GO Guide Spring Summer 2021

goguide SUMMER 2021

GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES OF SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS

AROUND EVERY TURN

A lot more of SLOTS

TABLE GAMES

DINING

Sportsbook

1 Piasa Street • Alton, IL ArgosyAlton.com • 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).

goguide SUMMER 2021

GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES OF SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS

ALTON l COLLINSVILLE l EDWARDSVILLE GLEN CARBON l GODFREY l GRAFTON MADISON l JERSEY l CALHOUN l MACOUPIN MONTGOMERY l GREENE l COUNTIES

6 l PEDAL & PADDLE 10 l NATURE AWAITS 12 l ROUTE 66 KICKS 14 l STREET ART MURALS 22 l HEAR THEM ROAR 24 l TEE TIME

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FUN IN THE SUN

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SUMMER BEERS 48 l COOL BEANS 50 l 5 WAYS TO

CELEBRATE JULY 4 52 l ON THE WATER

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Connect With Us! facebook.com/RiversandRoutes

40l STAY SAFE IN GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES OF SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS

35M • 4/21

URBAN ADVENTURES

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Our doors are open and restaurants, lodging properties and locally owned and operated businesses in the Great Rivers & Routes region are welcoming travelers again.

We are working hard to keep everyone safe during visits. Businesses throughout the region have implemented significant cleaning measures.

@RiversandRoutes

GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES MADE Here’s what you can do to remain safe during your visit:

Wash your hands

Maintain social distances of 6 feet

Wear a face mask

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PHOTO CREDITS: Midwest Living, Mark Ahlvers, Scott Evers, Mike Cruz Photography, Andrew Dobson, Marty McKay, @creative.michael, Scott Isringhausen, @josh.burbridge, Madison County Transit, @kenzcunningham, Alton Main Street, Eric O’Donnell, Olivia Kennedy, @myroadtripmarriage, @ kalahconway, Raging Rivers Water Park, Megyme Productions

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Welcome to the Great Rivers & Routes Region of Southwest Illinois This is the only place in America where the Great River Road meets the Mother Road of Route 66.

It’s also the only place in the country where the nation’s three great rivers come together – the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri.

And it’s the perfect place to escape on a road trip where you can

recharge, relax and reconnect.

Isn’t it time to rediscover the great outdoors and nature?

Dip your toes in the great rivers? Take a leisurely drive on historic roadways? Savor the sensation of biting into freshly picked summer fruits, or the savory flavors of fresh fish, secret recipe fried chicken, and juicy burgers?

This is the place where you can meet gentle giants and giant pink elephants.

Watch brilliant colors burst across the night sky and reflect again in river waters. Munch on popcorn at a one-of-a-kind drive in movie theater.

LET’S GET INSPIRED! Use this QR code to discover outdoor inspiration in the Great Rivers & Routes region.

Create memories with the dip of a paddle, a step on to a trailhead, a picnic on the river bluffs.

We can’t wait to see you in Great Rivers & Routes where you will find–

Greatness Around Every Turn 4

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LISTEN CLOSELY AND YOU CAN HEAR THE SIREN SONG OF WIDE-OPEN SPACES CALLING. IT DANCES ON THE BREEZE AND IT’S IN THE MUSIC OF BIRDS WINGING THEIR WAY ACROSS THE SKIES. IT’S THE SONG OF THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION IN SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS WHERE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AND ABUNDANT OPEN SPACES ARE WOVEN THROUGHOUT THE LANDSCAPE.

Pedal & Paddle

Pedal

ADVENTURES Madison County is home to an interconnected Class One system of biking trails developed by Madison County Transit. More than 137 miles of trails weave through diverse landscapes and connect to 20 destinations throughout the area including parks, landmarks and colleges.

The trails feature: n n n n

10 distinct bikeways Showcase 1,600 acres of greenspace Include 48 bridges 22 Tunnels

“The MCT Trails make Madison County unique in the region,” says MCT Managing Director SJ Morrison.

The trails criss cross the region and include the Confluence Bike Trail, over 20 miles of paved trails following the Mississippi River from Granite City to Alton and the MCT Goshen Trail which includes 10 tunnels and a 175-foot bridge connecting Troy to Edwardsville and Glen Carbon.

The awe-inspiring Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail runs parallel to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park. The 20-mile paved trail hugs the base of towering limestone bluffs and provides breathtaking views of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers.

MCT has also undertaken a beautification project on the trails adding trees and landscaping to four separate trails in an effort to enhance the natural beauty of the area. There are a total of 10 separate

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trails that include rides through the Great American Bottoms, Illinois prairie, woodlands and creeks. The trails are also a great hangout for native wildlife.

Pocket-sized MCT Trail Maps are available by calling (618) 797-4636 or by email request at: trails@mct.org

BIRDS, BIKES & BREWS The Audubon Center at Riverlands offers a two hour bicycle ride through the 3,700 acre sanctuary with stops along the way to enjoy bird watching. At the end of the guided tour, sample local craft beer and watch the sunset over the Mississippi River. Rides are limited to 10 people. For dates and registration, visit: riverlands.audubon.org/events

SPOTLIGHT Interested in taking a guided bike tour of the region?

Crossroads Bike Tours offers day trips and multi-day trip packages. Share the journey with family and friends, or make new friends as you engage in the outdoors and experience the fun and adventure of new places and destinations from the saddle of a bicycle. For tour information visit: crossroadsbiketours.com

Lake Lou Yaeger is a water-enthusiasts dream lake. Kayaks, stand up paddleboards and corcls are available for rent.

PARTY TIP:

Celebrate the Alton Marina’s 25th Anniversary Saturday, Aug. 28. Food, drinks and live music. Open to the public.

Litchfield

Visit

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

Paddle

ADVENTURES The waters of the Mighty Mississippi capture the imagination like no other river.

“The Mississippi River remains a mystery for a lot of people,” says Michelle Wiegand, Education Director for the Audubon Center at Riverlands.

That means boating is popular on the river with cruises available on a 49-passenger excursion boat sailing out of Grafton Harbor and the Spirit of Peoria, an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that cruises the river each summer and fall.

Enjoying the river in a more personal way is also a highlight for water enthusiasts. Kayak experiences are offered through the Audubon Center and are limited to seven people per session.

VisitLitchfield.com 866-733-5833

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!

“Not a lot of places in the region rent kayaks so there is a huge demand,” Wiegand notes. “We want to be able to provide a way for people to be able to connect with the river and its eco-systems.”

The Audubon Center has Kayaking on Ellis Bay events running from June through July. Ellis Bay is located on the edge of the mighty river in West Alton, MO. “These are very popular kayak events,” Wiegand says.

“People who have never kayaked before take part and there are people who enjoy it so much they keep coming back.”

To register for the kayaking tours, visit: riverlands.audubon.org/events

Great Transient Rates Available Reservations Encouraged Contact Karen Baker-Brncic @ (618) 791-5109

(618) 462-9860 l AltonMarina.com RiversandRoutes.com

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AND THERE’S MORE!

MORE BOATING ADVENTURES

Outdoor adventures in the region don’t stop with bike trails or waterways.

Jet ski rentals and pontoon boat rentals are also available for those looking for a different kind of river adventure. Grafton Harbor offers pontoon boat rentals that include hourly and full day rates. River Road Water Sports, located at Grafton Harbor, has jet skis for rent during the summer.

Experience an adrenaline rush like no other with Grafton Zipline Adventures. The tree top canopy family-friendly adventure sits high on the river bluffs above the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers on the Aerie’s Resort property. Soar from bluff to bluff with maximum speeds of 45 miles per hour and enjoy the views. Rope bridges, trails and a surprise ending highlight the zipline.

Find yourself floating on the Illinois River aboard the excursion boat, Hakuna Matata.

Watch the sun set over the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers during a Sunset Cruise. Or take a weekend sightseeing cruise. The Hakuna Matata sails out of Grafton Harbor.

Want to cool off after an adventurous day?

Take a leisurely ride to the top of the river bluffs with the Grafton SkyTour. Open air chair lifts and enclosed gondolas rise over 300-feet in the air from Grafton’s Main Street to the top of the river bluffs, a journey of 1,500 feet.

The Spirit of Peoria makes its way to the Great Rivers & Routes region several times a year in the spring, summer and fall for those eager to experience the river on an authentic paddle wheel boat.

TRAVEL TIP: After taking the SkyTour to Aerie’s Resort, relax and enjoy the views from the new Tree Bar. Indoor and outside tables provide scenic views of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Food and a wide selection of craft beer, wine and cocktails are on tap.

Visit RiversandRoutes.com for cruising dates and ticketing information.

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!

Connecting 21 Communities Across Southwestern Illinois 137 miles of interconnected trails 7 loops | 25 tunnels | 49 bridges

mcttrails.org | trails@mct.org 618-797-4600 |

618-786-7678 | GraftonHarbor.com | 215 West Water Street | Grafton, Illinois 8

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“If anything, this past year has taught us about the importance of open spaces,” says Edwardsville’s Watershed Nature Center Consultant Megan Reichmann.

“There are so many physical and mental health benefits to getting back to nature. It’s fantastic to reconnect with a habitat that was here before any of us were here.”

The 46-acre Watershed Nature Center, 1591 Tower Ave., has recently undergone a series of enhancements to the center’s grounds which includes adding a new Shoreline Classroom and Educational Meadow.

The meadow has a natural play area for children which includes logs, stumps and boulders for crawling and climbing. Educational signage has been added throughout the Educational Meadow to identify plant species and describe the importance of native plantings.

“Nature is a safe way to get active,” Michelle Wiegand, Education Director for the Audubon Center

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at Riverlands says. “Nature isn’t just about what you see, it’s about how you are feeling when you are in a place. There’s peace. You can slow down, unwind and connect with the big and little things happening in nature.”

The 3,170-acre sanctuary on the banks of the Mississippi River in West Alton is designated an Important Birding Area and serves as a major migratory point for spring and fall bird migrations.

It also is a great place to get lost in nature and discover native plants, animals and birds that make the region their home. The sanctuary has wetlands, prairie, and bottomland forests which provide habitats and resources for animals and birds.

“Nature itself is a great guide,” Wiegand points out.

Return to nature at Godfrey’s The Nature Institute, 2213 S. Levis Ln. Explore the more than 294-acre Olin Nature Preserve at TNI which has been dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve. The protected land has exquisite views of the Mississippi River from its blufftop location. There are over 300 native plant species, 150 species of nesting and migratory birds and the preserve serves as

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a habitat to the Eastern Timber Rattlesnake. Unique geological features include sinkholes, ravines and bedrock outcrops. Discover the small streams, a waterfall, upland forest and hill prairies.

C O L L I N S V I L L E - S T. L O U I S C O L L I N S V I L L E - S T. L O U I S

1000 EASTPORT 1000 EASTPORT 618.345.2800 618.345.2800

PLAZA DRIVE COLLINSVILLE, IL PLAZA DRIVE COLLINSVILLE, IL DOUBLETREECOLLINSVILLE.COM DOUBLETREECOLLINSVILLE.COM

Escape off the beaten path and explore the Bremer Sanctuary in rural Hillsboro. The 203-acre sanctuary is a protected area and is home to a large bluebird population.

Reconnect with nature throughout the oak hickory uplands, wooded ravines, transitional grasslands and wetlands areas.

Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton is described as a nature lover’s paradise. Views of the nearby Illinois River, surrounding river bluffs and woods provide an up close look at local wildlife and plants. There are 12 miles of marked hiking trails that provide scenic views to beginner through experienced hikers alike.

Both Beaver Dam State Park, near Carlinville, and Horseshoe Lake State Park in Collinsville, offer opportunities to get in touch with nature. The parks are largely untouched and offer a remote natural experience not far from urban centers.

THE NATURE CENTER

Who doesn’t want to leave the worries and stresses of life behind right now? And let’s face it, getting back in touch with nature is a great way to stay healthy – both physically and mentally.

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Soulsby Service Station, Mt. Olive: Doc’s Soda Fountain, Girard: What started as a town drug store in the late 1800’s morphed into a soda fountain shop when Route 66 slid through town. Original hand-drawn sodas can be purchased to this day from the vintage 1920’s soda fountain.

Skyview Drive In, Litchfield: Stop the car and take in a movie at this vintage drive in theater. While first run movies aren’t shown, you can enjoy a bucket of popcorn, soda and a favorite throw back film from the last couple of decades.

ROUTE 66Kicks ROLL DOWN THE CAR WINDOWS. TURN UP THE RADIO. AND HEAD ON DOWN HISTORIC ROUTE 66 IN SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS FOR THE MOTHER OF ALL ROAD TRIPS.

There are plenty of ways to get your kicks on Route 66 in the Great Rivers & Routes region. The final leg of the road in Illinois, 60-miles of it in fact, meander through the region from Virden, just outside Springfield, IL, to the old Chain of Rocks Bridge crossing the Mississippi River in to Missouri.

Once upon a time there were full service gas stations. This vintage Shell Station sits in the middle of Route 66 and provides a blast to the past with original pumps and a look behind the scenes in the station itself.

