Great Road Trip Adventures in Southwest Illinois

G R E A T

R I V E R S

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R O U T E S

let’s go!

GREAT ROAD TRIP ADVENTURES IN SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS

2020 FALL & WINTER GUIDE

ALTON COLLINSVILLE EDWARDSVILLE GLEN CARBON GODFREY GRAFTON

MADISON JERSEY CALHOUN MACOUPIN MONTGOMERY GREENE COUNTIES

A LOT MORE OF

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ArgosyAlton.com | 1 Piasa Street, Alton, IL | 1-800-711-GAME Must be 21. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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ARE WE THERE YET? GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES

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HIKING & BIKING TRAILS

let’s go!

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FALL COLOR DRIVES

GREAT ROAD TRIP ADVENTURES IN SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS

A LTO N l C O L L I N S V I L L E l E DWA R D S V I L L E l G L E N CA R BO N l GO D F R E Y l G R A F TO N MADISON l JERSE Y l CALHOUN l MACOUPIN l MONTGOMERY l GREENE l COUNTIES

17 l ORCHARDS & ROADSIDE

STANDS MAP 19 l DISCOVER THE

SPOOKY SIDE 21 l HERE COME

THE HOLIDAYS 27 l EAGLE WATCHER’S MAP

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PICK OF THE CROP

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LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Connect With Us! facebook.com/RiversandRoutes @RiversandRoutes Instagram.com/RiversandRoutes Pinterest.com/RiversandRoutes

29 l ENTERTAINING

ROAD TRIPS 63 l WHAT’S IN STORE

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LOCAL DINING

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THE EAGLES HAVE LANDED

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SPEND THE NIGHT LODGING

PHOTO CREDITS: Scott Evers, Marty McKay, Mike Cruz Photography, Mark Ahlvers, Anthony Kaid, Carolyn Caton, Krista Kallal, Afton Hughes, Carrie Kallal, Glen Whittaker, Hannah Gibbs, Marcus Piper, Nate Williams, Tom Nagel (Big Muddy Adventures), @MidwesternMeanderer, @ superbrewhaha, Dennis Woods/Southwestern Aerial, Green Fields Farm 40M • 8/20

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let’s go

ON A ROAD TRIP… CHANGE. IT’S IN THE AIR. DAYS ARE GETTING SHORTER AND NIGHTS LONGER. THE SUN HITS THE ROAD AND RIVERS AT A DIFFERENT ANGLE – SOFTENING IT IN THE FALL AND BLURRING THE LANDSCAPE IN THE WINTER .

IT’S A CHANGE YOU CAN FEEL. It’s not just the leaves turning from green to red, gold and russet. Or the skies becoming heavy with snow.

It’s the scent in the air. Breezes evolving from warm and soft to brisk and nippy.

EMBRACE CHANGE. RIGHT NOW. HOP IN THE CAR. Take a road trip and change the scenery outside the front door. Respond to the call of the Mother Road and Mississippi River rising in the air. And discover the Great Rivers & Routes region in southwest Illinois.

Explore a place where mighty rivers showcase their power and majesty as they carve their way across the Midwest.

Travel down historic Route 66 between Springfield, IL and St. Louis and immerse yourself in its kitschy charm. Stretch your legs this fall where there is room to roam with outdoor adventures that inspire and thrill. Discover the winter beauty of American Bald Eagles in the wild as they soar through the air along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers.

Escape the daily stress of life in these times and find a quiet place where it’s easy to kick back and relax.

Find your next, favorite getaway just a car drive away.

Get off the beaten path and restore yourself in Great Rivers & Routes of southwest Illinois.

It’s all about change right now.

Are you ready for it? Isn’t it about time?

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Great Rivers & Routes

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ARE WE THERE YET? FALL IS HERE AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE THE CHANGING OF THE SEASONS THAN WITH A ROAD TRIP TO THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION. LOOKING FOR ADVENTURE? OR IS A RELAXING WEEKEND GETAWAY IMMERSED IN NATURE MORE YOUR STYLE? OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS, NATURE LOVERS, THRILL SEEKERS, HISTORY BUFFS AND WEEKEND WARRIORS ALL HAVE A HOME IN THE REGION.

Take your pick of adrenaline pumping adventures along the Mississippi River bluffs. Or enjoy a quiet walk on any of the 130 miles of hiking and biking trails. Sit back with a glass of wine and relish the scenic views on the river or nestled in the prairies.

ADVENTURE SEEKERS Fly through the treetops along the Mississippi and Illinois river bluffs this fall on the Grafton Zipline at Aerie’s Resort. The brilliant flashing of the tree colors and momentary glimpses of the sparkling river below are some of the sights on this tree top canopy adventure. Rope bridges, trails and a surprise ending highlight a one-of-a-kind zip lining experience. Aeriesview.com Satisfy your desire for high places and scale the limestone bluffs along the Illinois River at Pere Marquette State Park. The bluffs have become a great outdoor climbing experience for novice through advanced climbers with more than 40 routes on the highly featured limestone formations. The park, one of the largest in Illinois, also has 12 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to advanced. The trails wind through lush forests and towering bluffs.

Take the thrills to the water with a jet ski adventure through the waters of the Mississippi River. Jet skis are available for rent at River Road Water Sports located at Grafton Harbor. For family water fun launch into a day on the river in a pontoon boat available from Grafton Harbor. Kayaking and other water sports are the perfect way to spend the day at Lake Lou Yaeger in Litchfield. The 1,357 acre recreational lake is the place to be in the fall for boating, fishing, camping and horseback riding fun.

Kayaks and paddle boards are available for rent.

Litchfield

Visit

Have a Yaeger Day! LAKE LOU YAEGER | 1400 ACRES | 5.5 MILES OF WATER

VisitLitchfield.com 866-733-5833

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Great Rivers & Routes

TRAVEL TIP: The Great Godfrey Maze, a 7-acre giant corn maze, delights all ages with its dead ends and twists and turns. Each year, a different theme is chosen for the maze which opens to the public on weekends. In October the maze becomes “haunted” adding to the thrills. Dates TBD

NATURE LOVERS Get in touch with nature at the Audubon Center at Riverlands located along the Mississippi River in West Alton. The Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary is home to migrating birds which follow the Mississippi Flyway each fall in their journey south. Hike along one of five different trails and see how many different birds you can spot. Additional bird watching is available at the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge in Brussels. Also located along the Flyway, thousands of migrating birds make a pit stop at the refuge.

Awe inspiring views of the Mississippi River and lush native prairie grasses and plants frame the 450-acres of The Nature Institute in Godfrey. Miles of trails, open to the public highlight small streams, a waterfall, upland forest and hill prairies. (Trails are closed to the public from December through March for restoration.) Stunning fall views of changing leaf colors add a new dimension to any visit.

Edwardsville’s Watershed Nature Center, an award-winning facility, highlights the forest, prairie and wetlands of the region.

Paved walking trails and a raised marsh walk surround the welcome center.

Indulge in the natural beauty found at area state parks including Beaver Dam State Park, south of Carlinville, and Horseshoe Lake State Park in Collinsville.

Your next road trip awaits in the only place in America where the Mother Road meets the Great River Road.

For more information on regional history, visit: RiversandRoutes.com

FAMILY FUN Grab the kids and hit the road for some fall family fun. Enjoy the views and the leisurely ride on chair lifts and gondolas at the Grafton SkyTour. Rise 300 feet above the river community of Grafton to the bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Enjoy lunch, dinner or a snack at The Winery at Aerie’s Resort at the top of the ride.

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark camped at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers outside present day Hartford, IL as they prepared for their monumental journey across the western United States in 1803-04. Their encampment is commemorated at the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site, which is also Trail Site #1 on the National Lewis & Clark Trail.

A 45-minute cruise on the Mississippi River aboard the 49-passenger excursion boat, the Hakuna Matata, anchored at Grafton Harbor is a family favorite. The cruises include descriptions of river landmarks and a history of the area.

The Abolitionist Movement took root in the young riverfront community of Alton with the 1837 death of Elijah P. Lovejoy, an avowed abolitionist, Presbyterian minister and newspaper editor.

The Lovejoy Monument, Illinois’ tallest man-made monument, sits in the Alton National Cemetery in honor of Lovejoy.

Willoughby Heritage Farm in Collinsville brings the past to life in a delightful way for all ages. This carefully preserved city park has tractors, barns, a 1930’s Craftsman-style farmhouse and live animals. More than 30 acres surround the farm itself and includes hiking trails, bridges and scenic vistas.

Saddle up at Pere Marquette Riding Stables in Grafton. The rides generally last 50-minutes and travel 1 ½ miles through the adjacent Pere Marquette State Park. In the fall, the stable offers hay rides complete with a bonfire, roasted marshmallows and hot dogs. (Travel Tip: Reservations required)

HISTORY BUFFS There’s no better time than fall and winter to explore local history. From early prehistoric civilizations to the nation’s earliest explorers and through the Civil War the area is rich in lore. A trail of museums links communities throughout the six county Great Rivers & Routes region.

Abraham Lincoln walked the streets of Alton and his time in the city is commemorated with the Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail. Entrepreneur Benjamin Godfrey is also honored with the Benjamin Godfrey Legacy Trail.

Edwardsville is home to the 1820 Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House. The original brick home has been preserved and provides a glimpse into early life in the Illinois Territory.

Other museums of note in the region include the Glen Carbon Heritage Museum, East Alton History Museum, Gillespie Coal Museum, Macoupin County Historical Society & Museum, and the Wood River Refinery History Museum.

(Please check with local attractions and museums for hours of operations and state restrictions during the COVID-19 crisis. Visit Riversandroutes.com for contact information.)

The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to 80 surviving prehistoric mounds including the largest, Monks Mound, which stands 100 feet tall. The site was once home to an ancient civilization of Native Americans which, at one point, had a larger population than London, England. An interpretive center stands at the center of the site. Please call the site before visiting to get up-to-date hours and tour opportunities.

MAGNIFICENT MARINA FEATURES INCLUDE: Floating Docks Luxury Bathrooms Full Service Fuel Satellite TV & Wi-Fi Swimming Pool & Hot Tub Laundry Convenience Store & Deli Much More!

(618) 462-9860

Great Transient Rates Available | Reservations Encouraged RiversandRoutes.com

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interactive exhibits

melvin price lockS & dam

group tours

2 Lock and Dam Way Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-6979 MTRF.org

St.Louis District mvs.usace.army.mil

meetingoftherivers.org

education

FREE ADMISSION Open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

7 days a week Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day

5 Anchor Marina with Deluxe Amenities!

Amazing Winery, Restaurant and Gift Shop Boat Rentals Riverboat Cruises: Corporate, Wine, Sunset Haunted & Fall Colors Wedding Ceremonies and More!

Come check out the Oyster Bar and our Floating Winery!

618-786-7678 | GraftonHarbor.com | 215 West Water Street | Grafton, Illinois 7

Great Rivers & Routes

YOUR SCENIC DESTINATION ON THE RIVER!

2020 RIVERSIDE FLEA MARKET Sept. 26 & 27 • Oct. 24 & 25 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Watch for 2021 dates!

OPEN YEAR ROUND! Bar & Grill Entertainment Overnight Accommodations Private Event Space

For Vendor Information Call Trudi (618) 593-2103

INDOOR ICE SKATING Open November – March.

Open daily during Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks.

400 Front St. • Grafton, IL • (618) 786-3494 • GraftonLoadingDock.com RiversandRoutes.com

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Great Rivers & Routes

It was one of the greatest adventures in American History...

...the exploration of the uncharted and unknown upper Midwest and western United States in search of a water route to the Pacific Ocean.

And it began right here where the Missouri River meets the Mississippi.

This was the beginning of the adventure which took over two years to complete and catapulted the expedition into the history books. Learn more about the journey, the preparations and read actual excerpts from William Clark’s diary by visiting the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site in Hartford.This is where the true journey into the unknown began!

Open Year Round - Days of week vary seasonally 1 Lewis & Clark Trail, Hartford 618.251.5811 CampDubois.com

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LISTEN TO THE LEAVES CRUNCH UNDERFOOT AND MARVEL AT NATURE’S BEAUTY ON THE MORE THAN 130 MILES OF HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS that are woven throughout Madison, Jersey, Montgomery and Macoupin counties.

There’s no better time than fall to explore the rivers, hills and prairies of the area.

NATURE & HIKING TRAILS AWAY FROM THE CROWDS n TWO RIVERS NATIONAL

WILDLIFE REFUGE 364 Wildlife Conservation Rd. • Brussels (618) 883-2524 This federal refuge is an important link for migrating birds. The 3-mile Gilbert Lake trail is a gravel path along the Illinois River and a great place to see wildlife.

n MCCULLY HERITAGE PROJECT

592 Crawford Creek Rd. • Kampsville (618) 653-4687

More than 15 miles of trails wind through the 940 acres of this Calhoun County scenic wonderland. Access to horseback riding trails is available with advance arrangements.

n GORDON MOORE PARK

4550 College Ave. • Alton • (618) 463-3580

Walk among the trickling streams of the Oriental Garden Trail or The Nature Institute’s Prairie Trail. Stop and smell the roses in the Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden.

n JOE GLIK PARK

710 E. Lake Dr. • Edwardsville • (618) 692-7538

This is Edwardsville’s largest park with 42 acres. Enjoy hiking, biking, the two lakes and other recreational facilities.

n TRI-TOWNSHIP PARK

410 Wickliffe St. • Troy • (618) 667-6887

Nearly two miles of trails circle Troy’s signature park. The ag-lime surfaces also extend around the high school football area creating a 2 ½ mile track.

n GLAZEBROOK PARK

1401 Stamper Ln. • Godfrey • (618) 466-1483

Enjoy 3 miles of walking trails in this scenic city park featuring two ponds, and in the fall, the Great Godfrey Corn Maze.

n LAVISTA PARK TO

CLIFTON TERRACE PARK 2421 W. Delmar • Godfrey • (618) 466-1483

6 Arboretum Ln. • Edwardsville (618) 650-3070

Paved and mulch paths wind through the scenic 36-acre botanical gardens. A half-mile paved loop is ADA accessible.

The Shade Stroll Path, a mulch trail, takes visitors through wooded areas to explore understory plantings.

Walk the 1-mile trail along the Mississippi River bluffs. The trail winds through wooded areas and alongside a creek as it makes its way down to the waters of the Mississippi River.

BIKING & HIKING TRAILS FROM THE EDGES OF HISTORIC ROUTE 66 TO THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER NEAR ST. LOUIS, MADISON COUNTY TRANSIT HAS WELL OVER 100 MILES OF TRAILS DESIGNED TO SUIT ANY HIKING OR BIKING REQUIREMENT.

