Illinois River Road Trip

The Illinois River Road Trip is a scenic 251 km journey from Ottawa to Beardstown. It takes you through the towns of Peoria and Havana, with plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy along the way. Peoria is home to the Wildlife Prairie Park, a beautiful nature reserve with a variety of wildlife, and the Grandview Drive, a scenic drive along the Illinois River. Havana is the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors, with its lakes, rivers, and parks. The best time of year to drive this route is in the summer and early fall. The roads are generally in good condition, making this a great road trip for any driver. You can easily manage this trip on a moderate budget, and it’s recommended to take two days to complete. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and culture of the Illinois River Road Trip!

Ottawa, Illinois is an ideal starting point for the "Illinois River Road Trip". Located in LaSalle County, Ottawa is a charming small city with plenty to explore. The city is home to a variety of attractions, from a historic downtown district to the Ottawa Scenic Park, one of the largest parks in the state. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum, while families can take part in the many activities, such as a visit to the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center, a boat ride on the Illinois River, and a tour of the local wineries. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Car rentals are available at the airport for those who would like to begin their road trip by car. Ottawa is a great starting point for the "Illinois River Road Trip," with plenty of attractions and activities to explore. From the scenic park to the museums, there's something for everyone in this small city.

Welcome to the Ottawa-La Salle-Peoria road trip! This stage of your journey is a 78mi drive that will take you fewer than 2 hours to complete. Start off your road trip in Ottawa, a city full of history and heritage. Visit the La Salle County Historical Society, a museum full of artifacts and antiques, or take a stroll through the city's many parks. Continue your journey to La Salle and explore the Starved Rock State Park, a picturesque park with canyons, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. You can also visit the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor to learn more about the area's history. Finally, end your road trip in Peoria, a city full of culture and entertainment. Check out the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the Caterpillar Visitor Center, or the Peoria Zoo. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!

Welcome to the Peoria - Havana road trip stage! This is one of the most exciting stages of a larger tour, and you will be able to experience the best of the two cities in just under an hour. The road trip starts in Peoria, United States and ends in Havana. Along the way, you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places, including the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the Grandview Drive, and the Wildlife Prairie State Park. In Havana, you will find the historic downtown area, the Havana Public Library, and the Illinois River Museum. To make the most of your trip, be sure to take some time to explore the unique attractions and beautiful scenery that both cities have to offer. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Are you ready for a unique road trip experience? Starting in the beautiful city of Havana, United States, you will travel 33 miles and arrive in the charming city of Beardstown in less than an hour. In Havana, be sure to explore the historic downtown area, which is filled with antique shops, museums, and galleries. You can also visit the nearby John Wood Mansion, a stunning 19th-century home. When you reach Beardstown, take a stroll down the historic Main Street and visit the Beardstown Opera House. This beautiful building was constructed in 1883 and is now a museum. You can also explore the city's historic churches and the Beardstown City Park. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience.

Beardstown, located in the state of Illinois, is the perfect ending point for the Illinois River Road Trip. The city is situated on the Illinois River and is known for its historical buildings and the abundance of outdoor activities. Beardstown has two main attractions: the historic courthouse and the Eagle Park. The courthouse is a historical landmark built in 1839, and it contains a great deal of information about the city’s history. The Eagle Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. It has a lake full of fish, a nature center, and a variety of trails for hiking and biking. For those looking to explore the city further, there are plenty of local attractions. The Schmalfeldt Park is a great place to take a stroll and view the city’s historic architecture. The Beardstown Arts Council is a great place to learn about local art and culture. And the Beardstown Historical Museum has a variety of artifacts and exhibits that provide a great glimpse into the city’s past. For those looking to continue their journey, the closest international airport is the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL). Beardstown is a great place to end the Illinois River Road Trip, with plenty of activities and attractions to explore.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 251 km journey along the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, stretching from Ottawa to Beardstown. This adventure offers an exquisite blend of Illinois' natural beauty, wildlife, and rich local heritage. As you meander through quaint towns and vibrant cities, you'll find an array of attractions and activities that showcase the area's unique allure.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Ottawa: Known as the entryway to Starved Rock State Park, where visitors can explore canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
• Peoria: Home to the Luthy Botanical Garden and the Peoria Riverfront Museum, along with the Wildlife Prairie Park, which houses native Illinois wildlife in a natural setting. Don't miss the historic Grandview Drive, dubbed the `World's Most Beautiful Drive` by President Theodore Roosevelt.
• Havana: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring the lush Emiquon Preserve and the Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, which offer exceptional bird-watching opportunities, especially during migration seasons.

Best Time to Go:

The prime time for this Road Trip is between late spring and early fall. Late May through October provides the best weather for enjoying the outdoors, with the added bonus of seasonal festivals and events that bring the local communities to life.

Potential Risks:

Overall, the Illinois River Road offers a safe travel experience with its well-maintained thoroughfares. Nonetheless, seasonal weather conditions like summer thunderstorms or early fall fogs can occur, so it's wise to check forecasts and Road conditions before setting out.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Illinois River Road is part of the National Scenic Byways Program, recognized for offering one of the nation's most Scenic Drives.
• Along the route, the Illinois River plays host to the annual fall migration of American white pelicans, creating a spectacular natural display.
• History buffs can delve into the past at the Bishop Hill Heritage Association or the Dickson Mounds Museum, which offer insights into Illinois' pioneer and Native American history.

A good choice for:

The Illinois River Road Trip is a treasure trove for those seeking to discover the essence of Illinois through its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and hospitable towns. This journey is particularly rewarding for its easy accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and the pure joy of exploration it offers to the intrepid Road Tripper.