Did you know there is a 3,000 mile long road that follows the entirety of the Mississippi River? This scenic route winds all the way from Lake Itasca in Minnesota, to Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico. Of all the territory the road covers, Illinois has by far the most picturesque stretch of the river.

Pro tip: the stretch of River Road between Alton and Grafton Illinois is unlike any other place in Illinois. This area is the confluence of the Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois Rivers. Complete with a full view of the Mississippi and towering white cliffs, you would hardly think you were in the Midwest. There are many memorable stops along the way including the Loading Dock, Pere Marquette State Park, Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower, and Historic Downtown Alton.

For the nature enjoyers out there, Cliff Cave County Park, Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge and Pere Marquette State Park are excellent for nature walks and hiking. Other classic activities on the River Road include eagle watching, boating and sampling local wineries.

But no visit to the Southern Illinois stretch of the River Road can be can be completed without seeing the Piasa Bird. This beast of a painting is a replica of a Native American original discovered in 1673 by Father Jacques Marquette on a massive cliff face.

So the next time you are looking for an Illinois trip, put the Great River Road at the top of your list!