Southwest Illinois is a treasure trove where explorers Lewis and Clark once embarked on their historic voyage of discovery. Explore life on the Mighty Mississippi and captain a barge. Climb the mysterious mounds of a Native American city or experience Illinois' colonial days at a former French fort.
Day One
At the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center see a full-size replica of the boat the famed explorers sailed in and tour Camp River Dubois, where the men once prepared for their history-making voyage. During Kids' Day on June 7, learn how to use a compass and join in military drills. Be your own captain and steer a virtual barge at the National Great Rivers Museum. Watch Mississippi River boat traffic from eight stories up atop the Melvin Price Locks & Dam. Tour actual working towboats during the Great Rivers Towboat Festival, held June 28-29. Nibble on seafood as local river fish swim around in tableside aquariums at the Fin Inn. Grab a seat on the outdoor deck, watch the riverboats cruise by, listen to live music and snack on some macho nachos at The Loading Dock.
Attractions:
- Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center/Kids’ Day
- National Great Rivers Museum
- Melvin Price Locks & Dam
- Great Rivers Towboat Festival
Dining:
Day Two
Take a ride along the scenic Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail, with the Mighty Mississippi on one side and towering cliffs on the other. The trail ends at Pere Marquette State Park, where you can hike the high bluffs overlooking the Illinois River that were once traveled by explorers Pere Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet. Splash the rest of the day away at Raging Rivers WaterPark, zooming down body flumes and floating in the wild wave pool. Stop for a slice of homemade pie at My Just Desserts in the tiny town of Elsah, right along the bike trail. Share the family-style fried chicken dinner at Pere Marquette Lodge, then play on the life-size chessboard in the Great Room Lobby.
Attractions:
Dining:
Day Three
Even standing on tippy toes you probably won't be half the height of the statue of Robert Wadlow, the world's tallest man at nearly nine feet. Learn about the Gentle Giant at the Alton Museum of History & Art, which displays his oversized class ring and third-grade desk. Explore the mystical remains of Cahokia Mounds, an ancient Native American city. Get a great view of the grounds by climbing nearly 100 feet to the top of Monks Mound. Experience life in colonial Illinois at Fort de Chartres, which is now a museum. During the annual Rendezvous, June 7-8, see re-enactors dressed as 18th century-style traders and military men. Try the fish and chips at Mississippi Half Step or spool spaghetti at Ravanelli's Restaurant.
Attractions:
- Robert Wadlow Statue
- Alton Museum of History & Art
- Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
- Fort de Chartres/Rendezvous
Dining:
