Wildlife Prairie State Park

Wildlife Prairie State Park is home to over 150 animals that are native to Illinois, including wolves, bison, black bear, elk and cougars. Experience the Adventure Trek Tour, which includes a trip through the bison and elk pasture. Unique overnight lodging located in the park includes authentic train cabooses and a cabin nestled in the woods.

CITY: Hanna City

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

Spirit of Peoria

Take a sightseeing or theme cruise on the Spirit of Peoria, an old-fashioned replica of a 19th-century riverboat that docks at the Peoria RiverFront. Join a one- to five-day overnight excursion to Starved Rock State Park or the St. Louis riverfront and be entertained by live ragtime piano and banjo music, as well as a storyteller sharing river lore, while the Spirit of Peoria paddles along the Illinois River. Stay the night at Starved Rock Lodge and see a show by a Mark Twain interpreter who brings the iconic author to life.

CITY: Peoria

Peoria's Grandview Drive "World's Most Beautiful Drive"

This quote from President Teddy Roosevelt describes his 1910 visit to Grandview Drive in Peoria Heights. The vistas gazed upon by the former president still sit upon bluffs unchanged from when the Indians first settled in the area centuries ago. Drive along the two-and-on-half mile drive to see the expansive panoramic view of Woodford, Tazewell and Marshall counties, where on a clear day, visitors can see more than thirty miles of the scenic Illinois River valley.

CITY: Peoria Heights

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Illinois' only United Nations World Heritage Site. This 2,200-acre site preserves the central section of the largest prehistoric Indian city north of Mexico. An Interpretive Center presents a coherent account of this sophisticated prehistoric culture. Climb Monk's Mound, see the film and life-size village. Don't miss annual events that focus on Native American culture.

CITY: Collinsville

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

Black Hawk State Historic Site

Wonderful for families and friends, this wooded, steeply rolling 208-acre tract, borders the Rock River in the city of Rock Island. Prehistoric Indians and 19th-Century settlers made homes here, but the area is most closely identified with the Sauk nation and its great warrior, Black Hawk. Voted one of the "7 Wonders of Illinois," this pristine park offers beautiful trails for hiking and walking only. Picnic areas are also available. While at the park be sure to visit the Watch Tower Lodge that houses the John Hauberg Indian Museum. The museum features Sauk and Meskwaki Native American Indian artifacts and displays depicting the four seasons and life of these tribes. A new exhibit tells the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki—how they came to live in the Quad City area, why they no longer live here, and, as the piece de resistance, a four-by-eight-foot scale model of the city of Saukenuk one of the largest Native American Indian settlements in the United States.

CITY: Rock Island

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

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

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

Celebration River Cruises

Hop aboard the family-owned Celebration Belle riverboat that cruises the mighty Mississippi River. Operating April through October, the 800-passenger riverboat offers a variety of cruises, ranging from sightseeing tours to theme cruises such as Big Band and fall foliage, captain's dinner and dance cruises, and overnight excursions.

CITY: Moline

Chestnut Mountain Resort

Full-service, 120-unit resort 8 miles southeast of Galena on a wooded palisade overlooking the Mississippi. One of the Midwest's top-rated ski/snowboard resorts: 19 trails, 475-foot vertical drop, half-mile runs, nine lifts, seven-acre terrain park. Indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, miniature golf, Alpine slide, Mississippi cruises, skiing/snowboard programs, on-site restaurants, lounge.

CITY: Galena

World's Largest Catsup Bottle

This 170-foot-tall bottle that resembles a Brook's Catsup Bottle served as a water tower for the catsup manufacturer after being constructed in 1949. A popular roadside attraction, it makes for a great photo op.

CITY: Collinsville

The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Built in 1927, Old Chain of Rocks was the fifth bridge to cross the Mississippi River, which shortened the distance between St. Louis, Missouri, and Edwardsville, Illinois by 15 miles.

CITY: Edwardsville

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

Quad City Botanical Center

Rock Island's Quad City Botanical Center houses exotic tropical flowers, a 14-foot waterfall and reflecting pools with koi. Seasonal attractions include a butterfly garden and the Garden Train Railway exhibit. The Botanical Center also regularly hosts art exhibitions and special events for families.

