Great River Road

This scenic drive follows the flow of the mighty Mississippi River as it curves along the western edge of Illinois and meanders for more than 550 miles, traveling through charming small towns and offering beautiful river and woodland views along the way.

CITY: Fulton

Apple River Fort State Historic Site

Apple River Fort State Historic Site, located in Elizabeth, Illinois, is the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War. Black Hawk and his 200 warriors attacked the hastily erected fort on June 24, 1832. His story and that of the early settlers are told.

CITY: Elizabeth

Timber Lake Resort

Seven cabins open year round. Relax at the cabin, or enjoy the views of scenic Northwestern Illinois. New one and two bedroom cabins, sleep six, full bath, kitchenette, AC, TV, porches.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Seven Eagles Cabins

Both cabins have air & heat and each has its own private shower and rest room. Each cabin has a picnic table and fire pit, and best of all - firewood. Linen and towels are included with the rental. One cabin has a Queen Size bed and loft area with table and chairs. The other cabin has a full size and a single bed with a loft area. Our log cabins are nested next to The Great River Bike Path and hundreds of acres of Illinois Fish and Wildlife Reserve that offers excellent fishing, bird watching, hunting, biking, hiking, and wildlife enjoyment.

CITY: Savanna

Chicago Great Western Railway Depot Museum

Experience railroading during its glory days at a former link for the Chicago Great Western Railway from Chicago, Illinois to Oelwein, Iowa by taking a tour through our extensive collection of railway memorabilia. See a full-size caboose, both G-scale and HO-scale operating model railroads and artifacts of northwestern Illinois railroads.

CITY: Elizabeth

The Nest at Palisades Cabins

The Nest at Palisades Cabins offer secluded luxury cabins designed to provide charm, quiet luxury and romance. We’re located on a wooded acreage high above the Mississippi River minutes from Savanna, the Palisades State Park and an easy 20 minute drive to Galena.

CITY: Savanna

Bluff Cabins

High on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, these uniquely built log cabins can sleep six and are situated right next to the Mississippi Palisades State Park with nature trails connecting the two. Cabins have 1 or 2 lofts and are open year round.

CITY: Savanna

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Untouched by glaciers that left their mark elsewhere in the state, this park is rich with rock formations carved by erosion. The park features pileated woodpeckers, migratory waterfowl and other wildlife species.

CITY: Savanna

Long Hollow Scenic Overlook

This scenic overlook, located along the Great River Road on U.S. Hwy. 20, includes picnic tables, shelters and restrooms. Perfect place for photos to be taken as you can see a spectacular view of Jo Daviess County's rolling countryside.

CITY: Elizabeth

Long's Garden

Tour the walk-through gardens and browse the nursery selling 170 different ornamental grasses, trees and shrubs.

CITY: Fulton

Mt. Carroll Garden Walk

Stroll the brick streets and enjoy unique historic architecture while viewing beautiful flower, perennial and water gardens. Garden vendors and a farmer's market will be stationed in the Courthouse Square.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Mississippi River Lodge

Our Mississippi River Lodge is located right on the banks on the Mighty Mississippi River between Savanna and Thomson Illinois and offers awe-inspiring views from every angle. We offer 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, living room with fireplace & big screen TV, deck with grill, a fully stocked kitchen and much more! If you are a river lover, this is the place for you. Fishing, water skiing, tubing, or cruising up the river, it's all here for your enjoyment. Since we are located on Big Slough, off of the main channel of the river, you can have fun without having to deal with a lot of river traffic. Access to the main channel is easy if you want to cruise the river. Only five miles up the river is Lower Sabula Lake which offers a great new sand beach. There is a public boat launch only a quarter mile from the house and a dock is provided to moor your boat at the house. If you do not have a boat, you can fish off the dock or the bank.

CITY: Thomson

Country Inn & Suites By Carlson - Stockton

Gateway to scenic Jo Daviess County. Affordable, clean, friendly and convenient. Complete breakfast, limited pet friendly. Near historic downtown Galena and Chestnut Mountain skiing. Nearby snowmobile trails, state parks, hunting/fishing.

CITY: Stockton

Indian Springs Lodge Ltd.

This log cabin getaway is cradled by nature. Delighted guests fish from the pedal boat and canoe across the pond to the tepee. Star-gaze, listen to the woods' silence, be at peace.

CITY: Stockton

Studiowork

A gallery of handmade pottery and art by local artists and the studio of Adrienne Seagraves and Stephanie O'Shaughnessy.

