2 Rivers Guest House

If you’re looking for a family friendly, comfortable guest house, you’ve come to the right place. Bright and sunny rooms with river views await you at 2 Rivers Guest House. Located just off Route 100, the Great River Road in beautiful Grafton, Illinois, our guest house sleeps six comfortably and includes living room, kitchen / dining, 3 bedrooms, and 1 bath. 2 Rivers Guest House is available for daily, weekly and monthly rentals. Come stay with us to relax and unwind.

CITY: Grafton

4 The Sport

Accomodations year-round, can sleep 8 with kitchen.

CITY: Nebo

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

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

Barefoot Restaurant

Catfish fritters and fried chicken are the specialties for this riverside restaurant. In the winter, view the eagles flying over the Illinois River as you enjoy some of the best fried fish and homecooked meals in Calhoun County. The Barefoot Restaurant is also famous for its ample food portions. Hours: T - Su 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

CITY: Hardin

Baytown Guesthouse

Sleeps six, full kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, washer/dryer, central AC, TV, deck overlooks bay of Mississippi River.

CITY: Mozier

Beasley Fish Stand

Sit at a picnic table along the Mississippi River in Grafton and enjoy fried buffalo fish, catfish fritters and homemade cole slaw from Beasley Fish Stand. Beasley has a fish market on one side and an outdoor dining area on the other. Hours: T - S 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

Beyond the Backyard Gate

There is something for everyone at this whimsical antique/craft store. Primitive and country home decorations, hard-to-find vintage items and antiques are among the merchandise. A country store is also incorporated and features Amish honey among other items. Hours: Monday - Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 10:30 - 4:30.

CITY: Jerseyville

Bliss Bake Shoppe & Cafe

Located in the historic village of Brussels in Calhoun County, Bliss Bake Shoppe & Cafe is sure to satisfy the hunger pangs of any traveler. Breakfast and lunch are served in addition to the large variety of desserts featured in the shop. Homemade cinnamon rolls, cookies and cheesecakes are regulars on the menu but each week unique dessert items are featured. There is a $5 lunch special each week as well. Lunch menus range from pizza to calzones to thick and hearty grilled cheese sandwiches. Enjoy your meal indoors or on the outside patio. Hours: S - Su 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

CITY: Brussels

Bluffdale Vacation Farm

Our hideaway "cottage in the woods" and "log cabin" are cozy and secluded on a 200-acre ancestral working farm in the bluffs of the llinois River Valley. Dude ranch fun with woodland hiking and horse trails. Charges include 3 family-style meals a day.

CITY: Eldred

Bluffdale Vacation Farm

Bluffdale is an Illinois farm vacation dude ranch and bed & breakfast. Parent Magazine's "Top 10 Family Resorts in North America." Our family has been welcoming guests to our historic Illinois farm near Eldred, Illinois since 1963. Recreation activities include horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, hayrides, bonfires, sing-alongs and more. Bluffdale is famous for its generous home cooked meals with home baked bread, rolls and pies. Our luxury cabins, featuring a fireplace and hot tub, are ideal for romantic getaway weekend or honeymoon bed & breakfast lodging. Spring brings a wide variety of wildflowers and morel mushrooms. In fall the bluffs make a colorful drive and eagle watch from Alton to Bluffdale along the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway. Check our website for rates and availability.

CITY: Eldred

Book N Barber Coffee House

Browse thousands of good, used books while you wait for your haircut, Want to learn some local history? Read a classic by the river? Looking for that rare book? Books N Barber has a book for everyone. While you browse, breathe in that classic aroma of locally roasted coffee beans or sit back and enjoy an espresso, latte or cappuccino all freshly brewed.

CITY: Grafton

Brussels Historic Village Jail

Once known as the local "calaboose", the Brussels Jail was built around 1876 and centered in the heart of the village. The jail mainly housed men overnight for drinking too much and the last person to stay in the jail was in 1952. The jail is open seven days a week.

CITY: Brussels

Buena Vista Jewelry

There is nothing run of the mill about Greg Brummett's hand-crafted jewelry. Each piece is unique and is crafted from the finest quality metals and semi-precious gemstones, that include turquoise, bolder opals, agates, quartz, hematite, onyx, coral, tiger eye, and others. Many stones are cut, shaped and polished by Greg personally. He also creates "steampunk" jewelry which blends Victorian styles with modern science fiction. Think steam engine versus combustion engine when viewing his designs. All pendants are created using the art of wire-wrapping. Wire-wrapping has been around since the time of the Phoenician Empire, about 1000 years B.C. Today, wire wrapping has become popular because of the uniqueness and the individuality of each piece - no two are ever exactly alike!

CITY: Grafton

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

Cassen's Guest Rooms

Cassen's Bait Shop has added two new guest rooms perfect for fishermen or hunters. Amenities offered are free wi-fi, refridgerator & microwave. You'll enjoy a great view of the Ilinois River with shopping and restaurants within walking distance.

CITY: Grafton

Center For American Archeology

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

CITY: Kampsville

Cheney Mansion

As one of the first houses built in Jerseyville, the Cheney Mansion is a 12-room mansion featuring vintage clothing, military artifacts, toys, pictures and other items of historical interest. Serving as the Jersey County Historical Museum, the mansion is available for touring

CITY: Jerseyville

Crazy Beaver Pizza Lodge

Hungry after a day shopping and seeing the sights in Grafton? Then stop by the Crazy Beaver Lodge for a hand-tossed fresh pizza made with the toppings of your choice. On Fridays only, you can buy a 5 pound deep dish pizza which is sure to satisfy even the biggest pizza lover in your crew. Sandwiches, salads and appetizers are also available. Live music on Sundays. Hours: W - F 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. S - Su 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

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

End of the Trail Inn

Enjoy the comfort of this guest house. Amenities include a cozy sitting room, kitchen, and a deck with a view of the Mississippi River. Perfect for a couple looking for a relaxing getaway. The End of the Trail Inn is close to restaurants, shops and area attractions.

CITY: Grafton

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

Flooded Fields Outdoor Supply

Stop by for all your hunting & fishing supplies.

CITY: Hardin

Fran and Marilyn's

Fran and Marilyn's is a small town diner with a big menu and even larger portions. Famous for their tasty, yet simple home cooked meals. The homemade pies are their signature dessert and customers often purchase a whole pie as they leave. Hours: Monday - Saturday, 5 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday, 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.

CITY: Jerseyville

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

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

Grafton Harbor

Visit this "Key West" of the Midwest located where the Illinois River and Mississippi River meet. In addition to harbor faciltiies, a floating swimming pool and the Big Kahuna Bar and Grill, Grafton Harbor features a gift shop where boaters and landlubbers alike can find unique trinkets and treasures. Snacks, beer and wine, boating accessories and parts, clothing for all ages, navigational maps and gifts for that special child are all available.

CITY: Grafton

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

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

Grafton Riverside Flea Market

You won't want to miss this fabulous flea market on the river! Over 50 dealers with all types of goods, antiques glassware, tools, candles, furniture and good old-fashioned junk! Located in the historic boatworks building located right on the Mississippi River. It is held the fourth weekend of the month May through October.

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

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

Grafton's Artisan Village

Enjoy this retail shopping village of artists and craftman handmade products. Woodcarvings, jewelry, art work, pottery, chain saw carvings, driftwood furniture, primitives and fused glass are among the many artisan products available. Located on Grafton's riverfront. Hours: Wednesday - Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Friday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

Hardin Drive In

If it's a burger and fries you want as you eagle watch or relax by the Illinois River, then this is the place to go. It's not a drive in but a sit down restaurant in spite of the name. Enjoy a homemade dessert or ice cream at the end of your meal and relax in this restaurant by the river. Hours: S - Th 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. F - S 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

CITY: Hardin

Harpole's Heartland Lodge

Located in the beautiful rolling hills overlooking the Mississippi River. Hay rack ride and bonfire activites are included in lodge rates as well as 2 meals a day per person.