CITY: Rock Island

Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive

The Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Associates invite you to come to Fulton County, Illinois and enjoy the natural wonders of the Spoon River Valley. Spoon River has carved a wide scenic valley through Fulton County as it flows from London Mills to the south and east where it joins the Illinois River near the southeastern corner of the county. The Spoon River became nationally known from the work of Edgar Lee Masters, author of the noted Spoon River Anthology. Come on out the first two full weekends in October. There are over one hundred miles of scenic routes on the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive to be enjoyed on this driving tour with beautiful fall colors. There will be food, arts, crafts, entertainment and flea market. Visit 17 villages and historic sites!

CITY: Canton

Laser Force Lazer Tag Zone

A 5,000 sq. ft. laser tag arena and a 2,500 sq. ft. game arcade is conveniently located by hotels and restaurants off I-64.

CITY: Caseyville

Glen Oak Zoo

Open year-round, the Peoria Zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals from around the world. Come see our newest members of the zoo family in Africa! From giraffes and rhinoceros to spider monkeys and lions, the Zoo is the wildest family place in town. In addition to family recreational resources, educational programming and conservation-based programs are top priorities.

CITY: Peoria

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

At Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa go golfing on one of four championship courses, horseback riding along hilly wooded trails, boating on the sapphire waters of Lake Galena, or soaring over the countryside in a hot air balloon with Galena on the Fly. Relax in the luxury of the resort’s Stonedrift Spa with a pampering massage. Eagle Ridge offers a wide variety of lodging that ranges from traditional inn rooms to golf villas and distinctive homes.

CITY: Galena

Mill Creek Farms

Mill Creek Farms' season begins in mid-April with asparagus, mid-May though June for strawberries, early July through August for sweet corn, tomatoes, and green beans, and October for pumpkins. Pumpkin picking, a corn maze and hay rides are offered weekends in October. Support local farming and fun with family or friends!

CITY: Quincy

Mississippi Explorer Cruises at Chestnut Mountain Resort

Jump aboard Mississippi Explorer's latest 1.5-hour cruise. Experience the magical splendor of Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge.

CITY: Galena

Splashdown at EastSide

The wettest and wildest family water park in Central Illinois. Play in Splashtower Island or ride the lazy river. There's even a splash and play area for the young ones in your family. www.fondulacpark.com

CITY: East Peoria

Galena Carriage Co.

Take in the charm of Galena's 19th-century architecture while relaxing in a horse drawn carriage. Historic carriage rides, dinner rides, romance and roses rides. Seasonal sleigh rides. Reservations recommended.

CITY: Galena

Luthy Botanical Gardens

This beautiful spot features five acres of landscaped gardens including the Woodland Garden, Children's Garden, Herb Garden and several others. Tropical conservatory is open year-round. Outdoor Garden is open 8:30am to dusk year-round. Closed Mondays.

CITY: Peoria

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

National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

The Shrine has 200 beautifully landscaped acres of gardens and devotional areas, including the Outdoor Amphitheatre, Shrine Church, Lourdes Grotto, Stations of the Cross, Millennium Spire, the Visitors Center with a restaurant and gift shop, and the Shrine Hotel.

CITY: Belleville

Linden Hill Farms

Come experience a working dairy farm! Milk a cow, feed the chickens, and just learn what it's like to live on a farm. Located just 8 miles from downtown Peoria. Call today to schedule your tour!

CITY: Peoria

Galena River Trail

Scenic biking and hiking along a six-mile trail featuring beautiful views of the Galena River and towering bluffs.

CITY: Galena

Riverplex Recreation and Wellness Center

State-of-the-art fitness center, indoor family aquatic center, pro shop, smoothie bar, classrooms, gymnasium, multipurpose recreation area with sports, classes, programs and other activities. Daily user fees or memberships available. Don't forget to also check out our indoor two-story water-slide, lazy river, zero depth pool and splash equipment!

CITY: Peoria

Gateway Fun Park

Gateway features mini-golf, go-karts, an arcade, bumper boats, a kiddie track and Rudy's Restaurant.

CITY: Collinsville

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

Mississippi River Visitor Center

The visitor center overlooks Lock & Dam 15 on Arsenal Island. See the observation deck - a great spot for viewing bald eagles in the winter and for watching barges lock through on their way up and down the mighty Mississippi River. Enjoy exhibits on the Mississippi River and a gift shop. Guided tours are available of the Lock & Dam system on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day through Labor Day at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tour Reservations are required!

