LEWIS & CLARK INTERPRETIVE CENTER

Learn about the famed duo’s history-making voyage that started here in Illinois. See a full-scale model of the explorers’ keelboat and check out a replica of Camp River Dubois, where the Corps of Discovery prepared for its historic trip.

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NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS

The nation's largest outdoor shrine is a peaceful spiritual retreat set on 200 landscaped acres. Visitors can walk or drive the grounds, and a free guided trolley tour is offered. Stay for dinner and spend the night at the on-site Shrine Hotel.

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CAHOKIA MOUNDS

This U.N. World Heritage Site holds the remains of an ancient Native American city that mysteriously vanished. Sixty-eight of the original 120 earthen mounds have been preserved. Stop at the Interpretive Center before tackling the 100-foot-tall Monks Mound, which is the largest pre-historic earthen mound in the New World.

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ARGOSY CASINO

This riverboat casino docked on the Mississippi River in downtown Alton features Argosy’s Music Hall, showcasing music and comedy acts. For a panoramic view of the Upper Mississippi and Clark Bridge, dine at Argosy’s Outfitters Grill.

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PERE MARQUETTE STATE PARK

The largest state park in Illinois offers endless outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, horseback riding and winter bald eagle watching. The Pere Marquette Lodge is known for its family-style catfish and fried chicken dinners.

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EAGLE WATCHING IN ALTON

Beginning in December, more than 2,000 eagles migrate to the region, returning to their winter homes along the bluffs of the Great River Road. Good places to view the regal birds include the Melvin Price Locks & Dam and Pere Marquette State Park.

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WINE TRAILS

Taste your way along this trail made up of 12 unique wineries located in small towns throughout Southwest Illinois. Must-stops include Black Diamond Vineyards in Nashville and Piasa Winery in Grafton, featuring live music on its riverside deck.

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NATIONAL GREAT RIVERS MUSEUM

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River near the Melvin Price Locks & Dam, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of life on the Mighty Mississippi. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays, including a virtual barge that visitors can steer.

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CASINO QUEEN

For three years in a row, the Casino Queen in East St. Louis has been recognized by Casino Player magazine as having the Loosest Slots in the Country. The Casino Queen’s RV Park offers full hook-ups, including cable television and Internet access.

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RAGING RIVERS WATERPARK

Make a splash on the winding water slides, bob along in the Breaker Beach wave pool or just spend the afternoon floating on the lazy river at this wild water park located right across the road from the majestic Mississippi River.

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