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n THE GARDENS AT SIUE

n MCT BLUFF TRAIL

New Poag Rd • Edwardsville

Travel the Great American Bottoms’ ancient bluff line on two miles of paved trails on the SIUE campus

n CONFLUENCE BIKE TRAIL

Alton to Granite City

This 20.5 mile paved trail follows the Mississippi River from the river city of Alton to Granite City. Stops include the National Great Rivers Museum, Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower, and the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site.

TRAVEL TIP: Be sure to walk or ride across the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge for breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.

n MCT GOSHEN TRAIL

n MCT QUERCUS GROVE TRAIL

n SAM VADALABENE BIKE TRAIL

Edwardsville & Glen Carbon Ten tunnels and a 175-foot bridge are just some of the highlights of this scenic 8-mile trail connecting Troy to Edwardsville/Glen Carbon trails.

Staunton, Hamel, Worden & Edwardsville

n MCT NATURE TRAIL

Edwardsville & Granite City

This well-traveled 15-mile paved trail winds through the woods, spans local creeks and is a favorite hangout for wildlife.

n MCT NICKEL PLATE TRAIL

New Douglas to Pontoon Beach

Stretching over 28 miles across farmland, woods and urban areas, this combination paved and limestone trail passes near Glen Carbon’s Miner Park and the Edwardsville Children’s Museum.

Historic Route 66 communities are connected by this 18.9 mile paved and limestone trail. Start in Staunton on the north end and finish your trek in Edwardsville. Stop in at Weezy’s in Hamel or the Yellow Dog Café & Bar in Worden for refreshments.

n MCT RONALD J. FOSTER

HERITAGE TRAIL Glen Carbon

Explore the historic community of Glen Carbon along this paved 12-mile trail.

Highlights include the Glen Carbon Covered Bridge and connections to local parks.

Alton to Grafton An awe-inspiring 20-mile paved trail running parallel to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway.

Stretching from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park, the trail hugs the base of towering limestone bluffs and provides breathtaking views of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers.

n GREAT RIVERS BIRD & BIKE TRAIL

Hartford to Grafton View migrating warblers, herons, egrets and hundreds of other birds native to the region on this Missouri Audubon endorsed trail.

n ALTON BIKE TRAIL

A short jaunt along Alton’s historic riverfront is available on this 0.78 trail located in Riverfront Park. This trail serves as a connector between the Confluence Bike Trail and Sam Vadalabene Bike Trails.

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FALL COLOR DRIVES There is no better time to travel the highways and byways of the region than Fall. With the trees blossoming into brilliant reds, golds and oranges, Fall colors dress the Great Rivers & Routes area with stunning hues.

And isn’t that the perfect recipe for a Fall road trip? Plan a weekend or week day getaway and pair it with visits to local wineries, family owned and operated restaurants, and an overnight stay at some great local bed and breakfast inns, guest houses and hotels.

So move over New England, Michigan and Wisconsin. Fall color drives in southwest Illinois are unrivaled for beauty and relaxation.

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For some of the best fall color drives in the Midwest check out our recommendations:

MEETING OF THE GREAT RIVERS SCENIC ROUTE (Shown in red on pages 17-18)

Hop in the car, roll down the windows and prepare to be dazzled when you take the road most traveled. The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Fall Drive is a 60 mile round trip that begins in Alton and winds along Illinois Route 100 beside the mighty Mississippi River through Grafton. In addition to the leaf peeper bonanza of fall colors along the Illinois River, enjoy stops in the historic communities of Alton, Godfrey, Elsah and Grafton. Be sure to stop at Pere Marquette State Park for hiking opportunities.

TRAVEL TIP: Fuel your road trip with stops at these distinctive restaurants: The Loading Dock (Grafton), for riverside dining; Fin Inn (Grafton), where the fish join diners at tableside aquariums; Old Bakery Beer (Alton), craft beer and organic menu in a former Colonial Bakery factory; Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center (Grafton), seasonal buffets available along with famous familystyle fried chicken dinners.

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is in flower.

– ALBERT CAMUS

COUNTY LOOP ON U.S. 67

ROUTE 66 SCENIC DRIVE

ROUTE 66 CIRCA 1930

(Shown in yellow on map pages 17-18)

(Shown in blue on map – pages 17-18)

Considered one of the best country day drives in Illinois, the Country Loop travels through Alton, Godfrey, Jerseyville, Fieldon and Grafton. The route includes a mix of river bluffs and Illinois prairie. Enter anywhere on this loop. Or drive counterclockwise to get the best views of the changing colors on the river bluffs.

There are three different ways to enjoy the Mother Road this fall. From Virden, south of Springfield, IL, to just outside St. Louis, three variations of Route 66 were created starting with the original road in 1926. New roadways were built in 1930 and 1940 giving the iconic road three distinct looks.

The 1930 branch of Route 66 begins in Litchfield, home to the historic Ariston Café and the Sky View Drive In (one of a handful of active drive-in theaters on the Mother Road in the U.S.). Be sure to walk through the Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center. Travel south on the road to Mt. Olive and then hop on Interstate 55 for a jaunt to the Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston.

TRAVEL TIP: Take a break in Jerseyville and check out the newly opened Brossio Tavern which has quickly made a name for itself with its huge, juicy burgers or The Charcoal House Tavern for cold drinks and great food.

ORIGINAL ROUTE 66 Route 66 from Edwardsville to Auburn is part of the original two-lane highway.

Enjoy a stop at Weezy’s, an original Route 66 diner in Hamel. Don’t miss the bunnies and rabbits at Henry’s Rabbit Ranch in Staunton and Doc’s Soda Fountain in Girard. Note: Stay alert for road signs to ensure you stay on the original road.

ROUTE 66: 1940 - 1977 The youngest portion of Route 66 begins in Raymond and travels through Litchfield, Troy and Collinsville along Interstate 55. Be sure to stop at Nana’s Hidden Attic for great buys. See the world’s largest Catsup Bottle Water Tower in Collinsville, a Route 66 staple.

CALHOUN COUNTY VISTAS & FERRIES (Shown in green on map – pages 17-18)

One of the highlights of this drive is the opportunity to ride the ferry across the Mississippi River. This scenic route can begin at either the free Brussels Ferry, north of Grafton, or in St. Charles, MO on the Golden Eagle Ferry. Enjoy winding roads, rolling hills, and, of course, glorious fall colors throughout Calhoun County.

TRAVEL TIP: While taking this drive make a point to search for Calhoun County Barn Quilts located throughout the picturesque landscape. A map is available at: riversandroutes.com/listing/ Calhoun-county-barn-quilts/11253

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PICK OF THE CROP

Plump, juicy apples hang from trees ready to be picked.

Small, medium and large orange pumpkins sit in fields ready to be carved into the perfect Jack-O-Lantern.

Fresh cut flowers gathered into stunning bouquets and colorful, oddly shaped gourds are ready for purchase.

Gather up the perfect fall fruits, vegetables and more on an Orchard and Roadside stand road trip throughout the Great Rivers & Routes region.

Spend the day picking your own apples and pumpkins at U-Pick orchards. Take a break at a roadside stand serving up freshly pressed, and award-winning, apple cider. Let the kids romp at the farm and enjoy up close and personal visits with farm animals.

PLAN YOUR ROAD TRIP BY VISITING THESE ORCHARDS AND ROADSIDE STANDS:

MADISON COUNTY 1

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BOONIES FARM

6304 Humbert Rd. • Godfrey 618-401-7286

8863 Dustman Rd. • Worden 618-888-2422

Season: April – October FRUITS (In Season only): Apples, peaches, watermelon, cantaloupe, pears, plums.

Season: September 11 - November 1 U-PICK: Pumpkins (sales start last weekend in Sept).

VEGETABLES (In Season only): green beans, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, peppers, pumpkins, gourds.

U-CUT EVENT: During Sunflower Days (Fri, Sat., Sun, on Sept 11, 12, 13 and Sept. 18,19,20) visitors can cut their own sunflowers, cosmos & zinnias. With farm admission, photos of flowers are allowed, but there is a fee to cut flowers.

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KRUEGER’S ORCHARD

ALSO AVAILABLE: Large variety of salsa, Amish noodles, mustards, syrups, sauces, jam, jelly, and mums in the fall.

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2914 Airport Rd. • Godfrey 618-466-3576 FRUITS: Apples and melons.

CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE: Begins Nov. 27 every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to dusk.

White pine trees available.

JERSEY COUNTY 7

Season: July 1 – October U-PICK: Apples - mid August

through October.

8308 Kuhn Station Rd. • Edwardsville 618-659-9217

Season: Late August through November

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ECKERT’S COUNTRY STORE & FARMS 20995 Eckert Orchard Rd. • Grafton 618-786-3445

LIBERTY APPLE ORCHARD

U-PICK: Apples – 14 varieties, no access fee. Visit the farm store, a replica one room school house, for local honey collected from hives in the orchard along with apple butter, apple sauce, baked goods, and cider.

THEODORA FARMS

4835 N. Alby Rd. • Godfrey • 618-208-7738

Season: July – October

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PEARSON’S PRODUCE

Pumpkins– end of September to end of October.

Prepicked apples and pumpkins can be purchased. Also available: bakery items from the Belleville Eckert’s. Gifts, jams, jellies, apple products, cider in September.

MILLS APPLE FARM

JOE RINGHAUSEN ORCHARDS & MARKET

11477 Pocahontas Rd. • Marine 618-887-4732

Season: July – December

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24748 Reddish Rd. • Fieldon • 618-376-6772

Season: Mid July to Noon

on Christmas Eve. U-PICK: Apples & Pumpkins Weekend wagon rides starting on Labor Day. Made from scratch baked goods. Free children’s play area and live farm animals on display. Pre-cut Christmas trees (firs) available.

U-PICK: Apples.

The market also sells cider, jellies, pumpkins, squash.

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RINGHAUSEN APPLE HOUSE 19770 U.S. Hwy 67 • Jerseyville 618-498-6951 Season: July – December FRUITS: Apples, peaches, plums.

Fresh apple cider.

For more information, go to: RiversandRoutes.com

VEGETABLES: tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini,peppers, various garden vegetables.

Please check with orchards and stands before visiting for up-to-date hours of operation.

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CALHOUN COUNTY 10

THREE RIVERS FARM STAND

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22935 Chautauqua Rd. • Elsah 618-946-7974

3879 Illinois River Rd. • Brussels 618-883-2385

Season: Mid May through October

Season: July - October

U-PICK: Flowers only.

FRUITS: Apples (September from Labor Day to October.)

Pumpkins (3rd week of September).

Also: Apple goods, honey.

Garden produce, eggs, meat, eggs, peaches, apples.

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HAGEN FAMILY ORCHARD

UNCLE ANDY’S COUNTRY MARKET 1 E. Main St. • Grafton 618-786-4856

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13A

Roadside Stand

FRUITS: Apples.

FRUITS: Apples, pumpkins, squash, gourds, cider, mums.

VEGETABLES: Cucumbers, tomatoes, garden produce.

VEGETABLES: Tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, turnips,garden veggies.

Mums available in the fall. Pumpkins are available in white, yellow, royal blue and light blue. Odelehrs creates its own peach, pineapple, apple and regular salsa and beer horseradish mustard.

JACOBS ORCHARD – HARDIN Illinois Rt. 16 & Illinois Rt. 100 at the East End of the Joe Page Bridge, Hardin 618-578-8457

See Map on Pages 17-18

Season: Year Round

Season: June - November

Seasonal produce, cucumbers, sweet corn, tomatoes, peaches, apples, jams, jellies, sauces, gifts.

ODELEHR’S ROADSIDE MARKET 7127 Illinois River Rd. • Brussels 618-883-2265

JACOBS ORCHARD 148 Ridge Rd. • Golden Eagle 618-578-8457

Season: May – November

You Pick Em Orchards

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Season: June - November Apples, pumpkins, squash, gourds, cider, mums. Also canned salsa, jellies, jams, cider, fall décor, mums.

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TOPPMEYER’S ORCHARD 480 Meyer Lane • Brussels 618-407-2383 Season: July – October FRUITS: Apples.

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PICK OF THE CROP 18

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13A

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BRUSSELS FERRY

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10 13 GOLDEN EAGLE FERRY

ORCHARD TIPS 17 Great Rivers & Routes

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GRAFTON FERRY

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Call ahead before you go to find out which apple varieties are available.

The best time to pick your own apples is early in the day – it’s a great way to avoid crowds.

Pick apples on outside branches first and work your way into the interior.

Apples on the outer branches ripen before ones on the interior of the tree.

Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byways US 67 Country Loop Calhoun County Vistas & Ferries Loop Historic Route 66

MACOUPIN COUNTY 16

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BROOM ORCHARD

12803 Broom Rd. • Carlinville 217-854-3514 Season: July – December U-PICK: Apples after Labor Day. Pick up Broom Orchard cider. Also available on site: apple butter made from Broom apples by a local Amish business. Locally grown popcorn in ½ gallon and 1 gallon jugs; honey, and fruit spreads. Annual Apple Festival held the fourth weekend of September and Pumpkin Festival held the second weekend of October.

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MONTGOMERY COUNTY 17

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D & M ORCHARD & PRODUCE 243 Spaeth Lane • Hillsboro 217-537-3219 Season: July – October FRUITS: Apples.

VEGETABLES: Pumpkins.

Fresh eggs also available. Cash only.

GREENE COUNTY 18

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GREENE FIELDS FARM

311 Daum Station Rd. • Greenfield 217-416-0839 Season: September 5 - last

weekend of October U-PICK: 10 acres of pumpkins for u-pick. Also 2,800 potted mum plants in single colors and a rare tri-color mum. The mums are in pots in the field.

You can walk out and select your own.

3

FRUITS: Apples. The farm has over 160 varieties of pumpkins, gourds, squash.

Visitors are allowed to visit the barns of this working farm where you will find chickens, pigs and dairy cows.

Put apples gently into baskets or bags to avoid bruising.

McIntosh and Honeycrisp apples ripen during September. Red and Golden Delicious come in by the end of September. Fuji and Granny Smith are October fruits.

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18

DISCOVER OUR SPOOKY SIDE WHEN THE GHOSTS COME OUT TO PLAY IN ALTON, THEY USUALLY HAVE AN AUDIENCE. THE HISTORIC RIVERFRONT COMMUNITY IS KNOWN AS “ONE OF THE MOST HAUNTED SMALL TOWNS IN AMERICA” AND FOR GOOD REASON.

19 Great Rivers & Routes

THERE IS SOMETHING HAUNTING IN THE LIGHT OF THE MOON.

Over the years, Ghost Adventurers, Ghost Hunters and independent ghost investigators have converged on Alton searching for the ghosts that roam the city. And throughout the year, but especially in the fall, four different haunted organizations bring the city’s haunted side to life with a variety of tours that celebrate the city’s historic mysteries.

Explore the hauntings along the Great River Road during the popular Alton Hauntings tours. Troy Taylor, a renowned haunted history expert, has spent over 20 years probing Alton’s haunted side and has developed a series of walking tours, ghost hunts and driving tours highlighting the city’s haunted history.

Spend an evening with the dead. Or enjoy an eerie night of spiritualism during Alton Hauntings’ “An Evening With …” events. Each event includes dinner and a lively discussion and exploration into specific themes. Topics this fall include famous ax murderess Lizzie Borden, an in-depth look at Spiritualism, the St. Louis Exorcism, the Lemp Family of St. Louis and even Abraham Lincoln and his connection with the supernatural. Attendance is limited by state guidelines and will sell out quickly. For tickets and more information: altonhauntings.com Alton Hauntings also offers haunted walking tours each weekend from September through early November in celebration of Alton’s haunted season. A series of Ghosts of the River Road tours are also held throughout the year and include a stop at the haunted and mysterious Mineral Springs Hotel.

Take a few hours and investigate the reportedly haunted and undeniably eerie Mineral Springs Hotel. Home to the ‘Jasmine Lady’, the haunted mural and the supremely creepy

underground swimming pool, the hotel has its own haunted tales to tell. Mysterious Mineral Springs daytime guided tours are available. Check out Mysterious Mineral Springs on Facebook for more information.

Since 1992 Alton Haunted Odyssey has brought the city’s hauntings to life with trolley tours. The tours take visitors past some of the city’s most haunted buildings including the Ryder Building, McPike Mansion and Milton School.

Ghost hunts take place every Friday and Saturday evening throughout October.

For beer lovers, Haunted Craft Beer Walks are held every Friday in October through Alton Haunted Odyssey. The stroll includes stops at five haunted locations. At each location, a five ounce pouring of one of five different Old Bakery Beer Company brews is provided.

For more information on the trolley and haunted craft beer walks, visit: Altonhauntedtours.com Alton’s most famous haunted house, the McPike Mansion, stands out from the crowd with its tales of ghostly apparitions. The abandoned home is reportedly among the 10 most haunted sites in America.

According to owner Sharyn Luedke, the original owner Henry McPike along with members of his family and the house staff, have yet to leave the home which is now under renovation.

The brick home, built in 1869, was once home to the McPike Family, and is located in the heart of Alton. It was used as a country estate by the family at the time where McPike perfected the famous McPike Grape and created an extensive orchard. Members of the family lived in the home until 1936.

Visitors to the mansion could meet Henry, his wife, mother, or one of their servants during the popular dark room sessions that take place monthly in the basement wine cellar. Tours of the house itself are unavailable. Celebrations of the McPike Mansion and its hauntings are held throughout September and October. Visit: Mcpikemansion.com for more information.

ike M McouP d nds & Cella r an G e n r To ur nt Mansio

sio n

Ha u

It’s the spectral shapes that appear in the windows of long closed stately mansions and the lingering scent of jasmine perfume in the staircase of a former hotel. And it’s the blue lights that spark in a pitch black wine cellar during a dark room session along with eerie footsteps echoing around an empty underground swimming pool.

Joseph Conrad

2018 Alby Alton, IL

618.830.2179 618.462.3348

Mc PikeM

ansion.c

om

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20

HERE COME THE HOLIDAYS THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT THE DAYS BETWEEN THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS. A TINGLE OF ANTICIPATION. THE CRISP, CLEAN SMELLS OF SNOW AND FRESHLY CUT TREES. SPARKLING LIGHTS DRESSING UP BUILDINGS AND TREES. Re-discover holiday pleasures in the Great Rivers & Routes region this year with a seasonal getaway filled with the delights found along the Mother Road of Route 66 and the Great River Road.

Enjoy a quiet drive along the winding roads of Alton’s Rock Spring Park during Christmas Wonderland. More than 3 million lights and cheerful holiday displays decorate the park from the Friday after Thanksgiving through Sunday, Dec. 27. Christmas Wonderland is open daily.

Travel the Great River Road to Grafton and enjoy a ride on the Grafton SkyTour that rises more than 300 feet in the air on its way to the “Twinkling Lights & Holiday Nights” event at Aerie’s Resort. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in December there will be horse drawn trolley rides through the West Ridge Woods at the resort along with family friendly activities at The Terrace. The SkyTour has open air chair lifts and enclosed gondolas. The ride begins on Grafton’s Main Street at the foot of the river bluffs and carries riders to the top of the bluffs.

Enjoy your get-away and leave the

Rest

to us!

HELPING TO OPEN DOORS

in the Riverbend

Collinsville Collinsville

12 Commerce Drive

7 Commerce Drive

618-803-4032

618-346-4400

21 Great Rivers & Routes

Collinsville 8 Commerce Drive 618-477-8946

ALTON | 200 HOMER ADAMS PKWY. 618.465.5656 www.cnbil.com

Jerseyville is home to the annual Downtown Country Christmas. This year the event will kick off the Saturday after Thanksgiving and run throughout the holiday season. Stroll through downtown Jerseyville and peer into business windows decorated for the season with “Bright Nights Holiday Window Displays.”

Additional seasonal events include “Light Up Your Business” and “Light Up Your Home” contests as well as a month-long scavenger hunt with prizes.

Visit Downtowncountrychristmas.com for up-to-date information.

Holiday fun takes place throughout the Great Rivers & Routes region including the annual Collinsville Christmas at the Collins House and Light Up Parade, A Carlinville Christmas, and the annual Bethalto Christmas Village. Enjoy a stroll through downtown Staunton with the Holiday Walk and Tree Lighting.

For more details, visit: RiversandRoutes.com

WINE TASTING - LIVE MUSIC MICROBREWERY - PATIO SEATING EVENTS & PARTIES - KITCHEN OPEN DAILY 300 W MAIN ST GRAFTON, IL 62037 WWW.THEGRAFTONWINERY.COM 618-786-3001

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The Eagles Have Landed LET’S FACE IT. IT ISN’T REALLY WINTER UNTIL FLOCKS OF GRACEFUL WHITE TRUMPETER SWANS AND THE REGAL AND STRIKING AMERICAN BALD EAGLES COME TO TOWN.

23 Great Rivers & Routes

Southwest Illinois is, after all, the winter home to birds who have discovered the region is a smorgasbord of delicious dining and a relatively warm and relaxing getaway during the cold winter months.

Hundreds of American Bald Eagles have staked out the confluence of the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri rivers as their cold weather homes. Trumpeter Swans are drawn to the empty fields and shallow waters of inland bays. There they are joined by other wintering birds including ducks, geese and even the occasional Snowy Owl. The Great Rivers & Routes region has become a snowbird haven of sorts.

Following the Mississippi Flyway, the avian equivalent of a superhighway, birds seeking warmer climates and strong food sources land in the area.

Trumpeter Swans come to the area from the north woods of Wisconsin starting in early December and typically stay until February when they return to their homes to nest. Often families of swans spend the winter months dining out in fields adjacent to the Audubon Center at Riverlands/ Riverlands Bird Sanctuary. More than 1,500 swans have been counted in the area over the winter showcasing the comeback of a once nearly extinct species.

The biggest draw, however, is the return of American Bald Eagles each winter.

Hundreds of the birds fly along the Mississippi River from the northern borders of Minnesota and southern Canada looking for open waters and a fresh food source. As river waters freeze to the north, eagles head south. Eagles typically land in the region starting in late December and head north in mid to late February. Some eagles have stayed in the area, nesting and raising their young along the Mississippi River.

DID YOU KNOW‌

The American Bald Eagle is found only in the North American continent.

Bald eagles live across much of Canada, the U.S. and northern Mexico.

The Golden Eagle is seen throughout the northern hemisphere.

They are aerial daredevils: while flying they will sometimes grab another eagle’s talons. The pair usually separate before hitting the ground.

Eagles build enormous nests in tree tops. Nests are typically 2 to 4 feet deep and 4 to 5 feet wide.

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BE AN EAGLE WATCHER! MISSION:

Your winter adventure, if you choose to accept, is to search for wintering American Bald Eagles throughout the Great Rivers & Routes region in southwest Illinois. They are perched in the trees. Or sitting on an ice floe in the middle of the Mississippi River. A few eagle nests are also visible among the bare winter trees. Starting in January, begin your quest to see bald eagles in the wild – along the confluence of America’s three great rivers: the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri.

REWARD: If you decide to become an eagle eyed eagle watcher your quest is rewarded with an official Eagle Watcher’s T Shirt.

Here’s what you do: Go to Explore.Rivers&Routes.com and download the Eagle Watcher’s Passport to your phone. When you visit five of the 10 eagle watching locations on the passport, check in with a pin provided at each stop, and then contact the Alton Visitor Center at 1-800-258-6645 or visit RiversandRoutes.com for details on how to receive your free t shirt (available while supplies last).

eagle season KICK OFF WHILE THE KICK OFF TO EAGLE SEASON ISN’T A FORMAL HOLIDAY – IT CERTAINLY FEELS LIKE ONE! Eagle season will launch this year with the fan-favorite Eagle Watcher’s Passport. This mobile passport provides a self-guided eagle watching tour and participants who visit five of the 10 passport stops receive a free Eagle Watcher t shirt.

A free bald eagle meet and greet will be held at the Visitor Center with a live eagle from World Bird Sanctuary in January. (Travel note: Please check RiversandRoutes.com for complete details) In addition to the eagle meet and greet, there will be live ice carving demonstrations from Ice Visions coupled with live wood carving from Itchy Brothers Wood Carvers. Both carving events take place in the open lots behind the Visitor Center. Eager to try your hand at Ice Putt Putt Golf? Find out if you can sink a hole in one on a block of ice during the eagle event. Those who can, receive a small prize.

Additional bald eagle events are held throughout the area during January and February. Check in with Pere Marquette State Park which typically holds guided tours from December through March for eagle enthusiasts.

Reservations are required: (618) 786-3323

25 Great Rivers & Routes

The Audubon Center at Riverlands celebrates birds year round but Eagle Season is a highlight for the birding center.

Meet the raptors that make the region their home during the weekend with live meet and greet events. American Bald Eagles are also on hand during these free events. Enjoy additional family-friendly activities.

Call (636) 899-0090 for details or visit the center’s website: Riverlands.Audubon.org The historic Chain of Rocks Bridge, once a Route 66 link from Illinois to St. Louis, is home to eagle watchers in the winter months. Every January, the Great Rivers Greenway hosts Bald Eagle Days. Spotting scopes staffed by trained volunteers are set up for people to find and identify eagles soaring over the Mississippi River.

Be sure to dress warmly.

Visit: GreatRiversGreenway. org for more information.

TRAVEL TIP: Due to uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, please contact each location for details on eagle watching activities.

For more information on eagle events, go to: RiversandRoutes.com

EAGLE WATCHING PASSPORT STOPS n ALTON

VISITOR CENTER

200 Piasa St. • Alton 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday • 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday & Sunday

n AUDUBON

n ELSAH

GENERAL STORE VISITORS CENTER

950 E. Main St. • Grafton • Open Friday – Sunday

n LEWIS

Boutique Bowling | Laser Tag | Arcade Restaurant & Bar | Giant TV Screens | Party Rooms The Outlet at Edison’s Event Center

22 LaSalle St. • Elsah • Open Wednesday – Sunday

n GRAFTON

CENTER AT RIVERLANDS

301 Riverlands Way • West Alton, MO • Open Daily

& CLARK STATE HISTORIC SITE

3500 New Poag Rd. • Hartford • Open Wednesday – Sunday

n NATIONAL

GREAT RIVERS MUSEUM/ MELVIN PRICE LOCKS & DAM

MARQUETTE STATE PARK VISITORS CENTER WILDLIFE CENTER

23956 Green Acres Rd. • Dow • Open Daily

n TWO

RIVERS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

364 Wildlife Conservation Rd. • Brussels Open Monday – Friday

n WILLOUGHBY

$18

13112 Visitor Center Ln. • Grafton • Open Monday – Saturday

n TREEHOUSE

BOWLING LASER TAG ARCADE

#2 Lock & Dam Way • Alton • Open Daily

n PERE

ALL-ACCESS PASSES STARTING AT JUST

HERITAGE FARM

631 Willoughby Ln • Collinsville • Open Daily

Please note: not all locations are open daily so plan your stops accordingly.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, some locations may have limited hours or may not be open to the public. Please call: 1-800-258-6645 or visit RiversandRoutes.com for the most up-to-date information.

ENJOY THIS ANNUAL FALL EVENT

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A

B

BEST SPOTS TO SEE EAGLES

C D

E F

H G

I

J

O

P

A HARDIN On Route 100, cross the Joe Page Bridge to

E BRUSSELS FERRY Eagles are active near the Brussels

B PERE MARQUETTE STATE PARK The largest

F GRAFTON RIVERFRONT Head down to Front Street

Hardin. There are great riverfront restaurants perfect for viewing eagles while you dine.

state park in Illinois is a popular home to eagles, which can be seen along the Illinois River banks or spotted from scenic lookout points within the park.

C TWO RIVERS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE AT GILBERT LAKE One half mile upriver from the

Brussels Ferry is Gilbert Lake. The trees in the field often have eagles perched in them. A three-mile hiking trail connects with Pere Marquette State Park.

D TWO RIVERS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE AT SWAN LAKE Ride across the Brussels Ferry into

Calhoun County and follow the signs to Swan Lake. The visitor’s center has scopes for viewing eagles.

27 Great Rivers & Routes

L

K

Ferry where they enjoy perching in the tall cottonwood trees lining the river banks.

for a stretch of the legs. Walk the riverfront to view eagles perched in the trees and soaring over the river.

G ELSAH Take time to stroll through the village watching for eagles soaring over the nearby Mississippi River.

H TREEHOUSE WILDLIFE CENTER Just a short drive off the Great River Road, this wildlife rehab center offers up-close views of bald eagles every day of the week.

I PIASA HARBOR Get a close up view of eagles and the river at this harbor located between Alton and Grafton.

J CLIFTON TERRACE This area is a great spot to pull

off the road and pull out your binoculars. A parking area right along the riverfront offers great views of eagles who like to perch in the nearby trees or on ice floes in the Mississippi River.

R

S

L M

N

Q K RIVERLANDS MIGRATORY BIRD SANCTUARY & THE AUDUBON CENTER AT RIVERLANDS

Designated as a National Audubon Society Important Birding Area, eagles can be seen in the Ellis Bay refuge. Use the indoor spotting scopes to learn about the migration.

L NATIONAL GREAT RIVERS MUSEUM/MELVIN

O EDWARD “TED” AND PAT JONES

CONFLUENCE POINT STATE PARK Birding opportunities are plentiful where the Mississippi and Missouri rivers join.

P CHAIN OF ROCKS BRIDGE This historic Route 66 bridge is an ideal spot to watch eagles soar over the waters of the Mississippi River looking for food.