CITY: Rock Island

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

Captain Swift Covered Bridge

Located one mile west of Princeton in Bureau County, Illinois is the Captain Swift Covered Bridge. Built in 2006, the bridge derives its strength from its burr arch design, an idea patented by Theodore Burr of New York in 1804. Made entirely of wood using 1800s concepts (it has an outer skin of Douglas Fir), the Captain Swift Covered Bridge is the only two-lane covered bridge in Illinois. It has a 16’-3” vertical clearance, a 28 foot minimum roadway width and a 128’ span over the Big Bureau Creek. GPS co-ordinates - N41 22.745 W89 29.871

CITY: Princeton

Wildlife Prairie State Park

A unique, 2,000-acre zoological park which is home to wolves, bison, waterfowl, black bear, elk, cougar, otter, and others. You will enjoy the park's spectacular natural settings, butterfly garden, wildflowers, lakes and restored prairies.

CITY: Hanna City

Lavender Creek Farm

Lavender Creek Farm grows fields of organic lavender plants. Walk the lavender fields, pick bouquets and browse the plants for sale. Lavender soaps, oils, lotions, candles and more are made at the farmhouse - the old fashioned way!

CITY: Mackinaw

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

Schwiebert Riverfront Park

Located along the Mississippi River in the downtown Rock Island Arts & Entertainment District, this park offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River, an open-air stage, interactive fountain, observation shelter, waterfront promenade, bike trail and digital playgrounds (the first installation of its kind in the Midwest).

CITY: Rock Island

Fon du Lac Park District

Experience what 1600+ acres of parks, natural areas, riverfront and trails have to offer. Enjoy 2 golf courses, a picturesque marina and campground, Splashdown Water Park, and a variety of recreational programs and activities for all ages.

CITY: East Peoria

Galena On The Fly, Inc.

Hot air balloon rides sunrise and sunset daily. Reservations required. Gift certificates available. Groups welcome. Call for pricing and information.

CITY: Galena

Peoria Glen Oak Zoo

Open year-round, the Peoria Zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals from around the world. Come see our newest members of the zoo family in Africa! From Giraffes and Rhinoceros to Spider Monkeys and Lions, the Zoo is the wildest family place in town. In addition to family recreational resources, educational programming, and conservation-based programs are top priorities. www.peoriazoo.org

CITY: Peoria

TPC Deere Run

Built on the site of a former Arabian horse farm, this beautiful 18-hole, par 71 championship golf course stretches along wooded ravines on the Rock River. The course is home of the John Deere Classic, a PGA Tour event that draws top golf talent.

CITY: Silvis

Forest Park Nature Center

500-acre Illinois nature preserve offering 7 miles of hiking trails ranging from rigorous uphill courses to flatter, less strenuous paths. The center also features a natural history museum, spacious bird watching room, nature hikes, guided walks and a nature store.

CITY: Peoria

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

Lakeview Family Aquatic Center

This outdoor aquatic center has a swimming pool, a zero depth pool with play equipment, 2 giant water slides, 1 small slide, diving boards, a video arcard and wet sand play area.An arcade, lockers, showers, concessions and souvenirs are also available! Children seven years and under must be accompanied by an adult 17 years or older.

CITY: Peoria

Geneseo Campground

Enjoy the Hennepin Canal recreational trail through our rentals: canoe, kayak and boat rentals. Also try pedal carts or pull out your fishing pole, bike or sneakers and explore nature.

CITY: Geneseo

Splash City Family Waterpark

Surfing in Illinois? Yes! The FlowRider creates a perfect wave for surfing and body boarding. Water slides, a lap pool, the lazy river, a sandy play area and "Monsoon Mountain" make for a family adventure.

CITY: Collinsville

Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway

The Byway unites more than 100 nature-based destinations throughout the Illinois River Valley, beginning in Ottawa and ending 140 miles south in Havana. Find the best spots for hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, wetlands, gardens, birding and watching wildlife.

CITY: Peoria

Great River Trail

Sixty-two miles of riverfront biking trails run from Rock Island to Savanna. The trail is easily accessible along the riverfront in the Quad Cities, and bike rentals are available at the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau in Moline.

CITY: Rock Island

Illinois Caverns

There are formations of stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, and more. An underground stream flows through the cave bed, and the temperature is a relatively constant 58 degrees.

CITY: Waterloo

Shenandoah Riding Center

Experience the beautiful, scenic Galena outdoors atop a horse! Our center offers knowledgeable staff, well-trained horses in a lovely setting.

