Monthly Archives: May 2014

Interesting Illinois Attractions You Don’t Want to Miss

Saturday, May 31, 2014

 

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River along Illinois’ western boarder for 550 miles. Along the way, travelers will find plenty of charming river towns and fun things to see and do. Here are some interesting attractions you should be sure to see while you’re touring the Illinois Great River Road this summer.

Galena – This river town is one of the Midwest’s most picturesque. Surrounded by tall bluffs and full of historic buildings, Galena has an almost storybook appearance. Treasure hunters will find shops and antiques dealers galore. Be sure to visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home.

Nauvoo – Many people don’t know about the tragic story of the Mormon exodus from Nauvoo in the mid-1800s. Learn about this fascinating chapter in American history in this now quiet river town. This is a must for history buffs.

Villa Kathrine in Quincy – See a piece of Morocco on the Mississippi River! Villa Kathrine is a unique example of Mediterranean-style architecture. Take a tour of this beautiful home that includes a breathtaking, ornate courtyard.

National Great Rivers Museum in Alton – If you want to understand ecology and commerce on the Mississippi River, this is the place to go. Through exhibits, models and aquariums, you’ll come to know the story of the river.

Cahokia Mounds – Long before Columbus arrived in the New World, a great city was thriving at this site along the Mississippi River. You’ll see some of the huge earthen structures these ancient Americans built and learn more about their society.

This summer, check out these and the many other interesting attractions you’ll find along the Great River Road in Illinois. You’re sure to make many discoveries of your own!

Plan your Iowa Great River Road itinerary

Wednesday, May 07, 2014

Traveling the Great River Road in Iowa? Be sure to add these stops to your list.

Pikes Peak State Park, McGregor. Come see why this northern Iowa state park is one of the most photographed areas in the entire state. Trek to the top of the 500-foot bluffs for a breathtaking view of the meeting of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers. Pikes Peak is a fantastic spot to see fall colors in October.

Pikes Peak State Park

Pikes Peak State Park

Dubuque. Sitting across the Mississippi River from the Wisconsin/Iowa border, the city of Dubuque offers something for every traveler, whether you’re interested in dining, shopping, gaming, recreation or anything else. Ride the historic Fenelon Place Elevator or visit the Mines of Spain Recreation Area for a great view over the Mississippi River. Visit the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium to learn about the river and the animals that populate it. Try your luck at Diamond Jo Casino or Q Casino.

Putnam Museum, Davenport. Visit the largest museum in central Iowa to learn about everything from ancient Egypt to outer space. Don’t miss the Spark! Learning Lab, which offers hands-on exhibits on science and technology, including electrical circuits, chemistry and construction engineering.

Snake Alley, Burlington. Did you know that Iowa is home to the “crookedest street in the world”? Don’t miss Burlington’s Snake Alley, which was built in 1894 with locally fired bricks and hosts a bike race every Memorial Day weekend. See a full list of Iowa Great River Road attractions.