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

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

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

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

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'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

Sherwood Forest

During Christmas, Sherwood Forest is adorned with decorations and twinkling lights. Any time of year view a variety of animals, including turkeys, rabbits, peacocks, llamas, and miniature goats and deer.

CITY: Prophetstown

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

Karen Vroman, MWS/Added Touch Gallery

Gallery. Appointment preferred.

CITY: Erie

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

Indian Mounds State Historic Site

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

CITY: Albany

Oppold Marina

Offers boat access to the Rock River, with a 50-ft. renovated boat launch. During the summer season, offers boat gas, concessions, paddleboat/rowboat/canoe rentals as well as 2 large shelters for family reunions and parties,

CITY: Sterling

Robert F. Apple - Fishing Guide

Fishing guide - muskies, walleyes; all equipment furnished.

CITY: Chadwick

Cordova Dragway Park

This 1/4-mile drag racing facility features bracket racing on Saturday nights. An IHRA National event and many other specialty events are held here, including the World Series of Drag Racing.

CITY: Cordova

Albany Antique Mall

Antique mall.

CITY: Albany

Leisure Harbor Inn

Pre-Victorian, 1850's 4 guest room with private baths. Three and a half acres on Mississippi Riverfront. Marina on property - Boat in Summer - watch Eagles in Winter

CITY: Cordova

Northland Mall

Northland Mall is the only enclosed shopping center between Rockford and the Quad Cities. Includes large stores like JCPenney and Bergners as well as 20 other specialty shops.

CITY: Sterling

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

Cross Creek Golf Course

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

CITY: Morrison

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

Enchanted Forest

Choose and cut your own Christmas tree here. On weekends, caboose rides help transport your tree out of the Enchanted Forest.

CITY: Prophetstown

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

Civil War Monument

This monument features a statue of a Civil War soldier.

CITY: Prophetstown

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

Paone's Blackhawk Lanes

This bowling alley features 20 lanes, a pro shop and a lounge.

CITY: Sterling

Thomson House Villager Lodge

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

CITY: Thomson

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

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

Asa Crook Home

The Asa Crook Home is the first frame house built in 1839 by Whiteside County's first settler. The restored home is open for tours.

CITY: Prophetstown

Savanna Motel

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

CITY: Savanna

Prophetstown Historical Museum

Prophetstown is named for the Indian prophet Wa-bo-kie-shiek (White Cloud), the advisor to Black Hawk during the 1832 Black Hawk War. The museum is full of historic memorabilia, including the Eclipse Lawn Mower, which was manufactured in Prophetstown.

CITY: Prophetstown

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

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

Lincoln Manahan Museum

Abraham Lincoln, then 47, came to Sterling to speak at a rally for presidential candidate, John C. Fremont. On July 18, 1856, a twist of fate brought Mr. Lincoln to the home of Sheriff William Manahan to spend the night. He slept on a sofa with two chairs placed at its end to accommodate his long legs. In the morning he graciously thanked his host and left Sterling for a speaking engagement in Chicago and the rest is history! The home has been restored and its interior, furnishings, and facade reflect the time when Lincoln visited in the late 1850s.

CITY: Sterling

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

Crow Valley Campground

Grassy shaded lots with gravel pads. Electric and water or primitive sites. Located on the Rock River. Basketball court, playground, good fishing, pool and complete bath facilities. Boat ramp to Rock River. Open April 15 – October 15. Easy access from I-88.

CITY: Sterling

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

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

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

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

Sterling Mural Society

The town of Sterling features 10 colorful murals in its downtown area that depict the history of the community.

CITY: Sterling

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

The Gilded Cage

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

CITY: Mount Carroll

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dillon Home Museum

Built in 1858, this Italian Renaissance-style home displays the history of the Dillon family and Northwestern Steel, as well as fine antiques which belonged to the Dillons.

CITY: Sterling

Country at Heart Quilt & Gift Shop

Don't miss this quaint and unique country quilt and gift shop! Featuring Bowe pottery, candles, quilts, doilies, framed art, country gifts and accessories. We offer a huge selection of antique and primitive furniture too! The quilt shop offers a wide variety of quilting fabrics, notions, patterns, books and so much more!

CITY: Sterling

Pine Motel

9-room motel and 1 cottage.

CITY: Fulton

Big Bend State Fish and Wildlife Area

1,188 acres of natural beauty. Fishing on Rock River and hunting.

CITY: Prophetstown

New River Model Railroad Museum

See model trains in operation, an HO-scale model of the Chesapeake & Ohio RR circa 1950s West Virginia, and running diesel and steam locomotives on a double main line.

CITY: Sterling

Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society Museum

This local museum explores the history of Sterling and Rock Falls.

CITY: Sterling

Village of Albany

Antique store.

CITY: Albany

O'Nell Agriculture Museum

This museum features exhibits of local history and antique farm tools.

CITY: Morrison

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

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

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

Air Play Sports & Espresso Bar

Air Play Sports in Sterling is YOUR source for Alternative Sporting Goods. We carry northern Illinois' largest selection of disc golf supplies, stunt kites, boomerangs and more. We are also the town's only full coffee bar with gourmet coffees, espresso, cappuccinos, lattes and more. We are family friendly with toys and coloring books for younger children as well as changing station in our clean restroom. We have live inventory on our website and we can be followed on Facebook and Twitter.