CITY: Galena

Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities

Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities is the perfect for fun-filled outdoor adventures. This 54-acre facility is located just off 1-80 & I-88 near East Moline IL. Make your reservations today and enjoy zip lines, panning for gems, hay rack rides, and wonderful hiking trails. This facility is also available for parties and corporate team building. An elegantly decorated 8,000 square foot banquet facility with an extensive menu is available. The facility also offers interactive games, inflatables, dunk tanks, water slides, laser tag, and more. Check out these annual fall events that include Pumpkin Festival the last weekend in September and the QC Haunted Forest every Friday & Saturday in October. Call (309) 523-3619 for reservations or more information.

CITY: Port Byron

Shoppes at Grand Prairie

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie ~ a vibrant, open-air lifestyle center in Peoria ~ is the premier dining and shopping destination for the region, rivaling the chic malls typically found in larger cities. The Shoppes features an exciting blend of retailers and restaurants, along with our anchor stores: Bergner's, DSW, Jillian's and Dick's Sporting Goods. The center is highlighted by an inviting, lushly landscaped outdoor environment that features animal sculptures throughout the center, the nationally acclaimed Holocaust Memorial Button exhibit filled with 11 million buttons, the Caterpillar children's play area, and weekend entertainment.

CITY: Peoria

John Hauberg Indian Museum

Discover the history of the Sauk and Meskwaki Native Americans in this intimate museum located in the Watch Tower Lodge situated in Black Hawk State Historic Site. This small museum tells the story of these tribes, the great warrior Black Hawk and the village of Saukenuk. After a visit to the museum, be sure to explore the wooded trails that wind throughout this beautiful park located on the Rock River. The Watch Tower Lodge was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934 and features a special Civilian Conservation Corps exhibit that highlights the building of the lodge.

CITY: Rock Island

Popeye Statue

This monument honors Elzie Seager, Chester native and creator of beloved cartoon character Popeye the Sailor Man. The Popeye statue stands proudly next to the Chester Bridge.

CITY: Chester

Windmont Park

Windmont Park, a 20-acre site on the city’s southwest side, is one of the most attractive settings of any park in the Midwest. A lagoon is surrounded by a large variety of trees and shrubs, and the eye is drawn to an iron footbridge that crosses the lagoon. There’s also a sidewalk that circles the water. A fountain donated to the park by a group of citizens adds a finishing touch to the scene. Recently installed at Windmont were an disabled accessible fishing pier, a new shelter, playground equipment and wider sidewalks for walkers enjoying the jaunt around the lagoon.

CITY: Kewanee

World on Wheels Segway Tours

Peoria area’s only Segway tour and Quadracycle bike rental experience. Offering 30-minute, 1-hour, and 2-hour Segway tours as well as 30-minute Quadracycle bike rides. Gliding with World On Wheels is as fun as it gets. Use them for individual riding or corporate events. Open March thru November, weather permitting. Feel free to call for an appointment. Easy riding for all age levels.

CITY: Peoria

Ski Snowstar Winter Sports Park

Minutes from the Quad Cities. Easy access from I-80, I-74 and I-280. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ski lifts, restaurant and complete ski and board rentals. Skiing available every night. Features 100% snow-making equipment as well. Great winter fun for the entire family!.

CITY: Andalusia

Scotty's Route 66 Bar & Grill

Drive Route 66 to one of the Mother Road's few remaining original diners, and try your hand at golf on the nine-hole course next door.

CITY: Hamel

River Trail of Illinois

This 10-foot wide asphalt trail winds 4.8 miles along the former Illinois Terminal Railroad Co. path. Build in 1991, the River Trail provides a safe scenic route for outdoor recreation year round, winter weather permitting. The trail affords patrons the opportunity to experience the natural preservation of wildflowers, grasses, trees and wildlife. With direct access at the Park Administration Center, Bunnell field, and Taylor Street ball diamonds, and in close proximity to Veterans Park, Central Jr. High, West Park, and local restaurants, the River Trail offers something for everyone!

CITY: East Peoria

The Twilight River Cruises

See the beauty of the Mississippi from the deck of a real, old-time riverboat. Relax, unwind and recharge!

CITY: Scales Mound

Linmar Gardens

Enchanting Linmar Gardens is nestled in a hillside overlooking the historic town of Galena. The secluded 3.5-acre garden is situated on natural outcroppings which have been enhanced with hand-built terraces. Meander on a guided tour along paths through a collection vibrant annual and perennial flowers including hostas, viburnums, conifers, grasses and daylilies.

CITY: Galena

Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Exposition Center

Home to the annual St. Clair County Fair, several craft shows and monthly flea markets, the complex also includes the Belle-Clair Speedway, with stock car races and demolition derbies.

