GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES

ALTON l COLLINSVILLE l EDWARDSVILLE l GLEN CARBON l GODFREY l GRAFTON MADISON l JERSEY l CALHOUN l MACOUPIN l MONTGOMERY l GREENE l COUNTIES

2020 TRAVEL GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

GREAT ESCAPES OUR TOWNS 5l THINGS TO DO 43l MUST SEE PLACES GREAT escapes IN SOUTHWEST ALTON l COLLINSVILLE l EDWARDSVILLE l GLEN CARBON l GODFREY l GR AF TON MADISON l JERSEY l CALHOUN l MACOUPIN l MONTGOMERY l GREENE l COUNTIES

31 l HIDDEN GEMS ON ROUTE 66 A LOT MORE OF 33 l TRAVEL THROUGH TIME 67 l FAMILY ESCAPES 85 l SIGNATURE EVENTS

facebook.com/RiversandRoutes @RiversandRoutes FOUR SEASONS Instagram.com/RiversandRoutes LOCAL LEGENDS 67l OF FUN Pinterest.com/RiversandRoutes 81l

FEAST ON IT SPEND THE NIGHT WHAT'S IN STORE 87l DINING 101l LODGING 106 l SHOPPING

PHOTO CREDITS: Cover Photo: Mark Ahlvers, Marty McKay, Dennis Woods/Southwestern Aerial & Megan Fairless Inside Photos: Scott Evers, Mark Meyer, Ryan Hanlon, John Locus, Dustin Thacker, Andrew Dobson, Mike Cruz, Mike Stout, Jack Rainey, Candice Watson, Scroggins, Deanna Barnes, Alex Pax, JED Photo Art, @kitty.lawrence, @mi_anor, @talia.ogliore,@Model.N.Q.Kiunoichi, @billy716, @creativemichael, @mandyb.1786, @MidwesternMeanderer MORE JACKPOTS MORE FOOD MORE GAMES 80M • 12/19

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referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). RiversandRoutes.com 2 ESCAPE EXPLORE DREAM DISCOVER

Time to journey to a land like no ESCAPE EXPLORE DREAM DISCOVER IT’S other, Great Rivers & Routes. Where to a route where a giant pink one of America’s first cities, created in of a relaxing getaway driving along Great Rivers & Routes of rivers run mighty and deep and paved elephant, a larger than life catsup 900 A.D., and now this ancient site is historic Route 66 and retracing an era Southwest Illinois and bottle, and decadent pies welcome one of 24 World Heritage Sites in the that harkens back to a simpler way of the six counties and over TIME. roads tell a story about the past that weary travelers along America’s U.S. Cross the Mississippi River on a life. Drift along the mighty Mississippi 35 communities just outside merges seamlessly into the present. Mother Road, Route 66. Break away historic Route 66 bridge that features River on a cruise or take the longer St. Louis that illuminate the A place where legends and myths, from day-to-day routines with a a weird bend in the middle. Or see for route by car and travel the 33-mile region with nature and nostalgia; retreat to a historic Mississippi River yourself if ‘forest-bathing’ works at stretch of the Meeting of the Great history and heritage; fun and history and haunts, come to life. Just town serving up hospitality in classic one of Illinois’ largest state parks then Rivers National Scenic Byway, one of adventure. Find your next outside St. Louis in southwest Illinois, bed and breakfast inns surrounded spend the night in a nearby cabin for the most breathtaking drives in the great escape here! it’s time to begin your next great… by paths less traveled to… a well-earned rest and … country just waiting for you to…

3 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 4 GREAT OUTDOOR Escapes

Shouldn’t every great escape include an outdoor adventure? Imagine leaving the day-to-day world behind and soaring through the tree tops on the Mississippi River bluffs. Or picture yourself in a replica fur trader's canoe paddling along the banks of the area's three mighty rivers. Work off some stress by pedaling along lakeside trails on a bicycle leaping over fallen logs and landing safely on a bed of soft underbrush.