PRICE LOCKS & DAM Watch eagles fishing for an easy catch at the Locks & Dam. The National Great Rivers Museum offers spotting scopes for viewing.

Q HORSESHOE LAKE STATE PARK

EDUCATION CENTER Watch for eagles from the rooftop of the NGRREC building which sits on the Mississippi River bank.

R BEAVER DAM STATE PARK

M NATIONAL GREAT RIVERS RESEARCH & N LEWIS & CLARK STATE HISTORIC SITE

Eagles like to fly near this historic site because it’s close to the confluence of two of the longest rivers in the county – and a great source of food for the birds.

Eagles enjoy congregating at this natural lake that covers 2,400 acres.

Take a walk around the lake and count the number of eagles using the lake for their winter homes.

Watch for eagles around the trees and open waters of this park located just seven miles southwest of Carlinville.

S LAKE LOU YAEGER

Take a winter walk around the park and look for eagles. Located just outside Litchfield, the 300 acre park surrounds a 1,200 acre lake. A 45-mile shoreline provides plenty of room to find the prime spot to see wintering eagles.

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ENTERTAINING ROAD TRIPS AS THE DAYS GROW SHORTER AND THE NIGHTS BECOME LONGER … FALL AND WINTER ARE THE PERFECT SEASONS FOR AN ENTERTAINMENT ROAD TRIP. Cooler temps mean the Great Rivers & Routes region heats up with live music, community theater performances, opera and entertaining escapes of all varieties.

Start planning now for a weekend escape full of delightful entertainment options.

Alton Little Theater celebrates its 87th season with what Executive Director Lee Cox calls “one of the strongest seasons we’ve ever had.” And to make sure it’s successful, the theater is carefully sanitized before and after each performance. The first two rows of seats have been removed ensuring the stage is more than 18-feet away from the audience.

There are no paper programs, masks are required of all theater goers and no more than four people at a time are allowed in rest rooms.

“Every night our building is sanitized with a mist and we come in the next day and wipe (the theater) down,” Cox notes. No food or drinks will be served during intermissions.

To accommodate the smaller audience sizes required by state guidelines, additional performances have been scheduled.

29 Great Rivers & Routes

From September through March audiences will be delighted with a wide array of performances including comedies like “An Unnecessary Farce” and “At Wit’s End: Erma Bombeck” along with the dramatic play, “The Miracle Worker”, and ever-popular musicals like “Broadway Salutes America”, “Sing in the New Year” and “The Full Monty”.

“Right now people need to get out and let their imagination go and be triggered again,” Cox says. “We have an incredibly talented group of performers who want to entertain.”

More musical entertainment is available throughout the region.

Find a seat at the intimate and historic Wildey Theatre in Edwardsville which features some of the best live music outside the

St. Louis area. On the stage where Al Jolson and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. once plied their vaudeville trade, headliners including John Waite, Head East, Wishbone Ash and the Ozark Mountain Daredevils showcase their talents. The Wildey opened in 1909 as an opera house and home to the Independent Order of Oddfellows. Once a major stop on the vaudeville circuit in the early part of the 1900s, the 1930s art deco building evolved into a 400-seat movie house. It closed in 1984 and was slated for demolition.

It was saved by a group of community volunteers who raised money to renovate the aging building. The theatre reopened in 2011 as a live music venue and theatre for classic movies.

Shows at the Wildey this fall and winter feature national cover bands including: The Artimus Pyle Band – a Night of Lynyrd Skynyrd; The Mersey Beatles; Wheels Rollin – a tribute to Jason Aldean; Silver Bullet STL; YesSongs – a tribute to Yes and more.

For a complete schedule of shows and ticket information: wildeytheatre.com

The Wildey Theatre is also home to Opera Edwardsville, a three year old organization, determined to bring world class opera and musical performances to the region. Through a combination of recitals, operas, masterclasses and more, Opera Edwardsville shares the experience of live opera with its artistic drama, compelling history, global perspectives, and, of course, its music. “Three Little Pigs: An Opera for Kids!”, a free public event, is planned in November and the 3rd Annual Christmas at the Wildey will be held in December featuring sacred cantatas and arias of the Renaissance and Baroque.

In the mood for a celebration? Or just want to enjoy the atmosphere at a classic dive bar. There’s no better place than Fast Eddie’s Bon Air in Alton. For 27 years, Fast Eddie’s has been a destination for young and old alike with its cold drinks, cheap food and seriously live music. The bar, which has a storied history of its own, has become a rite of passage for anyone celebrating a 21st birthday. (FYI: Anyone celebrating a 21st birthday at Fast Eddie’s receives a commemorative t-shirt!)

Art comes to life at area art galleries which feature work by local artists. Be sure to visit Jacoby Arts Center, Good Weather Gallery, Macoupin Art Collective, Lady LaMarsh Gallery & Gifts, Edwardsville Arts Center, and Von Dell Gallery & Studios.

For more entertainment ideas, visit: riversandroutes.com

UNNECESSARY FARCE

THE MIRACLE WORKER

September 11th – 20th

Oct. 23rd - Nov. 1st

(Family Drama)

December 11th - 20th

TODD OLIVER

BROADWAY SALUTES AMERICA

SING IN THE NEW YEAR

2 Shows | Sept. 26th

November 7th & 8th

January 3rd

THE RIVERBEND’S GOT TALENT

THE RED PLAID SHIRT

TERMS OF ENDEARMENT

October 1st & 2nd

Nov. 13th, 14th & 15th

January 22nd - 31st

(Comedy)

(Music, Magic & More)

(Youth Talent Contest)

(Musical Review)

(Silver Comedy)

SISTER ACT

(Musical)

presents...

AT WIT’S END: ERMA BOMBECK

(One-Woman Comedy)

Feb. 12th, 13th & 14th

THE FULL MONTY

(Concert)

(Musical)

March 19th - 28th

(Dramity)

ALL TICKETS • ALL PRODUCTIONS 618.462.3205 • WWW.ALTONLITTLETHEATER.ORG MONDAY - FRIDAY 10AM-2PM

PUT AN AXE IN IT! FEELING A BIT ANXIOUS OR STRESSED? RIVERBEND AXE THROWING IN EAST ALTON HAS A CURE FOR THAT. “Our motto is we are more than wood on a wall,” owner Dan Brynildsen points out. “We take axe throwing to another level.”

This trendy new Axe Throwing Bar, located in the recently renovated Eastgate Plaza, opened its doors a year ago after Brynildsen and his wife, Erika, realized axe throwing had become a popular sport across the country and wanted to bring this unique experience to the area.

“I did some axe throwing on a business trip and had a blast,” Brynildsen remembers.

“Axe throwing is like the new bowling. It’s a physical activity where people can socialize and have a drink.”

Riverbend Axe Throwing looks a lot like a sports bar with TVs scattered throughout with casual conversation areas and seven axe throwing lanes with 14 targets. Staff are called ‘axe-perts’ and they provide guidance on axe throwing techniques and safety.

“We have a very, very safe environment and it’s well monitored,” Brynildsen says.

“You have to have a natural respect for the axe because these are real axes and they are sharp.”

Axe throwing is a familyfriendly activity Brynildsen says. Children ages 10 and up can handle the axes and pick up the art of axe throwing pretty quickly.

Each axe throwing lane is 12feet long and 11 feet wide. Two targets are set up in each lane.

Each lane can accommodate up to 10 people. Guests at Riverbend Axe Throwing

are encouraged to bring in their own food, or order from nearby restaurants for delivery.

Drinks, including alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, are available for purchase.

Riverbend Axe Throwing is also part of the World Axe Throwing League with league play available on Thursdays and Sundays.

“We are really more of a sports bar/entertainment venue,” he says. “It’s an aesthetically appealing space and really, just a cool place to hang out.”

RIVERBEND AXE THROWING HOURS Thursday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday 5 p.m. to Midnight Saturday Noon to Midnight Sunday 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Walk in prices: $15 per person for the first 30 minutes; $25 per person for 60 minutes Reserve a 90-minute experience for $35 per person.

For more information: riverbendaxethrowing.com

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OUR TOWNS • ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES CITIES AND TOWNS THROUGHOUT THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION KNIT THEIR OWN CHARACTER, BEAUTY AND CHARM INTO THE FABRIC OF THE AREA. Discover the collection of communities that create a region like no other and come together in the only place in America where the Mother Road meets the Great River Road.

Alton For nearly 200 years, Alton has been the perfect location for week day and weekend getaways. With the mighty Mississippi River curving along the city’s edge, the community is known as “One of the Most Haunted Small Towns in America.” Waves of history flow through the community which has a storied position in the abolitionist movement and is home to the site where Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas argued for their political futures.

EAT Alton has a smorgasbord of

dining options for every meal of the day. Sit down to the Hunka Hunka Burnin Love French toast concoction with brunch at State Street Market.

Or fill up on a more Midwestern-style meal at Joe K’s in Upper Alton and GB Grill on Broadway in downtown. For a more eclectic morning meal, visit The Post Commons, where coffee and organic food are served in the re-purposed Post Office building. Two long-standing restaurants, Castelli’s at 255 and Tony’s Restaurant, serve up hearty family recipe entrees for dinner.

Tempt your palate with Guac Bites at Bluff City Grill and Brown Bag Bistro has sumptuous sandwiches, salads and Crab Bisque soup. Soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts are always on the menu at My Just Desserts.

Authentic Irish fare is available at Morrison’s Irish Pub. Shogun has sushi and a hibachi grill.

GO:

SHOP Explore the various antique

shops that make up the city’s Antique District in downtown Alton. Country Meadows, Tinner’s Anvil Antiques, and the Wilson’s Antiques, are all within a stone’s throw of each other.

Check out hand thrown pottery, made on site at Mississippi Mud Pottery.

Olive Oil Marketplace has oils, coffee beans and cooking utensils. Clothing boutiques in downtown include the independently owned Rushmore, The Grapevine (for children’s clothing), Mississippi Hippie, and JL & Co. - The Mercantile. Shop at Alton Square Mall for gourmet popcorn, clothing and more.

PLAY Riverboat gaming came to Alton in the early 1990’s and hasn’t left. Argosy Casino Alton, docked on the riverfront, shows off a riverboat themed interior, two floors of gaming

action, a newly opened Sportsbook and restaurants. World famous Fast Eddie’s Bon Air, an iconic dive bar that has cheap food, the coldest beer in town and live music every night of the week, is a must stop destination. For a great belly laugh, get tickets for a play or musical at Alton Little Theater, the state’s longest continuously operated community theater.

STAY From eclectic to historic and everything in between, an overnight stay is memorable in Alton. Enjoy a luxurious night at the elegant Beall Mansion, a renovated historic home, now an upscale bed and breakfast inn. Spend the night at Alton Cracker Factory with views of the river and Clark Bridge. Also in the downtown district is Tiffany Inn. Enjoy the pool and specials at Best Western Premier Alton – St. Louis.

State Street Market • 208 State St. • statestreetmarketofalton.com; Joe K’s • 2530 State St. • joeksrestaurant.com; G-B Grill • 1858 E. Broadway; The Post Commons • 300 Alby St. • postcommons.com; Castelli’s at 255 • 3400 Fosterburg Rd. • castellis255.com; Tony’s Restaurant • 102 W. 9th St. • tonysrestaurant.com; Bluff City Grill • 424 E. Broadway • bluffcitygrillalton.com; Brown Bag Bistro • 318 E. Broadway; My Just Desserts • 31 E. Broadway • myjustdessertsalton.weebly.com; Morrison’s Irish Pub, 200 State St. • morrisonsirishpub.com; Shogun Steak House • 2723 Corner Ct. • shogunsteakhousealton.com; Country Meadows • 401 E. Broadway; Tinner’s Anvil Antiques • 211 Langdon St.; Wilson’s Antiques • 217 E. Broadway; Mississippi Mud Pottery • 310 E. Broadway • mississippimudpottery.com; Olive Oil Marketplace • 108 W. 3rd St. • oliveoilmarketplace.com; Rushmore • 11 E. Broadway • shoprushmore.com; The Grapevine • 2 W. Broadway • thegrapevineofalton.weebly.com; Mississippi Hippie • 301 E. Broadway • itsrainingzen.com; JL & Co The Mercantile • 300 E. Broadway; Alton Square Mall • 200 Alton Square • shopaltonsquare.com; Argosy Casino Alton • 1 Piasa St. • argosyalton.com; Fast Eddie’s Bon Air • 1530 E. 4th St. • fasteddiesbonair.com; Alton Little Theater • 2450 N. Henry St. • altonlittletheater.org; Beall Mansion • 407 E. 12 St. • beallmansion.com; Alton Cracker Factory • 205 E. Broadway • altoncrackerfactory.com • Tiffany Inn • 410 E. Broadway • altonartglass.com/tiffanyinn; Best Western Premier • 3559 College Ave. • bwpremieralton.com

31 Great Rivers & Routes

Proud to call

The Riverbend Home

Located in historic, downtown Alton, Simmons Hanly Conroy is dedicated to our clients and our community. The firm has donated millions of dollars and countless volunteer hours to charitable organizations across the Riverbend area - a place we have been proud to call home for more than 20 years.

We stand for our clients.

(618) 259-2222 simmonsfirm.com

Alton

Chicago

Los Angeles

New York

San Francisco

St. Louis

One Court Street | Alton, Illinois | 62002 | 618-259-2222 | simmonsfirm.com

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Collinsville World famous for its 170-foot tall water tower shaped like a catsup bottle, Collinsville is also known as the horseradish capital of the world. Located just minutes from Downtown St. Louis, three national and historic highways converge in the city – The National Highway, Route 66 and the Great River Road. Home to the only World Heritage site in the Great Lakes region of the U.S. – Cahokia Mounds – the city has a rich heritage, a world class convention center and a thriving culinary scene.

GO:

EAT A visit to the city isn’t complete without first stopping at Kruta’s Bakery for pastries, donuts, Danishes and more. The 100-year-old family operated bakery still uses some of the original recipes founder Frank Kruta brought with him when he emigrated from Eastern Europe. Centuries old recipes are cooked up at Ramon’s El Dorado Restaurant which has been a staple to the culinary scene for over 50 years. Casual American fried chicken is part of Ravanelli’s charm. Pair a plate of chicken with pasta and a loaf of bread and garlic butter. Uptown Collinsville is home to Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, which is housed in a former newspaper building. Quench your thirst with a pint of Printer’s Ink, Proofreader Pale Ale or check out the line of house distilled rum, gin, agave and vodka.

Sloan’s Pub House, Mungos Italian Eatery, Who Dat’s, Friday’s South, The Sandwich Shop and Bert’s Chuckwagon are also delicious dining options in the city’s Uptown District. For a relaxed, upscale dining experience, visit Porter’s Steakhouse.

SHOP Stroll through Uptown Collinsville and wow your tastebuds with Code 3 Spices, the place to go for grilling spices and utensils. A portion of each sale goes to first responders and military non-profits. Get retro at Rich’s Record Emporium where real vinyl records are sold. Spirito’s Italian Grocery Store is a nod to the city’s Italian heritage with some great Italian food.

PLAY Live horse racing takes place every Tuesday and Saturday through early September at Fairmount Park.

The mile long racetrack is the state’s only live thoroughbred track outside Chicago. Off track betting is available every day at the track. Tour the historic D.D. Collins House, visit Willoughby Heritage Farms featuring a 1940’s farmhouse, or bowl a few frames at Camelot Bowl.

STAY After a day exploring Collinsville, complete your road trip with an overnight adventure at Collinsville hotels. Take a break at the Doubletree

by Hilton or recently renovated Drury Inn. A total of eight different hotels are conveniently located near two interstate highways and just minutes from downtown St. Louis.

Kruta Bakery • 300 St. Louis Rd. • krutabakery.com; Ramon’s El Dorado Restaurant • 1711 St. Louis Rd. • ramonseldorado.com; Ravanelli’s • 26 Collinsport Dr. • ravanellis.com; Old Herald Brewery & Distillery • 115 E. Clay St. • oldheraldbrewing.com; Sloan’s Pub House • 119 W. Main St. • sloanspubhouse.com; Mungo’s Italian Eatery • 100 E. Main St. • mungosrestaurant. com; Who Dat’s • 118 E. Main St. • whodatsrestaurant.com; Friday’s South Bar & Grill • 106 E. Main St. • fridayssouth.com; The Sandwich Shop Diner • 216 W. Main St; Bert’s Chuckwagon • 101 E. Main St.; Porter’s Steahhouse • 1000 Eastport Plaza • porterscollinville.com • Code 3 Spices • 302 E. Main St. • code3spices.com; Rich’s Record Emporium • 131 W. Main St. • richsrecordemporium.com; Spirito’s Italian Grocery • 228 W. Main St.; Fairmount Park • 9301 Collinsville Rd. • fairmountpark. com; D.D. Collins House • 703 W. Main St. • friendsoftheddcollinshouse.org; Willoughby Heritage Farm • 631 Willoughby Ln. • willoughbyfarm.org; Camelot Bowl • 801 Beltline Rd. • camelotbowl.net ; Doubletree by Hilton • 1000 Eastport Plaza Dr. • Hilton.com; Drury Inn • 602 N. Bluff Rd. • druryhotels.com

33 Great Rivers & Routes

Plan your summer fun now!

www.collinsvilleaquapark.com • (618) 346-4571 10 Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL

Willoughby Farm and Conservation Reserve

Host a Private Event Visit the Animals ~ Hike the Trails Educational Programs PARKS & RECREATION

www.willoughbyfarm.org • (618) 977-0941 631 Willoughby Lane, Collinsville, IL RiversandRoutes.com

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Edwardsville Edwardsville is one of the fastest growing communities outside St. Louis but retains its small town charm and accessibility. The city is the third oldest in Illinois and produced four state governors over the years. A thriving downtown district accents the city’s place on Route 66 and its burgeoning culinary reputation. Edwardsville is also home to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and the wildly popular Land of Goshen Market held every Saturday on city streets through October. Don’t miss the city’s annual Halloween Parade on, you guessed it, Halloween!

35 Great Rivers & Routes

EAT Edwardsville is known for its abundance of great restaurants.

Take a walk down Main Street, home to the cozy 222 Artisan Bakery & Café where the coffee is fresh and pastries, quiche and oatmeal are made in-house daily. Nearby, Sacred Grounds Café serves up a vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and specialty coffees in a coffeehouse setting filled with local art. Tucked away in downtown, A Little Taste of Heaven, a family owned bakery, is a little like walking into Grandma’s kitchen. Smell the coffee brewing and grab a cup at Goshen Coffee Cafè new order-in spot. Cleveland-Heath takes comfort food to an entirely new level with its Japanese Pancake appetizer and tender pork porterhouse. Chava’s Mexican Restaurant brings a taste of Guadalajara to the Midwest.

Dine outdoors at 1818 Chophouse for lunch or dinner. Original pizza creations paired with its own craft beer sets Peel Wood Fired Pizza apart. Mike Shannon’s Grill offers progressive American food and check out Doc’s Smokehouse for down-toearth mouthwatering BBQ.

SHOP Load up on great buys at the locally owned and operated stores that dot the city’s streets and shopping districts. The Gingham Buffalo has gifts, home furnishings and more.

Water Sweets Soap Company makes handmade soaps and bath bombs.

Visit Seams for the Soul Boutique and What to Wear for trendy clothing.

For the sports enthusiast, Good Sports Cards and Memorabilia is a good bet. Four Muddy Paws and Whisker Bones Supply Co., have everything a four-legged pal could want. Be sure to stop at Chef 's Shoppe to fill up on gourmet popcorn, specialty foods and kitchen supplies.

PLAY Some of the best live music in the city can be found at the Wildey Theatre every weekend. The revamped opera house is now home to top notch national and regional bands. A $2 Tuesday movie night and community events fill in the rest of the venue’s calendar. For more active entertainment, journey to Edison’s Entertainment Complex which has 12 bowling lanes, a laser tag arena and game arcade and the newly opened adult-only venue ‘The Outlet’. Rock climbing, roller skating and more are

on the agenda at the Edwardsville YMCA Meyer Center. Make it a movie day or night at the AMC Edwardsville 12 to see newly released films. The Edwardsville Children’s Museum has fun for kids of all ages. For history buffs, tour the 1820 Col. Benjamin Stephenson House and step back in history to simpler times.

STAY Plan an overnight stay in Edwardsville and choose from several hotels located near shopping and dining. The newly opened TownePlace Suites by Marriott offers extended stay options. The Comfort Inn, Holiday Inn Express & Suites and Country Hearth Inn & Suites provide relaxing overnight options.

GO:

222 Artisan Bakery & Café • 222 N. Main St. • 222artisanbakery.com; Sacred Grounds Café • 233 N. Main St. • A Little Taste of Heaven Bakery • 219 Hillsboro Ave. • heavenbakery.com; Goshen Coffee Cafè • 6120 Shoger Dr. Suite A • goshencoffee.com; Cleveland-Heath • 106 N. Main St. • clevelandheath. com; Chava’s Mexican Restaurant • 217 E. Vandalia St. • chavasmexican. com; 1818 Chophouse • 210 S. Buchanan St. • 1818chophouse.com; Peel Wood Fired Pizza • 921 S. Arbor Vitae • peelpizza.com; Mike Shannon’s Grill • 871 S. Arbor Vitae Dr.; mikeshannonsgrill.com; Doc’s Smokehouse • 6108 Shoger Dr., Suite D • docssmokehouse.com; Gingham Buffalo • 500 N. Main St. • theginghambuffalo.com; Water Sweets Soap Company • 6108 Shoger Dr., Suite C • watersweetssoap.com; What to Wear • 921 S. Arbor Vitae; Seams for the Soul Boutique • 216 S. Buchanan St. • seams4thesoul.com; Good Sports Cards & Memorabilia • 1990 Troy Rd., #C; Four Muddy Paws • 2127 S. State Rt. 157 • fourmuddypaws.com; Whisker Bones Supply Co. • 138 N. Main St. • whiskerbones.com; Chef’s Shoppe • 2320 Troy Rd. • chefsshoppe.com; Wildey Theatre • 252 N. Main St. • wildeytheatre.com; Edison’s Entertainment Complex • 2477 S. State Rt. 157 • edisonsfun.com; YMCA Meyer Center • 7348 Goshen Rd. • edwardsvilleymca.com; AMC Edwardsville 12 • 6633 Center Grove Rd. • amctheatres.com; Edwardsville Children’s Museum • 722 Holyoake Rd. • edwardsvillechildrensmuseum.org • 1820 Col. Benjamin Stephenson House • 409 S. Buchanan St. • stephensonhouse.org; TownePlace Suites by Marriott • 6101 Center Grove Rd. • Marriott.com; Comfort Inn • 3080 State Rt. 157 • choicehotels.com; Holiday Inn Express & Suites • 1000 Plummer Dr. • ihg.com; Country Hearth Inn & Suites • 1013 Plummer Dr. • stayinns.com

Visit Campus Stop by to explore our beautiful campus with miles of scenic trails, rolling hills and lakes. Schedule a tour with the Office of Admissions to learn more about our top-ranked academic programs and student life.

siue.edu/visit

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Glen Carbon Rich dark coal veins weaving underneath this community gave this village its name. Glen means ‘village’ in Welsh and ‘Carbon’ refers to coal. Now considered “One of the Best Places to Live in the U.S.”, Glen Carbon sits on the edge of major interstate highways and has easy access to St. Louis.

A replica covered bridge welcomes drivers to the downtown district and the historic Yanda Log Cabin, located on Main Street, brings pioneer life front and center. Be sure to visit the Glen Carbon Heritage Museum and take a walk, or bike ride, on the miles of paved trails curving throughout the village.

GO:

EAT Take a break while exploring Glen Carbon’s noteworthy past at the Wooden Nickel Pub and Grill.

Handcrafted woodwork and oak floors carry over the “rustic” past theme. Stop in for a quick drink at the Old Towne Tavern, which has been serving the community since 1890. Enjoy smoked meats, paninis, salads, sides and hoagie pizzas and some great munchies including Bacon Fat Popcorn which complements the selection of wines, specialty cocktails and rotating menu of seasonal craft beers at The Cabin at Judy Creek. Be sure to stop by the Weeping Willow Tea Room for a hearty soup, sandwich or salad.

PLAY Leap in to fun at Altitude Trampoline Park with wall-to-wall trampolines. Thousands of square feet of bouncing fun include Extreme Dodgeball, Trampoline Basketball, a Foam Pit and more. Hone your axe throwing skills at The Axe Company.

History buffs enjoy a visit to the Glen Carbon Heritage Museum and Yanda Log Cabin which bring the past to life.

STAY Spend the night at Hampton Inn & Suites, conveniently located near Interstate 255 with easy access to St. Louis.

SHOP Gently used women’s fashions line the racks at Karma on Main in downtown Glen Carbon. Pick up a piece of unfinished pottery at Pottery Hollow Painting & More and paint it on site. Planning a party? Check out the party décor at To Do’s.

Wooden Nickel Pub and Grill • 171 S. Main St. • woodennickelpubandgrill.com; Old Towne Tavern • 155 S. Main St.; The Cabin at Judy Creek • 3730 S. State Rt. 157 • thecabinatjudycreek.net; Weeping Willow Tea Room • 123 Glen Crossing Rd. • weepingwillowtearoom.com; Karma on Main • 164 S. Main St.; Pottery Hollow Painting & More • 23 Junction Dr. • potteryhollow.com; To Do’s • 4215 S. State Rt. 159; to-dos.com; Altitude Trampoline Park • 91 Fountain Dr. • altitudeglencarbon.com; The Axe Company • 20 B Kettle River Dr. • theaxecoedw.com; Glen Carbon Heritage Museum • 124 School St. • glen-carbon.il.us; Yanda Log Cabin • 148 S. Main St. • glen-carbon.il.us; Hampton Inn & Suites • 5723 Heritage Crossing Dr. • Hilton.com

37 Great Rivers & Routes

Jerseyville Surrounded by farms, prairie and woodlands, Jerseyville has the distinction of being the largest city in Jersey County and is home to the annual Jersey County Fair celebrating life in the rural community. The historic Cheney Mansion and nearby Fulkerson Mansion, rich with Underground Railroad History, and even a bit of ghostly activity, keep the city’s history alive. A vibrant downtown district provides shopping and dining options. The stately Romanesque Revival-style county courthouse sits at the crossroads of the city’s main highways.

GO:

EAT Espresso Yourself in the city with a stop at the aptly named bakery for muffins and classic cinnamon rolls.

Be sure to try the Taco Rolls with a side of salsa and sour cream. Stop in at Big Boys Donuts for more sweet delights.

Good times are brewing at George’s Local Brew. Known for its cold beer and cocktails, the restaurant serves up sandwiches and classic thin crust pizza. Everything is handmade at the 1880 Pizza Pasta House. Enjoy salads and paninis in addition to domestic and imported wines and beers. DJ’s Pub & Grill has daily lunch and drink specials. Stop by Brossio Tavern and sample their juicy burgers and beer on a second floor outdoor patio.

SHOP Explore the richly decorated Lula Bells shop filled with gifts, home décor and more. Primitive and country home decorations fill the walls at Beyond the Backyard Gate. A true picker’s delight, State Street Antiques & Jim’s Attic is the go-to shop for antiques and collectibles. Outdoor enthusiasts can browse through Outrageous Outdoors for a wide variety of hunting gear and more.

PLAY History lovers delight in visiting the historic Cheney Mansion built in 1827 and once a ‘station’ on the Underground Railroad. Historical tours and paranormal investigations are held throughout the year. Pre-arranged tours are available at the historic Fulkerson Mansion. Take a walk and enjoy a picnic at the Wock Family Lake and Walking Trail. Family-fun is waiting at Tri County Bowl.

Espresso Yourself Bakery • 410 W. Carpenter; Big Boys Donuts • 933 S. State St.; George’s Local Brew • 205 S. State St. • georgeslocalbrew.com; 1880 Pizza Pasta House • 208-210 S. State St. • 1880-pizza-pasta-house.business.site; DJ’s Pub & Grill • 117 W. Prairie St.; Brossio Tavern • 111 S. State St. • brossio.com; Lula Bells • 519 S. State St.; Beyond the Backyard Gate • 301 N. State St.; State Street Antiques & Jim’s Attic • 115 N. State St.; Outrageous Outdoors • 902 S. State St. • outrageousoutdoors.com; Cheney Mansion • 601 N. State St. • cheneymansion.net; Fulkerson Mansion • 25007 U.S. Highway 67 • Wock Family Lake & Walking Trail • 205 June St. • Tri County Bowl • 207 Krause Dr. • tricountybowl.com

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Godfrey Scenic views, rolling hills and abundant nature trails are just a few of the charms found in Godfrey, which roams from the banks of the Mississippi River to the prairie of southwest Illinois.

Named in honor of Capt. Benjamin Godfrey, a native New Englander who settled in the village, the community boasts dozens of shops, restaurants and tea rooms. The village is also home to Lewis & Clark Community College, originally founded as the Monticello Seminary for Women.

GO:

EAT Start your day at the only Mister Donut shop still operating under its original name (think Dunkin’ Donuts now) and snag a cup of coffee and an original gooey glazed donut.

For anyone looking for pancakes at noon, Clifton Country Inn & Bake Shop serves breakfast all day. Shop and dine at the highly regarded Josephine’s Tea Room & Gift Shops.

The elegant restaurant serves lunch in a historic mansion with landscaped gardens. Don’t forget dessert! Hickory smoked hand pulled pork is just one of the regular menu choices at Carver’s Southern-Style BBQ. The food consistently wins Best BBQ competitions. Farm-to-table quality paired with Midwestern comfort food highlights the menu at Bakers & Hale. Lunch, dinner, brunch and kids menus on tap. For a quick meal or to stock up for a planned picnic, stop in at Godfrey Meat Market. Watch your favorite team and game at Roper’s Regal Beagle, a relaxed sports pub and grill. Be sure to stop at Shivers Frozen Custard for a cool treat.

SHOP Browse shelf after shelf of antique glass at My Antique Store.

Specializing in glass, china and flatware, there is also small furniture, art and pottery available. Dresses, shawls, jewelry along with scarves, handbags, home décor and more fill the rooms of Josephine’s Tea Room and Gift Shops. Discover discount name brand clothing at the Factory Connection.

PLAY Stroll through the Monticello Sculpture Gardens at Lewis & Clark Community College. Self-guided tours are available of the grounds which have been designated by the Missouri Botanical Gardens as a Signature Garden. Discover trails and paths through a diverse landscape including hardwood forests, prairies and wetlands at The Nature Institute.

Be sure to stop by Glazebrook Park, a 120-acre area with two ponds, playgrounds and three miles of walking trails. In the fall, get lost in the Great Godfrey Maze.

Mister Donut • 2720 Grovelin, Ste. A • mister-donut.com; Clifton Country Inn & Bake Shop • 3015 W. Delmar Ave.; Josephine’s Tea Room & Gift Shop • 6109 Godfrey Rd. • josephinesltd.online; Carver’s Southern-Style BBQ • 2716 Grovelin St.; Bakers & Hale • 7120 Montclaire Ave. • bakershale.com; Godfrey Meat Market • 6017 Godfrey Rd. • godfreymeatmarket.com; Roper’s Regal Beagle • 3043 Godfrey Rd. • ropersregalbeagle.com; Shivers Frozen Custard • 3318 Godfrey Rd. • shiversfc.com; My Antique Store • 1007 W. Delmar Ave. • myantiquestore.com; Factory Connection • 5735 Godfrey Rd. • factory-connection.com; Monticello Sculpture Gardens • 5800 Godfrey Rd. • lc.edu; The Nature Institute • 2213 S. Levis Ln. • thenatureinstitute.org; Robert E. Glazebrook Community Park • 1401 Stamper Ln. • godfreyil.org; Great Godfrey Maze • 1401 Stamper Ln. • godfreyil.org

39 Great Rivers & Routes

CANCER.

It’s personal.

To learn more, visit osfhealthcare.org/cancercare.

YOU CAN SEE YOUR FUTURE FROM HERE

www.godfreyil.org l (618) 466-3324 l

RiversandRoutes.com

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Grafton Breathtaking views of the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers are just part of Grafton’s charm. Ride to the top of the river bluffs on the new SkyTour, a gondola and open air chair lift, then sip a glass of wine while drinking in the views from 300-feet high. New shopping and dining opportunities dot the riverfront community’s Main Street. Spend the night in a variety of guest houses and bed and breakfast inns and walk the streets outlaw Jesse James reportedly wandered.

EAT Embrace the river themes in Grafton by dining out in an aquarium restaurant at Fin Inn where the fish and turtles join diners at tableside aquariums. Both O’Jan’s Fish Stand and Beasley’s Fish are no frills outdoor food stands serving up fresh fried fish. Sit beside the Mississippi River and enjoy a drink and Dock Salsa at The Loading Dock. Enjoy award winning local wines along with refreshing lunch and dinner entrees at Grafton Winery & Brewhaus or travel to the top of the river bluffs and enjoy the views at The Winery at Aerie’s Resort. Good old fashioned barbecue is on the menu at the Hawg Pit BBQ Barn. Be entertained by the décor and live music at the 3rd Chute Bar & Grill.

Cajun food is served up at the Grafton Oyster Bar. SHOP Stroll down Grafton’s Main Street and stop in at Harrison’s Gifts for whimsical décor and more. New to You and Treasures Past & Present are the places to go for antique hunters.

GO:

Enjoy southwestern art and more at Pajarito. For a memento of your trip to Grafton, step inside River Bank Gifts.

And, of course, the Grafton Riverside Flea Market, held the last weekend of the month through October, is a picker’s paradise.

PLAY Glide along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers on the 49-passenger Hakuna Matata excursion boat. Take your adventure to the next level with Grafton SkyTour. Then explore the tree canopy on the river bluffs with Grafton Zipline Adventures. During colder months, indoor ice skating at The Loading Dock Ice Rink provides winter fun.

STAY Make it a weekend getaway with a stay at Tara Point Inn & Cottages high above Grafton on the river bluffs. Scenic views and a relaxed setting are always in season. More than 34 local guest houses scattered throughout the city provide casual getaway experiences.

Fin Inn • 1500 W. Main St. • fininn.com; O’Jan’s Fish Stand • 101 W. Main St.; Beasley Fish Stand • 1512 W. Main St. • beasleyfish.com; The Loading Dock • 401 Front St. • graftonloadingdock.com; Grafton Winery & Brewhaus • 300 W. Main St. • thegraftonwinery. com; The Winery at Aerie’s Resort • 600 Timber Ridge Dr. • aeriesview.com; Hawg Pit BBQ Barn • 821 W. Main St. • thehawgpit. com; 3rd Chute Bar & Grill • 220 W. Main St. • 3rdchute.com; Grafton Oyster Bar • 215 W. Water St. • graftonoysterbar.com; Harrison’s Gifts • 224 E. Main St.; New To You • 315 E. Main St.; Treasures Past & Present • 1504 W. Main St.; River Bank Gifts • 225 E. Main St. ; Grafton Riverside Flea Market • 400 Front St. • graftonloadingdock.com; Hakuna Matata • 215 W. Water St. • graftonharbor.com; Grafton SkyTour/Grafton Zipline Adevntures • 3 W. Clinton • aeriesview.com; The Loading Dock Ice Rink • 401 E. Front St. • graftonloadingdock.com; Tara Point Inn & Cottages • 1 Tara Point Dr. • tarapoint.com

41 Great Rivers & Routes

ILLINOIS

EAt

shop

PLAY

STAY

For a complete list of events and adventures visit EnjoyGrafton.com

GraftonIlChamber.com RiversandRoutes.com

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Elsah Massive limestone bluffs cradle the Village of Elsah, located in a small valley along the Mississippi River and the Great River Road.

As historic as it is picturesque, the entire village has been named to the National Registry of Historic Places. Settled in the mid-1800’s, all of the original homes were built out of limestone quarried from a nearby site. The village is often referred to as the “village where time stood still.” Quaint bed and breakfast inns and shopping complete a day spent in the village.

GO:

SHOP Step back into a simpler time with a leisurely walk through the picturesque village. Be sure to stop at the Elsah General Store and pick up a bottle of vintage soda, old-fashioned candy, local honey, pottery and more. Peace Works – A Market With a Mission is stocked entirely with fair trade goods where each item has a mission and a portion of the purchase price is donated to charitable organizations. Merchant on Mill has quaint gift items and cottage inspired vintage home décor. Boho, peasant luxury and festival fashions are available at The Look Factory.

STAY Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Elsah. Homemade breakfasts and afternoon snacks are on tap at the Green Tree Inn of Elsah, a bed and breakfast inn. Check out Maple Leaf Cottage Inn Bed & Breakfast for a relaxing stay, also located in the heart of the village.

PLAY Take a bike ride through the streets of historic Elsah. Visit TreeHouse Wildlife Center for an up close look at animals native to the region. Wander through the Village of Elsah Museum for a look into the past.

Elsah General Store • 22 LaSalle St. • elsahgeneralstore.com; Peace Works – A Market With A Mission • 7 Mill St.; Merchant on Mill • 47 Mill St.; The Look Factory • 43 Mill St. • shopthelookfactory.com; TreeHouse Wildlife Center • 23956 Green Acres Rd. • treehousewildlifecenter.com; Village of Elsah Museum • 26 LaSalle St. • escapetoelsah.com; Green Tree Inn of Elsah • 15 Mill St. • greentreeinnelsah.com; Maple Leaf Cottage Inn Bed & Breakfast • 12 Selma St. • mapleleafcottageinn.com

43 Great Rivers & Routes

Escape to

Est. 1853

*

SHOP

STAY

Elsah General Store

Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast

Jeremiah's Resale Shop The Look Factory Little Barn Floral Design and Photography Gallery Elsah Galleries Peace Works

“A Market with a Mission”

The perfect destination for: Weddings, Family Reunions, Relaxing Getaways, Scenic Retreats

Maple Leaf Cottage Inn Bed & Breakfast Cottage in the Woods Suite Jane Elsah River House

* Statewide vote by the Illinois Bicentennial Commission and the State Journal Register

escapetoelsah.com

/Elsah – A Step Back in Time – Village in Illinois RiversandRoutes.com

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Calhoun County Striking natural beauty and lush farmlands blend together in Calhoun County which is bordered on the west by the Mississippi River and on the east by the Illinois River. The location between the rivers gives the peninsula county a desirable micro-climate perfect for growing peaches, apples and other produce. Picturesque barn quilts adorn the sides and fronts of rural buildings. Migrating birds make the county a bird watcher’s paradise during the fall.

American Bald Eagles fly in for the winter months.

GO:

EAT Brussels: The historic Wittmond Hotel is home to all-youcan-eat, family-style meals. Fried chicken, fried catfish, burgers and roast beef are on the menu at AJ’s Bar & Grill. Hardin: Dine on a catfish sandwich or filet at the iconic Illinois Riverdock Restaurant, located on the banks of its namesake. Go to the Straight Home Bar & Grill for tasty meals and cold drinks. Pick up a burger and fries at the Hardin Drive In. Batchtown: The Old Fill Inn Station has a diner atmosphere attached to a bar.

SHOP Brussels: Visit the wide variety of orchards and roadside stands for fresh fruits, vegetables and pumpkins including: Hagen Family Orchard, Toppmeyer’s Orchard and Odelehr’s Roadside Market; Hardin: Jacobs Orchard; Golden Eagle: Eberlin’s Orchard and Jacobs Orchard.

PLAY Brussels: Eagles, American White Pelicans and more call the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge home. Make a stop at the Historic Brussels Jail, originally called a “calaboose” where inmates at one time had to sleep standing up. Check in to the Calhoun Visitor Center for maps and information. Hardin: Browse through the Calhoun County Historical Society Museum. Take a ride across the Joe Page Bridge, one of the few lift bridges left on the Illinois River. Kampsville: The Center for American Archeology provides a look at the prehistoric history of the region.

EAT – Brussels: Wittmond Restaurant • 108 Main St. • AJ’s Bar & Grill • 124 W. Main St. Hardin: Illinois Riverdock Restaurant • 501 S. Park St. • ilriverdock.com; Straight Home Bar & Grill • 633 State Highway 100; Hardin Drive In • 207 N. Park St. Batchtown: Old Fill Inn Station • 208 N. Main St. SHOP – Brussels: Hagen Family Orchard • 3879 Illinois River Rd.; Toppmeyer’s Orchard • 480 Meyer Ln.; Odelehr’s Roadside Market • 7127 Illinois River Rd.; Golden Eagle: Eberlin’s Orchard • 1218 Two Story Hill; Jacobs Orchard • 148 Ridge Rd.; PLAY – Brussels: Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge • 364 Wildlife Conservation Rd. • fws.gov/refuge/ two_rivers; Historic Brussels Jail • 131 E. Main St.; Calhoun Visitors Center • 133 E. Main St.; Hardin: Calhoun County Historical Society Museum • 204 N. County Rd.; Joe Page Bridge • Rt. 100; Kampsville: Center for American Archeology • 101 N. Broadway • caa-archeology.org

45 Great Rivers & Routes

Carrollton Rolling hills and farmland surround Carrollton, the county seat of Greene County and home to the historic Courthouse Square.

The courthouse is a limestone Romanesque-Revival building built in the late 1800’s and occupies an entire city block. The courthouse and surrounding 12-block business district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Carrollton sits in the middle of Greene County on State Highway 108. Greene County is bordered on the west by the Illinois River. Travel through Greenfield, White Hall and Roodhouse to fully explore the county. Don’t miss Greene Field Farms for a great family farm experience.

GO:

EAT Enjoy a cup of coffee during the day and wine and spirits in the evening at Copper Stills & Mash. A limited food menu is also available and live music is on tap just about every Saturday night. Authentic flavors and ingredients make the pizza’s at Alfonso’s memorable. For more casual tastes, check out the Dairy Bar of Carrollton for local ice cream and sandwiches.

STAY Spend the night at the Farmhouse Loft, located in the heart of downtown Carrollton. The guest house is near dining and the historic county courthouse.

Copper Stills & Mash • 430 N. Main St.; Alfonso’s • 514 N. Main St. • alfonsospizza.biz; Dairy Bar of Carrollton • 334 5th St. • dairybarcarrollton; Farmhouse Loft • 506 N. Main St. • fhloft.com; Greene Fields Farm • 311 Daum Station Rd. • greenefieldsfarm.com

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Litchfield EAT Take a break from driving down the Mother Road at the historic Ariston Café. Known for its neon signage and huge menu, it is believed to be the oldest café on Route 66 today. The Ariston is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Don’t miss dessert and luscious baked goods at Jubelt’s Bakery, located a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the Ariston.

Casual homestyle food is on the menu at Tosi’s Route 66 Café.

History and heritage mingle in Litchfield which sits right on the Mother Road of Route 66 in southwest Illinois. The city is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities at Lake Lou Yaeger, its don’t miss monthly Pickers Markets, turn-of-the century architecture and Mother Road memories of neon, roadside diners and drive-in theaters. The city is located 60 miles north of St. Louis and is adjacent to Interstate 55.

SHOP Explore historic downtown Litchfield which is chock full of antique shops, home décor boutiques and more. The perfect antique awaits at Phyllbena’s Antiques. Nana’s Hidden Attic and the Litchfield Indoor Flea Market also yield up treasures to the careful shopper.

Motor cycle enthusiasts should make Niehaus Cycle Sales a must stop.

PLAY Spend an evening enjoying a great movie complete with popcorn and a soda at the Sky View Drive-In Theater, the last original operating drive in on Route 66 in Illinois. Visit the Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center for a look at Mother Road memorabilia and a dive into the city’s rich history. Enjoy a picnic, spend

Litchfield

Visit

Get Your Kicks!

STAY ON ROUTE 66 • 6 HOTELS AND 30 RESTAURANTS

VisitLitchfield.com 866-733-5833 47 Great Rivers & Routes

GO:

the day on the beach, kayak, hike and bike at Lake Lou Yaeger. Explore the Shoal Creek Conservation Area with a camera at this home to over 700 species of plants, 70 kinds of butterflies and 74 different species of birds. The Pickers Market takes over the streets of downtown Litchfield the second Sunday of each month May through October.