CITY: Belleville

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

Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge

Visit Illinois’ bayou. Yes, the bayou in Illinois. Cypress Creek Wildlife Refuge is home to incredible cypress-filled swamps and wetlands and is unlike anything you expect to find in the Midwest. The refuge protects 15,000 acres of lush wetlands and some of the oldest living trees east of the Mississippi River.

CITY: Ullin

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

Argyle Lake State Park

Find serenity at this beautiful 1700-acre wooded park situated along an old stagecoach route between Galena and Beardstown. Featuring 95-acre Argyle Lake, the park is home to countless beaver dams and more than 200 bird species and 5 miles of hiking and biking trails.

CITY: Colchester

Long's Garden

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

CITY: Fulton

American Discovery Trail

What a way to travel - about 75 miles, from one major river to another (the Illinois and the Mississippi), all on one newly built trail. The Hennepin Parkway State Trail (a linear state park) offers surcease from the flat, treeless Illinois prairie with a lock-strewn straight course of water and a green tunnel over the old tow path of a canal that was obsolete before it was completed. Quaint towns lie nearby, camping spaces (usually primitive) abound, and history is there for the dipping of your fingers in the water. At Sheffield, a comprehensive trail museum more than fills the gaps in your experience of a very unique way to travel through the heart of America. The trail ends in Rock Island, just a bike/pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi River to Iowa.

CITY: Bureau Junction

Fort Defiance Park

Fort Defiance, known as Camp Defiance during the American Civil War, is a former military fortification, located at the awesome confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. The site offers visitors the chance to view the confluence from the old observation tower.

CITY: Cairo

Adventure Creek Alpaca & Goldendoodle Farm

The Netzel's will show you their prized alpaca farm. Their alpacas are quiet, stately, regal animals that are friendly to people - especially to smaller children. While there, make sure to meet Quincy, a TV star. Take one of the alpacas for a walk or learn about their lives. Or come down to the farm just to say hello to the alpacas and goldendoodles.

CITY: Galena

Hornbaker Gardens

Hornbaker Gardens is a family owned and operated nursery specializing in perennial flowers. Large collections of hostas, daylilies, iris and other perennials draw plant enthusiasts from all over the Midwest to this nursery in the country. Whatever we get interested in as gardeners, we seem to start providing for our customers as well. Thus, the offerings of granite and pottery, bronze sculptures and rusty metal artwork. In 2008, we put up a new building which we call The Shop at Hornbaker Gardens. It is stocked with garden art and other garden accessories where you are sure to find something unique for your garden.

CITY: Princeton

Goldmoor Gardens

Visit the beautifully designed annual & perennial gardens at the Goldmoor Estates. Self-guided tours may be taken of the constantly blooming gardens and the meandering grounds are perfect for walking or lounging in our comfortable Adirondack chairs, sipping wine and admiring the sunset over the grand Mississippi River.

CITY: Galena

Pleasant Ridge Park

Tucked back away from the street, a relaxing place to get away from it all is Pleasant Ridge Park. The centerpiece is the Kensella Log Home.

CITY: Fairview Heights

Galena Birding

Join birding trips that travel to the banks of the Mississippi River, and through mature woodlands and open meadows. Tours last approximately 2-1/2 hours, and depart on selected Saturdays from the Old Train Depot.

CITY: Galena

Ackerman Farms

Ackerman Farms, celebrating over 100 years as a working family farm, invites everyone to join us from the 3rd week in August through the 3rd week in December. We feature over 150 different varieties of pumpkins and squash in all shapes and sizes, over 25 varieties of beautiful hardy mums, and over 15 varieties of apples from our orchard - everything you need for your fall decorations and for your table. Plan to spend the afternoon with us in our family friendly corn maze, ride a hay rack, browse the gift shop and visit our friendly farm animals. At Christmas, join us for hot cider by a cozy fire and leisurely shop our wonderful Christmas selection of gifts and decor. Don't forget to call us to schedule birthday parties or class field trips.

CITY: Morton

Fyre Lake Golf Club

Opening April 1, 2013, this Nicklaus Design championship golf course features fairways that wind through a hardwood forest in a scenic lakefront setting. The public is welcome to tee off at this Quad Cities-area course that offers challenges for golfers of all levels. Brush up your skills with a lesson from the professional teaching staff.

CITY: Sherrard

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

Weaver Ridge Golf Course

This 18-hole championship golf course with incredible views also features a restaurant that opens daily at 11am and offers Sunday brunch.