Let the siren song of escape and its sister anthem of adventure harmonizing throughout the Great Rivers & Routes region galvanize your next great escape. Listen as it sails along the breezes and hums along the roads and rivers guiding you to unparalleled fun. UP, UP & Create your own album of breathtaking, exhilarating, away and sure to be memorable adventures just minutes from St. Louis in southwest Illinois. PLAN AN ADVENTURE It’s easier than ever to see SOARING THROUGH THE the breathtaking views of the TREETOPS HUNDREDS OF Mississippi and Illinois rivers from FEET ABOVE THE HILLS the top of the bluffs with the AND HOLLOWS OF THE newly opened Grafton SkyTour Aerial Lift. Take a leisurely ride MISSISSIPPI RIVER 300 feet high along a 1,500 foot COMMUNITY OF GRAFTON. path up the bluff from the base Grafton Zipline Adventures of Main Street in Grafton to the offers a 7-line, two hour canopy top and Aerie’s Resort. Open air tour available for adventurers of all chair lifts and enclosed gondolas ages. Catch your breath as you ride are available. from bluff to bluff traveling “People can enjoy the at a maximum speed of 45 miles breathtaking views of the region per hour. Enjoy the Ridge Runner, while taking a relaxing ride to see Deer Hollow, Soaring Eagle (the all the amenities and activities highest cable), Crow’s Nest, Aerie’s has to offer,” according to TreeHouse Leap (the longest JD Lorton, Director of Operations cable), Distillery Pass and Creek for Aerie’s Resort. TRAVEL TIP: Hopper (the fastest cable) lines At the top, enjoy some of the best Make it an overnight adventure on an experience that includes views in the Midwest. The Winery with a weekend getaway. stunning views, rope bridges, Aerie’s offers overnight at Aerie’s Resort perches on the top packages for couples and trails and a surprise ending. edge of the bluff and is open for families. Go to: dining or enjoying a beverage of Aeriesresort.com for choice while drinking in the views. more information.

5 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 6 BORN TO BE Wild THERE’S A LOT OF NOISE IN THE WORLD TODAY. CELL PHONES, COMPUTERS, TELEVISIONS, RADIOS. YOU NAME IT, IT’S OUT THERE AND IT’S LOUD.

Plan an escape to unplug and unwind. Trade in the glow of a computer screen for the glow of a sunset. Turn off the radio and turn on the sounds of leaves crunching underfoot and the calls of birds cascading through the air.

Discover a natural wonderland of outdoor escapes available throughout the six county Great Rivers & Routes region. From state parks to nature centers, birding areas to nature sanctuaries, the region has the perfect natural getaway.

Famous for its size and its history, Pere Marquette State Park has become a destination for those eager for a rustic retreat. More than 8,000 acres make up the park which includes bike trails, hiking trails, equestrian trails, camping, rock climbing and hunting. Named for an adventurous French missionary, Pere Jacques Marquette, who reportedly stopped off at what is now Pere Marquette State Park in 1673 during his quest to discover a route to the Pacific Ocean by way of the Mississippi River. The park sits on the edges of the Illinois River and along the Great River Road. The massive limestone bluffs along the river, formed by ancient glaciers, are now the ideal spots for rock climbers of all skill levels. A climbing area has been established in the park featuring 40 routes on highly featured limestone formations. Titanium bolts are in place for sport, traditional and top rope climbs. Crunch through the leaves and lush forests on over 12 miles of hiking trails laced throughout the park. PERE MARQUETTE STATE PARK The scenic trails are geared towards beginning and experienced hikers. 13112 Visitor Center Lane • Grafton Camping and picnic areas are also available throughout the park. Camp sites with electrical hook ups, tent camping, rent a camp cabins and organized group camps are available. The park is a hot spot for eagle watching in the winter months and reportedly is the site of some Native American burial mounds.

