Take These 7 Epic Illinois Roads To Get Away From It All

A short road trip is an exciting and affordable idea for those looking to take a day or weekend trip in Illinois and get away from it all. Illinois is home to a large number of expansive and scenic country roads just waiting to be explored. Check out a list of our favorite Illinois roads and explore amazing sights that make you forget that you’re still in Illinois.

1. Great River Road, Fulton, Illinois

Great River Road borders the Mississippi River and separates the states of Illinois and Missouri. It spans about 550 miles and offers travelers memorable as well as scenic views. This amazing gem resides on the far western border of Illinois.

2. Original Brick Road, Auburn, Illinois

The Original Brick Road is a one and a half-mile long segment of the famous Route 66 in Illinois. The rustic road is made from hand-laid bricks and was built in 1931. It has since been carefully restored. But it still resembles the original construction.

3. Meeting Of The Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, Alton, Illinois

This stretch of land is named for its location at the convergence of three major rivers. Those include the Mississippi River, Missouri River, as well as Illinois River. The road runs for 33 miles, and takes travelers through soft twists and bends surrounded by scenic views.

4. Shawnee National Forest, Harrisburg, Illinois

The roads surrounding and throughout the Shawnee National Forest are lined with lovely trees and leaves. It’s truly breathtaking all year round. The street featured in the photo is Highway 50 in Harrisburg, Illinois. For those visiting the national forest, consider spending some time driving up and down these winding streets.

5. Peoria’s Grandview Drive, Peoria Heights, Illinois

Grandview Drive in Peoria has historic roots, visited by former President Teddy Roosevelt in 1910. This short drive extends about two and a half miles and has areas for travelers to pull over and enjoy the views from outside of their cars. Once pulled over, visitors can enjoy a unique panoramic view, that on a clear day can go as far as thirty miles out.

6. Captain Swift Covered Bridge, Princeton, Illinois

This adorable covered wooden bridge resembles a construction from way back, but it was actually a recent addition, being built in 2006. Although it might not look it at first, this bridge is extremely strong. The architect was inspired by the burr arch design, known for its strength-based from the curve on top. The Captain Swift Covered Bridge in Princeton is also the only two-lane covered bridge in Illinois.

7. The Old Chain Of Rocks Bridge, Edwardsville, Illinois

The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge was built in 1927, and since then has continued to be an actively used roadway in Illinois. This bridge offers some one of a kind midwestern views. It connects Illinois to Missouri and is certainly a scenic choice when visiting Missouri. Those living in either state can consider taking a weekend trip to escape for the weekend and check out both directions worth of expansive views.