CITY: Elizabeth

Rosario Bruno's Fergedaboudit Vineyard and Winery

Located just 15 minutes outside of Galena, Rosario's winery has become a special place for family and friends to gather. Fergedaboudit wines have won several bronze, silver, and gold medals in Illinois state wine competitions.

CITY: Hanover

Three Sisters Guest House and Sweet Shoppe

Three Sisters Guest House is located just minutes from Galena in historic Elizabeth. The guestrooms are elegantly decorated and each features a private bath and Wi-Fi internet at reasonable rates.

CITY: Elizabeth

Blackhawk War Monument

This monument is located on the site of Kellogg's Grove, an early settlement established in 1827 on a mail route between Peoria and Galena, and now on the National Register of Historic Places. It honors those killed in the Blackhawk War, including in the final Illinois Battle which occurred at this grove in June, 1832. Abraham Lincoln, a member of the Illinois militia, helped bury five of the slain men. The remaining soldiers were originally buried throughout the area at the spots at which they fell. Fifty years after the war, local farmers collected the remains and buried them in one enclosure on top of this hill overlooking the Yellow Creek Valley. The 34-foot high monument was dedicated in 1886.

CITY: Kent

Huff's Miniature Horses

Observe a small herd of miniature horses, and even groom the patient ones. Be sure to call and make a reservation.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Frank Fritz Finds

Located in the Pulford Opera House Antique Mall, Frank Fritz Finds showcases some of the unusual and unique collectibles and antiques offered for sale by Frank Fritz, co-star of American Pickers on the History Channel.

CITY: Savanna

Flower Fan-a-see

Full service florist with lots more. Stuffed animals, candles, angels, home decor, photo frames, plants, balloons, and custom designs.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Northwest Design

Glass studio nestled in the hills offers a shopping experience. Local glass artists at work using lampwork and fusing techniques.

CITY: Stockton

Marcotte's Family Motel

On three acres overlooking Jo Daviess countryside, a short drive to Galena, Chestnut, Mississippi, Apple Canyon. Some rooms include fridge/microwave/table/chairs. Apartments with full kitchens. Coffee/muffins, hot tub, grill, campfire, dog-friendly.

CITY: Elizabeth

Eshelman Pottery

My pottery is simple, elegant, functional red stoneware utilizing glazed and unglazed surfaces for a visual and tactile contrast.

CITY: Elizabeth

Ink & Paper

Unique, fun gifts for all ages and occasions. Located in historic downtown Stockton, five blocks south of US Hwy 20.

CITY: Stockton

1876 Banwarth House and Museum

A fascinating, hands-on experience awaits! Join period interpreters on a journey through the fine Victorian home of Charles Banwarth.

CITY: Elizabeth

"Christmas on the North Side" Craft Show

This 11th annual craft show over 25 crafters offering primatives, jewelery, basket weaving, loom weaving, quilted items, florals, wreaths, painting and more.

CITY: Pearl City

Scenic Bluff Ranch

Situated in the majestic hills of Savanna on more than 350 acres with access to over 24 miles of trails, Scenic Bluff Ranch is a fun and friendly haven, with a caring atmosphere, which makes riding horses a pleasure. Established in 1997 and designed with horse and rider in mind, we cater to all disciplines and breeds and we have plenty to offer everyone; from the inexperienced to the seasoned rider. Ride our trails with your horse or rent our facility for your event.

CITY: Savanna

Rosebud Rentals, Inc.

Our properties provide either seclusion or being close to amenities. Enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, horseback riding, outdoor pool, indoor pool, fitness and game room, and much more.

CITY: Elizabeth

Blanding Landing Recreation Area

Located on Mississippi River. Camping, fishing/boating accessibility, playground, potable water, showers, flush toilets. Class A campground, 50-amp electric. Reservations accepted.

CITY: Hanover

Indian Mounds State Historic Site

One of the largest prehistoric Hopewell Mounds group in Illinois - interpretive brochures on site.

CITY: Albany

Massbach Ridge Winery

Sample award-winning, estate-grown wine while enjoying the breathtaking Jo Daviess County hills.

CITY: Elizabeth

Albany Antique Mall

Antique mall.

CITY: Albany

Robert F. Apple - Fishing Guide

Fishing guide - muskies, walleyes; all equipment furnished.

CITY: Chadwick

Lakewood Resort and Gardens

Sportsman's paradise. Permanent wooded seasonal sites, tent camping. Acres of remote backpacking. Guided deer hunting (archery only), turkey hunt.

CITY: Savanna

Cross Creek Golf Course

This nine-hole golf course features a pro shop, bar, snack bar and putting green.