CITY: Sterling

Emerald Hill Golf and Learning Center

This golf complex features an 18-hole course.

CITY: Sterling

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

Morrison-Rockwood State Park

Timbered, 1150-acre state park with 77-acre lake stocked with a variety of fish. Class A, 92-site campground with shower building and all sites with electricity. Separate equestrian campground.

CITY: Morrison

shops@glenview

The shops @glenview are located on the first floor of the Historic Hotel Glenview where you will find the dabluz boutique, Driftless Area Stillroom and more! Check out our website for a full listing of all the great things our vendors have to offer.

CITY: Mount Carroll

North House

Full 4 BR home available for vacation rental by day or by the week. Located just one block from Prophetstown State Park on the banks of the Rock River. The large front porch is your first friendly hello as you enter this home away from home. With four bedrooms and a three season sleeping porch it's the perfect place for a small or large gathering of family or friends.

CITY: Prophetstown

American Heritage Antique Center

Antique center.

CITY: Sterling

Great River Road Antiques

Antique mall featuring 80 dealers. Fleamarket, April-October.

CITY: Fulton

The Standish House Bed & Breakfast

A "living museum", filled with English antiques, unique collection of Early American history and pilgrims. Canopy beds and breakfast by candlelight. Relaxing country atmosphere within walking distance of shopping center in Lanark. Full breakfast.

CITY: Lanark

Raven's Grin Inn

At this real haunted house, built in 1870, you'll hear about the inn's spooky history on a tour that takes you through the twists and turns of this creepy building.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Boot Legger Too

Sports bar serving food Monday-Saturday 6am-9pm, and Sunday Noon-4pm. Families welcome - Plenty of parking - Live bands Friday and Saturday nights 9pm-1am.

CITY: Savanna

Heirloom Market & Cafe

This rural style cafe will capture your senses. The decor is clearly slated rustic with a cozy and a distinctively pleasant ambience. The cafe is a staple of small town life with a sense of community as it embraces the environment that has been set forth by the Heirloom Market. We feature homemade baked goods and gourmet coffee. The espresso drink with steamed milk or variegated flavoring is designed for a picker upper or as a way to pass your time with a good book or to surf the free wi-fi internet.

CITY: Thomson

Charlotte Arvell Glass

Gallery and glass studio (formerly Eagleton Glass).

CITY: Mount Carroll

Prophetstown Park District Pool & Recreational Center

Indoor/outdoor pool with aerobic classes and open swims. Rec Center has volleyball and basketball courts.

CITY: Prophetstown

Angelo's II

Serving Italian sandwiches, spaghetti, lasagna, Italian bread, ravioli, salad bar and pasta buffet. Banquet room is available for any occasion.

CITY: Sterling

The Driftless Area Stillroom

The Driftless Area Stillroom is now located at the SHOPS@GLENVIEW. We offer outstanding domestic and worldwide wine selection of cheeses, meats, foodstuffs and a rotating selection of house made goods, housewares and more. We focus on local, organic, and sustainable purveyors. Join us Sundays for food and drink on the veranda.

CITY: Mount Carroll

The Little Owl Shoppe Inc

We sell antiques and great gifts including jewelry, wine accessories, flower arrangements and every day and collector knives. We also sell fine cigars. But mostly, we are about wine. We sell good wine and have tastings when we are open. Our wine is not something that you can buy locally. We have worked hard on wine that tastes good but is nice and you will be very happy with the prices!

CITY: Prophetstown

Arnold's Bicycle Repairs and Rentals

Located in downtown Thomson, Illinois near the Thomson Public Causeway and steps from the Great River Bike Trail that extends 62 miles from the Quad Cities to Savanna, Illinois. We specialize in Recumbent Bikes & Trikes so what are you waiting for? Test ride one of our recumbents and capture a view of the mighty Mississippi. We offer sales (new and used); service and repairs (the friendliest customer service around) and special requests - need something unique, customization or special needs – we can do it! We offer bike rentals, too!

CITY: Thomson

Words of Wisdom

A Christian book and gift shop.

CITY: Fulton

Eagle Point Horseback Riding Farm & Eagle Point Paintball Games

Horseback riding for young and old. Trails follow Elkhorn Creek. Great for the more experienced rider. Paintball field is on island off Elkhorn Creek.

CITY: Milledgeville

Prophet Hills Country Club

Built in 1966, this semi-private, 18-hole golf course is situated on extremely hilly terrain, and features a putting green and chipping area.

CITY: Prophetstown

Blackhawk Motel

Located in the heart of Northwestern Illinois and close to the Mississippi River, we are a sportsman’s dream lodging location whether you are hunting, boating, fishing or bird watching. We are handicap accessible and offer queen and double beds and direct TV. Just 4 miles north of the Mississippi Palisades State Park.

CITY: Savanna

Blue Goose Run

Blue Goose Run is the perfect farm setting for an outdoor wedding, family or class reunion, corporate or business meetings, and baby or bridal showers. Visit the Machine Shed Gift Shop and Corn Crib Restaurant.

CITY: Sterling

Parkway Restaurant

Home cooking at its best with many daily specials, homemade desserts and soups in a casual atmosphere.

CITY: Sterling

Elk River Merchant

Quality antique dealer specializing in collectibles and textiles.

CITY: Fulton