CITY: Nebo

Hawg Pit BBQ Barn

Enjoy award-winning barbeque and beers alongside the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers in historic Grafton. This family restaurant features smoked meats, sandwiches, flame-broiled burgers, sides and much more. Live music is featured every weekend. Opens 11 a.m. daily.

CITY: Grafton

Heartland Lodge

The only Orvis endorsed lodge in the state provides excellent hunting or relaxing getaways in the hils of Pike County. Enjoy ATV rentals, hiking trails, horseback riding, and outstanding home cooked meals daily.

CITY: Nebo

Hillview Scenic Bluff Trail

As you drive along the Hillview Scenic Bluff Road you experience a rare opportunity to visualize the pristine natural beauty of the early nineteenth century, agricultural farming of the river delta, the architectural significance of the early English settlers in their hi-style limestone homesteads, as well as the original beaut of the native prairie grasses that roll gently up into the limestone palisades along the river valley. This lower Illinois River Valley region is known by many archeologists to be the "Nile of the North America." Check out the online map of this trail in Greene County where you can click to learn of the early people and places of Green County's Lower Illinois Valley. While out driving the trail, please remember that most of the sites on the map are easily seen from the road and all are on private property.

CITY: Hillview

James J. Eldred House Historic Site

Visit the James J. Eldred House, completed in 1861, and step back in time to view one of the most elegant residential structures in the region and an important surviving example of Greek Revival architecture. The home had fallen into disrepair over the years, but with the creation of The Illinois Valley Cultural Heritage Association, the Eldred House has come back to life and is being painstakingly restored. The home is open for tours during the annual Greene County Days celebration.

CITY: Eldred

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

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

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

Laura's Restaurant

Breakfast is served all day in this Mexican-style restaurant which boasts some of the hottest hot sauce in the area. Don't miss the Sunday buffet which is popular among locals and visitors alike. Open 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday.

CITY: Hardin

Lil Red Guest House

The Lil Red Guest House was built in 1860 and features two bedrooms with sleeping for up to four people. This charming red house is located within walking distance of local wineries, shopping and restaurants. The guest house has a comfortable porch swing from which to enjoy the view of the Mississippi River.

CITY: Grafton

Lone Oak Golf Course

The 9-hole "Lone Oak" executive course at the Lone Oak Golf Course facility in Carrollton features 2,150 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 32. Designed by George DeGeal, the Lone Oak golf course opened in 1984.

CITY: Carrollton

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

Lula Bells

A unique gift shop that blends a boutique atmosphere with a kitchen store, specialty store and gift shop all rolled into one. There are garden items, stationary, gourmet foods, timed candles, purses, dinnerware, pictures and more. Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

CITY: Jerseyville

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

McMaster Woods Nature Preserve

McMaster Woods is a beautiful oak woodland and barrens that occurs on deep ravines, steep slopes and a ridgetop. Limestone bedrock outcrops along the bases of ravines and an intermittent stream crosses the northwest corner of the preserve. A great variety of wildflowers, grasses, sedges and ferns occur here, including large-flowered bellwort, spikenard, false dragonhead, wood reed and maidenhair fern. A small, but interesting barrens remnant occurs on the ridgetop. For Further Information Contact: Illinois Department of Natural Resources, District Natural Heritage Biologist, 4521 Alton Commerce Parkway, Alton, Illinois 62002 (618-462-2424)

CITY: Carrollton

Medford Bicycle & Sporting Goods

Need a bicycle tune-up before you hit the local bike trails? Medford Bicycle & Sporting Goods in Jerseyville is the place to go. All types of bicycle repairs and accessories are available at this one-stop shop. New and used bicycles can be purchased. There is also a wide selection of sporting goods needs from helmets to ball bats, knee pads to practice jerseys. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

CITY: Jerseyville

Mike's Pizza and Pasta

For some of the best Sicilian-style, thin-crust pizza around, look no further than Mike's Pizza and Pasta in Jerseyville. Known for the Margherita Pizza, a nice veggie-style pie, they also offer thick and deep dish pizza delights. Full menu of pasta selections as well. Open Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. and Sunday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

CITY: Jerseyville

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

Mulligan's West

For a quick bite or a full meal, Mulligan's West in Jerseyville has a wide range of menu options. Appetizers feature "rattlers", "zingers" and "pig tails" with homemade sauces. Salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood and pasta are also featured menu items. Hours: Open daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Full bar which stays open until 1 a.m. Free live music once a month on Saturdays.