CITY: Morrison

Andrew's Mill Park

Picnic area, pond for fishing & ice skating with handicap accessible fishing pier, Gerald Strohecker natural area with native woodland, prairie and wetland.

CITY: Pearl City

Country Palmer House

This 1911 home is nestled on a farm in Northwest Illinois. Take pleasure in our rolling hills, open spaces & country hospitality. Featuring a full country breakfast, seasonal fruits & vegetables from our garden. Hike, bike, bird watch, hunt or just relax.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Mount Carroll Bowling Center

Join us for bowling -- stay for the fun! Full-service bowling center plus cosmic bowling, leagues and restaurant with daily specials. We can also host birthday parties.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Red Ruby Inn

This beautiful guest house offers three bedrooms & shared library/sitting room. 1 bedroom with private bath - 2 share a bathroom. Located in a historic brick home 2 blocks from business district offering unique shopping, coffee shops, antique shops & both fine dining & family friendly restaurants.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Emerald Acres Campground

Open: May 1 thru October 15. This campground offers 46 sites with electrical and water hookups in additions to 70 permanent sites, as well as tent sites. Sewer hookups are offered when available. Also offered are two bath houses with flush toilets, showers, beach swimming, a restaurant, and playground area. Pets on a leash and campfires are allowed. Special amenities include fishing, and activities on holiday weekends. Visitors are invited to enjoy the summer at this special place. Electric and water site: $25; Ten sites: $20. Rates are for 2 adults and two children under 17. Additional day visitor is $3.00 or $5.00 for additional overnight visitor.

CITY: Pearl City

Thomson House Villager Lodge

40 unit extended stay motel. All rooms have microwave, refrigerator, on site cafe, and laundromat, pets welcome

CITY: Thomson

Silver Moon Winery

Enjoy a glass of wine by the fireplace and chat with the winemaker, who is always delighted to share his passion for making wine with guests.

CITY: Lanark

Vel Terra Ranch and Family Campground

Campsites are spacious, shaded or sunny; accommodates tent campers, pop-ups or RVs. Modern bathhouse. Water, 50/30/20 electric, free firewood. Peaceful!

CITY: Elizabeth

Albany Mounds

One of the most important archaeological sites in Illinois, Albany Mounds contains evidence of continuous human habitation over the past 10,000 years.

CITY: Albany

Great River Bike Trail

The bike trail in Fulton is one small section of the Great River Trail, which spans from Rock Island to Savanna (60 mi.).

CITY: Fulton

Mt. Carroll Walking Tour

Take a self-guided walking tour through Mt. Carroll's historic district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Timber Lake Playhouse

Illinois' oldest continuously-running professional summer stock theatre. Live performances June-August. Reservations required. Children's program July-August.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Seven Eagles Motel and Campground

Relax in our comfortable rooms. Our rooms include a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, patio & grill. Be sure to enjoy the heated outdoor pool and new theater room. Laundry facilities.

CITY: Savanna

Savanna Motel

32 rooms, microwave, refrigerator, courtesy coffee in rooms, phones and air conditioning.

CITY: Savanna

Blue Bed & Breakfast

Three guest rooms with private baths. A full kitchen and living space featuring views of the Mississippi River. Located in the historic district of downtown Savanna with antique malls, antique motorcycle museum, and the mighty Mississippi all within walking distance. Mississippi Palisades State Park just 5 minutes away!

CITY: Savanna

GG's Guest House

A spacious 3 bedroom home perfect for family or group getaways or vacations. Equipped with a 40 inch TV, dishes for 6, and all the comforts of home. Wireless access throughout.

CITY: Savanna

De Immigrant Dutch Windmill

Fulton's authentic Dutch windmill, called "De Immigrant," was prefabricated in the Netherlands and erected in the U.S. by Dutch craftsmen. The windmill sits on the flood control dike right in the heart of Fulton.

CITY: Fulton

Prairie Path Guest House

We offer three rooms where you can sleep comforted by beautiful handmade quilts or lose yourself among the antiques! Wake up to a hearty breakfast of eggs, bacon, homemade breads, fruit, French toast or waffles, ham, and our own jams & jellies. While sitting on the wicker porch swing on the upstairs veranda, enjoy our beautiful countryside and be blessed by the song of the bluebird or call of the mockingbird. Wake up to the smell of coffee and fresh cinnamon rolls baking and make time to bird watch, shop in our small quilt & gift shop or explore the historic community we call home. We offer free Wi-Fi.

