ILLINOIS’ 7 NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAYS
No matter which one(s) you follow, you’ll love the journey as much as the destination.
The Great River Road meanders along the Mississippi, the western border of Illinois, through historic river towns, passing state parks and towering bluffs.
Learn the history of travel and transportation in the early days of our country through interactive maps, exhibits, and films. You’ll see how the National Road played an important role in the westward expansion.
Route 66 begins in Chicago and winds its way southwest through Illinois to the Mississippi River. Along this iconic 300-mile stretch of “The Mother Road” through the state, you’ll encounter charming towns brimming with vintage diners, quirky roadside photo-ops, museums and a wealth of history waiting to be explored.
Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway
Explore the Illinois River Valley and its beauty on the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway! The byway unites more than 100 nature-based destinations throughout the Illinois River Valley, beginning in Ottawa and ending 150 miles south in Havana.
The Lincoln Highway—US-30 for much of its way across Northern Illinois—was born when Midwest visionaries saw the need for a New York-to-San Francisco route.
Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route
A breathtaking 33-mile section of the Great River Road, where the great Mississippi, Illinois, and Missouri Rivers converge. Extending from Pere Marquette State Park to the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, traces of history can be seen throughout the bluffs and river towns along the byway.
Take the scenic route to some of Illinois’ best outdoor adventures as you wind your way along country roads and through the Shawnee National Forest on the Ohio River Scenic Byway.
