Scenic Attractions & Road Trips in Illinois

Illinois is an excellent destination for scenic drives and road trips. From historic highways and river routes to rolling hills and charming small towns, the state offers beautiful landscapes and memorable travel experiences. These scenic attractions allow travelers to explore Illinois at a relaxed pace while enjoying history, culture, and natural beauty.

Historic Route 66 – The Mother Road

Illinois is the starting point of the legendary Route 66, making it one of the state’s most popular road trip routes.

Highlights

1. Classic roadside diners and vintage gas stations
2. Historic motels and neon signs
3. Small towns filled with Americana charm

Must-See Stops

1. Chicago Route 66 Begin Sign
2. Joliet Route 66 Welcome Center
3. Pontiac Route 66 Museum
4. Springfield historic landmarks

Best For

1. Classic American road trip lovers
2. Photography and nostalgia travel

Great River Road – Mississippi River Scenic Drive

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River along western Illinois.

Highlights

1. River bluffs and scenic overlooks
2. Wildlife viewing and wetlands
3. Historic river towns

Top Stops

1. Galena
2. Alton
3. Quincy
4. Mississippi River bluffs viewpoints

Best For

1. Nature lovers
2. Slow, scenic drives
3. Fall foliage trips

Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway

This scenic route follows the Illinois River through picturesque landscapes.

Highlights

1. River valleys and forested hills
2. Charming towns and parks
3. Access to Starved Rock State Park

Top Stops

1. Starved Rock State Park
2. Ottawa
3. Peoria Riverfront
4. Historic river communities

Best For

1. Nature photography
2. Weekend getaways
3. Outdoor exploration

Shawnee Hills Scenic Byway – Southern Illinois Beauty

Located in southern Illinois, this byway offers some of the state’s most dramatic scenery.

Highlights

1. Rolling hills, forests, and vineyards
2. Rock formations and waterfalls
3. Quiet rural landscapes

Top Stops

1. Garden of the Gods
2. Giant City State Park
3. Shawnee National Forest

Best For

1. Scenic driving
2. Hiking and nature stops
3. Romantic and peaceful trips

Galena Country Scenic Drive

This route takes travelers through northwest Illinois’s rolling countryside.

Highlights

1. Historic small towns
2. 19th-century architecture
3. Farmland and hill views

Top Stops

1. Downtown Galena
2. Ulysses S. Grant Home
3. Local wineries and shops

Best For

1. Romantic escapes
2. History and architecture lovers

Scenic Road Trips Overview

Best Time for Scenic Road Trips

Why Take a Road Trip in Illinois?

Illinois scenic routes offer:

1. Easy driving with well-marked roads
2. A mix of nature, history, and culture
3. Charming small towns and local food
4. Perfect weekend or long-distance trips

Whether you’re following historic highways or winding river roads, Illinois road trips provide unforgettable travel experiences.