CITY: Mount Carroll

The Gilded Cage

Vintage at heart painted cottage furniture, antiques, unique one of a kind pieces.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Stockton Heritage Museum

Stockton Heritage Museum is a not-for-profit entity dedicated to the preservation and teaching of Stockton area history. Discover exhibits on the Chicago Great Western Railroad, model trains, history of Kraft Foods, and Stockton area history exhibits.

CITY: Stockton

Savanna Super 8

Single, kings, doubles, queens, jacuzzi suites, business suites, indoor pool and hot tub, superstart breakfast, electrical outlets for boats and travel trailers. Pets allowed.

CITY: Savanna

Granny O'Neil's River Inn Bed & Breakfast

Our home to roam around in. Private showing of our Indian Maiden collection and other collectables

CITY: Savanna

Woodbine Glass Museum and Gift Shop

Museum displays 4,000 pieces of hand-blown glass, including contemporary and antique work from many countries. Glass blowing video. Gift shop.

CITY: Stockton

Elizabeth History Museum

Tour the Elizabeth History Museum and view more than four thousand local history artifacts on lead mining; the Apple River Fort; Elizabeth businesses, schools and veterans.

CITY: Elizabeth

Tapley Woods State Natural Area

Located 5 miles west of Elizabeth, IL, this 260 timbered acres provides public hunting areas, hiking and nature viewing.

CITY: Elizabeth

Martin House Museum

The Fulton Historical Society is located in this Civil War-era home donated to the city by Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Martin.

CITY: Fulton

Windmill Cultural Center

The Windmill Cultural Center houses an extensive collection of 21 European windmills representing ten European countries. Interpretive exhibits provide unique information on the products produced by windmills, country of origin, windmill specifications, and the cultural impact of windmills. The Education Area features video presentations of the windmill countries and an education area contains children's activities including coloring, puzzles, and toys promoting scientific concepts. The gift shop sells fresh stone-ground flour, Delft pottery, and souvenirs of Fulton, the Windmill Cultural Center and the windmill.

CITY: Fulton

Market Street Commons at the Kraft Building

Market Street Commons is located in the heart of the Mt. Carroll historic district, in the old Kraft Building. The Kraft Building houses the community Welcome Center and Chamber of Commerce, along with shops.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Pine Motel

9-room motel and 1 cottage.

CITY: Fulton

Constantly Stitching N' More

Located on the Lincoln Highway in the old Unionville School, 1,200 bolts of 100% cotton quilting fabric, notions, books, patterns and antiques.

CITY: Morrison

Signature Woodworking

Combining old-world joinery and the accuracy of modern-day machinery and the desire to produce the highest quality custom cabinets, furniture and mill work.

CITY: Savanna

Heritage Canyon

On the Mississippi River in an old 12-acre quarry is where you will find a restored and furnished mid-1800s settlement. Paths through the wooded hillsides lead from one home site to another.

CITY: Fulton

Hanover Bluff Natural Area

Hanover Bluff Natural Area provides great nature viewing opportunities within the forest and grassland areas as well as at the only public lake in Jo Daviess County. Sixteen-acre public lake. Largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish. No boating. Sign in/out at visitor parking. 350 acres for public hunting.

CITY: Hanover

L&M Motel

Located within two miles of the Mississippi River, the L&M Motel has been completely remodeled and features 32 theme rooms all with microwaves, refrigerators, courtesy coffee, phones, wireless internet, and air conditioning. We're very biker friendly and only 25 minutes from Galena!

CITY: Savanna

Hickory Hideaway

Hickory Hideaway invites you to discover the diverse beauty of Northwest Illinois. located in historic Carroll County, which is host to many opportunities both relaxing and recreational - not too mention only one stoplight in the whole county. Relax in the rustic setting of our cozy cabins located on 10 wooded acres minutes from Lake Carroll. We offer three types of cabins: luxury cabins, rustic whirlpool cottages, extended-stay country cottages.

CITY: Shannon

Apple River Canyon S.P. - Thomson/Salem Units

The vegetative cover is a mixture of steep timbered slopes and bluffs with grasslands, rowcrops, and hayfields predominate on ridge tops. The topography can be severe especially bordering the Apple River. This habitat should provide good hunting for squirrel, rabbit, turkey and deer. 1,150 acre area allows hunting, fishing; no boating/biking. See postings/fact sheets at registration. Sign in/out at lots #1 or #2.

CITY: Stockton

Village of Albany

Antique store.

CITY: Albany

Hanover Bluff Nature Preserve

This nature reserve is the perfect place to bring the family. Hike 450 natural acres, home of nine Illinois endangered or threatened plants and animals. Hanover Bluff Nature Preserve is The Prairie State's 150th nature preserve.

