Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway

Cruise along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, where the Mighty Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois Rivers converge. The 33-mile byway begins in Hartford, leading you through Alton and bends along the forested river bluffs to its end point in Grafton, at Pere Marquette State Park.

CITY: Alton

Grafton Zipline Adventures

Looking for a jaw dropping, heart racing experience? Try Grafton’s newest attraction – a zip line that affords those brave enough a stunning river view and hours of fun. The nine zip lines total 1.75 miles, which should take approximately two hours to complete. The first of nine zip lines is nicknamed the Baby Bear – the shortest measuring only 300 feet in length. The longest, at 2,000 feet, is the Soaring Eagle, which has breathtaking views during its 250-foot descent. The Deer Hollow (3rd zip) and the Barn Burner (the final zip) are both 1,500 feet. The Limestone Leap (7th zip) is 1,300 feet, the River Run (5th zip) is 1,200 feet, the Gobblers Knob (6th zip) is 1,000 feet and the Road Runner (2nd zip) at 700 feet.

CITY: Grafton

Pere Marquette State Park

At 8,000 acres, Pere Marquette State Park is the largest state park in Illinois. Go hiking on wooded trails, biking along scenic bluffs, fishing and boating on the Illinois River, or horseback riding through the forest. The park is also known for its guided fall color drives and eagle-watching tours in the winter. The rustic stone-and-timber Pere Marquette Lodge makes a great base for exploring the area.

CITY: Grafton

Grafton Canoe & Kayak

Experience the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers up close in a canoe, kayak, or wave runner. Take a speed boat out on the river for tubing or just relax on the waves in a pontoon. For landlubbers, rent a mountain bike for the day and hit the nearby Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail.

CITY: Grafton

National Great Rivers Museum

Located adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Mississippi River, from its colorful history to its modern-day role as a major transportation corridor. The museum features kid-friendly, interactive and computer animated exhibits. Steer a towboat through the locks and dam via simulator, measure your water consumption or come face-to-face with river fish in the aquarium.

CITY: Alton

Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower

The Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower is dedicated to the duo's history-making journey, and serves as a gateway to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. The Corps of Discovery voyage began here on May 14, 1804, at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Take the elevator up to the top of the 180-foot-tall tower, where you’ll step out to panoramic views of the swirling river waters (the view is particularly stunning at sunset). On platforms located at 50, 100 and 150 feet visitors learn about the early days of Hartford, as well as Lewis and Clark's journey.

CITY: Hartford

Melvin Price Locks & Dam

Get the best view of Alton and the Mississippi River from eight stories in the air atop the Melvin Price Locks & Dam. Take a free guided tour and see towboats and barges as they push their way through this incredible structure. It's also a great spot to eagle watch in the winter.

CITY: Alton

Lewis and Clark State Historic Site

The Lewis and Clark State Historic Site commemorates Camp Dubois, the 1803-1804 winter camp of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. It was at Camp Dubois that members of the Corps of Discovery prepared for their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. The 14,000 square-foot exhibit space contains six galleries that outline the background and history of the Lewis and Clark expedition from its conception to its meaning for today's America. Exhibits are kid-friendly, offering opportunities for hands-on engagement. A "reconstruction" of the winter camp, Camp Dubois, is located on the grounds near the visitor center. Its design reflects 1803 U.S. Army regulations for the construction of military posts. Interpreters are on-site daily in the camp to explain how the men prepared for the journey.

CITY: Hartford

Alton Riverfront Amphitheater

The 4,000 seat Alton Riverfront Amphitheater hosts a variety of events from community festivals to live concerts throughout the summer months. With the Mighty Mississippi River as a backdrop, bring your blanket and spread out for an evening under the stars. Check out our website for a list of upcoming events.

CITY: Alton

Confederate Prison Site

Built in 1833, Alton houses Illinois' first state penitentiary. During the Civil War, the facility imprisoned thousands of Confederate soldiers. Partial remains of the structure can still be observed today.

CITY: Alton

Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge

Near the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers lies a veritable bird-watching utopia. Visitors to Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge can expect to see a variety of migratory birds, from waterfowl and warblers to Acadian Flycatchers and American Bald Eagles. In fact, Two Rivers is the winter home to one the largest Bald Eagle populations in the continental United States.

