There are plenty of ways to explore the Land of Lincoln, especially via one of the state’s spectacular scenic backroads. And according to MSN’s Scenic U.S. road trips to discover this year, the Great River Road National Scenic Byway is one of the best scenic drives you can take in the country. Traveling along the Mississippi River, this is also the most stunning scenic drive in Illinois.
The Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the mighty Mississippi River for 3,000 miles and through 10 different states. It is the longest scenic byway in the country.
Google Maps
In Illinois alone, you can travel this National Scenic Byway for 550 miles. Along the way, you will pass through numerous river towns and have the opportunity to stop at plenty of historical and recreational attractions.
Ken Lund/Flickr
The byway passes through Galena, Fulton, Moline, Nauvoo, Quincy, Grafton, Alton, Chester, and Cairo, among other fascinating river towns. It will give you an opportunity to explore a part of the state you may not have thought about exploring before.
Great River Road in Illinois/Facebook
The road follows the western border of Illinois along the Mississippi River. You’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the water as well as the bluffs that run alongside it in certain areas.
Great River Road in Illinois/Facebook
There are also plenty of places to stop and take in the views along the way.
Great River Road in Illinois/Facebook
One of the best stops along the byway is Mississippi Palisades State Park. Found at the confluence of the Mississippi and Apple Rivers, you can explore its 2,500 acres and find several overlooks for some of the most stunning scenery in the state.
Great River Road in Illinois/Facebook
A trip along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway will surely be one of the greatest adventures you will take in Illinois! It’s 550 miles filled with scenery, history, attractions, and plenty of things to do.
Great River Road in Illinois/Facebook
Ready to take a scenic drive in Illinois along the Great River Road? What is your favorite scenic byway around the state? Tell us in the comments! To learn more, visit the Great River Road Illinois website and follow the Facebook page.
Google Maps
Ken Lund/Flickr
Great River Road in Illinois/Facebook
If you prefer to explore a shorter portion of the Great River Road, take a road trip along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway which is a mere 33 miles.
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Address: Great River Road, Great River Rd, Cairo, IL, USA