Henry’s Rabbit Ranch, Staunton: Home to bunny rabbits, Volkswagon rabbits and a giant fiberglass rabbit.

This is a must-stop attraction on any Route 66 road trip.

A giant pink elephant, T Rex, alien spaceship and other fiberglass giant statues welcome visitors to the antique mall housed in a former school gym and the Twistee Treat Diner, a throwback to the ‘50’s.

Brooks Catsup Bottle Water Tower, Collinsville: Dubbed the tallest Catsup Bottle Water Tower in the world, this catsup bottle towers over the city and is a beacon for Route 66 travelers.

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d l e fi h c t i L

Visit

Get Your Kicks!

STAY ON ROUTE 66 • 6 HOTELS AND 30 RESTAURANTS

VisitLitchfield.com 866-733-5833

Illinois Coal Museum, Gillespie: Coal was once king in this part of Illinois.

Stop at this museum which brings to life the experiences of coal miners through the years.

JOIN US TO CELEBRATE

MONTGOMERY COUNTY’S 200TH BIRTHDAY

In between those two points are some fun, kitschy and Instagrammable stops on the famous Mother Road. Get ready to rock and roll – here are just a few things you shouldn’t miss.

Pink Elephant Antique Mall, Livingston:

Discover your perfect Instagram moment on Route 66 and share it with us: #RiversandRoutes

Chain Of Rocks Bridge: Once a two-lane toll bridge linking the Illinois side of Route 66 to its Missouri counterpart, the bridge over the Mississippi River is limited to pedestrian traffic only. Check out the 30 degree dog leg in the middle of the bridge!

Wildey Theatre, Edwardsville: When Vaudeville was king, the Wildey Theatre was home to the likes of Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Al Jolson, W.C. Fields and Ginger Rogers. Today, it hosts live music every weekend and vintage movies on Tuesdays.

www.montgomeryco.com/ index.php/mc-200th

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ART

STREET

KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN FOR …

SPLASHES OF COLOR DECORATE THE AGING BRICK OF BUILDINGS. SOME ARE ABSTRACT WORKS OF ART. OTHERS TELL A STORY. STREET ART MURALS AND SCULPTURES ARE BLOOMING THROUGHOUT THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION OF SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS. FROM ALTON, PERCHED ON THE BANKS OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER, TO LITCHFIELD, NESTLED IN THE ILLINOIS PRAIRIE ALONG ROUTE 66, BRILLIANT WORKS OF STREET ART ARE WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED.

MARYVILLE

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COLLINSVILLE The exterior of the Collinsville Senior Center, 420 E. Main St., received a facelift in 2019 when a lively mural celebrating Collinsville was created.

Students at SIU Edwardsville designed and painted the mural.

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An homage to the evolution of transportation in the U.S. graces the side of the Troy Times Tribune newspaper building. The City of Troy is located at the intersection of Interstates 55, 70, 270 and U.S. 40. It also was once a stop on the historic National Road.

Baseball fans will enjoy the 18-foot tall images of four major league baseball players depicted on the exterior of the Maryville Heritage Museum, 128 E. Zupan St. St. Louis Cardinal Ken Oberkfell; Brooklyn Dodger and Chicago Cub Dwain Sloat; Bob Boken, who played for the Washington Senators and Chicago White Sox; and Boston Red Sox player John C. “Buster” Lucas all grew up in Maryville.

ALTON Visitors arriving to the city along Illinois Route 100 (Landmarks Boulevard) are greeted with a five story tall rendition of a paddlewheel river boat cruising down the river.

The mural, which took five months to complete was painted in 2010.

The mural was designed by Mike Eckhard and painted by Euripides “Rip” Kastaris.

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The well-traveled intersection of Piasa Street and 9th Street is home to a mural created by the children of Alton in 2012. Over 200 children were involved in creating scenes from life on the river on this cement wall.

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This city’s home on the Mother Road of Route 66 is highlighted with a street mural honoring the past.

The mural is located at 120 S. Macoupin St.

ike M McouP d d s n & Cella r an G e r To ur nt Mansion

2018 Alby Alton, IL

Local artist Sarah Dupont created a mural behind Frew’s Bridal, 305 Piasa St. in 2017. The mural is frequently used in photo shoots in the region.

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Renowned artist Cbabi Bayoc painted a vibrant outdoor mural in downtown Staunton in 10 days in 2020. The Macoupin Art Collective commissioned the street art at 115 E. Main St. The mural shows the interconnectedness of Staunton and highlights diversity.

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Travel along Illinois Route 3 between Granite City and Madison to view the four art installations commissioned

by America's Central Port.

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STAUNTON

The Montgomery County Bicentennial Committee will be installing photographic wallpaper on buildings throughout the county depicting the history of the county. The wallpaper adheres to brick buildings and lasts up to one year. The wall photos are part of the county’s Bicentennial Celebration which kicks off on June 5.

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Three separate outdoor murals decorate walls on buildings in this Mississippi River community.

A new street mural in Litchfield which is anticipated to be painted in late April and early May. Muralist Victor Ving is expected to paint the mural at the corner of Illinois Route 16 and State Street (423 N. State).

618.830.2179 618.462.3348

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om ansion.c RiversandRoutes.com

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BLACK VOICES THEIR VOICES CAN BE HEARD ACROSS TIME AND RESONATE TODAY WITH THE STORIES OF FREEDOM SEEKERS; THE FREE AND ENSLAVED; AND, ORDINARY PEOPLE LOOKING FOR AN ORDINARY LIFE.

The history of Black residents in the six county Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois has left an indelible mark on the local culture and landscape.

Alton, with its location on the Mississippi River, was a prime conduit on Underground Railroad routes from Missouri to the “free” state of Illinois and beyond. Just west of alton the Rocky Fork Area was settled by those of African ancestry as early as 1816 and was a passageway for freedom seekers, according to local historians Charlotte E. Johnson and Reneé B. Johnson.

The mother-daughter team of historians, the Johnson’s have created a series of essays about Black history

UNTOLD BLACK STORIES AT JACOBY ARTS CENTER Personal stories of family devotion, faith, dedication to hard work, friendship, honor and more are part of Jacoby Arts Center’s Untold Black Stories exhibit which will fill downtown Alton’s storefronts in May and June.

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Large-scale portraits of residents will animate the city’s downtown district with striking and novel imagery as part of the exhibit which will fill storefront windows on Broadway Street in Alton. QR Codes will be part of the exhibits and will link to threeminute audio excerpts of recorded conversations.

“We want to catalyze diversity, inclusivity and equity within the downtown Alton district by honoring the stories and participants in Untold Black Stories,” Rachel Lappin,

in the region which are part of the RiversandRoutes.com website.

“From those in bondage seeking freedom to those seeking a welcome and opportunity, people came to this place simply to live their lives and raise their children. Generation after generation, they called this place ‘home’,” the two wrote of the Rocky Fork Area. The sentiment applies to several other clusters of homes and settlements throughout the area.

Rocky Fork has a place on the Underground Railroad National Network to Freedom. Holders of National Park Service passports can have their passport stamped commemorating the Rocky Fork area

at the Alton Visitor Center, 200 Piasa St. after June 1.

Underground Railroad stations that dotted the landscape throughout the region are part of guided tours offered by Underground Railroad historian JE Robinson.

For more information about local tours or to schedule a tour visit: RiversandRoutes.com

Jazz great Miles Davis is also part of Alton’s heritage. Davis was born in Alton although his father, a dentist, moved the family to East St. Louis nine months after his birth. Alton has commemorated its ties to Davis with a bronze statue created by artist Preston Jackson.

The statue stands on Third Street in Alton’s entertainment district. It is one of three Miles Davis statues in the world, and the only one on the U.S. continent.

Executive Director of the arts center says. “Through these stories we discover a rich and often untold history. We see ourselves in these stories. They help us find our way back to one another and imagine a more inclusive society.”

Thirty conversations with Black residents were created

by StoryCorps and released on National Public Radio. Alton’s Untold Black Stories exhibit is a way to enhance the StoryCorps project, Lappin points out.

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Grab the towels and sunscreen, pack up the kids and head to Raging Rivers Water Park in Grafton. The park, which opens for the season Saturday, May 22, sits on the banks of the Mississippi River and rises naturally along the river bluffs. In addition to the magnificent views, Raging Rivers is home to Itty Bitty Surf City (designed for the very young), a million gallon wave pool, lazy river and several thrilling water slides.

“2021 will be a year unlike any other at Raging Rivers Waterpark,” said Corporate Director of Operations Ken Handler. “We are adding more twists and turns, splashes, treats and places to kick back and relax for our guests and we couldn’t be more excited.”

WHEN THE WEATHER WARMS UP, THERE IS NOTHING LIKE SPENDING A DAY OR EVEN DAYS COOLING OFF AT AREA WATER PARKS AND SPLASH PADS.

Monsoon Mountain is a 50 foot tall water castle of fun.

It includes five slides of various shapes and sizes, and different hoses and buckets that kids can use to squirt each other with water. The bucket on top holds 500 gallons of water and douses the kids or unsuspecting parents below with its contents every five minutes.

Two slides at the top of Monsoon Mountain, one open and one tube, have a 40 inch height requirement.

THE LOADING DOCK GRAFTON

“The Aqua Park is really a gem for the City of Collinsville,” Kim Caughran, Collinsville Park and Recreation Director points out. “We have a nice variety of water activities that are great for all ages. Families can enjoy a little getaway in Collinsville by spending the day at the Aqua Park, staying overnight in a nearby hotel, and then exploring the city at night.”

401 Front St. • Grafton Stunning river views. Outdoor dining. Live music. Lawn games.

The Loading Dock, located alongside the Mississippi River is the perfect place to wind down. The casual menu features something for everyone – even the kids!

In Edwardsville, parents with young children can spend time at the Leon Corlew Splash Pad. The water venue is free and open to the public. However, due to on-going COVID restrictions, the Splash Pad will be limited to 50 percent occupancy at any time.

BLUFF CITY GRILL

424 E. Broadway • Alton

Relax after a day of summer fun in the restaurant’s casual atmosphere. Check out the signature Guac Bites, or try a Stinger Salad, sandwich, or steak, seafood and pasta entrée.

The 12-acre water park is adding a new water slide, 30 new cabanas for rent, additions to the kiddie pool and updates to food menus. The new slide will feature three hidden chambers to speed down, splashing and spraying through the enclosed tubes before the final splash down.

Raging Rivers will also unleash a Sea Lion Splash Show June 19 – 27 at the water park. The show features beached sea lions who were unable to return to the wild. And when the lights come on, the sea lions put on a one-of-a-kind display of singing and dancing, acrobatics, and all manner of delightful hijinks. Water park guests can enjoy the show with a regular water park admission purchase, through season passes and by purchasing a special VIP Sea Lion Package.

SLOAN’S PUB HOUSE

119 W. Main St. • Collinsville

Creative burger options, salads, fish sandwiches, pizzas and an extensive beer menu are all part of the experience at this locally owned and operated Uptown Collinsville restaurant.

Enjoy your get-away and leave the

Collinsville Aqua Park will open with a splash on Saturday, May 29.

The park is home to seven water slides, a leisure pool, lap pool, the famed Monsoon Mountain, Aqua Climb Wall and lazy river.

Upscale Guest Lodging in Historic Downtown Alton

Rest

to us!

Additional summer events will be on tap at the water park. Stay-up-todate on events and purchase season passes by visiting: ragingrivers.com

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Spending time in the sun can make you hungry! Check out these nearby local restaurants for some after-sun dining enjoyment.

Collinsville Collinsville

12 Commerce Drive

7 Commerce Drive

618-803-4032

Collinsville 8 Commerce Drive 618-477-8946

Riverfront luxury within walking distance of everything Downtown Alton has to offer!

All units feature beautiful panoramic river views, full kitchen and en suite laundry.

Nightly & Extended Stay Rates

618-346-4400

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WILLOUGHBY FARM and Conservation Reserve BE ON THE LOOKOUT! A NEW SPLASH PAD IS COMING TO THE ALTON RIVERFRONT IN 2021.

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

The recirculating splash pad will be located near the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater which is located on the banks of the Mississippi River. It will have water play activities amid nature-themed elements which will tie in Alton’s connection to the Mississippi River. Once construction is completed, the Splash Pad will be free and open to the public. Concession areas and rest rooms will also be constructed nearby.

PARKS & RECREATION

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

FINDSUMMER YOUR

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SUPER-SLIDE

June

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19-27

With miles of slides & thousands of gallons of water, there are millions of ways for your family to have FUN! Buy Tickets in Advance at RagingRivers.com and save!

Plan your summer fun now! www.collinsvilleaquapark.com (618) 346-4571 10 Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL RiversandRoutes.com

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Enjoy a taste of the new River Dragons Radler beer created just for the new Prospect League team by Old Bakery Beer in Alton.

The beer will be served at the ballpark, Old Bakery Beer and local restaurants.

“I am super excited for the season to get here,” Martz says. “Since moving to Alton in September, the whole community has been extremely welcoming to me both personally and professionally. This is a great baseball community and we are looking forward to delivering a great baseball product.”