CITY: Brussels

The River House

Relax, reflect and unwind in this private guest house that is a turn-of-the-century cottage completely restored with modern amenities. Located high above the confluence of the Mississippi & Illinois Rivers, it offers a quiet retreat with a spectacular view, yet it is only one block from village shops, marina, restaurants, bike trails and the scenic byway.

CITY: Grafton

Tara Point Inn and Cottages

Noted in Midwest Living magazine as "a riverside retreat for the romantic," the Tara Point Inn is known for its incredible accommodations and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Atop the palisades bluffs above Grafton, visitors can choose either the main inn or a secluded cozy cabin escape to what some call the most pleasantly memorable getaway experiences in the Midwest.

CITY: Grafton

Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference Center

As a centerpeice of Pere Marquette State Park, the lodge and restaurant are an attraction for visitors from miles around. Visitors can spend a day at the park and explore the Great Room of the lodge, dine in the restaurant or even spend a night in a cozy lodge room or cabin. The centerpeice of the rustic timber 1930s Great Room is the 700 ton stone fireplace and life-size chess set. The Great Rooms beckons visitors to pull up a chair and a glass of wine with a view of the Illinois River. The Lodge restaurant is known for its family-style chicken dinner and season Sunday brunch buffets. Spend the afternoon or a weekend for an unforgettable experience.

CITY: Grafton

Raging Rivers WaterPark

Choose from four winding waterslides, brave the waves at the Breaker Beach wave pool or just spend the afternoon floating along the Lazy River. Located just outside Grafton on the Great River Road.

CITY: Grafton

Grafton Winery & Brewhaus

Located in the quaint river town of Grafton Illinois along the Great River Road Scenic Byway, the Grafton Winery and Brewhaus overlooks the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. Nestled among the river bluffs, our winery offers great views of the river for every season. Come join us for dinner with soup, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and pasta dishes. Private parties & banquets are welcome.

CITY: Grafton

Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail

Walk in the footsteps of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, and Civil War soldiers from both North and South. Experience the life of young Lincoln as a lawyer, duelist and orator. It was here that the final Lincoln-Douglas Debate took place, with the issue of slavery on the minds of spectators. It was here that Confederate soldiers were held captive, died and were buried. It was here that Alton resident and U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull authored the 13th Amendment, putting an end to slavery in the United States. Experience the 11 historic sites interpreted along the Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail.

CITY: Alton

J.E. Robinson Underground Railroad Tours

In the early 1800s, Alton became a safe haven for slaves escaping from the bonds of slavery. Because of the area's neighboring slave state of Missouri, runaways found refuge in the free land surrounding Alton. The tunnels of the Underground Railroad run deep beneath the streets along the "Alton Route." The area was a major stop along the Underground Railroad, hiding slaves in caves, barns and basements throughout Alton, Otterville and Jerseyville. Hear the slave's tales, feel their fear and learn about Alton's remarkable past on an Underground Railroad Tour. Tours available by appointment only.

CITY: Alton

Argosy Casino-Alton

Enjoy three levels of action on the first riverboat casino in Illinois, with more than 1,000 of the most popular machines, from penny to $25 slots. Try your luck at the tables with blackjack, roulette, Caribbean stud poker, pai gow poker and craps.

CITY: Alton

Mineral Springs Haunted Tours

Take an eight-block tour of some of the haunted locations in downtown Alton, investigate the four floors of the Mineral Springs Hotel, be part of a seance and top the evening off with a tarot card reading. All tours begin and end at the Mineral Springs Mall. Tour options include New Moon Haunted Tours, Waking the Dead Walking Tours, Cemetery Tours and Haunted Overnights.

CITY: Alton

The Fish House - A Loading Dock Guest House

This upscale cottage was designed with comfort and fun in mind. Perfect for families or singles, the Guest House sleeps up to 6 with one king size bed and four twin size bunks. A full kitchen and large living room makes for a most relaxing stay. Two televisions and wireless internet access keep you in touch. The Guest House is small-pet friendly with a fenced-in side garden.