CITY: Hanover

Rocky Waters Vineyard & Winery, Inc.

Experience our spectacular view, taste wines from our locally grown grapes, relax on the deck, and enjoy some wine.

CITY: Hanover

Oak Woods Bay Vacation Rental Home

This vacation rental home located on the waterfront at Lake Carroll is truly one you and your family will enjoy! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and upper and lower level family rooms with lake views. An open floor plan brings together the kitchen, dining area, and family room. Plenty of space for additional air mattresses to accommodate guests or family members. WIRELESS INTERNET available Go to website to see a list of the many amenities this lake home includes!

CITY: Lake Carroll

Lake House on Shadow Ridge

This beautiful lakefront rental property, located on Lake Carroll, consists of a cedar home located on a wooded lot with over 300 feet of shoreline on Lake Carroll, just north of Lanark, Illinois. The Rental Property is fully furnished and sleeps 10-12.

CITY: Lake Carroll

Lake House on Shadow Ridge

This beautiful lakefront rental property, located on Lake Carroll, consists of a cedar home located on a wooded lot with over 300 feet of shoreline on Lake Carroll, just north of Lanark, Illinois. The Rental Property is fully furnished and sleeps 10-12.

CITY: Lake Carroll

Susan Shire Antiques

Quality primitives antiques shop on historic Peoria-Galena Trail, located behind our restored 1861 limestone house in beautiful Pleasant Valley.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Valley-Vu Motel

Nine-unit motel on Highway 20. New 32” flat screen TVs with cable, credit card phone service, nearby café. Midweek/multi-night discounts. Visa/MasterCard. No pets. Non-smoking. Amenities in office. Coffeemaker, microwaves, refrigerators.

CITY: Stockton

Iris and Jack Witkowsky State Wildlife Area

A part of the Apple River Canyon State Park Complex, the Iris and Jack Witkowsky State Wildlife Area is 1,100 acres for public hunting and nature viewing. Beginning of a transcontinental bluebird trail segment. Sign in/out at lots #1 or #4.

CITY: Hanover

Fergedaboudit Vineyard and Winery

A boutique winery located in a scenic valley in Hanover specializing in dry-red-bold wines from our vineyard.

CITY: Hanover

Fashions on Main

3,000 sq ft main floor of building. Store front. Unique clothing, shoes and accessories. Chocolates including Fannie May, Jelly Belly, and Blackhawk Chocolate Trail.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Woodbine Bend Championship Golf Course

Immaculate 18-hole links-style golf course offers a challenge and a great time for golfers of all skill levels. Enjoy fresh, delicious entree choices plus all-you-can-eat fish/seafood buffet on Friday, prime rib on Saturday & our homemade specialty pizzas in our club.

CITY: Stockton

Fin and Feather Campground

Campground for camping, hunting, and fishing. Located on backwaters of Mississippi River with boat rental, canoe rental, motor rentals, bait shop, concessions and canoe access

CITY: Thomson

Schurmeier Teaching Forest

Two miles of beginner and intermediate hiking trails, educational signage teaches about tree and forestry practices. This forest is the perfect way to spend the day. Horses welcome!

CITY: Elizabeth

Common Cents Resale

We are a resale shop that sells furniture, home décor, antique and unique items.

CITY: Elizabeth

Charlie's Place

Be sure to stop by Charlie's Place for great home-style cooking. Featuring all-day breakfasts, homemade soups and specials, Friday all-you-can-eat walleye and a Saturday rib special.

CITY: Hanover

Rocky Waters Vineyard/Winery, Inc.

Walk in the vineyard, swim in the lake or just come and relax in the peace and quiet of the log home, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

CITY: Hanover

Hotel Glenview

We have two guest rooms available now, along with two furnished apartments for extended stays. Our guest rooms do not have private baths -- they share a newly remodeled toilet and shower. The Hotel Glenview was built in 1886 and remained a working hotel until the mid 70's when it fell into disrepair but it is in the process of being refurbished. We are within walking distance for great shopping, dining and night caps. We are only 10 miles from the Great River Trail, and we do offer bicycles sag support. Upon consideration, pets are welcomed. We are strictly non-smoking.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Nature's Treasures

Wonderful gifts and birdhouses by local artists. Specializing in organic gardening supplies, fountains, wind chimes, metaphysical crystals. Friendly, helpful service!

CITY: Stockton

Woodbine Bend Championship Golf Course

Immaculate 18-hole links-style golf course offers a challenge and a great time for golfers of all skill levels.

CITY: Stockton