Illinois Great River Road Trip Itinerary
The Illinois Great River Road Trip is a scenic drive that takes you from Dubuque, Illinois to Cairo, Illinois and covers a distance of about 965 km. This trip is best taken over the course of seven days, and the best time of year to drive is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant. The road conditions are generally good, making it suitable for all drivers.
This road trip is full of attractions and adventures that will make your experience unforgettable. Start your journey in Moline, where you can explore the Quad Cities and the Mississippi River. Then head to Quincy and take in the sights of the city, such as the John Wood Mansion and the All Wars Museum. From there, make your way to St. Louis and visit the iconic Gateway Arch, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the St. Louis Zoo. Finally, end your trip in Cairo, where you can explore the town's rich history.
The Illinois Great River Road Trip offers an amazing experience that can be managed on a moderate budget. So, get ready to take in the sights, sounds, and memories of this incredible journey.
7
number of days
965 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Dubuque
Distance 965 km
Driving time 13.3 h
Pace: fast
289.4 kWh
Airports
ORD
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Dubuque, located in the U.S. state of Iowa, is an ideal starting point for the Illinois Great River Road Trip. This charming city, established in 1833, is known for its scenic views of the Mississippi River and its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the city's numerous attractions, such as the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, and the Grand River Center. There are also several wineries and breweries in the area, and an array of restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
For those flying in, the closest international airport is the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID). There are several car rental companies at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip. From Dubuque, you can explore the many scenic routes along the Great River Road, including the Galena-Dubuque Great River Road, which takes you along the Mississippi River. You can also take in the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley and the numerous historic sites, such as the Julien Dubuque Monument, the Mines of Spain Recreation Area, and the Dubuque County Courthouse.
Dubuque is an ideal starting point for an epic journey along the Illinois Great River Road Trip. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning views of the Mississippi River, and numerous attractions, it's sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
1
Dubuque
- Moline
Distance 173 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
51.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Dubuque to Moline! This 107mi stretch of the journey will take you fewer than 3 hours of driving time. You will be able to explore the beauty of the Mississippi River, the stunning views of the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and the unique cuisine of the area.
In Dubuque, visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium and the majestic Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s steepest and shortest railway. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the mesmerizing Mississippi Riverwalk.
As you drive towards Moline, you can explore the Quad City Botanical Center, the John Deere Pavilion, the Quad City Arts Center, and the Figge Art Museum. You can also take a break at the Black Hawk State Historic Site, the oldest state park in Illinois.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an amazing road trip from Dubuque to Moline!
Moline - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Moline
- Nauvoo
Distance 204 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
61.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! Let us take you on an exciting journey from Moline to Nauvoo, a 127mi drive that can be completed in less than three hours.
Start your adventure in Moline, a vibrant city known for its historic architecture, numerous parks, and the John Deere Pavilion. Don't forget to visit the iconic I-74 Bridge, the largest cable-stayed bridge in the United States!
Continue your journey to the charming town of Milan, where you can explore the historic downtown area and the numerous art galleries and boutiques.
As you make your way to your final destination, Nauvoo, make sure to stop at the historic site of Montrose, the oldest settlement in Lee County.
Finally, reach Nauvoo, a city with a rich history and a great variety of attractions. Visit the Nauvoo State Park and the Nauvoo Temple, a beautiful building with a fascinating story. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Nauvoo - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Nauvoo
- Quincy
Distance 79 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
23.7 kWh
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Welcome to this exciting stage of your road trip! Starting in Nauvoo, United States, you will be travelling 49 miles in less than an hour to reach Quincy.
In Nauvoo, you can visit the Historic Nauvoo, the beautiful Nauvoo Temple, and the Joseph Smith Historic Site. While in Quincy, you can explore the Quincy Museum, the Gardner Museum of Architecture and Design, and the John Wood Mansion.
This is only one of the stages of your road trip, so make sure to check out the "Itinerary" section for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Quincy - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Quincy
- Louisiana
Distance 86 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
25.8 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your tour will take you from Quincy, United States, to Louisiana, and it's a 53-mile journey that can be completed in less than two hours.
Your first stop should be in Quincy, where you can visit the John Wood Mansion, a beautiful building built in the Greek Revival style. Then, you can explore the Quincy Art Center, which houses a variety of artworks, and the Quincy Museum, which showcases the city's history.
The next stop is Louisiana, where you can explore the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, which tells the story of the famous explorers' journey. You should also check out the Mark Twain Cave Complex, which features a variety of caves, and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, which offers a glimpse into the author's life.
Finally, you can explore the Cuivre River State Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities, and the Missouri State Capitol, which is a beautiful building with a rich history.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Louisiana - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Louisiana - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Louisiana
- St. Louis
Distance 168 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
50.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Louisiana to St. Louis? This 105mi journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will get to explore some of the most interesting places in the US!
Start your journey in Louisiana and head to the Louisiana State Capitol, a beautiful building that is worth a visit. You can also explore the nearby Old State Capitol, a beautiful building that was built in the mid-1800s.