CITY: Peoria

Gateway Building

An elegantly appointed venue along Peoria’s Riverfront, the Gateway offers the finest surroundings for your next business or social function. Constructed in 1997, this beautiful building was designed and created to be the focal point of Peoria's Riverfront. The Gateway is conveniently located downtown just one block from Interstate 74 and is within walking distance of hotels, major businesses, and many restaurants. The Riverfront provides a spectacular backdrop with its stunning views and the vibrant nightlife offers a unique and festive atmosphere. This is an affordable, convenient site for any meeting, banquet, or conference occasion. With the comfort and versatility the Gateway offers, you will want to make this the new home for your annual banquets and weekly meetings.

CITY: Peoria

A Hundred Acres Orchard and Market

A fun-filled orchard featuring apples, berries, melons. The indoor market is filled with jams, jellies, sauces, dips, salsas, candy and homemade "take n bake" pies. Also unique is the Krazy Kernel Kettle Korn, produced right in Princeton! Specialty cheeses, such as Antonella, Buffalo Wing Jack, and Tomato Basil Yellow Cheddar are also available. Pair these cheeses with some of the wines that are sold in the new wine shop, or enjoy your purchase on the newly constructed outdoor patio area. The Cider Mill banquet room has been expanded to accommodate 200 guests, so plan your wedding, reception, party, or reunion here!

CITY: Princeton

Apple Basket Farms

Enjoy one of the areas last remaining commercial fruit orchards. Pick apples & pumpkins. Feed animals at the petting zoo, stroll through Farmer Jack's corn maze.

CITY: Barry

Niabi Zoo

This zoo located near the Quad Cities houses more than 900 exotic animals. See the animal exhibits on foot or hop aboard the Mel McKay Express, a miniature replica of an old steam engine that takes visitors around the park. Rise and shine with the wild things during Breakfast With the Animals, held on select Saturdays.

CITY: Coal Valley

Grant Park

This park features a pavilion with tables, a gazebo, fountain, a play lot, basketball court, historic cannons and monuments, and a walk bridge across the Galena River to Galena's downtown historic shopping district.

CITY: Galena

Grand Illinois Trail

The Grand Illinois Trail (GIT) is a 535-mile loop trail in northern Illinois. It goes from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi along the northern border of Illinois and then loops back across the state along the Illinois River and the Hennepin Canal. 200 miles of the route is on paved township and county roads while the rest is on limestone trails or paths. Hennepin Canal Communities - Annawan, Atkinson, Geneseo and Colona

CITY: Atkinson

Gateway Geyser Fountain

As the world's tallest fountain, the Gateway Geyser Fountain reaches 627 feet in height, and is centered in a pond that holds five million gallons of water.

CITY: East St. Louis

Wilson Park

Wilson Park offers baseball fields, walking trails, picnic shelters, and much more. Each year the 74-acre park is replanted with seasonal flowers and plants.

CITY: Granite City

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

The Nature Conservancy Emiquon Preserve

The Emiquon Preserve, also known as the “Jewel of the Illinois River,” is aptly named for its abundance of wetlands and wildlife. The sheer biological diversity made it the natural place for Native Americans to settle long ago. In recent years, the land has undergone a restoration returning its natural beauty for all to enjoy once again.

CITY: Lewistown

Fults Hill Prairie State Nature Preserve

The preserve consists of nearly 1,000 acres of both upland prairie and lowland wetland marshes. A variety of plants and animals can be found in the preserve, some common, and some cannot be found anywhere else in the state.

CITY: Prairie du Rocher

Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park

Good old fashioned family fun is in store - a peaceful, relaxing day of picnicking, hiking, biking and fishing. 104.5-mile linear park spanning through the communities of Annawan, Atkinson, Geneseo and Colona in Henry County. In wintertime experience the longest snowmobile trail in the state -- 91 miles on the tow path. You can use the ice at your own risk, but pay heed to the locks, bridges and culverts where the ice likely is thinner than the rest of the canal. Bring your blades, skating along the canal is free! Keep in mind the rule is there must be 4" of snow and 6" of frost on canal for route to be open. Call the Visitor Center for automated message.

CITY: Atkinson

Centerfield Park

Spend the day tackling go-karts, miniature golf, batting cages, bumper boats and a video arcade.

CITY: O'Fallon

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

EastPort Marina

Public marina with two levels of accommodations. Beautiful view of downtown Peoria, nautical gift shop, full parts and service department along with five gas pumps, one diesel pumps, pump-out facility and detail shop on site (East Peoria Boat Works).

CITY: East Peoria