STAY Spend the night along Route 66 in Litchfield. Six hotels in the city including Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn Express & Suites offer relaxing getaway opportunities. Hotels are located just off Interstate 55 and on the Mother Road.

Ariston Café • 413 Old Route 66 N. • ariston-café. com; Jubelt’s Bakery • 303 N. Old Route 66 • jubelts. com; Tosi’s Route 66 Café • 318 S. Old Route 66; Phyllbena’s Antiques • 623 N. State St. • phyllbenas. business.site; Nana’s Hidden Attic • 18395 W. Frontage Rd.; Litchfield Indoor Flea Market • 120 W. Union Ave.; Niehaus Cycle Sales • 718 Old Route 66 N. • niehauscycle.com; Sky View Drive-In Theater • 1500 Old Route 66 N. • litchfieldskyview.com; Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center • 334 Historic Old Route 66 • litchfieldmuseum.org; Lake Lou Yaeger • 4313 Beach House Trail • visitlitchfield.com; Shoal Creek Conservation Area • 1177 Yaegerlake Trail • visitlitchfield.com; Pickers Market • downtown streets • visitlitchfield.com • Hampton Inn • 11 Thunderbird Circle • Hilton.com; Holiday Inn Express & Suites • 4 Thunderbird Circle • ihg.com

Hillsboro

Hillsboro, located in Montgomery County, offers a relaxed retreat from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Abraham Lincoln spent time

EAT The sign says Sweet Addictions and Street Eats, but burgers are on the menu along with the refreshing taste of hand dipped ice cream, concretes and more. The Cozy Café is just that, cozy and welcoming.

Famous for its Sweet & Sour Chicken, it’s the secret recipe egg rolls and chili that brings customers back for more.

Authentic Italian delicacies are on the menu at Gianni’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante. Enjoy the pub atmosphere at Half Time Bar & Grill with cold drinks, appetizers and more. Be sure to stop in at Black Rabbit Coffee Roasters where the brew is freshly ground and the flavors one-of-a-kind.

Don’t miss The Opera House Brewing Company for a cold, locally crafted beer.

here as a young circuit lawyer and the downtown district, highlighted by a historic courthouse, is a vibrant, blossoming spot anchored by a craft brewery, coffee shop and quirky movie theater.

GO:

SHOP Take a walk down Main Street in Hillsboro and browse through Nzuri Boutique, a women’s clothing store that supports global non-profits. Upscale meets upcycling at Refinery Vintage Goods where a mix of interesting home décor lines the shelves. Gold Pan Records & Recording Studio is a haven for record collectors featuring carefully curated vinyl. Herbal teas, supplements and more are available at Sage on Sage. And of course, The Holiday Shop is the perfect year round place to get your seasonal decorations.

PLAY The Orpheum Movie Theater in downtown Hillsboro not only brings first run movies to the big screen, it also makes movie night an experience.

Walk through a lobby of sand and pretend Aladdin has come to life. Lifesized zebras and more decorate the lobby during a showing of The Lion King. Knisley’s Hillsboro Bowl has open bowling daily in a family-friendly atmosphere. Take a stroll through the H & B Bremer Wildlife Sanctuary and reconnect with nature.

Sweet Addictions and Street Eats • 400 S. Main St. • yoursweetaddictions.com.; Cozy Café • 633 S. Main St.; Gianni’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante • 1233 Vandalia Rd. • giannisitalianpizza.com; Half Time Bar & Grill • 206 S. Main St.; Black Rabbit Coffee Roasters • 313 S. Main St. • blackrabbitcoffee.com ; Opera House Brewing Company • 405 S. Main St.; Nzuri Boutique • 305 S. Main St.; The Refinery Vintage Goods • 107 Tilson Place; Gold Pan Records & Recording Studio • 309 S. Main St.; Sage on Sage • 509 S. Main St.; The Holiday Shop • 304 S. Main St. • the-holiday-shop-gift-shop. business.site; Orpheum Theatre • 316 S. Main St. • bestmoviedeal.com; Knisley’s Hillsboro Bowl • 217 N. Main St.; H & B Bremer Wildlife Sanctuary • 194 Bremer Ln. • bremersanctuary.org

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Carlinville This rural community is best known for its historic Sears Homes neighborhood, built in 1918 to house coal miners by the Standard Oil Company. And, of course, the Million Dollar Courthouse, which was supposed to cost $50,000 to construct and ended up totaling $1.3 million (in 1870 dollars). A picturesque downtown square, quaint shops and restaurants and links to Route 66 provides a charming welcome to visitors.

GO:

EAT For more than 100 years, Taylor’s Mexican Chili Parlor has been providing top-notch chili, tamales and butter bean soup to diners. Fresh ingredients are key for Abella’s Restaurant, a family friendly spot serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy the rustic atmosphere at Crabby’s Supper Club, a familyfriendly spot. Desserts are made in-house and check out the pies made every weekend by the owner’s mother.

SHOP For those on the hunt for eclectic antiques and vintage and magical finds, stroll through Country Gypsy. More antiques, upcycled and recycled goods are available at Olde, on the city square. Mother Road Antiques is open seven days a week for shoppers and has antiques of all shapes, sizes and prices. One-of-akind gifts and souvenirs are available at Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs.

Stop in at Whiskey River Dry Goods a boutique specializing in women’s clothing, men’s items, hand painted clothing and more.

PLAY Tour the historic Million Dollar Courthouse, built at a cost of $1.3 million in 1870. It took residents more than 40 years to pay off the construction costs. The building is a working courthouse to this day.

Don’t miss the Cannonball Jail, a fortress-style building built with Civil War era cannonballs. It was once a Route 66 stop.

Taylor’s Mexican Chili Parlor • 510 N. Side Sq. • taylorschili.com; Abella’s Restaurant • 127 S. Broad St. • abellasrestaurant. com; Crabby’s Supper Club • 18838 Route 4 South; Country Gypsy • 118 N. West St. • country-gypsy.com; OLDE • 254 S. Side Square; Mother Road Antiques • 106 N. Side Square; Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs • 236 E. Side Square • cherrytree236.com; Whiskey River Dry Goods • 122 E. Side Square • whiskeyriverdrygoodscompany.net; Million Dollar Courthouse • 201 E. Main St. • macoupincountyil.gov; Cannonball Jail • 205 E. 1st St. • macoupincountyil.gov.

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East Alton East Alton has a storied past as a railway community and industrial center. Today it is home to a growing retail and culinary scene and celebrates its community history in a local city-run museum.

GO:

EAT Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and First Stop Bake Shop is the best place to enjoy it. Indulge in sourdough breakfast paninis, bagels and lox, and of course, French pastries. New to the East Alton food scene is J.J. Thermo’s, which features Jalapeno Belly Bombers, Pickle Fries, Popeye’s Spinach Salad and a host of aptly named sandwiches and entrees. For a quick bite, stop in at Magnum’s Bar & Grill. Don’t be put off by the name, Airliner Bar & Grill is family-friendly and has lunch and dinner specials in addition to cocktails and beer. Super premium small-batch ice cream is made in-house at Blue Ice Creamery.

SHOP Bargain hunters enjoy shopping at Pure Bliss Home Décor.

Most furniture, décor, rugs and accent pieces are up to half off regular retail prices. Locally owned and operated, the Community Seed and Feed store has outdoor lawn ornaments and more. Spend the day at Sandi’s Costumes & Alterations. Shoppers won’t be able to see everything the store has to offer in just one day.

PLAY Lace up a pair of skates and take to the ice at East Alton Ice Arena.

The city owned rink has open ice skating year round. Axe-perts come together at Riverbend Axe Throwing, a bar and lounge that has specially designed axe throwing targets, pool tables, big screen TV’s and more. If it’s movie and popcorn time, head to AMC Eastgate 6 for big screen entertainment.

First Stop Bake Shop • 611 E. Airline Dr. • firststopbakeshop.com; J.J. Thermo’s • 17 Eastgate Plaza • jjthermosbarandgrill. com; Magnum’s Bar & Grill • 407 E. Main St.; Airliner Bar & Grill • 573 E. Airline Dr.; Blue Ice Creamery • 127 Eastgate Plaza • blueicecreamery.com; Pure Bliss Home Décor • 935 E. Airline Dr.; Community Seed and Feed Company • 300 N. Shamrock St.; Sandi’s Costumes & Alterations • 136 E. St. Louis Ave. • itssewsandi.com; East Alton Ice Arena • 631 Lewis & Clark Blvd. • eastaltonicearena.org; Riverbend Axe Throwing • 205 Eastgate Plaza • riverbendaxethrowing.com; AMC Classic Eastgate 6 • 625 Lewis & Clark Blvd. • amctheatres.com

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ROAD TRIP WORTHY COMMUNITIES

Troy Troy has been a crossroads town since it was founded in the early 1800s. Once the site of the first stagecoach stop for travelers to and from St. Louis along the newly created National Road, the vibrant city now sits at the intersection of Interstates 55 and 70. With both small town charm and easy access to St. Louis (just 18 miles away), the city has developed a growing culinary scene and has a wealth of overnight options.

GO:

EAT It may not look like much from the outside, but Kelly’s Butcher Shop & Deli is where the locals go for hot meals daily. Look for it behind the 4-0 Quick Shop at the intersection of U.S. 40 and Troy-O’Fallon Road. To satisfy a taste for Tex-Mex, check out Terra Sur. For pizza, check out Alfonzo’s Pizzeria and Joe’s Pizza and Pasta. Handmade ice cream is the perfect treat available at City Scoops Creamery.

PLAY A skateboard park, Frisbee golf course, lake, over two miles of walking trails and a petting zoo are all available at Tri Township Park.

There is also a radio-controlled vehicle crawler course.

STAY Five different hotels offer overnight options, all conveniently located near interstate highways. Stay at the Best Western Troy Hotel and enjoy room amenities like a wet bar, jetted tubs and suites. Free breakfast bar, indoor pool and fitness center are part of any stay at the Holiday Inn Express. Enjoy a suite complete with a whirlpool hot tub, mini fridge and microwave at Red Roof Inn St. Louis – Troy. Complimentary continental breakfast and a heated indoor pool are part of the Super 8 by Wyndham experience.

Kelly’s Butcher Shop & Deli • 804 S. Main St. • kellysbutchershopanddeli.com; Terra Sur • 920 Edwardsville Rd. • terrasurtroy.wixsite.com.com; Alfonzo’s Pizzeria • 611 Edwardsville Rd.; Joe’s Pizza and Pasta • 904 Edwardsville Rd. • orderjoes.com; City Scoops Creamery • 300 Edwardsville Rd. #4 • cityscoopscreamery.com; Tri-Township Park • 410 Wickliffe St. • tritownshippark.org; Best Western Troy Hotel, 2020 Formosa Rd. • bestwestern.com; Holiday Inn Express Troy • 2011 Formosa Rd. • ihg.com; Red Roof Inn St. Louis – Troy, 2030 Formosa Rd. • redroof.com; Super 8 by Wyndham • 910 Edwardsville Rd. • wyndhamhotels.com

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FEAST ON IT

CULINARY

celebrations

PICK UP YOUR FORK AND SPOON AND GET READY TO INDULGE YOUR TASTE BUDS WITH GREAT SANDWICHES, SALADS, SOUPS, STEAKS AND MORE DURING ANNUAL RESTAURANT WEEK DINING EVENTS HELD THROUGHOUT THE SIX COUNTY GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION. Locally owned and operated restaurants in participating communities showcase signature dishes at fixed prices highlighting the growing culinary trendiness of the region.

Make plans now for a culinary road trip to sample a taste of the region and discover a new favorite dining experience.

ALTON RESTAURANT

WEEK

2021 For 10 days in October, the Ed-Glen Chamber of Commerce celebrates Edwardsville’s trendy and growing restaurant scene with SAVOR. The 10-day restaurant week event, set for Oct. 2 -11, features fixed price specials at participating restaurants. The event is a salute to the restaurateurs, cuisine and diners in the city. Enjoy tender smoky BBQ, hand-tossed wood-fired pizzas, family-recipe Italian dishes, enchiladas and tacos with a Guadalajara flair, and some of the best sweet potato French fries in the area.

For a list of restaurants and more information, visit www.edglenchamber.com/ restaurant-week

Prepare to celebrate 10 years of dining delights during Alton Restaurant Week, Jan. 15 – 24, 2021. Traditionally held the third week of January, this 10-day dining adventure has repeatedly delighted diners with its large participation of locally owned and operated restaurants and the variety of entrees available. From secret recipe fried chicken to mouth wateringly juicy pepperloin steaks and everything in between, area restaurateurs ensure this is a dining event not to be missed. Restaurants in Alton, Godfrey, Grafton, East Alton and Bethalto all take part. Fixed price specials are available for lunch and dinner. Be sure to pick up your commemorative Restaurant Week glass which features an Alton landmark.

Go to AltonRestaurantWeek.com for more information closer to the event.

53 Great Rivers & Routes

Collinsville’s newly minted Restaurant Week returns for its second year Feb. 26 – March 7. Lunch and dinner fixed price specials show off the city’s growing culinary scene. Past participants include Mungo’s Italian Eatery, Old Herald Brewery & Distillery and Sloan’s Pub House among others.

RiversandRoutes.com/restaurants for more information.

RIVERS ROUTES AND REFRESHMENT TRAIL PAIR YOUR CULINARY ADVENTURES WITH THE NEW RIVERS, ROUTES & REFRESHMENT TRAIL MOBILE PASS. It’s all about the craft experience on this new mobile pass.

Sample some of the best craft beers, wines and spirits brewed at local breweries, wineries and distilleries throughout the six county Great Rivers & Routes region. Enjoy discounts on food, brews and tours at the eight highlighted locations on the pass. Check in at four locations and earn a free prize.

To download your pass and start your craft adventure go to: Explore.RiversandRoutes.com

1 0 2 W E S T 9 T H S T. DOWNTOWN A LT O N , I L L I N O I S

VOTED THE BEST STEAK

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 11 A.M.– 4 P.M.

FRESH DAILY!

SOUPS & SALADS SANDWICHES HOMEMADE PIES.

618-462-8384 TONYSRESTAURANT.COM

31 E. BROADWAY, ALTON

618-462-5881

WWW.MYJUSTDESSERTS.COM

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FEAST ON IT

dining DELIGHTS MAKE YOUR NEXT ROAD TRIP A TRUE DINING ADVENTURE. EXPLORE ASIAN, ITALIAN, GREEK, SOUL FOOD, VEGAN, IRISH AND CLASSIC AMERICANA FOUND ALL ALONG ROUTE 66 AND THE GREAT RIVER ROAD. GET READY TO DIG IN!

