Two mighty rivers converge at Alton, creating dramatic bluffs, eagle habitats, and some of Illinois' most scenic river towns.
This trio of river towns delivers you eagles, antiques, and 33 miles of limestone cliffs and river views. Alton's hillside streets hide haunted history and the legacy of the world's tallest man. Historic Elsah (population 500, give-or-take) preserves a true slice of 19th century history. Grafton hugs the river's edge with fish restaurants, ferry rides, and outdoor adventure.
The Great River Road between them ranks among America's most scenic drives, especially in fall when the bluffs turn gold, orange, and scarlet. Winter brings thousands of bald eagles, and summer means zip-lining over the confluence and sipping wine at hillside vineyards. These towns show that sometimes the best destinations really do come in small packages.
The best activities in Alton, Elsah, and Grafton
Eagles, ghosts, and river views
Alton is one of the best places in the country to see bald eagles. In the winter months, see them soar near the Melvin Price Locks from the National Great Rivers Museum. Next, go from eyries to eerie on a downtown ghost tour.
Every step you take through Elsah is a walk through history - the entire village is on the National Register!
Grafton delivers adventure with Aerie's Resort zip lines and Grafton Sky Tour's alpine coaster racing down the bluffs. Pere Marquette State Park offers horsesback riding and a stunning limestone and timber lodge.
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Bald eagle-watching
Winter brings hundreds of bald eagles to Melvin Price Lock & Dam in Alton, and the National Great Rivers Museum's viewing deck puts you at the perfect height to watch them fish. Free admission includes eagle programs on weekends. Best action happens January mornings when the river churns with fish!
Bald eagle-watching -
Alton Hauntings Tours
Alton claims to be one of the most haunted small towns in America, and these tours make a pretty good case for it. There's something for paranormal enthusiasts and skeptics alike, with a fascinating journey through Alton's dark history, and guides with flairs for the dramatic.
Alton Hauntings Tours -
Historic Elsah Village
This 1850s stone village can be found on the National Register, or by taking a left turn off the Great River Road between Grafton and Alton. It's like a little slice of New England, but with a charm all of its own. It's a beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll, or a quiet overnight stay.
Historic Elsah Village -
Grafton SkyTour
Choose between an enclosed gondola or open chairlift for the 14-minute ride to Aerie's Resort, 300 feet above Grafton. The river confluence spreads out below, eagles drift past at eye level, and the view seems to stretch on forever. Runs March through November when the weather cooperates.
Grafton SkyTour -
Grafton Zipline
The SkyTour is great, but this bonus adventure awaits afterwards. Four ziplines take you through the forest canopy of speeds up to 45 mph, connected by suspension bridges and ATV shuttles. This guided experience fills an hour of fun, but the last zip always comes too soon.
Drive the Great River Road between Alton, Elsah, and Grafton
33 miles of curves, cliffs, and curiosities
For one of the world's greatest drives, follow Highway 100 as it hugs the Mississippi from Alton to Grafton, with limestone bluffs on one side and river views on the other.
Keep an eye out for the iconic Piasa Bird mural perched on a bluff near Alton, and don't miss pullovers above Pere Marquette State Park and north of Grafton for breathtaking views of the twin rivers joining together.
Where to Eat in Alton, Elsah, and Grafton
River views and tasty brews
As you might expect from old river towns, this is an area where they blend tried-and-true history with fresh ideas. In Alton's brewpubs, they fire up pizzas in wood ovens while pouring tasty craft brews worth savoring. Grafton goes all-in on river dining with patios stretching over water, tiki bars, and fresh river fish served alongside local wines. Elsah offers a really unique mix of historic and modern: they just welcomed their first restaurant in years, and the first to serve alcohol in more than a century!
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Gentelin's on Broadway
Looking to celebrate tini-Tuesday? Date night? With the full menu and extensive drink options, Gentlin's on Broadway in Alton, IL has what you're looking for. Read more about Gentelin's on Broadway -
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The Old Bakery Beer Company
The Old Bakery Beer Company produces creative, high quality food and handcrafted beers with organically grown hops and malt. Read more about The Old Bakery Beer Company -
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Tony's Restaurant
Family-owned for more than 50 years, Tony's is located in Alton on Ninth Street. Read more about Tony's Restaurant -
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The Loading Dock
We're proud to be considered the region's best outdoor bar and grill, with the best scenic view, at the end of the best scenic drive. Read more about The Loading Dock -
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Grafton Winery & Brewhaus
Nestled among the river bluffs, our winery offers great views of the river for every season. Read more about Grafton Winery & Brewhaus -
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Grafton Oyster Bar
Riverside, award-winning food and entertainment on the Mississippi River. Read more about Grafton Oyster Bar -
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Post Commons
Post Commons offers specially picked coffees and teas along with a tempting brunch menu! Read more about Post Commons -
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Fast Eddie's Bon Air
Come experience the cheapest food, coldest beer and greatest entertainment that makes the legendary Fast Eddie's Bon Air famous world-wide! Read more about Fast Eddie's Bon Air -
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Bluff City Grill Restaurant and Bar
An easygoing restaurant/bar offering American fare, several TVs & games such as darts & pinball. Read more about Bluff City Grill Restaurant and Bar