RiversandRoutes.com 8 Despite its name, Beaver Dam State Park wasn’t built by Relax in a wooden porch rocker overlooking Ellis Bay and furry semiaquatic animals creating their signature dams. the mighty Mississippi River on the wrap around deck of In fact, it was originally established as a private fishing the visitor center and reconnect with nature – and birds – club by a group of local investors more than 100 years just minutes from the hustle and bustle of nearby ago. It later became a private resort catering to visitors cities and towns. arriving by train on the defunct Chicago and Alton Located smack dab in the middle of the Mississippi Railroad and was purchased by Illinois in 1947 Flyway, a superhighway for migrating birds, the center becoming a state park. is home to 3,700 acres of protected land along the The 750-acre state park, located a scant seven miles south Mississippi River. More than 8 miles of hiking trails wind of Carlinville, is now a popular fishing, picnicking, hiking through the area known as the Riverlands Migratory and camping spot for those eager to getaway. Bird Sanctuary. Walk along the Mississippi River on the Ellis Island Trail or step it up a notch by kayaking, paddle Home to a variety of wildlife including deer, fox, raccoons, boarding or canoeing on the bay itself. wild turkeys and even a few White Squirrels, the park sits in an oak/hickory woodland. The center has viewing scopes inside which offer amazing close-up views of wintering American Bald Eagles and Eight miles of hiking trails circle the artificial lake. For the Trumpeter Swans. There is also an Avian Observatory more adventurous, there is an archery range and cross AUDUBON CENTER AT RIVERLANDS BEAVER DAM STATE PARK providing intimate views of water birds. More than country skiing is a popular winter activity. 301 Riverlands Way • West Alton 14548 Beaver Dam Lane • Plainview 300 varieties of songbirds and waterfowl either live or migrate through the sanctuary on an annual basis.

Along the famed American Bottoms in southwest Illinois, An abandoned sewage lagoon in Edwardsville has the Mississippi River meandered a bit and created what been transformed into an award-winning nature is now Horseshoe Lake. This oxbow lake, covering 2,400 center. The Watershed Nature Center has risen from its acres, is the second largest natural lake in Illinois, eclipsed humble beginnings as a filled lagoon, into 40 acres of only by Lake Michigan. forest, prairie and wetland habitats. Surrounding the lake is another 560 acres which together Paved walking trails and a raised marsh walk surround make up Horseshoe Lake State Park. Camping, picnicking, the welcome center which is home to an educational and hiking, cross country skiing and more are available at environmental classroom. The trails are open year round the park. Four miles of trails wander through the natural from dawn to dusk. vegetation at the park which is known for its shorebird habitat and fishing opportunities. Horseshoe Lake State Park has connections to HORSESHOE LAKE STATE PARK WATERSHED NATURE CENTER 1591 Tower Ave. • Edwardsville Madison County Transit’s Schoolhouse Trail. 3321 Highway 111 • Granite City

If it’s bluebirds you want to see, Bremer Sanctuary located High on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River and just outside Hillsboro is the place to go. Home to the lush with native prairie grasses, waterfalls and hiking Hickory Hills Chapter of the Illinois Audubon Society, the trails sits 450 acres of land under the conservation and sanctuary is also home to of Eastern Bluebirds. environmental guidance of The Nature Institute. Well-groomed trails wind through the prairie and Tallgrass prairie, oak savannas, wetlands and limestone woodlands that make up the 203 acre site. The 50-box bluffs offer dazzling views. Miles of trails, open to the Bluebird Trail is a great place to watch for native birds public, feature small streams, a waterfall, upland forest and prairie wildflowers. Guided tours via tractor-pulled and hill prairies. (Note: trails are closed to the public from wagon rides are available for groups with stops at December through March for restoration.) viewing platforms. A bird watcher’s paradise, researchers have identified more than 150 species of nesting and migratory birds. It is a winter home to the American Bald Eagle and a den site THE NATURE INSTITUTE for Eastern Timber Rattlesnakes. H&B BREMER WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 2213 S. Levis Lane • Godfrey 194 Bremer Lane • Butler

