Gorgeous Scenic Highways and Byways of Illinois

Nov 22, 2023

After a whole day spent with family, friends, and enough food to last a lifetime, why not take a day off to kick back, relax, and go for a ride to clear your mind! Take in the gorgeous scenery all around Illinois as you “take the long way” back home. Prolong those vacation day vibes with a slow stroll down charming little villages. Explore the unique people and places in the historic towns that dot the highways and byways, or immerse yourself in the beauty of nature along trails and shorelines.

We can’t think of a better way to spend National “Go For A Ride” day than these gorgeous roadways:

Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive, Canton

With over 140 scenic miles of roadway in the valley, you’ll find plenty of stops for photo ops, scenic views, markets to shop, and special events. The highlight of the region is its yearly fall festival in October, featuring open air markets, vendor tables, artisan goods and crafts, and plenty of family fun. Take a self guided tour of the valley through several Illinois towns and along the Illinois river and make some family road trip memories. You’ll make your way through 17 historic villages and sites along the way.

The Great Rivers Byway, Hartford

With 33 miles of byway to explore where the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers converge, this is a memorable road trip for the books! Check out the forested river bluffs, quaint roadside communities, stunning scenery and waterscapes, and end your journey at Pere Marquette State Park. The small village of Elsah, also known as “the village where time stood still”, was the first village to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is like taking a step back in time. The quaint town of Godfrey offers beautiful local shops, charming tea rooms, and delicious eateries. Grafton’s waterfront downtown district offers beautiful sunset views of the riverfront, and prime entertainment and dining. Plus, there’s plenty of museums, galleries, historic sights, and trails to explore!

The Morton Arboretum, Lisle

A versatile stop for those who prefer a short, scenic drive with 9 miles of paved roadways and plenty of room to stretch your legs afterwards on the 16 miles of hiking trailways. There’s lots to see and do such as enjoy a stroll through the Children’s Garden and Maze Garden, or spend an active day exploring in the woods. From blossoms and blooms in springtime and summer, to bright fiery foliage in the autumn, to picturesque snow-covered statues in winter, the Arboretum is an essential scenic stop all year round.

Historic National Road, Marshall

This beautiful roadway was the first federally-funded road in US History; it originally made its way from Cumberland, Maryland all the way up to Vandalia, Illinois. Today it runs from Marshall, Illinois through East St. Louis. If you’re into collecting fun roadside attraction photos, you’ll love this drive! Check out the oldest house in Illinois in Marshall, the “Giant Things” of Casey such as knitting needles and a rocking chair and pencil, a beautiful timber bridge in Greenup, learn about the start of President Lincoln’s political career in Vandalia, visit the Teutopolis Monastery museum, and so much more along its 164 mile route.

Grandview Drive, Peoria

This might be the shortest drive on our list, but it’s certainly not short on gorgeous views. Winding its way along the Illinois River and through the valley from PRospect Road to Route 29, you’ll find a plethora of historic homes as well as beautiful landscape photo ops. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, this will also hit the spot as it’s got plenty of options to get out and walk, hike, or bike the trails along the route. Prime time to visit is during Autumn, but this winding roadway is still picturesque year round.

Illinois River Road Scenic National Byway, Peoria

This iconic 140 mile stretch of roadway cuts through 10 counties and connects 100 different nature sites, trails, and parks in the Illinois River Valley; a portion of it includes the Great River Road which follows the Mississippi. Prime time to visit is autumn for the fall foliage and leaf peeping season, but it’s gorgeous year round to be sure. Including gorgeous waterfront views, cliff bluffs, and forest landscapes, you’ll have plenty of choices for family photo op backdrops. If you’re looking to experience the great outdoors, you’ll find lots of spots for hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and other fun activities. If you enjoy shopping and strolling, you can visit any of the region’s picturesque towns and main streets for shopping, cultural events, art, and then some. Create a family travel itinerary via the official website here.