CITY: Grafton

Jeni J's Guest House

Stroll the streets of Grafton with the great rivers at your doorstep. From a stone terrace overlooking the junction of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, Jeni J's offers the choice of 3 cottages with 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms. Built in the early 1800's, the cottages are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Situated between the two cottages, take the time to stop into Jeni J's gift shop for a memento of your trip.

CITY: Grafton

Lucy Mae's Guest House

Built at the dawn of the 20th century this two-story home retains its turn of the century charm while offering the convenience of modern pleasures and comfort. The home offers 2 units, upstairs & downstairs with an adjoining stairway that can be opened for large groups.

CITY: Grafton

Lincoln-Douglas Square

The final debate of Stephan A. Douglas and Abraham Lincoln took place in front of Alton's city hall at the corner of Broadway and Market Streets. The senatorial debate drew national attention along with more that 6,000 visitors. Life-like statues of the two statesmen keep the famous series of debates in 1858 frozen forever in time.

CITY: Alton

Piasa Bird Mural at Piasa Park

Located on the edge of Alton, Piasa Park is an attractive stop for motorists, picnickers and bicyclists. The park is set at the base of the giant Piasa Bird mural that is painted on the side of a huge bluff. A large granite arrowhead tells the story of the Piasa Bird, which, according to legend, Chief Ouatoga and his 20 warriors killed with poison darts.

CITY: Alton

Haagen Haus

Comfort, convenience and beautiful surroundings await you in this 1870s guest house located in the historic Christian Hill District. Enjoy private one or two bedroom units with secluded brick courtyards and cozy gas fireplaces. Located on State Street, the Haagen Haus is within walking distance to downtown shops, restaurants, the scenic byway, biking and walking trails, and the Argosy Casino.

CITY: Alton

The Riverside Cottage - A Loading Dock Guest House

Picture-perfect describes this unique, art-filled guest house with overstuffed furniture, fireplace and full kitchen. Located near the riverfront in Grafton, it's the perfect place to slip away for a while!

CITY: Grafton

Beall Mansion Historic Tours

Tour the mansion built as a wedding present by railroad baron and riverboat magnate Z.B. Job for his son and bride Mary Drummond, heiress to the Drummond tobacco fortune. Today this three-story mansion serves as a bed and breakfast.

CITY: Alton

Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail

Extending 20 miles from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park, the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail runs parallel to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway along IL Route 100, as well as the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. The route is completely paved and takes cyclists through the towns of Elsah and Grafton. Comfort stations are available at Piasa Park, Clifton Terrace Park, Elsah, Grafton Visitors Center, Grafton Harbor public restroom and Pere Marquette State Park. This is a great ride for cyclist of all ages, including families looking for a free day of fun!

CITY: Alton

Ruebel Hotel & Restaurant

Located near the convergence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, Grafton, Illinois is a little town steeped in history. In the heart of that history is the Ruebel Hotel. The Ruebel was built in 1884, caught fire in 1912 and was rebuilt and completely renovated in 1997. In 2008, it was upgraded to modern standards - all rooms have new beds and are equipped with hair dryers, refrigerators and 26" flat screen TVs with satellite. To ensure your stay is a pleasant one, we've supplied free wireless internet to the lobby, saloon and all rooms. The Ruebel Hotel has a magnificently restored bar from the 1904 Worlds Fair in St. Louis. The Ruebel Saloon offers excellent food and a great variety of beer and wines.

CITY: Grafton

Confederate Cemetery and Memorial

This monument remembers those who died in the infamous Alton prison. A smallpox virus spread rapidly through the Alton Prison in 1863, killing more than 1,435 incarcerated soldiers. The soldiers are laid to rest here and each of their names is commemorated at the Memorial. The Alton Prison and Confederate Cemetery are some of the rare northernmost monuments to the Confederate Soldier.

CITY: Alton

Wood River Refinery History Museum

Step back in time more than 75 years at the Shell History Museum in Roxana, Illinois. Trace the history of Shell Wood River and neighboring communities as you look at early photographs and the many items of interest, including vintage gasoline pumps, glass motor oil bottles Shell product advertising and city maps.

CITY: Roxana

Grafton Riverfront

Just beyond the river bend, the residents of Grafton readily embrace visitors, inviting them to celebrate life on the Mississippi River. Grafton, resting under the Mississippi River bluffs, is home to five wineries, flea markets, antique shops, restaurants and views like no other along the river. Bed & Breakfast Inns and Guests Houses scattered throughout the town offer views of the river and a taste of life in a river town. With barges just a stone’s throw away on the Mississippi River, you are guaranteed to gain a new perspective of what living on the river really means.

CITY: Grafton

Alton Little Theater

Entertaining audiences since 1934, the Alton Little Theater offers a season of great live theatrical performances from dramas to comedies to everyone's favorite musicals. The Alton Little Theater is one of the oldest community theaters in the state of Illinois.

CITY: Alton

Alton Museum of History and Art

Winged monsters, explorers, riverboats and a gentle giant. The Alton Museum of History & Art shows the crossroads of American history in Alton. The museum is located in the historic Loomis Hall across from the Wadlow statue. Loomis Hall is the oldest building in the state of Illinois continuously utilized for education. One of the most popular rooms, the Wadlow Room, pays tribute to Alton's "Gentle Giant" and the World's Tallest Man. The Pioneer Room explores the history of Alton from the Lewis & Clark Expedition to the Civil War with exhibits on Elijah Lovejoy, the Lincoln-Douglas Debates and the "Alton Route" on the Underground Railroad. Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.

CITY: Alton

Lewis and Clark Memorial

This memorial commemorates Camp Dubois, the 1803-04 winter camp of Lewis and Clark where they launched their Corps of Discovery expedition to the Pacific.

CITY: Hartford

Mississippi Mud Pottery

Watch the potters at Mississippi Mud spin a creation right before your eyes. The potters work daily making dinnerware, lamps, vases, planters, casseroles, pottery and custom-designed ware. Their creations are made from natural clay materials mined in the Midwest region, with lead-free glazes that are microwave, oven proof and dishwasher safe. The pottery on display makes a great gift as a beautiful piece of art, as well as practical dishes for use in the home.

CITY: Alton

Aerie's Cottages & Vacation Villas

At Aerie's, the individual Cottages include jaccuzzi tubs, kitchenettes and private decks. The Lodge, perfect for family gatherings includes a common room, full kitchen and a deck shared by four ensuite rooms. The Vacation Villas offer multiple arrangements and include private deck space with access to the swimming pool and clubhouse.

CITY: Grafton

Alton Marina

A destination port on the Mississippi with picnic area's, playground, outdoor pool. Within a half of a mile to Alton's historic antique district and the Argosy Casino.

CITY: Alton

Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast

Choose your room from five lovely spaces appointed to transport you to a place of serenity apart from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Each one provides a relaxing atmosphere that reflects the peacefulness of historic Elsah. Here you will find cozy comfort, gentle romance, serene elegance, sunny color and tranquil beauty.

CITY: Elsah

Beer Barrel Pub

Must be 21

CITY: Godfrey

Mississippi River State Fish and Wildlife Area

Consisting of 15 wildlife management areas and 13 public access areas, the Mississippi River State and Wildlife Area manages a majority of its 24,400 acres to accommodate waterfowl hunting and habitat enhancement.

CITY: Grafton

La Marsh House of Beds & Blues

Stay at one of the oldest guest houses in Grafton! This guest house boasts a Blues theme, historic charm and modern amenities. Located in the center of downtown Grafton, it's within easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, wineries, and the riverfront.

CITY: Grafton

Robert Wadlow Statue

In 1918, Alton became the famous birthplace of Robert Wadlow, "The Gentle Giant." Born a normal eight pounds in 1918, Wadlow suffered from a pituitary gland problem. He was almost nine feet tall and 500 pounds when he died of complications from a foot infection at age 22. He is noted in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest man alive. A life-sized statue on College Avenue lifts visitors' heads in amazement. The Alton Museum of History and Art have devoted an entire room to Wadlow, including his third-grade desk and oversized grade school ring.

CITY: Alton

George Street Suites

Perfect for pleasure and business. Stay by the night, week or month. One, two and three bedroom furnished apartments with full kitchen, coffee maker, stove, microwave and dishes. Enjoy all the modern conveniences including digital cable TV, DVD, and complementary Wi-Fi. Located in the Middletown Historic District next to the award winning Beall Mansion Bed and Breakfast. Close to shopping and businesses, marina, wineries, restaurants, hiking and biking trails, historic sites and the Argosy Casino Alton.

CITY: Alton

Grafton Inn

Centrally located in Grafton with two suites available. Each suite has a wet bar with a refrigerator, microwave and coffee pot. A large sitting area with a TV, DVD player and a full size sofa. The bedroom has a queen size bed and fireplace. The bathroom has a shower, a large make-up vanity and features the Bain Ultra air jetted tub for two. Making it perfect for the special couples getaway!

CITY: Grafton

Jackson House - Alton

Jackson House offers a Victorian elegance in the main house, or secluded luxury in a guest house. Sink into a king-sized bed in the spacious master bedroom or snuggle under a quilt in the atmospheric Fireplace room. After slumbering in the loft of The Barn, enjoy the woodland landscape while lounging on the enclosed porch. In The Cave, a cozy earth house, you might bask in the glow of the fireplace, or in the summer, relax on the romantic patio.

CITY: Alton

Alton Stained Glass Works

Visit this working studio to shop for hand-crafted works of art - lamps, window panes, ornaments, sun catchers, glass beads and more. From decorative items to window panes, make a purchase from the floor or have Lynne custom design a piece for you and your home. Classes are also available. Hours: Tuesday 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or by appointment.

CITY: Alton

Beall Mansion - An Elegant Bed & Breakfast Inn

Welcome to the mansion built as a wedding gift. Designed by Lucas Pfeiffenberger and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this elegant mansion features 18 ionic columns, eleven and a half foot ceilings, crystal chandeliers and marble and bronze statuary throughout. Let us pamper you with sumptuous feather beds, whirlpools for two, 24 hour "all you can eat" chocolate buffet, and optional gourmet breakfast in bed. Free wi-fi. In room massage, spa, golf and corporate packages available.

CITY: Alton

Cabin at Blueberry Ridge Farm

Beautiful walking trails, full of wildlife and bird watching. The house sleeps 6, fully furnished kitchen, and 1 1/2 bathrooms.

CITY: Hardin

Center For American Archeology

Archeological field experience. Archeological research. Education programs. Museum exhibits and tours. Scientific publications. Public events.

CITY: Kampsville

Aquatic Center

Splash around at the Aquatic Center. Climb up four stories and launch down your choice of two waterslides with more than 320 feet of winding turns and diving wells, or take a dip in the pool.

CITY: Wood River

Alton Square Mall

Anchored by JCPenney and Macy's, Alton Square Mall is the area's regional mall destination. A full-service food court, U.S. Post Office, satellite city library and Christian Science Reading Room are also featured at the mall. Hours: Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

CITY: Alton

Jacoby Arts Center

Jacoby Arts Center is dedicated to creating opportunities for individual artists in their pursuit of artistic excellence and economic success. The stunning gallery presents works of regional and national artists and the retail shop, known as The Artist Shop, showcases items in a variety of media while providing artists a retail outlet to their audiences.

CITY: Alton

Eckert's Country Store & Farms - Grafton

Eckert's rustic barn and farm looks just like it did years ago, specializing in peaches, apples and pumpkins. Take a free wagon ride out to the farm to pick your own produce, and enjoy the charming country store and bakery.

CITY: Grafton

Bubby and Sissy’s

Located just a few blocks from the riverfront Argosy Casino Alton, this bar hosts drag shows every weekend, karaoke on Thursdays, amateur drag queen and king shows the last Wednesday of the month, and dancing to DJ-driven music.

CITY: Alton

Geocaching Programs

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game in which the participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers (called "geocaches" or "caches"). Several are located at the Rivers Project and interested individuals can attend this free 1 hour program on Saturdays, June through August,to learn more and get involved in geocaching.

CITY: Alton

Benjamin Godfrey Memorial Chapel

Originally called Monticello, the village of Godfrey was named for a Massachusetts sea captain, Benjamin Godfrey who founded the Monticello Seminary in 1838. One of the more rapidly growing Illinois community colleges, Lewis & Clark Community College, now calls the Monticello campus home. Located on the campus, the Benjamin Godfrey Chapel, built in 1854, has become a landmark in the community. This church has been designated as one of only six churches outside of the northeastern United States that are authentic copies of New England church architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Godfrey

Dollar General -- Godfrey

Convenience items at discount prices.

CITY: Godfrey

Alton Antique Center

There is something for everyone at the Alton Antique Center. Merchandise from around the world, from inexpensive to investment quality pieces, abound in this shop located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Rare one-of-a-kind items, exotic pieces, oddities, and items from Asia, Great Britain, Europe and America are available. From beautiful to whimsical, there is always something to capture the eye and the imagination at the center.

CITY: Alton

Castelli's Restaurant at 255

It has been over 75 years since Alfonso Castelli opened Moonlight Restaurant. One of the most popular items is the fried chicken. The TALK-N-CHIC is a house secret, a trademarked recipe that has been passed down through the generations. Castelli's Restaurant at 255 also offers other homemade specialties such as the “Roman” house salad dressing, tortellini, and ravioli. All are absolutely delicious! If you're a steak, chop or seafood lover, you can't go wrong. The menu from top to bottom is wonderful and the prices are a great value.

CITY: Alton

Imo's Pizza

Imo’s Pizza is known for their famous thin crust. Originally from St. Louis, Imo’s uses Provel cheese instead of mozzarella. Their fresh, never frozen ingredients are piled edge to edge over their homemade sauce. Side that with a salad.

CITY: Bethalto

Lovejoy Monument

This monument memorializes Elijah P. Lovejoy, whose work and death in Alton gave him a place in history for the abolition of slavery. During the slavery era, Elijah Lovejoy was a pastor who wrote anti-slavery editorials so controversial he became an object of hatred by slaveholders. Despite threats to his life, he continued his anti-slavery writings in the Alton Observer, even after three of his printing presses were thrown into the Mississippi River. It was this persistence that led an angry pro-slavery mob to attack and kill him in 1837.

CITY: Alton

Prairie Peddler Antiques

Two stories of quality 18th and 19th century antiques are featured at this shop located in historic downtown Alton. Pieces include: country, primitive, formal, folk art, early iron, ceramics, pottery, mirros, clocks, textiles, baskets and early lighting. Open Wednesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday, Noon - 4 p.m.

CITY: Alton

Argosy Casino - Captain's Table Buffet

Even the heartiest of appetites is no match for the Captain’s Table Buffet. Enjoy seasonal favorites, hand-selected by our chefs. From comfort foods like special-recipe fried chicken and mashed potatoes to fresh fish and steamed vegetables we are sure to have exactly what you are looking for.

CITY: Alton

Karen's Crafts

Located in the antique district of historic downtown Alton, this mom and pop craft shop has all your project needs and then some. Unique and traditional crafting items are found throughout the store. Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

CITY: Alton

My Just Desserts

Follow the lead of the locals and order dessert first, as fresh-baked favorites like the Tollhouse brownies and Mrs. Ledbetter’s chocolate pie sell out early. For lunch, sample the hefty half-pound chicken salad sandwich or one of the homey casseroles.

CITY: Alton

Aerie's Riverview Winery

The view is incredible and the wine selection is unbeatable every season of the year on top of the bluffs at Aerie's Winery. During the spring and summer, the outdoor deck offers a breathtaking view of recreation on the river. As the temperatures cool, you can lounge inside next to the fireplace. Aerie's also offers cottages and a lodge to accommodate the needs of overnight guests, all within walking distance of the winery. Seasonally, check our calendar for live music on the decks Wine, cheese, sausages and pizza are available.

CITY: Grafton

Fulkerson Mansion and Farm Museum

Colonel William H. Fulkerson's mansion and farm museum contains many rare agricultural items and equipment with emphasis on large, rare farm steam traction engines, utilized for plowing the prairie, threshing the grain, and for powering early sawmills. The estate is 14-room Southern-style Victorian mansion that has remained virtually unchanged to this day. It was placed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places in 1998.

CITY: Jerseyville

Argosy Casino - Outfitter's Grill

A breathtaking view of the Upper Mississippi and the Clark Bridge is the perfect complement to an Outfitters Grill menu that has prime cuts of USDA Choice beef, the freshest seafood, mouthwatering pasta and so much more.