The team is led by General Manager Dallas Martz who has relocated from Iowa to Alton to help build the team. This year’s coach will be Darrell Handelsman, the winningest coach in summer collegiate baseball, according to Marso.

players want them to have extra playing time during the summer,” Marso notes.

“The idea with the Prospect League is to be part of a team and to be noticed by the major league scouts who attend the games. Most of the coaches of these

July 1 - O’Fallon July 2 - O’Fallon July 3 - Cape Girardeau July 4 - Cape Girardeau July 7 - Normal (DH) July 8 - Springfield July 9 - Burlington July 10 - Clinton July 11 - Clinton July 13 - O’Fallon July 14 - Cape Girardeau July 15 - Cape Girardeau July 16 - O’Fallon July 17 - O’Fallon July 18 - Cape Girardeau July 20 - Normal July 21 - Quincy July 22 - Springfield July 23 - O’Fallon July 24 - Quincy July 25 - O’Fallon July 27 - Cape Girardeau July 28 - Terre Haute July 29 - Danville July 30 - Cape Girardeau July 31 - Quincy August 1 - Normal August 3 - Cape Girardeau August 4 - O’Fallon TUESDAY – SATURDAY Home Games @ 6:35 p.m.

SUNDAY Home Games @ 4:35 p.m.

JULY 3 Home Game @ 4:35 p.m.

May 27 - Cape Girardeau May 28 - Terre Haute May 29 - O’Fallon May 30 - Springfield June 1 - Cape Girardeau June 2 - Burlington June 3 - Burlington June 4 - Springfield June 5 - O’Fallon June 6 - O’Fallon June 8 - Burlington June 9 - Quincy June 10 - Danville June 11 - Quincy June 12 - Cape Girardeau June 13 - Cape Girardeau June 15 - Danville June 16 - Terre Haute June 17 - Cape Girardeau June 18 - Cape Girardeau June 19 - Springfield June 20 - Springfield June 22 - Terre Haute June 23 - Danville June 24 - Clinton June 25 - Clinton June 26 - O’Fallon June 27 - Quincy June 29 - Burlington June 30 - Burlington

HOME AWAY

www.altonbaseball • 618.433.3665

Lloyd Hopkins Field • May - August

2021Inaugural Season

After taking a brief break from the baseball world, Marso decided he wanted to own another team. This time he wanted to build it from the ground up.

Marso was bitten by the baseball bug when he was 17 and began working concessions for the St. Paul Saints minor league baseball team. He and his brother eventually took over the concessions for the team and parlayed it into a 9 year deal selling food and beverages to several minor league teams. In 2004, Marso bought his first team, the Waterloo (Iowa) Bucs, a Prospect League team, which he owned for 11 years.

“This is all going to be fun. Baseball is a great family activity and, COVID willing, we are going to celebrate on our opening weekend,” Marso says. “There will be pregame entertainment and fireworks after the game. We want to make it really good fun for everyone.”

There are plans in the works to upgrade the ball park with a Kid Zone – complete with a bounce house and pitching machine, Beer Garden, additional concession areas and a stage for live entertainment.

The River Dragon’s home field will be Lloyd Hopkins Field at Gordon Moore Park. The ball park can hold up to 2,000 spectators, features box seats and bleacher-style seating. It is adjacent to Spencer T. Olin Golf Course.

Marso has made sure to involve the Alton region in welcoming the team. He created a Name the Team Contest in July of 2020 and had over 1,000 entries.

“Someone mentioned there was a little ballpark in Alton. When I walked on to the field, I thought, ‘Wow. This is pretty cool.’,” Marso remembers. That was the start of what would eventually become the Alton River Dragons, a collegiate level Prospect League baseball team which will kick off its inaugural season on May 27.

The River Dragons will face 15 Midwest teams during the 60 game season. Opposing teams are based in Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. The Prospect League is composed entirely of collegiate players from all over the United States. The River Dragons will have 32 college baseball players on the team. The ball players are not paid and the league does not allow the use of metal bats.

“Alton is a great baseball town,” Marso notes. “People are so excited about the team and they are talking baseball already! The reception and welcome has been awesome.”

Marso, of Minneapolis, MN, had plans to own a Prospect League baseball team but needed a good ball park and a community with a passion for baseball in order to move forward.

That’s when Alton hit his radar.

STEVE MARSO FOUND HIS FIELD OF DREAMS IN ALTON, IL.

ALTON RIVER DRAGONS COME TO TOWN

HEAR THEM

Tee Time

TAKE A SWING AT SOME GREAT SUMMER FUN ON GOLF COURSES AROUND THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION. Bring your clubs to Alton’s Rock Spring Golf Course for a quick 9-hole round of golf in a hilly park setting. Or put your golf game to the test at the professionally designed and dynamic Spencer T. Olin Golf Course, an Arnold Palmer designed facility in Alton and Indian Springs Golf Course in Fillmore designed by Dan Gorsage and Kyle Goalby.

YOUR SCENIC DESTINATION ON THE RIVER! SPENCER T. OLIN COMMUNITY GOLF COURSE This is the only Arnold Palmer designed course in the region. With nearly 7,000 yards of championship layout, the course is designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels.

Stunning views of the St. Louis skyline decorate the greens at Gateway National Golf Links in Madison. While sweeping fairways amid a winding creek highlight The Woodlands Golf Course in Alton. Godfrey’s Lockhaven Golf Club, located just off the Great River Road on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, has stunning river views along its professionally designed course.

Explore the different courses available throughout the region on a week day escape with golf buddies, or a weekend getaway.

For more information on golf courses in the region and to design your own golf-cation, visit: RiversandRoutes.com

2021 RIVERSIDE FLEA MARKET April 24 & 25 June 26 & 27 Aug 28 & 29 Oct 23 & 24

INDIAN SPRINGS GOLF COURSE Nestled on the Illinois prairie near the small town of Fillmore in Montgomery County, Indian Springs is a true hidden gem. The course is designed for all skill levels.

GATEWAY NATIONAL GOLF LINKS Created in the tradition of famous seaside golf courses in the British Isles, this fearsome 7,178 par 71 course has rollings links, lush pasturelands, wood-tie bunkers and the occasional stone bridge. And, of course, views of downtown St. Louis.

24 Great Rivers & Routes

“Indian Springs is actually nature at its best and we get to have a golf course right in the middle of it,” says Natalie Fuller, General Manager of Indian Springs Golf Club. “PGA Architect Kyle Goalby took this place and kept the hills and valleys. He incorporated the springs and ponds and he designed such a beautiful place of serenity.”

May 22 & 23 July 24 & 25 Sept 25 & 26 9 am - 5 pm

OPEN YEAR ROUND!

For Vendor Information Call Trudi (618) 593-2103

Bar & Grill

INDOOR SEASONAL ICE SKATING

Live Entertainment Overnight Accommodations

Friday, Saturday & Sunday November 20, 2021 March 6, 2022

Private Event Space

Open daily during Thanksgiving & Christmas Breaks

401 E. Front St. • Grafton, IL • (618) 556-7951 • graftonloadingdock.com RiversandRoutes.com

25

HOOK, LINE & SINKER PICTURE YOURSELF SITTING ALONG THE BANKS OF THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI, FISHING POLE IN HAND, YOUR LINE DRIFTING IN THE WATER AND DREAMS OF SNAGGING THE PERFECT CHANNEL OR BLUE CATFISH SWIMMING AROUND IN YOUR HEAD. THE SKIES ARE BLUE AND THE SUN IS WARM. IT’S ALMOST A PERFECT DAY. THEN YOUR LINE JERKS AND YOUR DAY JUST BECAME ONE TO REMEMBER. Netting a trophy catfish – whether it’s a channel cat, blue cat or flathead isn’t that unusual in the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois.

are bigger fish in the Mississippi River though. There are sturgeons that are over 200 pounds but no one ever gets those.”

“The Mississippi and Illinois Rivers in our region offer some excellent and diverse fishing opportunities,” Fred Cronin, a Fisheries Biologist with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources says. “The rivers are well known for producing trophy sized blue catfish and flathead catfish.”

When McMurray heads out to fish, he goes for the lakes.

There are lakes throughout the region ideal for beginners and experienced anglers. McMurray says good spots include Hillsboro Lake, Otter Lake and Gillespie Lake.

But catfish aren’t the only fish anglers look for. The region is full of largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, white bass, sauger, freshwater drum, common carp and gar. And according to Cronin, in the early spring when waters are high, there are opportunities to try your hand at bowfishing.

Rivers, lakes and area ponds are open to anglers of all ages and skill levels. Fishing season typically starts in late March or early April, depending on the year.

Kids can learn how to fish at Pere Marquette State Park’s pond located in front of the Visitor Center. Or experienced anglers can hop in a boat and cruise the rivers in search of the elusive ‘monster’ catfish rumored to roam the waters.

Then again, it could be a local ‘fish tale’.

“Every year someone pulls out a catfish that weighs over 100 pounds,” Mark McMurray, owner of Bluff City Outdoors says. “The record came in at 148 pounds. There

26 Great Rivers & Routes

Scott Isringhausen, Urban Fishing Coordinator at Pere Marquette State Park recommends the following fishing spots: n

Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton: An education pond ideal for kids is located near the old cabin at the park Visitor Center. It is a ‘kids only’ pond; has a catch-and-release requirement and is stocked with hybrid bluegill.

n

Leclaire Lake, Edwardsville: “This is an excellent place to catch fish. The fish you catch are small, but the population is tremendous,” Isringhausen says.

The lake has a population of six-inch or smaller bluegill, has catfish and bass.

n

Beaver Dam State Park, Carlinville: The lake is handicapped accessible and has docks and bank access. Major fish include large-mouth bass, bluegill, crappie, read ear, channel catfish, large flathead catfish and trout. Boats with trolling motors only are allowed.

n

n

Gordon Moore Park, Alton: The pond at the park is stocked with bluegill, green sunfish, and catfish.

“The fishing spot is underrated as a bass fisherie,” Isringhausen notes. “The bass fisheries contain several bass weighing over three pounds.”

Belk Park, Wood River: Fish include green sunfish, large-mouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish and crappie.

n

Glazebrook Park, Godfrey: The lake is handicapped accessible and has bank access.

Numerous bluegill, catfish and bass are stocked in the lake.

Pick up your fishing supplies here:

BAIT AND TACKLE SHOPS n

Bluff City Outdoors • 2813 E. Broadway • Alton

n

Denny’s Package Liquor & Bait Shop 126 W. Ryder St. • Litchfield

Looking for a guided fishing experience? McMurray says Bluff City Outdoors can provide guided fishing experiences for small groups of people. McMurray has several guides he works with who will do both lake and river tours. Call Bluff City Outdoors at 618-465-6175 for more information.

Fishing is available year round at Litchfield’s Lake Lou Yaeger. Catfish, crappie, bluegill and bass can be found in the lake. Shore fishing is free but boat fishing requires a paid pass. Day passes and annual passes are available.

Bait is also available for purchase at Marina 1. Fishing limits: Large or Smallmouth Bass: 3 per day harvest limit with 15-inch minimum length; Channel Catfish: 6 per day harvest limit; Crappie: No limit; All Fish: 2 Pole and line fishing only.

SCOTT ISRINGHAUSEN’S

FISHING TIPS

FOR KIDS n

Size matters when it comes to choosing a fish hook.

Small hooks are best. Remember you can catch big fish with small hooks.

n

Use small bait and a small bobber when fishing.

n

Recognize when a fish bites and set your line.

This takes practice!

n

Don’t be patient. If fish aren’t biting where you are – move around. Find the fish!

n

Fish around structures in the water like tree stumps and large rocks. This is where fish live – so fish near their home.

RiversandRoutes.com

27

Naples, at 30 years old, has always had plans to own a restaurant. He knew from age 14, when he started working, that having a restaurant would be part of his future.

“I’m not a cookie cutter kind of person,” Naples says. “I like to be on a tractor as much as walking through downtown Chicago. I just like to make things happen.”

JOEY NAPLES IS A LICENSED PYROTECHNICIAN AND IS IN CHARGE OF CARLINVILLE’S JULY 4TH FIREWORKS

The COVID pandemic prompted Naples to think outside the box as he tried to figure out ways to keep his business open. He created themed carry-out nights which were popular and during the summer and fall he was able to have Daley Street, in front of his business, closed to traffic and created an open air dining area.

Tables with umbrellas dotted the street and people flocked to his outdoor tavern.

THE UPTOWN TAVERN IS A FAMILY AFFAIR WITH JOEY, HIS SISTERS KIRSTEN AND MOLLY AND SOMETIMES HIS MOM, AMY, WORKING ALONGSIDE HIM.

CHECK OUT THE PURPLE TRAIN DRINK – SOLD ONLY DURING THE ANNUAL CARLINVILLE LIONS FESTIVAL!

THE UPTOWN TAVERN HAS REPLICAS OF ITS ORIGINAL BARSTOOLS IN PLACE. JOEY FOUND ONE OF THE ORIGINALS AND CONTACTED THE COMPANY THAT MANUFACTURED THE STOOL. NOW THE BAR HAS ITS ORIGINAL LOOK.

THE UPTOWN TAVERN IS JUST THE FIRST OF JOEY’S PLANNED PROJECTS FOR UPTOWN CARLINVILLE. STAY TUNED!

U P T O W N TAV E R N • C A R L I N V I L L E WHAT’S IN A NAME? JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING IF YOU ARE JOEY NAPLES, OWNER OF CARLINVILLE’S UPTOWN TAVERN. Tucked away on a corner of the city’s historic square, and just mere yards from the once scandal ridden Loomis Hotel, Uptown Tavern has a story of its own to tell and Naples is more than ready to share it.

“People in Carlinville always say ‘uptown’ when they talk about coming to the Square,” Naples muses.

“When the tavern was started in 1946 it had a different name. I changed it to Uptown Tavern in 2017 after I took over the space. I wanted to turn it in to a brand.”

What Naples has done is put his heart and soul into creating a place where guests feel at home and enjoy lingering over freshly cooked food paired with soda, beer, wine or the occasional mixed drink.

“I wanted a place where people can make memories – where everyone is comfortable. It’s all about the atmosphere,” he says. In a classic twist of fate, Naples father, Jay, visited

28 Great Rivers & Routes

the tavern in 1993 when he was contemplating moving his young family from Peoria to Carlinville. As a result, the building holds some history for the Naples family.

“The community supported our dining in waves,” he marveled.

“We were able to make the tavern in to a venue and it changed the direction the business was going.

Outside dining was a big positive and we became a stopping point along Route 66.”

Uptown Tavern is housed in a building built in the late 1800’s. It’s location near the Loomis Hotel gives it a historical cachet. And Naples is a

student of history. He is more than ready to regale tavern guests with historical facts and snippets. Add in the fact that the Carlinville Square sits smack in the middle of the Mother Road’s journey through the city, and the topics of conversation are endless.

“Did you know that Carlinville is the only town on Route 66 where you have to go around the square completely to continue on the road,” he asks. “We have relatable history here.”

It’s not just the history or the atmosphere that draws people to Uptown Tavern. The eclectic menu features seafood, burgers, chicken, salads and more, all with whimsical, entertaining names.

“We serve bar food, but it’s elevated bar food,” Naples points out. “We use as much local foods as we can including meats and eggs.”

Diners enjoy the throwback sandwiches and entrees that Naples has spent time researching and recreating. On weekends, the ‘Rattlesnake’, a deep-fried beef tenderloin popular in 1958, is a best seller.

“It is really our biggest seller on the weekends,” Naples says. “It’s fattening, buttery and rich but so so good.”

The Blackened Chicken Pita sandwich, a favorite menu choice from a now closed Carlinville restaurant, has been pulled out of retirement and is a highlight of The Uptown Tavern menu. It is made as close to the original as possible thanks to the help of the owner of that closed restaurant, Naples says.

Add to those options, the Daley Street Tacos, Fish Tacos, Burgers (creatively named Frickle, Barn-Trash, Cowboy, Land ‘N Sea, Hot ‘N Sticky and the Classic), gyro, the Primal Ribeye and more. For kids there are the intriguing named Emelia’s Noodle Nugs, which is actually mac and cheese bites, along with chicken rings, mini corn dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches.

“I try to make the menu fun. And we make everything in house including our sauces and marinades,” Naples says with a grin. “It’s the attention to detail that separates us from the others.”

As a native of Carlinville, Naples is a proud supporter of the city.

“Carlinville is a cool little town,” he says. “A lot of small towns have vacant downtown districts but Carlinville is bustling. That's the big reason why I stay here.”

The self-described ‘upscale dive bar’ has become a destination in the four years since Naples started his lease.

The walls are filled with memorabilia Naples has collected over the years.

He has neon beer signs, bar signs from the 1970’s and 1980’s, a plat map of Macoupin County (where Carlinville is located), a wall filled with license plates from throughout the country and more. The front window of the tavern features a hand-painted sign giving the exterior a vintage look.

“I would say when I saw something I wanted, ‘that’s going to hang in my bar one day’,” Naples remembers.

“And there it is, in my bar! So when people walk in here it could be any year – it’s just timeless.”

RiversandRoutes.com

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HORSERADISH VODKA For more information on the Collinsville Horseradish Festival, go to: Internationalhorseradishfestival.com

Ever thought of trying some Horseradish Vodka? Old Herald Brewery & Distillery in Collinsville has got you covered. Owner Derik Reiser has created a horseradish infused vodka using locally grown roots.

“It really has an aromatic and unique flavor,” Reiser said. “We buy the root, grind it in house and put it in a botanical basket that we use to create a vapor infusion.”

THE STORY OF A ROOT

Horseradish Vodka is available for sale at Old Herald Brewery & Distillery • 115 E. Clay St. • Collinsville

“As much as horseradish grows well in the area with our climate and soil, it also has a lot to do with who our ancestors are,” Heepke says. Heepke’s great-great grandfather began growing horseradish on his rural Edwardsville land shortly after immigrating to the U.S. from Germany. Heepke currently grows horseradish on about 200 acres of land, a portion of his overall farm tract.

It has nothing to do with horses or even radishes. In fact, the pungent root that grows prolifically in the Collinsville area and is harvested for national and international distribution is truly a ‘hot’ commodity.

The horseradish root grows well in the sandy Mississippi River bottomlands around Collinsville and Edwardsville. The root grows primarily in the warm summer months and then goes dormant in late October.

That root is officially known as horseradish and people either love it or hate it.

“The number one use of horseradish is in sauces,” says Dennis Diekemper, manager of J. R. Kelly Company, a horseradish root distributor. “Straight ground horseradish isn’t as popular.”

The rule of thumb for harvesting the root, according to Heepke, is to harvest in any month that has an “R” in it. That means most harvesting occurs in late fall through early spring. When temperatures drop in the winter it doesn’t hurt the root in the ground.

In the U.S., an estimated 24 million pounds of horseradish roots are ground and processed annually producing six million gallons of prepared horseradish. Much of that comes from the Collinsville area.

“Freezing ground is not harmful to the root and when we harvest it we keep it in ‘coolers’ at a temperature of about 28 degrees,” Heepke said. “When you harvest, you want the plant to be dormant. It keeps a lot better that way.”

“Horseradish can and does grow in a lot of places but there is no other area in the world that has the concentration of horseradish growers as Collinsville,” Diekemper notes. “That has a lot to do with the cultural heritage of the area.”

Horseradish isn’t a common crop, Heepke notes. “You can’t just buy seeds and start a crop. What you plant in the spring comes off the root during harvest. It’s a very niche industry.”

Dennis Heepke, a fourth-generation horseradish grower, agrees.

CELEBRATION OF A ROOT COLLINSVILLE IS KNOWN AS THE INTERNATIONAL HORSERADISH CAPITAL OF THE WORLD. For 33 years, the city has hosted an annual festival devoted to all things horseradish on Main Street in Uptown Collinsville.

Tentative plans are to hold the festival in June this year.

Vendors celebrating different ways to serve, eat and enjoy the root are on hand. And what would the Collinsville Horseradish Festival be without a Horseradish Toss, hints on how to prepare your own horseradish, live music, food and drinks?

30 Great Rivers & Routes

CRE AM DIP R U O S Y P ZIP ., Collinsville of J.R. Kelly Co Recipe cour te

sy

ur cream 2 c. dairy so dish ed horsera 1/4 c. prepar uce sa e stershir 2 tsp. Worce seed 1 tsp. celery lt sa . p ts 1/2 rika 1/2 tsp. pap uffed olives chopped st y el n fi c.

4 1/

Blend ingredients. ith Chill. Serve w salt y crackers ly – it ’s especial e ry ith w good crackers.

RiversandRoutes.com

31

Meet Alexander Henry > CLEVELAND HEATH, EDWARDSVILLE When Alex Henry was young, he didn’t like food very much. It wasn’t until he became a teenager that the flavors and smells of food began tantalizing him with their potential.

I AM ALWAYS LEARNING. THERE IS SO MUCH IT WOULD TAKE MANY MANY LIFETIMES TO LEARN. THERE REALLY ISN’T ENOUGH TIME FOR ME TO LEARN IT ALL.

At 31, Henry is head chef of the award-winning Cleveland Heath restaurant in Edwardsville and it’s a position he relishes.

“Cleveland Heath is a destination,” Henry says. “It was before I got here.

And we get people from St. Louis who come over and have dinner here. It’s the kind of restaurant where you can

go a few times a week and not break the bank and enjoy some great food.”

Henry has been running the kitchen at Cleveland Heath for two years where he has built on his farm to table passion for food.

“Farm to table is so important because it leaves a lower carbon foot print on the earth,” he says. “It supports local farmers and you get a cooler variety of foods – not just the generic celery, carrots and onions. You find new stuff, new varieties.”

I THINK EXPERIENCE GIVES IDEAS AND MOVING AROUND TO DIFFERENT LOCATIONS HELPED WITH MY EXPERIENCE.

LET’S TALK ABOUT FOOD. BETTER YET, LET’S TALK ABOUT THE CHEFS THAT CREATE THE DISHES THAT HAVE MADE THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION A TRUE CULINARY DESTINATION. From a self-taught cook who found joy in the kitchen at the age of 8 to a Le Cordon Bleu trained chef who loves to experiment with flavors, regional chefs have developed a reputation for serving up quality meals that draw diners back again and again.

HEAD CHEF JEFF LEDFORD, RIGHT AND CHEF SCOTT LINKER, LEFT

Meet Matthew Cooper > OLD BAKERY BEER COMPANY, ALTON “Cooking is a passion,” Matthew Cooper, or ‘Coop’ as he is called, says.

“You have to love what you are doing to stay in the industry. There is a lot of pressure trying to cook food for 100 people in 30 minutes. It can be challenging.”

The head cook at Old Bakery Beer Company has led the kitchen crew at the brewery/restaurant since it opened six years ago. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Western Illinois University and had plans to run a restaurant eventually.

MY FAVORITE THINGS TO COOK ARE NEW THINGS.

32 Great Rivers & Routes

“I like to cook. I realized at age 8 or 9 that I liked it,” he says. A favorite family story in his home is that when he was

an infant, the only way his mother could calm him down was by turning on cooking shows airing on PBS. His mother also let him work in the kitchen cooking pancakes and brownies when he was young.

A creative cook, Coop develops signature sandwiches, soups, sauces and smoked meats at Old Bakery for seasonal menus. He doesn’t stop there though. He also gives those sandwiches unusual names. For example, a bacon, brie, turkey breast, topped with raspberry pepper jam on sourdough is called the ‘Mr. Miyagi’.

He also has a sandwich named in his honor, a staple on the menu. The Coop Special is smoked turkey, pastrami, bacon, swiss, chive and

pepper mayo on sourdough. Many of the names come from television shows Coop enjoys watching.

Like most his fellow chefs in the region, Coop works with local farmers to source fresh veggies, fruits and meats when possible. Coop makes the pickles served with meals in-house as well as the sides, salad dressings and the whole grain mustard served with soft pretzels. He also incorporates beer from the brewery in his dishes.

Old Bakery Beer Porter is used in chili. Golden Oat Beer is used in beer cheese. Many barbeque sauces have beer which is used as a reducing agent in the syrups.

Meet Jeff Ledford > HEAD CHEF, OLD HERALD BREWERY & DISTILLERY, COLLINSVILLE Jeff Ledford has created and served food to the likes of Wayne Gretzky, Whoopi Goldberg and President H.W. Bush.

Since 1985, he has traveled the country refining his cooking talents at famous venues like Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY, the 1993 World Series at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia, as well as stints in Corpus Christi, TX; Cincinnati, OH; Indianapolis, IN and Milwaukee, WI. That journey carried him to a 20-year career as Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverages at Argosy Casino,

Henry said working closely with local farmers and growers has given him a different perspective on how he creates his dishes.

Henry said he enjoys creating nuanced food. Taking root vegetables and enhancing the flavors with different herbs. Or creating a catfish entrée with braised kale and salt pork. He has developed a Brussels Sprouts Kale salad that diners keep coming back and requesting.

“It’s a little different from ways people have eaten Brussels Sprouts before,” he says.

Alton and then in 2019 to Old Herald Brewery & Distillery in Collinsville.

“Derik (the owner of Old Herald) is a friend and when he started looking into opening the restaurant along with the brewery and distillery I consulted a bit. Once he opened, he convinced me to come on board,” Ledford says.

“The food here is upscale pub food and the best thing about the food is the quality.”

At Old Herald, Ledford has immersed himself in the local farm to table cuisine. He sources meat from local farmers and in the summer, Old Herald has its own herb garden on site that is used to flavor foods. He also likes to infuse his dishes with the spirits and beers created at Old Herald.

“I do a lot with our spirits. The French Onion Soup is made with Printer’s Ink beer. I use the Tabasco Vodka to make sauces for our wings and we infuse the beef with IPA beers,” he notes.

Old Herald also offers four to five course meals pairing foods with beverages and spirits at twice a month, reservation-only gatherings.

