The Mississippi river is widely known throughout the world as the birthplace of American history. This iconic river has been a mainstay in many American’s lives, with Illinois being no exception. The state is home to several popular attractions on the river, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here is a quick guide to some of the best things to see and do along the Mississippi River in Illinois.
The first stop on a journey along the Mississippi river in Illinois is the world-famous Mississippi National Heritage Area. Covering a total of eleven six-county region, this heritage area has seen its share of history, including the French Explorers, the Louisiana Purchase, and the Underground Railroad. Some of the highlights of this area include the popular Majestic Oaks Casino and the famous Delta Queen riverboat.
Another popular stop along the Mississippi River in Illinois is the majestic Starved Rock State Park. This breathtaking park is one of the most visited attractions in the entire state and is one of the oldest and most spectacular riverfront parks in the nation. Here visitors can take boat tours, go on nature trails, picnic and hike, or take a stroll and see the amazing vistas overlooking the Mississippi.
For those with a more romantic side, there is also the romantic Galena Riverwalk, located in downtown Galena. Here visitors can meander along the riverfront and visit the various shops and restaurants located here. The views along the Galena Riverwalk are simply breathtaking, as they overlook the Mississippi river and the many islands it proceeds towards.
Once travelers have had their chance to explore the area, they may want to make their way to Quincy for a look at the state’s largest city. First settled in the early 1800s, Quincy has grown to become a vibrant and thriving community, offering visitors everything from culture and arts to great hospitality and a thriving music scene. In Quincy, visitors can also catch a glimpse of some of the country’s best museums and theaters, along with its lively nightlife.
For those still wanting to feel like they are getting a real taste of the Midwest, they may want to take a drive down to the town of Utica. Here visitors will have the chance to explore the unique and vibrant culture of the town, along with its many attractions, such as its many restaurants, shops, and perhaps most famously, its renowned Utica-style pizza. With its old-style charm and friendly atmosphere, a visit to Utica is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The Illinois portion of the Mississippi River provides an incredible amount of adventure and beauty. From the culture and history found along the Mississippi National Heritage Area, to the captivating views of the Starved Rock State Park, to the quaint and romantic Galena Riverwalk, there is something for everyone to enjoy along the Mighty Mississippi in Illinois.
Nature Trails at Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park is a popular destination for nature-lovers and adventurers alike. This park has trails that wind up to some of the most stunning bluffs and lookouts in the state, providing spectacular views of the Mississippi river and the many islands it passes through. Visitors are sure to be in awe of this vista to witness the beauty of nature and the unique wildlife that can be found here. Most trails range in distance between 2-5 miles, depending on the difficulty level chosen.
The park also offers plenty of amenities for a more leisurely experience. Takethe gorgeous Starved Rock Lighthouse cruise for a chance to get up close and personal with the local wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, bald eagles and wild turkeys. There are also opportunities for kayaking, fishing and camping as well.
Nature-lovers can also make use of the stunning Butterfly Garden, a designated section of the park that’s specifically designed for the protection and enjoyment of butterflies.It provides an amazing and educational experience for anyone who loves to get up close and personal with nature.
The park itself is open year-round, providing visitors the opportunity to explore the area anytime they choose. With amazing resources and trails, visitors can explore and experience all that nature has to offer at this iconic park.
Quincy Wineries
The city of Quincy is home to a variety of wineries, giving visitors the opportunity to sample some of the best quality wines and unique blends this region has to offer. Quincy is also home to several wine tasting rooms, where guests can partake in food and wine pairings and free guided tours of the estate and winery. For an even more intimate experience, some wineries also offer private tastings for smaller groups.
The city is also home to several popular vineyards and wineries, such as Hedgehogs Knoll Vineyards, Hidden-Heron Vineyards, and the renowned Hinterland Family Winery. Here visitors can discover a variety of wines from the many different grape varieties grown in Quincy, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Not only can visitors sample some of the best wines in the area, but they can also explore the vineyards’ ornate gardens or take a tour of the winemaking facility.
Many of the wineries and vineyards are also interested in furthering the educational experience. Many of the wineries offer hands-on learning experiences, such as barrel-making classes or fermentation classes. For those looking to learn more about the area’s viticulture, many of these places offer extensive seminars, tastings, and biodynamic viticulture tours.
Whether you’re looking to learn more about local wines or taking in the stunning views of the Mississippi River, Quincy’s wineries offer a variety of experiences to those looking to partake in a more intimate experience with some of the best wines the state has to offer.
The Fun of Utica
The small town of Utica is known for its charming and laid-back atmosphere, as well as for its selection of specialty restaurants and shops. This quaint town is filled with plenty of things to do, from visiting its popular brewery to a snowmobile park to the Utica Zoo. Visitors to the area can also enjoy a day at the park, whether they are looking to take a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-fueled bicycle ride.
The town is also home to many unique dining options, including several brick-oven pizzerias, serving up the famed Utica-style pizza. The area is also famous for its many Italian restaurants, offering visitors a truly traditional Italian cuisine experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seafood, Italian-style soups, and pasta dishes, among others.
The town also offers visitors several interesting attractions to explore, such as the old-fashioned St. Patrick’s Church and the Battle of Utica memorial. Visitors may also choose to take part in a variety of festivals and events taking place throughout the year, such as the popular Utica Summer Music Festival and the Utica Festa Italiana.
Utica is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to truly experience the charm and unique culture the Midwest has to offer. With its historic churches, unique restaurants, and lively festivals, this small town is sure to win the hearts of its many visitors.
The Arts at Galena
The town of Galena is home to many quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a beloved destination for many a tourist. Here visitors can take a leisurely stroll down the streets filled with historical buildings, admire the beautiful views of the Mississippi River, and take in the city’s noteworthy murals and architecture.
The town also offers a variety of interesting and unique activities, such as taking a scenic tour on the Galena River, learning about the history of the area at the Galena Museum, or visiting many wineries and distilleries for a taste of the area’s craft beverages. There’s also plenty of opportunities to take in some music or theater, as Galena hosts several different theater and music events throughout the year.
The town is also known as a great center for shopping, as there are plenty of unique and interesting shops to be found. From antique stores to art galleries to boutique gift shops, visitors can find just about anything they’re looking for. Visitors may also choose to visit the popular Apple River Fort, or take a leisurely stroll through the city’s historic Main Street.
Galena is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the rich culture and history of the Midwest. With its charming atmosphere, inviting shops, and fun attractions, this small town is sure to be an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.