BELLA MILANO 1063 S. State Route 157 • Edwardsville (618) 659-2100 • Bellamilanos.com

MORRISON’S IRISH PUB 200 State St. • Alton • (618) 433-8900 Morrisonirishpub.com

Made from scratch, classic Italian entrees highlight any visit to Bella Milano.

Conveniently located near Edwardsville hotels and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Private dining rooms available for special events.

Everyone is a little bit Irish at this family owned and operated pub/restaurant.

Eat, drink and sing with your favorite pint of Guinness or Irish whiskey paired with authentic Irish fare.

BLUFF CITY GRILL 424 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 433-8288 Bluffcitygrillalton.com Enjoy a relaxed, casual dining experience in downtown Alton with a menu that ranges from salads and sandwiches to steaks and pasta. Watch your favorite game on the 14 TV’s in the lounge & sports bar.

MY JUST DESSERTS 31 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 462-5881 Myjustdessertsalton.weebly.com Downright famous for its homemade pies, ½ pound chicken salad sandwiches and Toll House Brownies, the menu changes daily based on the cravings of the kitchen that particular day. Homespun and hearty atmosphere.

CASTELLI’S RESTAURANT AT 255 3400 Fosterburg Rd. • Alton • (618) 462-4620 Castellis255.com Secret recipe fried chicken, made-fromscratch toasted ravioli and more highlight the menu of the family-owned and operated restaurant that has been in business for over 80 years.

CLEVELAND-HEATH 106 N. Main St. • Edwardsville • (618) 307-4830 Clevelandheath.com Gourmet comfort foods highlight the menu which is anything but ordinary. The food is fun including the signature Japanese Pancake, Pork Porterhouse and old fashioned cherry hand pie for dessert.

GRAFTON WINERY & BREWHAUS 300 W. Main St. • Grafton • (618) 786-3001 Thegraftonwinery.com Pair a glass of award-winning wine with spectacular views of the Mississippi River and a full menu ranging from appetizers to salads, Grafton Burgers and more.

JOHNSON’S CORNER RESTAURANT 2000 State St. • Alton • (618) 465-5640 Johnsonscorneralton.com A neighborhood restaurant famous for its pork tenderloin, wood fired pizzas, salads and cheese dip, find a new favorite here.

55 Great Rivers & Routes

Offering a diverse menu, a relaxing lounge & sports bar.

Our banquet hall seats over 400 guests.

OLD BAKERY BEER COMPANY 400 Landmarks Blvd. • Alton • (618) 463-1470 Oldbakerybeer.com

STATE STREET MARKET 208 State St. • Alton • (618) 462-8800 Statestreetmarketofalton.com

Family-friendly restaurant and bar with seasonally-rotating sandwiches, salads and soups designed to pair with the brewery’s organic beer. Daily food specials and the menu has vegan and gluten-free options.

Relax in the New Orleans-inspired outdoor courtyard with a soup, salad or made from scratch sandwich or quiche. Stop by for Saturday brunch or lunch and dinner throughout the week.

PERE MARQUETTE LODGE RESTAURANT 13653 Lodge Blvd. • Grafton • (618) 786-2331 Pmlodge.net

THE LOADING DOCK 401 Front St. • Grafton • (618) 786-3494 Graftonloadingdock.com Sip your favorite drink, enjoy a serving of Dock Salsa and let the waters of the Mississippi River take your cares away at this riverfront restaurant/bar.

Famous for its family-style fried chicken dinners, the restaurant which is part of the historic Pere Marquette Lodge, also has seasonal weekend brunch specials and more.

TONY’S STEAKHOUSE & BAR 102 W. 9th St. • Alton • (618) 462-8384 Tonysrestaurant.com

PORTER’S STEAKHOUSE 1000 Eastport Plaza Dr. • Collinsville (618) 345-2400 Porterscollinsville.com

Considered the region’s original Pasta House, Tony’s Restaurant has served its famous pasta and Pepperloin Steaks for over 65 years. Family recipe pasta, Italian dressing and more highlight the menu.

Signature pepperloin steaks and seasonal menu entrees highlight this elegant dining experience. Pair one of six different steak options with a glass, or bottle, of wine from the extensive wine list.

THE WINERY AT AERIE’S RESORT 600 Timber Ridge Dr. • Grafton • (618) 786-7477 Aeriesview.com Breathe in the views from 300 feet above the Mississippi River while enjoying a menu designed with the winery’s private label wines in mind. Sandwiches, soups, salads and small plate meals available for lunch and dinner.

Voted One of the Top Steakhouses in the USA Thursdays are Porter’s is a classical steakhouse Thursdays are Prime Rib Night at with a seasonal menu, extensive Prime Rib Night at Porter’s Steakhouse. wine list, casually chic atmosphere Porter’s Steakhouse. andsteakhouse amazing dining A classical with aoptions. seasonal menu,

A classical steakhouse with a seasonal menu, extensive wine list, casually chic atmosphere and extensive wine list, casually chic atmosphere and juicy prime rib special with live music juicy prime rib special with live music every Thursday night. every Thursday night.

HEARTFELT HERITAGE AND GOOD FUN FOR EVERYONE!

1000 EASTPORT PLAZA DRIVE | COLLINSVILLE, ILLINOIS | 618.345.2800 | PORTERSCOLLINSVILLE.COM

WHISKEY

SLÁINTE

1000 Eastport Plaza Drive | Collinsville, Illinois |618.345.2800 | PortersCollinsville.com

FOOD

1000 Eastport Plaza Drive | Collinsville, Illinois 1000 Eastport Plaza | Collinsville, Illinois 618.345.2800 | Drive PortersCollinsville.com 618.345.2800 | PortersCollinsville.com

200 State Street Alton, IL 618.433.8900

MUSIC EVENTS

HAPPY HOURS Tues.-Thurs.

4-6pm Friday 3-5pm

morrisonirishpub.com RiversandRoutes.com

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“I’m the best in the west and all the rest”

DINE IN | CARRY OUT | GIFT CARDS

618.462.4620 57 Great Rivers & Routes

3400 Fosterburg Rd. Alton castellis255.com

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SPEND THE

night IT’S BEEN A LONG DAY EXPLORING THE ROADS AND RIVERS IN GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES AND NOW IT’S TIME TO GET SOME HARD EARNED REST. RELAX IN A CABIN OVERLOOKING

ALTON CRACKER FACTORY 205 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 917-4466 Altoncrackerfactory.com Sweeping views of the Mississippi River, balconies suitable for cookouts, full kitchens and more are part of these upscale loft lodging options located in the heart of Downtown Alton.

BEALL MANSION – AN ELEGANT BED & BREAKFAST INN 407 E. 12th St. • Alton • (618) 474-9100 Beallmansion.com

BEST WESTERN PLUS PARKWAY HOTEL 1900 Homer M. Adams Pkwy. • Alton (618) 433-9900 • Bestwestern.com Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants and the Amtrak Station, the hotel has king, queen rooms and is pet friendly.

GREEN TREE INN BED & BREAKFAST 15 Mill St. • Elsah • (618) 374-2821 greentreeinnelsah.com

History and luxury combine in this turn-ofthe-century mansion. Amenities include a Chocolate Bar, a glass of champagne upon arrival and whirlpool tubs. Continental and full breakfast available upon request.

Escape to the historic Village of Elsah while enjoying the comforts of home. Home cooked breakfast and afternoon snacks highlight any visit. Take advantage of the screened in porch, firepit in the garden or fireplace in the great room. Located near historic museums, shopping and more.

BEST WESTERN PREMIERE – ALTON/ST. LOUIS 3559 College Ave. • Alton • (618) 462-1220 Bestwestern.com

HAMPTON INN & SUITES ST. LOUIS ALTON 1904 Homer M. Adams Pkwy. • Alton (618) 433-8999 • Hamptoninn3.hilton.com

Enjoy an indoor heated pool, full service on site restaurant/bar, in-room microwaves and refrigerators. Check out great seasonal deals on overnight stays.

A short walk from the Alton Amtrak Station, the hotel is also located near restaurants and shopping. Indoor heated pool and fitness center on site. Don’t forget your hot cookie when you check in.

THE CONFLUENCE OF THE ILLINOIS AND MISSISSIPPI RIVERS. OR MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME AT RIVERFRONT GUEST HOUSES. ENJOY INDOOR SWIMMING POOLS AND MADE TO ORDER BREAKFAST AT HOTELS AND MOTELS.

59 Great Rivers & Routes

LOADING DOCK GUEST HOUSES 313 E. Front St., 311 E. Water St. & 311 E. Front St. Grafton • (618) 786-3494 Graftonloadingdock.com

PERE MARQUETTE LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER 13653 Lodge Blvd. • Grafton • (618) 786-2331 Pmlodge.net

Located in the heart of historic Grafton, these three guest houses are close to dining and shopping. Perfect for family getaways or staycations.

Play a game of chess on a life-sized chess board, relax in the Great Room, enjoy a glass of wine at the adjoining Mary Michelle Winery.

The Lodge has a full service restaurant and sits in the middle of magnificent Pere Marquette State Park.

MAPLE LEAF COTTAGE BED & BREAKFAST INN 12 Selma St. • Elsah • (618) 374-1684 Mapleleafcottageinn.com Enjoy a quiet, relaxing stay in the historic Village of Elsah. Three main buildings house five charming rooms perfect for overnight stays. An outdoor fire pit complements the surrounding garden area. Available for weddings, family gatherings and more.

SUPER 8 BY WYNDHAM ALTON 1800 Homer M. Adams Pkwy. • Alton (618) 465-8885 • Wyndhamhotels.com Corporate and king suites available and a Super Start Plus breakfast is available daily.

Microwaves, refrigerators and hair dryers in all rooms.

TARA POINT INN & COTTAGES 1 Tara Point Dr. • Grafton • (618) 786-3555 Tarapoint.com Stunning views are part of any stay at this upscale inn. Located high on the bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, cabins are available for overnight stays. Guest rooms in the main house are also available.

THE LODGE AT AERIES RESORT 14 W. Main St. • Grafton • (618) 786-8439 Aeriesview.com Plan a staycation at Aeries Resort.

Suites, cottages, riverfront or bluff top stays are available.

For more information on lodging, go to: RiversandRoutes.com/Hotels

•High Speed WIFI •Indoor Heated Pool •Restaurant & Bar •24 Hour Fitness Center •Free Onsite Parking •Breakfast Buffet •Conventions/Meetings •25 Minutes From St. Louis

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1904 Homer Adams Pkwy

(618) 433- 8999

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEXT TO THE NEW

MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION CENTER!

Free Hot Breakfast Free High-Speed Internet Indoor Pool Fitness Room JUST MINUTES FROM NATIONAL GREAT RIVERS MUSEUM, ALTON ANTIQUE DISTRICT & LIBERTY BANK ALTON AMPHITHEATER.

61 Great Rivers & Routes

11 Cross Roads Court Alton, Illinois (618) 465-9999

1800 Homer Adams Parkway Alton, Illinois (618) 465-8885

1900 Homer Adams Parkway Alton, Illinois (618) 433-9900

Conference Center

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mississippimudpottery.com

STORES HOURS

Sun. & Mon. Noon-4pm

Tues. Closed

Wed.-Sat. 10am-5pm

310 E Broadway Alton, IL 62002 • 618.462.7573

63 Great Rivers & Routes

WHAT'S IN STORE? REMEMBER WHEN SHOPPING MEANT ACTUALLY GOING IN TO A STORE AND BROWSING THE AISLES? RE-DISCOVER THE JOYS OF SHOPPING IN THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION WITH ITS BLEND OF TRENDY AND ANTIQUE SHOPPING DELIGHTS.

ALTON MARINA GIFT SHOP 1 Henry St. • Alton • (618) 462-9860 Altonmarina.com

MISSISSIPPI MUD POTTERY 310 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 462-7573 Mississippimudpottery.com

Everything you need for a day on the boat, or a day in the sun can be found at the marina gift shop. Shop for the latest trends in jewelry, hats, bags and more. Adjacent deli has sandwiches and great mixed drinks.

Handmade pottery is created right in front of your eyes at this shop named an Illinois Maker. Durable bowls, mugs, plates and more are created. Be sure to check out the artistic and authentic leaf and fish designs.

COUNTRY MEADOWS 401 E. Broadway • 413 E. Broadway • Alton (618) 465-1965 Searching for antiques, collectibles, or vintage pieces? This long-time Alton antique store has an ever-changing collection of classic items.

GRAFTON HARBOR GIFT SHOP 215 W. Water St. • Grafton • (618) 786-7678 Graftonharbor.com

PINK ELEPHANT ANTIQUE SHOP 908 Veterans Memorial Dr. • Livingston (618) 637-2366 An entire school gym has been converted into row upon row of antiques and collectibles that range from early 20th century to the more kitschy modern keepsakes. An adjacent candy store offers homemade fudge and old-fashioned candy.

Clothing, nautical gifts, liquor, wines and children’s gifts are available at the gift shop attached to the floating harbor.

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS & PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES

WITH GIANT STATUES

TWISTEE TREAT DINER ICE CREAM FRESH FUDGE CHOCOLATES & TAFFY RET RETRO CANDIES

908 VETERANS MEMORIAL DRIVE LIVINGSTON, IL

618-637-2366

TWO LOCATIONS 4 0 1 E . B R O A D WAY A LTO N , I L

4 1 3 E . B R O A D WAY A LTO N , I L

HOURS M O N D AY  S AT U R D AY 1 1 : 0 0 A . M .  4 : 3 0 P. M .

S U N D AY N O O N  4 : 3 0 P. M .

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We offer the latest in state-of-the-art innovations and technology in many areas of care while maintaining a hometown feel that provides the warmth and convenience our neighbors have been familiar with for more than 80 years.

Our Services

is close to home

• Cancer Care (Member of the Siteman Cancer Network) • Cardiology • Diabetes Management • Digestive Health • Emergency Services • Imaging

• Laboratory Services • MRI Services • Neurology • Nutrition Counseling • Orthopedics • Pain Management • Senior Care • Sleep Disorders • Surgical Services

1 Memorial Drive, Alton, IL • 618.463.7311 • altonmemorialhospital.org © 2019 Alton Memorial Hospital. All Rights Reserved. CS_397126_8/19

WEDDING RECEPTIONS - TASTING ROOM

21028 ECKERT ORCHARD RD GRAFTON, IL 62037

GRAFTON WINERY THE VINEYARDS WWW.THEGRAFTONWINERY.COM WINE PRODUCTION - CORPORATE EVENTS 65 Great Rivers & Routes

2116 COLLEGE AVE. • ALTON RiversandRoutes.com

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Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau 200 Piasa St. • Alton, IL 62002 (800) 258-6645 RiversandRoutes.com GreatRiversByway.com

For information on the Grafton Ferry: TheGraftonFerry.com • 1-800-258-6645