As you make your way to St. Louis, you can visit the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, an ancient Native American city that was inhabited from 700-1400 AD. The site is home to ancient mounds and archaeological artifacts that provide insight into the lives of those who lived there.
Your journey will end in St. Louis, where you can visit the iconic Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the US. You can also explore the nearby Citygarden, a beautiful park with stunning sculptures and lush gardens.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have an amazing road trip!
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
St. Louis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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6
St. Louis
- Chester
Distance 111 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
33.3 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip from St. Louis to Chester? This 69mi journey will take you fewer than 2 hours and will be full of interesting places to visit!
In St. Louis, you can start your trip with a visit to the iconic Gateway Arch, the world's tallest arch, and the Mississippi Riverfront, known for its spectacular views. Don't forget to explore the City Museum, an interactive children's museum that features a giant playground, surrealistic environment, and several art installations.
When you reach Chester, you can explore the historic Chester Courthouse, built in 1839, and the Chester City Park, where you can find a playground, picnic area, and an outdoor amphitheater. You can also take a walk along the Chester Riverwalk, which offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Chester - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Chester
- Cairo
Distance 144 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
43.1 kWh
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Welcome to the Chester-Cairo road trip stage! This is one of the most interesting stages of your larger tour, and it will take you from Chester to Cairo in less than 2 hours, a distance of 89mi.
Start your journey in Chester, where you can visit the Chester County Historical Society and the Chester County Library. Both attractions offer a great insight into the history of the area and its people.
Continue to Cairo, where you can explore the Cairo Public Library, the Cairo Historical Museum, and the Cairo Railway Station. All of these attractions provide a great opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
Finally, take a break in the Cairo Park and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful scenery.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your road trip!
Cairo - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Cairo
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Cairo, Illinois is a great place to end the Illinois Great River Road Trip. It is the southernmost city in the state, located on the banks of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and many attractions.
The National Cemetery in Cairo is a must-see for those interested in the Civil War. The nearby Cairo Historic District has numerous sites of interest, including the Old Customs House and the Cairo Public Library. The Cairo Museum of History and Art has exhibits that detail the history of the city, as well as a variety of artwork.
The nearby Fort Defiance State Park is home to a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The park also offers a great view of the Mississippi River. For those looking for a bit of adventure, the Cache River State Natural Area has a variety of trails to explore.
Cairo is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The Downtown Cairo Historic District is full of shops and restaurants, as well as the Cairo Opera House and the Cairo Courthouse. There are also several unique museums, such as the Cairo Masonic Temple and the Cairo Museum of African American History.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI), located about 50 miles away.
Cairo, Illinois is an ideal place to end the Illinois Great River Road Trip, offering plenty of attractions, recreational activities, and delicious cuisine to explore.
Illinois Great River Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Dubuque
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End:
Cairo
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Distance:
965 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Illinois Great River Road Trip, a captivating drive along the mighty Mississippi River, traversing from Dubuque to Cairo, Illinois. This approximately 965-kilometer (600-mile) route guides you through the diverse landscapes and historical tapestry of America's heartland. The journey offers an ideal week-long escape, presenting breathtaking scenery, compelling history, and a chance to immerse oneself in the cultural richness of the region.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Moline: Part of the vibrant Quad Cities, Moline is a hub for exploring the Mississippi River's influence on agriculture and industry. Don't miss the John Deere Pavilion, showcasing the past and future of farm machinery.
- Quincy: Step back in time at the elegant John Wood Mansion, home of Quincy's founding father, or reflect on military history at the All Wars Museum.
- St. Louis: Experience the iconic Gateway Arch, symbolizing the westward expansion of the United States. Wander through the lush landscapes of the Missouri Botanical Garden or enjoy the world-class St. Louis Zoo.
- Cairo: At the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, Cairo's strategic location has shaped its historical importance. The town's storied past can be felt among its Victorian-era buildings and the confluence crossRoads.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the Illinois Great River Road at its finest during the spring or fall seasons. The mild weather conditions and the changing colors of the landscapes create a perfect backdrop for your journey. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases a spectacular array of fall foliage.
Potential Risks:
While Road conditions are generally excellent, Midwest weather can be unpredictable. Springtime may bring tornadoes, and summer can usher in thunderstorms. Always check weather forecasts and be prepared for rapid changes in conditions.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This Road Trip is an affordable adventure, with opportunities for both budget-friendly and luxurious experiences.
- The itinerary includes a diverse range of attractions, from lively cities to tranquil natural spots, catering to all kinds of interests and activity levels.
- The Illinois Great River Road is well-maintained and offers an easy-to-navigate route, making it accessible for drivers of all skill levels.
A good choice for:
The Illinois Great River Road Trip is a journey that encapsulates the spirit of the American Road Trip, blending the freedom of the open Road with the allure of historical discovery and the natural splendor of the Mississippi River. It's more than just a drive; it's a voyage through the very heartbeat of the United States, full of stories waiting to be unearthed and landscapes waiting to inspire.
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