“People say they can’t believe they have this kind of meal in Collinsville,” Ledford says, “I take a lot of pride in that.”

RiversandRoutes.com

33

at Edison’s

Where Adults Go To Play

2 VEN1+ UE

Live Music Fridays

I GET TO BE AN ARTIST AND CREATE IN THE KITCHEN.

Meet Chef Patrick Kelly >

STATE STREET MARKET, ALTON

GAMES

EATS & DRINKS

Now Booking!

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| 618.307.9020

Patrick Kelly has the 2010 economic recession to thank for sending him in to the kitchen.

A graphic designer prior to 2010, he ended up losing that job in the recession and decided to enroll in St. Louis’ Le Cordon Bleu culinary school.

“I had wanted to get into restaurants before I went to Le Cordon Bleu but once I graduated from there, doors started opening for me,” Kelly says.

He worked at several St. Louis restaurants after graduating including Satchmo’s and St. Louis Rotisserie. He found his way to State Street Market in Alton several years ago and fell in love with the potential and challenge the kitchen offered.

“When I came to State Street Market, I was really thinking about quitting work as a chef. But then a friend told me about this place. I walked in, met the owners and we sat around a table talking for two hours. That was it.”

Working in an electric kitchen, with a four burner range that adds “nice magic” to the food, Kelly has created a Thai Asian Pasta with Soba noodle dish, Pork Medallion stuffed with tomatoes, Curry Salmon, and an entrée featuring pork chop seasoned with Ras el hanout, a North African spice, paired with beets, carrots, herbed chili peanuts and drizzled with herbed honey.

“I am Irish, Italian and Hispanic so my food reflects that heritage,” Kelly notes.

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Alton l 618.645.5640 l johnsonscorneralton.com

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VOTED THE BEST STEAK

Kelly says he enjoys the intimate atmosphere of State Street Market with its hints of French Bistro.

“When people come here we want them to feel they are dining at their own table and can take their time and enjoy the meal. We like remembering our guests and asking how they enjoy the meals,” he says.

Keeping the dinner menu fresh is a priority of Kelly’s, who acknowledges he doesn’t like to be bored, especially by food.

“My whole life I have been an artist.” Kelly muses, “I’m always about change. And here the food is always about giving people flavors they don’t normally find themselves eating.”

34 Great Rivers & Routes

618-462-8384 TONYSRESTAURANT.COM RiversandRoutes.com

35

DOWNTOWN GOOEY BURGER

Sloan’s Pub House 119 W. Main St. • Collinsville, IL 62234 (618) 855-9100

You can’t visit Alton and not stop in at Fast Eddie’s, a world-famous dive bar known for its cold beer and cheap food. The no frills menu features one of the best burgers in Alton, a ½ pound juicy ground beef patty topped with American cheese and garnished with a choice of toppings. (Must be 21 and over to enter. Cash only)

PRIME BURGER

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BUR

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• JU

NE 14 -18.

Crispy Havarti cheese topping this ½ pound ground beef burger makes it memorable and tasty. It’s served on a homemade bun and has lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle and garlic mayo on the side. Moussalli’s is a farm-totable restaurant and grows much of its produce on site or sourced from local, humane and sustainable sources.

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If you need a little burger pick-me-up Roper’s Hangover Burger is a great remedy. The 1/3 pound ground beef patty is topped with 3 ounces of H&B ham, bacon, cheddar and swiss cheeses all topped with a sunnyside up egg. The burger is served on a pretzel bun with lettuce, onion, tomato and dill pickle chips.

This fresh ½ ground beef burger is nearly famous, according to the menu. And it hits the spot when paired with the outdoor patio dining experience. Enjoy views of the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi River paired with a glass of signature Grafton Winery wine.

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Moussalli’s Prime • 7415 State Rt. 143 Edwardsville, IL 62025 • (618) 656-0281

Old Bakery Beer Co. 400 Landmarks Blvd. • Alton, IL 62002 (618) 463-1470 The burger is different every week but it never disappoints. Old Bakery Beer’s Burger of the Week is always a half pound of ground beef topped with creative jams, sauces and cheeses that are the brain child of chef Matthew Cooper. Check out the Impossible Burger, perfect for the Vegan in the group. The burger is a 100 percent veggie burger, topped with white cheddar and onion jam and tastes just like the fresh beef.

IRISHMAN BURGER

Grafton Winery & Brewhaus 300 W. Main St. • Grafton, IL 62037 (618) 786-3001

Roper’s Regal Beagle 3043 Godfrey Rd. • Godfrey, IL 62035 (618) 466-2112

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GRAFTON BURGER

.

THE HANGOVER BURGER

Peanut butter on a hamburger? It’s better than you think, according to Joey Naples, owner of The Uptown Tavern. Named after Def Leppard’s famous “Hot, Sticky Sweet” tune, the burger features a ground beef patty, served over crunchy peanut butter and topped with pepper-jack cheese, jalapeno peppers, honey, jalapeno aioli on a brioche bun. The burger bun is then branded, literally, with The Uptown Tavern signature.

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Fast Eddie’s Bon Air • 1530 E. 4th St. Alton, IL 62002 • (618) 462-5532

The Uptown Tavern • 33 Daley St. Carlinville, IL 62626 • (217) 854-2337

BURGER OF THE WEEK

IRISH BURGER

McDill’s Irish Pub • 334 St. Louis Rd., Collinsville, IL 62234 • (618) 344-9875 Channel your inner Irishman with McDill’s classic Irish Burger. The ½ pound ground beef patty is topped with Dubliner Cheese, bacon and Guinness cooked onions and served on a Kruta Bakery bun. Or step outside your comfort zone and order the Kentucky Bourbon and Mushroom Burger. Mushrooms are key to this ½ pound Kentucky Bourbon Angus burger topped with a generous portion of sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese and served on a Kruta bun.

Morrison’s Irish Pub 200 State St. • Alton, IL 62002 (618) 433-8900 Bring your appetite to Morrison’s when you order the Irishman Burger. This ½ pound ground beef patty is topped with corned beef, cabbage, Irish cheese and horseradish sauce served on a dark Duke Bakery bun. If this is too much, check out the Lamburger: ½ pound of locally sourced ground lamb topped with melted goat cheese and served on a dark Duke Bakery bun.

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AUTHENTIC CHEESEBURGER

It’s ooey. It’s gooey. And oh, so delicious. Sloan’s Downtown Gooey Burger lives up to its name. It is ½ pound of Hereford beef served with white cheddar cheese sauce, mild cheddar cheese and onion straws. You’ll need lots of napkins, but it’s worth it!

HOT STICKY BURGER

Named for the Sunday afternoon live music jam sessions held at the three-year-old restaurant/ brewery/distillery, the burger features ½ pound ground beef topped with pork belly, jalapeno jam and Gouda cheese. The Jalapeno jam gives it just the right amount of heat tempered by the cheese and pork belly.

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When it comes to creating distinctive burgers, Mac’s Diner in Witt has a secret – the kitchen takes requests.

“We’ve taken everything every customer suggests and turned it in to something,” Mac’s Diner owner Kim McCarty says. That’s how the popular Thadde Burger was born. The burger features two patties topped with Monterey jack cheese, coleslaw, the diner’s Boom Boom sauce served on a bourbon pretzel bun. The burger was named after the father of a family that eats out at the diner every Saturday and has become one of its most popular burgers.

Old Herald Brewery & Distillery 115 E. Clay St. • Collinsville, IL 62234 (618) 855-8027

OR

Mac’s Diner • 245 Talmadge St. Witt, IL 62094 • (217) 608-0622

JAM SESSION BURGER

JOIN US F

THADDE BURGER

Epic Burgers

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CHEERS TO SUMMER BEER BAVARIAN BYLINE OH YEAH! GHERKING AROUND HOT ROD HONEY n BLIMEY n

Those aren’t some hot new buzzwords. They are just a few of the new spring/summer craft brews running through the taps at regional craft breweries.

“Making craft beer is a creative process,” Lauren Pattan and James Rogalsky, co-owners of Old Bakery Beer Company in Alton explain. “When we work on a beer, we usually create the beer first and then come up with a fun name. But sometimes it doesn’t work that way. We always knew we wanted a beer called ‘Gentle Giant’ in honor of Robert Wadlow so we had the name first and then the beer. It’s sort of like the chicken and the egg riddle. Which comes first – the name or the beer. We are always thinking of beer experiences and that includes beer flavors paired with cool, memorable names.”

Old Bakery Beer, one of a handful of certified organic breweries in the U.S., burst on to the local craft beer scene six years ago. Housed in the former Colonial Bakery bread factory on the Alton riverfront, visitors can watch the craft brewery process as they walk through the building on their way to the in-house restaurant. The scent of baked bread lingers in the brick walls of the building and mingles with the yeasty smell of fermenting beer. The restaurant’s seasonal menu is created to pair with any of the beers on tap including the flagship Citrus Wheat and Porter. Entrees are also seasoned with in-house craft beer to enhance flavors.

BE SURE TO RELAX THIS SUMMER WITH CRAFT BREWS FROM LOCAL BREWERIES 38 Great Rivers & Routes

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James and Lauren have put together a fun schedule of beer releases for the spring/summer season. Many of the beers are created using organic wheat from Cow Creek Farm in Paxton, IL. Spring and summer mean it’s lager season at Old Herald Brewery & Distillery in Collinsville. The three-year-old brewery and distillery releases its Bavarian Byline, a Bavarian style lager; and Sports Page a Helles style lager each spring. They join the line up of craft brews which include RePorter, an American Porter, Printer’s Ink, a dark ale, Phase 4 Saison, a farmhouse ale and more.

Notice a theme with beer names? Old Herald Brewery & Distillery lives up to its moniker. The craft business is housed in the former Collinsville Herald newspaper office.

“We offer the best destination craft distillery tour in the country and we celebrate the history of the Collinsville Herald and our city’s nearly forgotten brewing and distilling past,” Derik Reiser says.

Creating a craft beer is all about creating an experience, according to Anthony Marcolini, owner, along with his wife Jennifer, of the Opera House Brewing Company in Hillsboro.

OLD BAKERY BEER COMPANY

BLUEBERRY CREAM ALE a portion of proceeds from this ale supports Vivent Health and their mission to eliminate HIV in the world.

“My goal is to sell the experience,” Marcolini says.

“What people like the most about Opera House is the experience and that includes good service and the beer.”

1,500-square-foot brewery. Enjoy Blackberry French Toast Brianiac, White Lotus and Dreams among others.

The craft brewery is housed in the former Hillsboro Opera House in the city’s downtown district. It’s corner location and historical roots draw customers in to sample the 11 craft brews on tap.

Although the beer at Peel is brewed in O’Fallon, the Edwardsville location has both limited release and year-round brews. Tempt your taste buds with favorite brews like Blood Orange Wheat, Double Take Blonde and Habit Forming. Limited releases include: Pandemic Paradise, Belgian Chocolate Ale and Belgian Double IPA.

“There are hundreds and hundreds of styles of beer you can brew,” Marcolini says. “I am always up at night thinking about new beer. It’s a challenge and if you hit a good one you do really well. You always want to keep a good line up with light, dark and something in the middle.”

Marcolini relies on customer recommendations for craft brew ideas. He has created a beer called “Fat and Sappy” which is brewed entirely from maple tree sap.

“I made it as a porter and it has a hint of maple,” he says. “It’s a nice beer.”

“We have live brewing going on,” he says. “I’m down in the brewery with my feet wet scrubbing kegs and people are able to watch and talk to me. I really love what I am doing.”

Be sure to check out the craft brews at Recess Brewing, Edwardsville, Peel Brewery, Edwardsville, and Grafton Winery & Brewhaus in Grafton.

Recess is a community supported brewery located in downtown Edwardsville. The open tap room serves up lagers, stouts, porters and more brewed in the adjacent

OPERA HOUSE BREWING COMPANY

PEEL BREWERY

RECESS BREWERY

GRAFTON WINERY & BREWHAUS

HOT ROD HONEY a light crisp beer brewed with honey.

TROPICAL DOLLOP a cream ale brewed with heaps of pineapple, and notes of coconut and vanilla.

CLOWN ASSASSIN a Belgian dubbel packed with flavor including banana, overripe pear and caramelized sugar.

Enjoy a variety of craft brews on tap including a collaboration of brews with Old Herald Brewery & Distillery including a Kolsch, Porter and Hibiscus Saison.

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

siue.edu/visit

GREAT URBAN

Adventures

DOWNTOWN.

DOWNTOWN ALTON

UPTOWN.

Built on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Alton blends history, entertainment and the arts into a vibrant downtown experience.

EVERY COMMUNITY HAS ONE: A BUSY, BUSTLING BUSINESS DISTRICT FULL OF RETAIL SHOPS, RESTAURANTS, BAKERIES, HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND MORE. WHAT IT’S CALLED, WELL, THAT DEPENDS ON WHERE YOU ARE. No matter whether your road trip takes you uptown or downtown – the communities in the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois are perfect places to snag a morning cup of coffee, enjoy a leisurely walk or indulge in retail therapy at locally owned and operated small businesses.