9 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 10 Escape to Lake Lou Yaeger in Litchfield, just minutes from Take a step back in time at the Willoughby Heritage iconic Route 66, for a relaxing outdoor experience. While Farm and Conservation Reserve in Collinsville. This the 1,357-acre lake is the centerpiece of the recreation carefully preserved city park has tractors, barns, a area, there’s more to do than swimming, boating and 1930’s Craftsman-style farm house and live animals. fishing. The surrounding 4,641 acres of land offer access More than 30 acres complete the wildlife preserve with to trails, camping, a conservation area and public beach. hiking trails, bridges and scenic vistas surrounding the Make it an overnight stay at the lake. Primitive tent camping property. Once a working farm, Willoughby Heritage Farm to more sophisticated RV overnight sites are available along offers a variety of educational programming including WILLOUGHBY HERITAGE FARM with camping cabins that sleep four and have a personal fire guided tours of the Nature Walk area, Farm Animals, AND CONSERVATION RESERVE pit. Check out the Route 66 Hike & Bike Trail, a tribute to the Beekeeping and more. 631 Willoughby Lane • Collinsville road that runs through the city. A round trip walk or ride on the trail is about 6.6 miles. Just to make sure no one gets lost, trail markers and maps are handy. For those who want to escape with their horse Nestled in the hills and valleys of rural Greene County, companions, the lake has tent and trailer campgrounds Doe Run Education Works is a 55 acre wooded for equestrian visitors. There are also 25 miles of classroom. The site has more than three miles of LAKE LOU YAEGER equestrian trails that cut through the woods and around hiking trails featuring fresh water habitats. A picnic 4943 Beach House Trail • Litchfield the lake. Trails range from beginner to advanced. site and primitive camping area are also available on the property. Trails are open by appointment to the public and are free of charge. Pets on leashes are TRAVEL TIP: allowed. Conservation events and outdoor classroom Make sure to bring water and food if you head out on activities are held seasonally. Lake Lou Yaeger trails. Bug spray, basic first aid items, binoculars and a camera are also suggested. DOE RUN EDUCATION WORKS 1561 N.W. 175 Ave. • Roodhouse

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11 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 12 Kent Jackson knows the The riding stable sits on the park’s “Every day is different here,” For more information hills and valleys, streams southeastern edge. A total of 20 he mused. “We’ve had people about pricing for trail quarter horses are at the stable come out and propose to their rides, pony rides, and trails at Pere Marquette and 10 are saddled daily and ready girlfriends. And there was a film evening carriage rides State Park better than for 45 to 50-minute trail rides shoot for ‘Farmers Want A Wife’ most. You could say the that wind over 2 ½ miles. Riders here once. We have a lot of repeat or hay rides, call (618) 786-2156 or go to: park is in his blood. have rare views of deer, turkeys riders. Families come out once and and red tail hawks in their natural then coming back year after Graftontrailrides.com He also knows horses. habitats. At the same time, riders year. Some come to see the leaves enjoy unparalleled views of the in the fall and some just come out Jackson, the owner of park as horses climb trails over hills to ride the horses.” Pere Marquette Riding Stables, has and on the edges of ravines and In addition to trail rides, Jackson combined those skills to meandering streams. recently started offering horse give visitors a chance to see the Pere Marquette State Park was drawn carriage rides with evening park from a new perspective – Jackson’s boyhood backyard bonfires at Pere Marquette on horseback. – literally. He grew up at the Lodge. Hot dogs, s’mores, hot “I really enjoy seeing people get current riding stable location. His chocolate and music are part of on a horse, sometimes for the first grandparents managed the park’s the experience as people gather time, and go for a ride,” Jackson historic lodge and conference around a glowing bonfire. The said. “There have been times when center for 15 years. And his parents carriage rides are available on kids will start crying when they started the riding stable in 1969 weekends during September get on a horse because they’ve and left in 1979. Jackson took and October. Carriage rides are never done this before. By the over the stable in 1995 and hasn’t also available by reservation time they come in off the ride they looked back. at the park. are smiling and happy. They are a totally different kid.”