CITY: Alton

Tony's Restaurant

Family owned for more than 50 years, Tony's is located in Alton on Third Street. Known for their mouth-watering pepperloin steaks, the family recipe has been a crowd pleaser for years. Homemade pastas and family recipes make for a memorable meal. Tony's offers the best of both worlds with a formal dining room, perfect for a romantic meal or to celebrate a special occasion. The Third Street Cafe entrance features a sports bar atmosphere perfect for kicking back to enjoy a slice of fresh secret recipe pizza, a juicy half-pound steakburger or a basket of wings. From casual family dining to a cozy meal together, Tony's is your place!

CITY: Alton

Koster Farms Hunting Club

Hunting on 2,000 acres of farm, timberland, cropland, and creek bottoms provides a large terrain selection for prime hunting. New club house sleeps 10, full kitchen, 2 baths, dish TV and VCR. Nine hole golf course nearby.

CITY: Carrollton

Plainview Vineyard

Plainview Vineyard grows 16 varieties of grapes in their vineyard. During the summer, be sure to try our frozen wine drinks. All our wine grape varieties were grown, harvested, and bottled at Plainview Vineyard.

CITY: Plainview

Holiday Inn - Alton

If you're searching for full-service hotels in Alton, IL, look no further. In addition to state-of-the-art event facilities, we have a large atrium with comfortable seating to encourage conversation. We also have added all new 32" flat screen tvs in all guest rooms. Located at the intersection of Route 140 and Route 3, and within minutes of I-255 , I-270, and the Amtrak Station, this hotel boasts unparalleled amenities and the friendliest staff, as well as ideal proximity to downtown Alton.

CITY: Alton

Comfort Inn - Alton

From the moment you arrive at Comfort Inn, we want you to relax and feel at home. Our helpful staff is there to welcome you, and you'll find everything to suit your needs, including clean, comfortable, and well-appointed rooms with cozy beds. We also offer free high-speed Internet access. Feel at ease knowing that your satisfaction is important to us!

CITY: Alton

Backwoods Berry Farm

Pick up fruits of the season from the roadside stand or head to the fields to pick your own strawberries, black raspberries or asparagus.

CITY: Hettick

RiverView Suites

These suites are private, secure and first class in a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Fully furnished one and two bedroom units. Kitchen, VCR, digital cable, washer and dryer, free local calls.

CITY: Alton

Fin Inn

Watch the fish swim in four 2,000 gallon aquariums as you enjoy one of the Fin Inn's signature catfish, Alaskan White Fish, or frog legs dinners. Adults and kids alike love to watch the fish swim in the aquariums with 21 table-side aquarium viewing windows. Enjoy a full menu of fried fish, homestyle meals and a local favorite - turtle soup! Children's menu available. Hours: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

Fast Eddie's Bon-Air

The legend lives on at Fast Eddie's Bon-Air. It's an institution that people come from miles around to experience. Grilled burgers, shish-kabobs, brawtwurst and boiled shrimp all sold at the same low prices as when they were added 14 years ago! You must be 21 years of age to enter.

CITY: Alton

Pere Marquette Historic Site

This historical marker honors Father Pere Marquette.

CITY: Grafton

Mary Michelle Winery

Mary Michelle has 60 acres of vineyards adjacent to the winery and grows most of the grapes that it uses for its wines. This Winery sells only through stores and restaurants. Mary Michelle’s winemaker is the award-winning Lucian Dressel, a fifth generation Greene County resident by way of Boston, New York, Augusta, Mo., and Davis, Ca. In 2003, inspired by the vision of the founders of Mary Michelle, Dressel returned to the Midwest to help make a contribution to the fulfillment of this dream.

CITY: Carrollton

Porthole Barn Trail

After the Civil War, Confederate shipbuilder Joe Minch was looking for a fresh start. He made his way back to the Rockbridge area and traded his building expertise for a set of tools. That first project of building a barn set into motion a new trend in barn design. Joe placed round windows, now know as portholes, in the barn. Travel through Greene County today to view the highest concentration of Porthole Barns in the country.

CITY: Carrollton