Enjoy crowd-free experiences amid small community business districts throughout the region. Take a peek at some urban adventures available.

Antique stores, restaurants, small retail shops, an art gallery and more line Broadway and Third Streets in Alton. And what is most compelling is how the buildings, many built in the 1800’s, are now home to thriving businesses in striking displays of adaptive reuse.

An 1880’s bank building now houses Germania Brewhaus, a coffee shop and small craft beer taproom.

A 1904 World’s Fair building, aptly named the 1904 General Store, is now a small retail shop and offers overflow seating for the adjacent Brown Bag Bistro restaurant. The majestic U.S. Post Office is now home to The Post Commons where residents and visitors alike enjoy coffee, breakfast and lunch in the casual and spacious building. And the historic and, reportedly haunted, Mineral Springs Hotel is now home to several local shops and the kitschy Curiosity Museum/Historic Museum of Torture Devices.

Framed by the Mississippi River on one side and rolling hills and bluffs on another, it is easy to glimpse the history of the city from downtown

Antique stores also dot the downtown business district including Country Meadows and J & P’s Edelweiss, both located on Broadway Street. Local makers, Chad Nelson and Felicia Breen, create functional, yet artistic clay pieces at Mississippi Mud Pottery. Wander through Picture This And More, a new frame and gift shop, and enjoy local photographers’ and artists’ work available for sale.

Downtown Alton comes alive after dark with live music. Check out The Lodge at The Lovejoy each weekend for live music and drinks.

Or head down Broadway to the newly opened The Conservatory, a music-centric bar with a late night food menu. Stop in to Argosy Casino Alton for gaming fun or to place bets with the new SportsBook.

For more nightlife options, visit: riversandroutes.com

UPTOWN COLLINSVILLE Uptown Collinsville is home to roots (of the horseradish kind), champion pit masters and all things Italian. It’s also the perfect place to explore the city’s history, discover new dining delights and indulge in locally brewed craft beverages and spirits.

Horseradish aficionados, top notch pit masters and everyone with Italian heritage converge on Uptown Collinsville during annual festivals.

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sidewalks. Abraham Lincoln walked the streets of downtown Alton starting in 1842 and his impact on the city is memorialized in the Walk with Lincoln mobile app.

(Download the app at: https:// explore.riversandroutes.com) Buildings where Lincoln practiced law and spent time are highlighted throughout the city.

But there’s more to this thriving business community than annual events. The streets are chock full of historic buildings representing the city’s growth from its incorporation in 1872 through the present day.

Dominating the streetscape is the historic Miner’s Theater, currently being renovated. Or browse through the Collinsville History Museum to see local artifacts dating from 1767 through the present day.

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DOWNTOWN

EDWARDSVILLE

Downtown Edwardsville is the place to go for locally owned and operated shops, dining, live music at downtown taverns as well as legendary entertainment at the historic Wildey Theatre. Located on the Mother Road of Route 66, Edwardsville retains its small town charm enhanced by its walkable downtown.

“I have a lot of love for Uptown Collinsville,” Shane Giger, owner of The Sandwich Shop says. “I spent a lot of time here as a kid and in high school and remember all the sidewalk sales, Italian Fest and the cool shops. Uptown has been a big part of my life.”

Uptown is the perfect place to indulge in a bit of retail shopping with stops at Rich’s Record Emporium with its stock of over 10,000 vinyl records. Be sure to visit Spiritos Italian Grocery for authentic Italian spices and foods along with a deli case full of meats, olives, peppers and more. Pick up an Italian sub sandwich – a local favorite. Code 3 Spices, a local maker of authentic BBQ spices and more, serves up a wide range of their own spice blends and others in addition to everything needed to create the perfect backyard grill fest.

44 Great Rivers & Routes

In a great example of adaptive reuse, the former Collinsville Herald newspaper building is now home to the three-year-old Old Herald Brewery & Distillery.

Paying tribute to the building’s former life as a print shop and newspaper, owners Derik and Whitney Reiser, celebrate that history by naming their craft beers with newspaper terms like ‘Printer’s Ink’, ‘Camera Ready’, ‘Hazy Late Edition’ and more. In-house distilled spirits and a full lunch and dinner menu are also available.

Craft distillery tours are also on tap.

While strolling along the Uptown streets, take your pick of dining options including Sloan’s Pub House – a great place for burgers and more; Bert’s Chuck Wagon – tacos, chili, BBQ; The Sandwich Shop – soup, salads and sandwiches in a diner atmosphere; Friday’s South – home to thin crust pizzas; Who Dat’s – Cajun food; and Mungo’s – classic Italian entrees.

Enjoy the vibe of Uptown Collinsville during one of its annual summer festivals held on Uptown’s Main Street. All things horseradish are celebrated during the annual Horseradish Festival in June and grilled meats take center stage at the Smokin’ On Main BBQ Competition and Festival planned for July 24-25.

“Customers come in to (Chava’s Mexican Restaurant) before a show at the Wildey to have dinner and then walk over to the Wildey,” said Lisa Bohannon, owner of Chava’s.

“Events often bring in people who have been here before and now they will come back.”

A must stop for a cup of local coffee and fresh pastries is 222 Artisan Bakery & Café. Locals consider it a landmark café and drop in for the gigantic fresh baked cinnamon rolls and breads or to simply enjoy a leisurely lunch. Healthy food options are available at the Source Juicery with its cold pressed juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls and salads. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch or dinner at the renowned Cleveland-Heath restaurant.

Traditional Mexican cuisine is available at Chava’s Mexican Restaurant which should, of course, be paired with a signature Chava’s margarita. Take your pizza craving to

the next level with a visit to Dewey’s Pizza. Watch the cooks hand toss the pizza dough and top the pizzas through the front window. Be sure to stop in and order one of your own to enjoy.

Downtown Edwardsville businesses have developed a strong sense of community and that is visible all along Main Street.

“Personally, what I enjoy most about having a business in downtown is the comradery that exists among the restaurant owners,” Bohannon notes. “It is a true community in every sense of the word.”

Spend a day shopping along Edwardsville’s portion of Route 66 with stops at Vintage 71, Restore Décor and Gingham Buffalo for great gifts, interior design ideas running the gambit of rustic to upscale, and more. There’s even a place to pick up treats for your fourlegged friend at Whisker Bones Supply Co. Looking for specialty cooking oils? Stop in at Olive Oils and More for gourmet oils, infused olive oils and specialty vinegars.

Enjoy a day at the races in Downtown Edwardsville during the Aug. 21 Edwardsville Rotary Criterium. Bicyclists from around the country race through the streets of the city and spectators enjoy food, drinks and live entertainment. There is also a race for kids and a foot race.

DOWNTOWN GRAFTON It’s all about the views in downtown Grafton. The waters of the Mississippi River lap at the edges of the city and the downtown district is the heart of this quaint river community.

Located along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, the bustling downtown is full of antique stores, specialty shops, dining and guest houses with scenic views.

Take a walk down Main Street to the Grafton Winery & Brewhaus, home to the only wine production facility in the city. Enjoy a glass of local wine alongside a charcuterie tray on the outdoor patio. And did we mention the views?

The new Grafton SkyTour sits in the middle of the shopping district and transports people to Aerie’s Resort which sits on top of a nearby limestone bluff. There the views of the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers dominate along with dazzling displays of bluffs, sunrises and sunsets. Enjoy a glass, or two, of wine at The Winery at Aerie’s Resort.

Grafton Harbor offers weekend river tours aboard the 49-passenger Hakuna Matata excursion boat. Or rent your own pontoon or jet ski at the harbor.

After a day on the water sit back and relax at the Arrr Bar or at the Grafton Oyster Bar, both located at the harbor.

Enjoy a drink or a meal at The Loading Dock, the only restaurant in Grafton that actually sits on the banks of the Mississippi River and has outdoor dining options. The family-friendly venue also has live music on the weekends.

TRAVEL TIP: Make plans to visit Downtown Edwardsville on Saturday mornings from May through October to enjoy the wildly popular Land of Goshen Community Market.

Fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, crafts and more are available.

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Don’t Miss HISTORIC ELSAH

Welcome to the Riverbend From All of Us at Simmons Hanly Conroy

Explore the historic village of Elsah, nestled in the Mississippi River bluffs along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway between Alton and Grafton.

› UPTOWN

CARLINVILLE

There is no lack of surprising finds along the Mother Road of Route 66 in Illinois. And one of them is the historic Carlinville Square located in the heart of the city’s Uptown District.

Red brick streets, a charming gazebo and brightly painted Route 66 planters decorate the square, one of the few roundabouts on Route 66 where drivers have to follow it around to remain on the highway. There’s a bonus though: a chance to stop and explore the historic buildings and charming shops and restaurants lining the four sides of the town’s business district.

Brick buildings built in the 1800s have been converted into shops and restaurants along the square.

Probably the most famous is the Loomis House, a former 50-room

46 Great Rivers & Routes

hotel, built by Judge Thaddeus Loomis in 1869. The building, and others, have been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976.

Take a stroll around the Square and enjoy shopping at Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs, or the aptly named Mother Road Antiques.

Be sure to stop in Whiskey River Dry Goods Co. which brings a bit of Nashville and Texas-style apparel to the Midwest.

After shopping, enjoy a taste of world famous chili at Taylor’s Mexican Chili Parlor. Or stop in at The Uptown Tavern for some buttery cheese curds and a refreshing drink.

TRAVEL TIP: Stop by Carlinville on the first Saturday of each month and enjoy Carlinville Market Days on the square.

The charming streets are perfect for leisurely and scenic strolls alongside buildings constructed from locally sourced limestone, all of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop in at the Elsah General Store for penny candy, vintage sodas and a chat with owner Blair Smith.

Browse through Peace Works – A Market with a Mission and the Elsah Galleries. Journey back in time with a visit to the Elsah Museum. Capture an Instagram moment at the picturesque Elsah United Methodist Church. Make plans to spend a relaxing night or two at the Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast or Maple Leaf Cottage Inn. Historic Principia College overlooks the timeless village with breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs. Driving tours of the college grounds are available.

Visit www.principia.edu for more information.

From scenic river views, historic small town vibes and local brews, there’s a lot to love about the Riverbend area. These reasons and more are why Simmons Hanly Conroy, one of the nation’s largest plaintiff law firms, is proud to call the Riverbend home for more than 20 years.

We invite you to experience the beauty of historic, downtown Alton for yourself by participating in our firm’s annual Alton Miles for Meso 5K Race and 3K Fun Run/Walk. The event takes place Saturday, September 25 at our national headquarters and includes a virtual run. This year marks the 13th year of the race, which raises funds for charities that support our clients whose lives have been devastated by asbestos exposure.

Learn more at www.simmonsfirm.com/about-us/giving-back

Alton

Chicago

Los Angeles

New York

San Francisco

618-619-0014 | One Court Street | Alton, Illinois | 62002

St. Louis

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Cool Beans AHHHH … THE AROMA OF FRESH BREWED COFFEE. THERE’S NOTHING LIKE IT, RIGHT? EVEN NON-COFFEE DRINKERS ADMIT THE SCENT IS OFTEN ALLURING.

Did you know there’s an art to creating the perfect cup of coffee?

It’s a lot like making a great bottle of wine – it takes time, patience and creativity.

“We are pretty particular about coffee and drinking a good cup of coffee,” says Steve Johnson, owner of Bunkhouse Joe Coffee, a local coffee roaster located in Fieldon. “It’s not as easy as you would think. I had to go searching for the best coffee and our passion is to create a fresh, woodfired roast that stays true to our organic approach.”

Bunkhouse Joe’s was one of the first woodfired coffee roasters in the

48 Great Rivers & Routes

U.S. when it was started 12 years ago. “It’s a very unique approach,” Johnson notes.

Johnson purchases small batches of coffee beans from small farmers in Ethiopia, Peru, El Salvador and Mexico. He then roasts them over wood coals – at night.

“I use local wood – cherry, oak, apple. And I roast the beans over the coals at night. It’s better then. No interruptions. It’s a quiet time and it gives me time to be passionate about my roasting,” he says. “There is a magical element to roasting outdoors and that infuses the good and perfect things of that into the beans.”

Johnson says he creates small batches by hand in order to be in touch with the beans and roasting process. Roasting at night allows him to smell the beans as they roast and hear what is going on. It’s a creative process he believes in.

“We create coffee that is 100 percent natural with natural flavors. There are hints of cherry wood in the coffee and fresh harvest. I have found that small is simple and it offers the biggest rewards,” Johnson points out.

Goshen Coffee Company started roasting beans in 2002. Known for its year-round blend, single origin relationship and unique exclusive “Secret Stash”, their air roasted coffee is available in grocery stores, local coffee shops, businesses and restaurants. Goshen opened its own Goshen Coffee Café in 2020 featuring

its bold coffee blends and unique pastries, toasts and salads.

Black Rabbit Coffee in downtown Hillsboro was created by Isaac and Bailey Reynolds in 2015. Isaac, who grew up in Guatemala knows his coffee beans. Coffee is king there, after all. He roasts small batches in

the basement of the Black Rabbit coffee shop in a small drum roaster.