CITY: Jerseyville

New to You

Antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing and used clothing are all available at this resale/antique shop located in historic Grafton on the riverfront. Hours: Tuesday - Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Thursday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

O'Jan's Fish Stand

Sometimes simple is best and O'Jan's Fish Stand has transformed simplicity into an art form. Tasty, simple fried fish sandwiches made to order are among the treats of this quaint restaurant/store located right on the Mississippi River in Grafton. Some indoor seating, but the draw is truly the river. Benches line the back of the building for customers to eat, drink and river watch. In addition to fresh fish sandwiches, O'Jan's offers sides, burgers and pork tenderloins. Hours: M - Th 10:30 a,n, - 6:30 p.m.F - Su 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

Pelican Inn

This one-of-a-kind guest house offers one guest room, a great view of the Illinois River and is in easy walking distance to shops, restaurants & wineries.

CITY: Grafton

Pere Marquette Historic Site

This historical marker honors Father Pere Marquette.

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

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

Pixie Stix

Your inner pixie comes alive in this cute and charming boutique located on Main Street in Grafton. Find local honey, handmade tree furniture, spoon jewelry, soaps, bath salts, and that little extra something to brighten your home. Pixies, fairies and little folk are everywhere in this brightly colored shop that is sure to delight young and old alike. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

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

R Pizza Farm

Take a tour of this two-acre farm in the shape of one of America's favorite foods, pizza! Each slice of the pizza represents a different ingredient, which is organically grown on the farm. Following the tour, indulge in a slice of fresh hot pizza made on the farm.

CITY: Dow

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

River Port Guest House

We invite you to stay and experience Grafton's newest guesthouse, River Port. You can lounge on the deck furniture on the wrap around porch and enjoy a view of the river, or relax inside the house, enjoying the nautical decor, with a stress free get-away. River Port is just a walk away from the shopping, wineries, restaurants and all that Grafton has to offer!

CITY: Grafton

River View Guest House

The River View Guest House has it all! Enjoy the comforts of home with amenities that include a kitchenette, family room and a game area with a dart board & a Foosball table. The sofa sleeper and two guest rooms sleeps six people comfortably. This guest house offers a patio and fire pit for outdoor relaxation.

CITY: Grafton

Roodhouse Rez

80-acre park, which includes a lake, community pavilion, playground equipment, camping area, and a small concert and/or performance area. Fishing is allowed at the lake.

CITY: Roodhouse

Rowling Ridge Guest House

Cross the creek to experience our rustic cabin in the woods. Nestled among the tree-covered bluffs is where you’ll find our little piece of nature. A getaway without phones, television, cable or internet… truly a place to get away from it all. Located just 1.2 miles north of Grafton on the Illinois Route 100, the guest house features two bedrooms and comfortably accommodates four people. Kitchen includes appliances and cooking supplies. Outdoors you’ll find a beautiful creek, running spring, fire pit and BBQ grill.

CITY: Grafton

Ruebel Gift Shop

Located in the historic Ruebel Hotel, this gift shop features stained glass and Tiffany-style lamps. If you are looking for that special gift or want to commemorate your visit to this famous river town, the Ruebel Hotel Gift Shop is a great place to browse. Also enjoy the atmosphere of the hotel and restaurant/bar which was originally built in 1879.

