Great River Road  in Illinois State

Great River Road

As its name implies, this scenic route travels along the mighty Mississippi River, hugging the border between Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa.

Plan Around Great River Road

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Great River Road Details

As its name implies, this scenic route travels along the mighty Mississippi River, hugging the border between Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa. For 557 miles, you will have a wealth of landscapes, cities, and natural wonders waiting for you outside your window. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit over 65 different parks, like Giant City Start Park, Shawnee National Forest, and the Mississippi Palisades State Park, while history buffs can explore the largest prehistoric settlement (Cahokia Mounds) and the century-old villages of Galena and Quincy. Although speedy drivers can do the entire journey in under a day, it is best to spend at least four days enjoying all the sights and attractions along the way.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

N/A

Region

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Nearby Parks Around Great River Road

Compare nearby parks around Great River Road when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

126.2 mi away

Gateway Arch

National Park · MO

168.5 mi away

Mammoth Cave

National Park · KY

277.9 mi away

Hot Springs

National Park · AR

325.1 mi away

Great Smoky

National Park · NC

339.7 mi away

Indiana Dunes

National Park · IN

502.3 mi away

Cuyahoga

National Park · OH

Nearby Points of Interest Around Great River Road

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Great River Road while the map context is still fresh.

23.3 mi away

Tunnel Hill State Trail

This trail is like a living museum there is something new and exciting to discover around each turn.

24.9 mi away

Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge

The Emergency Wetland Reserve Act was established to protect, restore, and manage wetlands and bottomland forests.

27.6 mi away

Fort Massac State Park

Fort Massac State Park overlooks the Ohio River from the southern end of Illinois.

27.8 mi away

Cache River State Natural Area

Once you step foot inside this magical forest of 1,000-year-old cypress trees, you will be amazed that someplace this beautiful actually exists.

28.4 mi away

Heron Pond Little Black Slough State Natural Area

A designated National Natural Landmark, this serene pond is a critical habitat for many native birds and animals.