“It’s more interesting if we do one small lot at a time,” Isaac said of the roasting process.

The Post Commons in Alton began roasting its beans, sourced from Seeds Coffee Co., in late Fall 2020.

Bunkhouse Joe coffee is available at 10 locally owned and operated stores throughout the region including Jerseyville, Elsah, Alton and Carrollton. He also is the ‘coffee shop’ at the Alton Farmers & Artisans Market in Alton every Saturday from May through October. He created an Icey Joe coffee for the market which has since become an iconic summer drink in the region.

“Icey Joe has become a thing for summer,” he says. “I think 90 percent of my customers that buy on a regular basis discovered us because of our Icey Joe drink.”

Joining Bunkhouse Joe’s on the coffee roasting circuit are Goshen Coffee in Edwardsville, Black Rabbit Coffee in Hillsboro and the Post Commons in Alton.

LOCALLY ROASTED COFFEE, HAND CRAFTED DRINKS, HOUSE MADE PASTRIES, TOASTS AND MORE! 6120 Shogen Drive l Edwardsville, IL l Monday - Saturday 7 AM - 5 PM l Sunday - 7 AM - 2 PM 618.650.9086 l goshencoffee.com l follow us on

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COLOR HAS ITS OWN SOUNDTRACK DURING THE JULY 4 HOLIDAY. AND THERE’S NOTHING LIKE WATCHING THE SUMMER SKY LIGHT UP WITH BRILLIANT REDS, WHITES, AND BLUES ACCOMPANIED

BY THE SOUND EFFECTS OF WHISTLES, POPS AND BOOMS. LAYER IN THE BUZZ OF OOOHHHS AND AHHHS FROM WATCHING CROWDS AND INDEPENDENCE DAY FIREWORKS ARE THE PERFECT SYMPHONY OF SIGHTS AND SOUNDS. While the impacts of the COVID pandemic might resonate throughout the Great Rivers & Routes region, there are plenty of ways to safely celebrate July 4 and enjoy some good old-fashioned fireworks fun with family and friends. (Remember to practice social distancing as needed) (Note: River flooding has canceled the fireworks events along the rivers in the past as did the COVID pandemic in 2020. Visit RiversandRoutes.com for up-to-date information on all fireworks events.)

ALTON FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR Every year on the 4th of July Eve (July 3), the City of Alton – a Mississippi River community - holds a major birthday party for the nation. People gather early along the city’s riverfront, on city streets and at nearby restaurants, bars and craft breweries to celebrate. Festivities for families at Riverfront Park take place and have included bounce houses, food, drinks and live entertainment although those plans have yet to be finalized. Both Bluff City Grill and Old Bakery Beer Company hold fireworks viewing parties. The main star of the day, however, is the fireworks blasted off over the Mississippi River. The brilliant colors reflect in the waters of the river making it one of the most popular fireworks events along Illinois’ Great River Road. Immediately following the fireworks, the party continues at Mac’s Time Out in Alton’s Third Street Entertainment District with live music often featuring a national talent. Fireworks begin at dusk.

GRAFTON FIREWORKS Enjoy a brilliant fireworks display over the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers in Grafton. Perched on the north end of the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, Grafton offers small town charm and unparalleled views of the rivers. From the top of the limestone river bluffs at Aerie’s Resort to Main Street at river level, there is no bad place to see the annual light show. This year, the city will hold its fireworks show on Friday, July 2. Restaurants and stores in downtown Grafton offer special sales. Stay the night at any number of guest houses, Aerie’s Resort, Tara Point Inn or Pere Marquette Lodge and make it a long weekend adventure. Fireworks begin at dusk.

EDWARDSVILLE FIREWORKS Bring a lawn chair, picnic blanket and your favorite food and drink to Edwardsville for the annual July 4 festivities. The event is held at the city’s American Legion grounds, 58 S. State Route 157. Celebrate the old fashioned way with concessions available and activities for the kids.

After the sun goes down the light show begins. The grounds open at 5 p.m.

TROY FIREWORKS One of the largest fireworks show in the Great Rivers & Routes region takes place on the Illinois prairie in Troy. This city, located at the intersection of Interstates 70 and 55, holds a spectacular light display at Tri-Township Park, 410 Wickliffe St., on July 4. Gather the kids, grandparents and friends, and lawn chairs for a breathtaking display of lights. Concessions are available.

Fireworks begin at dusk.

FIREWORKS AT LAKE LOU YAEGER, LITCHFIELD

HILLSBORO FIREWORKS

Spend July 4th kayaking, swimming, or fishing at Lake Lou Yaeger, 4943 Beach House Trail, Litchfield.

Then settle in for a stunning fireworks shows over the lake in the evening. Enjoy live music. Fireworks begin at dusk.

Will a cardboard boat really float?

Find out during the annual Hillsboro Cardboard Boat Regatta that kicks off the Hillsboro July 4 festivities.

Live music and more abound at the Sherwood Forest Campground, 920 City Lake Rd. Fireworks start at dusk.

There are even more fireworks to view around the Great Rivers & Routes region.

For a complete list and up-to-date information, go to RiversandRoutes.com

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Our wines are made using Illinois grown our foodwine, is sourced locally and our venues are perfect for weddings, We grapes, love making simple as that. receptions, corporate events, retirement parties and more.is We work hard bringouryou the very andfor invite you to Our wines are made using Illinois grown grapes, our food sourced locallytoand venues arebest perfect weddings, visit usretirement for a wineparties tastingand andmore. food We experience you’ll absolutely love! receptions, corporate events, work hard to bring you the very best and invite you to visit us for a wineVisit tasting food to experience you’ll absolutely love! usand online learn more

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Visit us online to learn more Both Locations only minutes from Downtown St. Louis Both Locations only minutes from Downtown St. Louis

Bella Vista Winery

6633 E. Main | Maryville, BellaSt.Vista WineryIL 62062 bellavistail.com 6633 E. Main St. | Maryville, IL 62062

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FORGET THE BRIDGES, USE AREA FERRIES TO CROSS BOTH THE ILLINOIS AND MISSISSIPPI RIVERS IN THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION OF SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS. The leisurely ferry rides across the rivers have become an exciting experience for travelers of all ages. And they are even a throwback to a bygone era when bridges didn’t exist and the only way to cross the river was by ferry boat.

Four ferries operate along the Mighty Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Take your pick of a ferry adventure:

BRUSSELS FERRY: The Illinois Department of Transportation operates this ferry which crosses the Illinois River from Route 100 in Grafton to Brussels in Calhoun County. The ferry is free and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week year round.

The ferry is occasionally closed due to unsafe river conditions including river flooding and ice floes during winter.

KAMPSVILLE FERRY: Also operated by the Illinois Department Transportation, the ferry carries Illinois Route 108 across the Illinois River to connect with Route 100 (the Great River Road). This ferry is free and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week year round.

GOLDEN EAGLE FERRY: This ferry connects Calhoun County with St. Charles, MO across the Mississippi River. Drive through scenic Calhoun County. Be sure to stop at local farmstands and orchards to pick up homemade jellies, honey and fresh fruits and vegetables. The ferry operates year round, but can close during river flooding and if dangerous ice floes develop in winter months.

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DIRECTIONS : From Hwy 370 in Missouri, turn North onto Rt 94, take RT. 94 to Route B. Follow Route B to Golden Eagle Ferry Rd. Turn right onto Golden Eagle Ferry Rd. and take to the ferry landing.

From Brussels, IL take Ridge Rd. to Mississippi River Road to the town of Golden Eagle, then Ferry Rd. to the landing on the river.

HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday – Thursday 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday – Saturday 5 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Sunday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.

GRAFTON FERRY: Journey across the Mississippi River from St. Charles County, Missouri to downtown Grafton from April 30 through early November. The Illinois side of the ferry landing is located near the Grafton Lighthouse and public boat ramp on Market St. in Grafton. The landing on the Missouri side is at Grafton Ferry Road just off Missouri Highway 94. The ferry decreases travel time between Missouri and Illinois by about 30 minutes.

HOURS OF OPERATION: Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; The Grafton Ferry is closed Monday – Thursday

WEDDING RECEPTIONS - TASTING ROOM

21028 ECKERT ORCHARD RD GRAFTON, IL 62037

GRAFTON WINERY THE VINEYARDS WWW.THEGRAFTONWINERY.COM WINE PRODUCTION - CORPORATE EVENTS

FEES GRAFTON FERRY & GOLDEN EAGLE FERRY ONLY: • Vehicles – One way $8; Round-trip $15 • Bicycles – One way $4 • Foot Passenger – One way $3 • Motorcycles – One way $5; Round-trip $9 • Trailers – One way $1 per axle • Dual Over 1 Ton - One way $9

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For more event information, please visit: riversandroutes.com

FESTIVAL FUN INTERNATIONAL HORSERADISH FESTIVAL June 4-5 • Uptown

Collinsville on Main Street

All things horseradish are exalted during the annual festival which is held on Uptown Collinsville’s Main Street. Live music, vendors offering horseradish infused foods along with horseradish products fill the streets.

MUSIC IN THE PARK

June 3 – Aug. 26 • Downtown Grafton Bring a lawn chair each Thursday evening to Grafton’s The Grove Memorial Park and enjoy local musicians playing honky tonk country, classic rock, Motown, Blues and more. Concerts are free and begin at 7 p.m.

GODFREY FAMILY FUN FEST

July 4 • Robert E. Glazebrook Community Park • Godfrey

Blast off your Independence Day celebration with an evening of family-focused events at Godfrey’s annual Family Fun Fest.

54 Great Rivers & Routes

CELEBRATE THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF SUMMER THROUGHOUT THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION AT THESE REGIONAL FAIRS, FESTIVAL AND CONCERTS. ROUTE 66 FESTIVAL June 12 City Park • Downtown Edwardsville

PEACH FESTIVAL Aug. 8 Pere Marquette Lodge • Grafton

Get your kicks at the annual Route 66 festival featuring classic cars, great food and family fun. Live music, trolley rides and kids activities are also on tap.

Sample some of the best peaches in the region at this annual family festival that features all things peachy. Pick up a bushel of fresh peaches from local growers, browse craft vendors and take part in peachcentric games and more.

JERSEY COUNTY FAIR July 11-18 Jersey County Fairgrounds • Jerseyville

Enjoy an old-fashioned county fair complete with a midway, 4-H shows, carnival rides, grandstand shows and all the great fair food everyone loves.

SMOKIN’ ON MAIN

July 24-25 • Uptown Collinsville If barbeque is your thing, then Uptown Collinsville is the place to be during this two-day festival that pits backyard and professional grillers in a competition and fills city streets with the aroma of tangy barbeque.

Come hungry!

EVERY THURSDAY AT 9PM JUNE 3 - SEPT. 9

BUSEY BANK EDWARDSVILLE ROTARY CRITERIUM

Aug. 21 • Downtown Edwardsville

Have the need for speed? Or how about simply watching speeding bicyclists race through the streets of downtown Edwardsville? Either way, make plans for this year’s Rotary Criterium with its road and foot races through town. New this year is an entertainment area with live music, food and drinks.

(Please note the events listed above may be rescheduled if state COVID mitigation efforts restrict large gatherings)

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Rooms Wit h A View IMAGINE WAKING UP TO SWEEPING VIEWS OF THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI FROM A ROOM HIGH ATOP THE RIVER BLUFFS. HOW ABOUT ENJOYING A LUXURIOUS OVERNIGHT STAY IN A HISTORIC MANSION. The Great Rivers & Routes region in southwest Illinois is filled with guest houses, bed and breakfast inns, and hotels that can check almost any box on an overnight stay wish list.

Check in to the historic Beall Mansion, located just a few blocks from Downtown Alton, and enjoy top-notch service, a 24-hour chocolate bar and optional breakfast in bed.

Perched high on the river bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, Tara Point Inn & Cottages in Grafton is a destination all on its own. From guest rooms in the main house with its sweeping views of the rivers, to cozy cottages on the property, Tara Point offers a get-away-from-it-all experience.

Restaurants, nightlife, boating and more are available in Grafton, just minutes from Tara Point. 2021 marks Tara Point’s 30th anniversary.

Enjoy an urban getaway complete with stunning views at the Alton Cracker Factory in Alton’s riverfront district. Walk to nearby restaurants, coffee shops, shops and more.

56 Great Rivers & Routes

Enjoy the views of the scenic Clark Bridge and Mississippi River from private balconies. Bring along some friends and make it a group escape by booking the Eagle’s Nest Penthouse. Grill out on the expansive deck and BYOB for a relaxing getaway experience.

Escape to Elsah, a quaint historic village along the Great River Road between Alton and Grafton and enjoy a getaway at the Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast. Afternoon snacks and made from scratch breakfasts are served daily.

Hop on one of the inn’s bicycles and explore Elsah and its shops and galleries.

Experience more by visiting: RiversandRoutes.com for great places to stay. Be sure to check out the Deals tab on the website to find overnight deals and packages.