CITY: Grafton

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

Ruebel Hotel and Restaurant

Come to the Ruebel Restaurant for the food, but stay for the atmosphere. The bar is a piece of history from the 1904 World's Fair and the hotel itself was originally built in 1879, caught fire in 1912 and was completely rebuilt and renovated in 1997. The restaurant is renowned for its fresh cuts of meat, signature house salad dressings and full-service bar. Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. (breakfast) 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. (lunch) 4 - 8 p.m. (dinner).

CITY: Grafton

Straight Home Bar and Grill

A bit off the beaten path, Straight Home Bar and Grill is well worth the effort to find it. The daily lunch specials are out of the ordinary and can run the gamut from crab alfredo entrees to chicken and dumplings to barbeque pork steak. There is no breakfast despite the early opening. But steak entrees are featured every Friday and Saturday. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 1 a.m., Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 2 a.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. - 2 a.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 2 a.m.

CITY: Hardin

Super 8 Motel - Jerseyville

Get the rest you need after a long day on the road at our Super 8 Jerseyville hotel. Located on Illinois State Route 109, less than one hour from St. Louis, MO, our hotel makes it easy to enjoy small-town charms with convenient access to big-city excitement. Enjoy queen size beds, recliners in most rooms, satellite TV, free local calls, jacuzzi bathtubs in selected rooms.

CITY: Jerseyville

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

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

The Loft at The Whole Scoop

Looking for a relaxing vacation destination? Look no further! This beautiful family and pet-friendly loft features hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, two bedrooms, open gathering area with full kitchen, dining area, large living area, washer and dryer, front and rear balconies with a BBQ grill and can accommodate up to 8 people! After all...who wouldn't want to stay on top of an ice cream shop!?

CITY: Grafton

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

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

The Stone Cottage - A Loading Dock Guest House

The Stone Cottage, located about 2 miles from the Loading Dock, is a recently remodeled and beautifully appointed home was built in 1840 and is Grafton's oldest original structure. It features a full kitchen and three bedrooms with beds to sleep eight. The charming modern decor is warm and inviting; the property is perfect for a group getaway.

CITY: Grafton

The Whole Scoop

Imagine a life boat made out of a mint chip fudge brownie, covered in strawberry ice cream and topped with chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a cherry. That's The Whole Scoop's newest version of their signature sundae called the "Life Boat". And it's not just sweet treats at The Whole Scoop. From secret recipe marinated chicken in the Chipotle Chicken Wrap to Mom's Recipe Chili, great homemade eats abound. Located in historic downtown Grafton, The Whole Scoop is a great place to stop during a day of shopping and river watching. Hours: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily.

CITY: Grafton

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

Two Rivers Winery

Bring a picnic lunch and Two Rivers Winery in historic Grafton will supply the wine or beer! Featured wineries include Hopewell Winery and Villa Maria Winery, although a variety of Illinois wines are available including Alto Vineyards, Von Jakob and St. James. Micro-brew beers, seasonal beers and four draft beers are on tap. In case you forgot your picnic basket, Two Rivers Winery offers cheeses, sausage and crackers in addition to 6 and 12-inch pizzas. Two Rivers Winery has indoor and outdoor seating that features a great river view. Hours: Wednesday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

Walker's "This and That" Shop

A-little-bit-of-this and a-little-bit-of-that can be found at this quaint antique and collectible shop on Main Street in Grafton. Glassware, pottery, collectible dolls, beer signs and more can be found at Walker's. New items arrive each week. Hours: Daily 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

CITY: Grafton

White Hall Rez

No fee for camping but campers must register with the Police Department. Boat motors with 5HP or less allowed. Fishing is allowed at the lake. No swimming.

CITY: White Hall

White Spot

Take a step back in time with a visit to this diner which was opened in the 1940's in Jerseyville. Customers come from throughout the bi-state region just for the huge servings of onion rings, which are hand-breaded and fried to perfection. The regulars are friendly and sure to recommend the best menu items for those who don't know what to order. Don't leave before trying one of their homemade pies! Hours: T - S 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Su 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

CITY: Jerseyville