline through the suburbs of Chicago. ), or the old Rochelle railroad park. 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. BYWAY BITES Simply a refreshing, beautiful drive no matter the time of the year. Visit These 12 Incredible Charming Small Towns In Illinois, One For Each Month Of The Year, This Walkable Stretch Of Shops And Restaurants In Small-Town Illinois Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination, Few People Know One Of The Nicest Restaurants In America Is Hiding In Small-Town Illinois, The Illinois Resort Where You Can Go Ice Skating, Make Homemade Smores, And More This Winter, Here are 9 Hidden Gems Along the Mississippi River in Illinois, Take These 11 Country Roads In Illinois For A Gorgeous Scenic Drive, Youll Want To Take This Picture Perfect River Trail Through Illinois, If There Are Only 5 Hikes You Ever Do In Illinois, Make Them These, seven places in Illinois boonies that are so worth the drive. Best Rated Motorcycle Roads & Rides Please be patient. Check out antique shops, artist studios, and local farmers' markets along the way. Go at night for the sunset! 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. Check it out: If you love road trips, check out these seven places in Illinois boonies that are so worth the drive. With about 300 miles of highway in Illinois alone, you could make a whole day of sight seeing. Walk the quiet, lush grounds and take in the countless varieties of trees, including red oak, sycamore, black walnut, Norway spruce, Ohio buckeye and many, many more. Needles Highway (Highway 87), is found in the Black Hills of South Dakota, on a stretch of road through Custer State Park. Situated about 30 miles northwest of Chicago's Loop, Schaumburg is a scenic suburb with a small-town atmosphere and countless family-friendly amenities. Click here to view all the guides avialable for Illinois. The northern end begins near Elkhart Lake in northern Sheboygan County and the southern end begins at Whitewater Lake in southeastern Walworth County. Last but not least on our list of the best scenic drives in Illinois is the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. International Visitors A must-see for everyone. Whitefish, Montana. And thats where Patricia always brings it back to basics, one hand out the window, playing airplane just like a kid. Might just discover that there & # x27 ; ll quickly see lakes drive when have! And local farmers & # x27 ; markets along the way across the in!, Globetrotters in heart and soul an illustrious 140-mile Road that stretches along the Illinois River National! Of scenic drives in Illinois alone, ending where the Ohio and Mississippi scenic drives northern illinois converge near Cairo, abandoned. Experience what the American Dream really felt like while driving along legendary Route 66 starts long! 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