Welcome to The Premier Life®

Best Western Premier Alton-St. Louis Area Hotel 3559 College Avenue Alton IL 62002 618-462-1220

High Speed WIFI Breakfast Buffet Indoor Heated Pool Free Onsite Parking Restaurant & Bar Onsite 24 Hour Fitness Center Convention & Meeting Space Catering & Banquet Services 25 Minutes From St. Louis AAA and TripAdvisor Award Recipients Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated.

Please note due to COVID some amenities may not be available at this time. Please inquire for the most current information.

www.bwpremieralton.com

(Please note that due to the COVID pandemic, all overnight lodging properties are taking extra precautions to ensure safe and clean stays for all guests.

Check with individual properties for specific methods.)

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THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION IS FULL OF LOCAL MAKERS, CREATORS AND ARTISANS WHO HAVE SPENT YEARS REFINING THEIR CRAFTS AND TURNING THEIR PASSION INTO A LIVELIHOOD.

WATER SWEET SOAPS • EDWARDSVILLE

Water Sweets Soap Company in Edwardsville is no ordinary bath and body retailer.

All of its products are created locally in a 2,000-square-foot facility in Madison County. And every bit of it is pure-vegan.

“We specialize in preservative free, chemical free items,” said Water Sweets Soap Store Manager Alex Sutterfield. “Our company philosophy is to use no glycerins or chemicals. We want a higher quality soap, bath bomb, sugar scrub. There is a need in this industry for our products.”

Sutterfield and his mother Lisa, came up with the idea for Water Sweets Soaps in 2015. Alex says he was interested in starting a business and Lisa “had a good idea.” They began creating their products and opened the Edwardsville storefront in 2016. “We realized that Edwardsville had a need for a store like ours,” Alex notes.

Walking in to the store is more like a trip to a spa than a retail experience. Aromas from the varying products which range from soaps to sugar scrubs, solid lotions to shower aromatherapy bombs drift around the retail space. The brightly lit store has products packaged in whimsical designs.

Bath bombs are wrapped to resemble unicorns and fish.

Shower aromatherapy bombs are decorated with ribbons and iridescent cellophane.

Water Sweets products have developed a faithful client base, Sutterfield says. “We had a customer come in during COVID and purchase 100 individual lip balms for all the people who live at her father’s nursing home. She realized they needed something special during COVID and because she knew we have good lip balm she came here,” he recalls.

58 Great Rivers & Routes

Meet More Local Makers

Great Rivers & Routes Made

MEET THE PEOPLE WHO ARE CREATING FINE POTTERY, WINE, CRAFT BEER, DISTILLED SPIRITS, SPICES, BATH PRODUCTS, FURNITURE AND MORE THROUGHOUT THE SIX COUNTY REGION OF SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS.

mississippimudpottery.com

STORES HOURS

Sun. & Mon. Noon-4pm

Tues. Closed

Wed.-Sat. 10am-5pm

310 E Broadway Alton, IL 62002 • 618.462.7573

CODE 3 SPICES • COLLINSVILLE Hot, tangy and sweet seasonings were created by partners Chris Bohnemeier and Mike Radosevich when they joined forces as a BBQ competition team. The two developed five different seasoning blends during their competitive years that they perfected and began selling from their storefront in Collinsville.

CROCKER & SPRINGER POTTERY • ELSAH Jonathan and Jan Wright founded Crocker & Springer Pottery in 1987 and have refined their high quality, early American style salt-glazed stoneware and redware. Each piece is historically inspired and hand thrown by Jonathan and decorated by Jan using painting, slip-trailing, sgraffito-carving and sculpting. The pair’s pottery has received national recognition.

DAVID STINE FURNITURE • DOW Each piece of custom crafted furniture created by artisan David Stine has its own character and flavor.

Stine uses traditional craftmanship and sustainable practices in his workshop. Using wood grown and harvested on the family’s 500-acre wooded property, Stine creates magic in his workshop.

TAYLOR’S MEXICAN CHILI PARLOR • CARLINVILLE Got a yen for homemade, secret-recipe chili? Head to Taylor’s Mexican Chili Parlor in Carlinville for a cup or bowl of their chili made from a 100-year-old recipe. Chili is available by dining in at the restaurant or can be purchased by the can or fresh quart.

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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JOIN US FOR EPIC ICE CREAM WEEK AUG. 9 – 13. More info at RiversandRoutes.com

ANNIE’S FROZEN CUSTARD

BLUE ICE CREAMERY

BOBBY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

sweet spots WHEN IT COMES TO FINDING THE PERFECT TREAT FOR A HOT SUMMER DAY COOL OFF WITH LOCALLY MADE ICE CREAM, FROZEN CUSTARDS AND SNO CONES AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION.

SWEET ADDICTIONS AND STREET EATS

THE WHOLE SCOOP

CITY SCOOPS CREAMERY

ROUTE 66 CREAMERY

SHIVERS

ANNIE’S FROZEN CUSTARD

ROUTE 66 CREAMERY

245 S. Buchanan St. • Edwardsville/11 Illini Dr. • Glen Carbon

11 South Old Route 66 • Hamel

For nearly 25 years, Annie’s Frozen Custard has delighted customers with a variety of frozen custard flavors including Cake Batter, Mint Chip and seasonal favorites Cotton Candy and Pumpkin. Check out the two locations in Edwardsville and Glen Carbon.

Get your kicks at the Route 66 Creamery this summer and be sure to treat your four-legged friend to a free pup cup. While you are at it, pick up a cone, sundae or concrete for everyone else.

SHIVERS

BLUE ICE CREAMERY

3318 Godfrey Rd. • Godfrey

127 Eastgate Plaza • East Alton

Ever thought about having a ‘cow’? Not a real one – the frozen variety available at Shivers. The Shivers ‘cow’ is a shake-like drink made with frozen custard blended with your favorite soda flavor. Shivers also has frozen custard for cones, sundaes and concretes. Pick your topping and flavoring.

Twenty-four flavor options are available daily so take your pick of Bordeaux cherry chocolate chip, turtle, cookie dough and more. Blue Ice Creamery specializes in superpremium, small batch ice cream created by the in-house ice cream chef.

BOBBY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

SWEET ADDICTIONS AND STREET EATS

2525 N. Center St. • Maryville

400 S. Main St. • Hillsboro

Famous for its Turtle Sundaes, Bobby’s Frozen Custard is a local favorite frozen treat stop. The frozen custard is created fresh hourly from a special recipe. Create your own cone, concrete, sundae and shake from a long menu of toppings and flavors.

The motto here: “Life is short. Eat dessert first.” So check out the 12 different flavors of hand scooped ice cream, shakes, coffee shakes, concretes and sundaes.

There is also Tropical Sno cones available and Sno Shakes – a 50/50 mix of Tropical Sno and Shake.

CITY SCOOPS CREAMERY

THE WHOLE SCOOP

1100 S. Highway 157 • Edwardsville/ 300 Edwardsville Rd. • Troy

222 E. Main St. • Grafton

Refreshing sorbets, dairy-free ice cream and over 30 flavors of hard scoop premium and super premium ice cream are a sweet treat lovers’ dream. Tempt your tastebuds with the Superman featuring sweet lemon, rich cherry and tasty blue moon ice cream swirled together for ‘super’ flavor.

GREAT FOOD! SWEET TREATS! Full menu including sandwiches, fries, pizza, salads & wraps!

Ice cream, frozen yogurt, hand-dipped & much more

DRIVE-THRU!

618.786.CONE (2663) 222 East Main • Grafton, IL www.thewholescoopil.com

Just a stone’s throw from the Mississippi River in historic Grafton, The Whole Scoop has created riverthemed ice cream treats, perfect for devouring outside on a warm summer day. Try the Mississippi Mud Pie – vanilla soft serve caked with hot fudge, crushed oreos and gummy worms. Or how about the Sandbar with vanilla soft serve buried in smores, chocolate syrup and whipped cream?

For more great places to find cool treats, go to RiversandRoutes.com

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fresh picks AHHHH THE AROMAS! THE FRAGRANCE OF NEWLY PICKED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES. FRESH BAKED BREADS AND BAGS OF KETTLE CORN. THE LIVELY CHATTER OF FOLKS ENJOYING A SUNNY SATURDAY OR SUNDAY MORNING WANDERING THE STALLS AT REGIONAL FARMERS MARKET.

DISCOVER YOUR ADVENTURE IN

MON TGOM ERY COUNTY • ILLINOIS

AREA FARMERS’ MARKETS n ALTON

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Discovering local food producers and crafters has become a favorite activity for residents and travelers alike in the Great Rivers & Routes region.

Looking for a walking/hiking stick?

Handmade sticks are available at the Alton Farmers & Artisans Market. Want to enjoy some quality time with your fourlegged friend? Pets are welcome at Edwardsville’s Land of Goshen Community Market. Sweet, tender corn on the cob? Looking for a bushel of famous Calhoun County peaches? All on hand – depending on the time of year, of course!

217.851.4332 • www.montgomerycountyillinois.org/tourism

The enjoyable part about visiting a farmers’ market? The vendors can vary each week.

Landmarks Blvd. & Henry St. • Alton 8 a.m. to Noon • Every Saturday from May 8 through Oct. 16 n LAND

OF GOSHEN COMMUNITY MARKET

100 St. Louis St. • Edwardsville 8 a.m. to Noon • Saturdays from Mid-May through Mid-October n JERSEYVILLE

FARMERS MARKET

Outrageous Outdoors Parking Lot 902 S. State St. • Jerseyville 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Tuesdays beginning in June n MARYVILLE

FARMERS MARKET

2520 N. Center St. (Fireman’s Park) • Maryville Thursdays • April through October

BEYOND FARMERS MARKETS n GRAFTON

RIVERSIDE FLEA MARKET

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. the last weekend of each month April – October 400 E. Front St. • Grafton The Boatworks Building n LITCHFIELD

MARKET

PICKERS

n BETHALTO

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. the second

Central Park • 213 N. Prairie St. Bethalto • 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sundays May 9 through Oct. 10

Downtown Litchfield 400 N. State St.

MARKET IN THE PARK

Sunday of each month from May - October

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TRAVELER RESOURCES

IT’S NOT SO DIFFICULT TO FIND YOUR WAY TO THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION OF SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS. LOCATED JUST MINUTES FROM ST. LOUIS AND LITERALLY 20 MILES AND ONE STOPLIGHT FROM LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, GETTING TO, AND AROUND THE REGION, IS A BREEZE.

Galena

Chicago, IL Quad Cities Joliet

Kansas City 258 mi/ 415 km

Alton

Grafton St. Louis

Branson 274 mi/ 441 km

Here are some transportation options to help plan your visit:

N

J

O

Y

GRAFTON

Bloom ington

Quincy

The Great River Road

245 mi/ 394 km

E

Indianapolis 245 mi/ 394 km

Edwardsville Collinsville

Louisville 278 mi/ 447 km Memphis 307 mi/ 494 km

TRAIN TRAVEL n AMTRAK

RAIL SERVICE

#1 Golf Rd., Alton • (618) 462-1879

Amtrak stops in both Alton and Carlinville during its multiple daily travels through the region.

SIP SAMPLE STROLL May 15 – Enjoy food, music and shopping in downtown Grafton.

Tickets required.

AIR TRAVEL Both the Litchfield Municipal Airport and St. Louis Regional Airport provide runways and flight services for small planes.

St. Louis’ Lambert International is the region’s main air hub. n LITCHFIELD

MUNICIPAL AIRPORT 1202 U.S. Route 66 South (217) 324-4731 n ST.

LOUIS REGIONAL AIRPORT 8 Terminal Dr. • East Alton (618) 259-2531 n LAMBERT

INTERNATIONAL

AIRPORT 10701 Lambert International Blvd.

(314) 890-1333

WATER TRAVEL Boat travelers can fuel up or use transient slips at either Grafton Harbor or the Alton Marina during a journey along the region’s mighty rivers. Ferry service is also available for vehicle, bicycle and foot traffic across rivers. n ALTON

MARINA 1 Henry St. • (618) 462-9860 n GRAFTON

HARBOR Rt. 100 • (618) 786-7678 n BRUSSELS

FERRY Rt. 100, Grafton • (618) 786-3636

64 Great Rivers & Routes

MUSIC IN THE PARK June 3 – Aug. 26 Free weekly concerts on Thursdays at Grove Memorial Park. Independence weekend concert on Friday, July 2.

WITCHES ON THE WATER Oct. 23 FIREWORKS ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER July 2 & Dec. 31 Celebrate Independence Day and New Year’s Eve in Grafton MISSISSIPPI MASTERS GOLF TOURNAMENT Oct. 8

SANTA’S CHOCOLATE EXPRESS Dec. 4 SANTA CON Dec. 11

G R E AT P L A C E S T O D I N E • S TAY • P L AY

n GRAFTON

FERRY (season late April – early November) Rt. 100 • (800) 258-6645 n GOLDEN

EAGLE FERRY Ferry Road. • (618) 535-5759 n KAMPSVILLE

FERRY River Front Drive • (618) 653-4518

www.GraftonILChamber.com • www.EnjoyGrafton.com