Known as one of the “Seven Wonders of Illinois”, the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway is where the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers all converge.  This 33-mile scenic drive starts its journey in Hartford and ends in Grafton at Pere Marquette State Park. Today, we’re going to take a look at some of the wonderful stops and towns dotted along the map, as well as highlighting the fantastic scenic views you’ll experience as you drive.  It’s a memorable local experience, and we hope you enjoy this wonderful mini road trip right in our own home state.

Along your drive you’ll find abundant wildlife, charming rolling hills, quaint countryside towns and villages, and stunning stone bluffs as you make your way through several counties.  This byway is full of scenic and historic stops and we can’t wait to tell you all about it. So, pack up your pals and head on out for a day of memories in your new car from Classic of Waukegan as we hit the road on a picturesque early autumn 2-day road trip!

Day One: Visiting Alton, Hartford, and Madison County

Our trip starts in Madison County at the intersection of Route 3 along The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, a pedestrian river walk that once connected Illinois and Missouri over the Mississippi River.

You’ll pick up the scenic Byway in nearby Hartford, where we recommend stopping by the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site.

Travel onwards to Alton and explore the National Great Rivers Museum, Melvin Price Locks & Dam, and views of the Mississippi River.  Alton is a great stop for the “spooky season” as it’s known as one of the most haunted small towns in America, offering tours of Mysterious Mineral Springs Mall, McPike Mansion, and more.

Day Two: Elsah, Down and Grafton

The village of Elsah is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s easy to see why its historic charm has been preserved. It’s a quaint little town with narrow streets, old-timey shops including The Elsah General Store, and the Village of Elsah Museum. Just outside of Elsah in the woods you’ll find the TreeHouse Wildlife Center, a facility that helps rehabilitate and release wild animals, including American Bald Eagles, foxes, bobcats, and other critters.

The riverfront community of Grafton offers beautiful views of the river with riverfront dining options and lodging.  The Grafton SkyTour takes you from Main Street up 300 feet high to the river bluffs in either an open-air chair lift or gondola ride.  The SkyTour ends at Aerie’s Resort and the Aerie Riverview Winery!  While you’re at the resort, stop by Grafton Zipline Adventures to take a tour of the area from the treetops.

At the end of your trek you’ll find Pere Marquette State Park, one of the largest state parks in Illinois!  Covering nearly 8,000 acres, it’s a picturesque nature destination along the banks of the Illinois River. It’s perfect for trail running, hiking, horseback riding, archery, fishing, off-road- cycling, and more. There’s even harbor access for boating and fishing off both the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers.

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