Illinois River Road Tour

The Illinois River Road Scenic Byway meanders along the route traveled by early French voyageurs. Over one hundred nature sites lie in the path of this truly scenic route through the heartland of Illinois.

The voyageurs in the 18th century used the Illinois River as their primary transportation artery. These fur traders surely went near the three local Illinois Main Street communities: Princeton, Canton and Pekin.

Start your trip in the north at Princeton. This railroad community once hosted another type of railroad: the Underground Railway. Visit the Lovejoy Homestead, a major stopping point on the trail to freedom for countless slaves.

Next is Canton, the seat of Fulton County. The surrounding community includes numerous wildlife preserves and outdoor recreation areas. Nature-based tourism is thriving with hunting, fishing, boating, biking, and river-based sports.

Pekin is a river town, defined by its connections to the Illinois River. Visitors love the new riverfront park. It is also one of the best eagle watching sites in Illinois. 

The 291 miles of the Illinois River Road Scenic Byway await you.