TRAVEL TIP: Trail rides are available May through early November. Reservations are strongly encouraged. SADDLE UP!

13 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 14 Wanderlust

Grab your hiking boots. Throw the bicycle into the car. It’s time to discover some of the best Wander without hiking and biking trails in the region. Just minutes from St. Louis in southwest Illinois, there purpose or reason are more than 200 miles of trails providing primitive get-back-to-nature experiences or more precisely paved paths winding through the famous American Bottoms. – Anonymous

Abandoned railroad tracks and levees along the Spend five days biking 200 miles on the Madison Harris has found that people enjoy the short rivers have been repurposed into well-traveled County Transit Trail system. Crossroads Bikes takes two hour tours as much as they do the rides that trails throughout Madison County connecting groups on one of the longest paved bike trail stretch over several days. He said people from Edwardsville, Collinsville, Alton and Grafton and systems in the country. The path includes biking outside Illinois have heard about the trails and extending north into Macoupin County. The scenic along the banks of the Mississippi River, a visit to contact him for a tour. views of the prairies, woodlands and rivers can the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site, and a visit to “My goal is to bring people in from outside the be enjoyed on foot or on two wheels. Take your Grafton, a Mississippi River town. The tours are area and show them what we have,” he says. “I escape to the next level and hike along rustic trails offered April through July and again in September really like the change of pace the bike tours have. crisscrossing the nearby parks and nature centers. and October. “It’s a relaxing time and the speed is so different For a more sophisticated experience, guided Crossroads Bike Tours grew out of Harris’s love of from the business world. Plus I have the chance bicycle tours of the region are offered by biking combined with the beauty found in the to get to know people. That’s nice. Crossroads Bike Tours. Specialized tours region. He said he wants to share his passion for spanning one to five days are available in addition both on bike rides. to themed tours including Wine Rides, Get the “I’ve been riding the local trails for years. I have Family Out to Ride, Bikes, Horses and Ziplines. found that people really enjoy how paved the TRAVEL TIP: “The tours are for people who want fun, beauty, trails are, how smooth and the fact that they go relaxation and pampering while they ride,” Luke over or under major highways. Safety is a big Bikes can be rented for large groups or Harris, owner of the relatively new bicycle touring thing for people and the trails are very safe. In people arriving from out of state. Go company says. “Our tours include specific routes, fact, people can’t believe they are riding through to CrossroadsBikeTours.com to plan overnight stays, meals and transportation.” metro areas because the trails are so scenic and your biking escape. tree-filled,” he points out.

15 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 16 Great hiking and biking escapes come A TRAIL RUNS in all shapes and sizes. Choose your next THROUGH IT adventure from the options here.

NATURE & Off the HIKING TRAILS Beaten Path n TWO RIVERS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE n GORDON MOORE PARK 364 Wildlife Conservation Rd. • Brussels • (618) 883-2524 4550 College Ave. • Alton • (618) 463-3580 This federal refuge is an important link for migrating birds. Walk among the trickling streams of the Oriental Garden The 3-mile Gilbert Lake trail is a gravel path along the Trail or The Nature Institute’s Prairie Trail. Stop and smell the Illinois River and a great place to see wildlife. roses in the Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden. n MCCULLY HERITAGE PROJECT n JOE GLIK PARK 592 Crawford Creek Rd. • Kampsville • (618) 653-4687 710 E. Lake Dr. • Edwardsville • (618) 692-7538 More than 15 miles of trails wind through the 940 The largest park in Edwardsville at 42 acres, enjoy hiking, acres of this Calhoun County scenic wonderland. biking or skating on the park trails. There are two lakes Access to horseback riding trails is available with and recreational facilities also available. advance arrangements. n TRI-TOWNSHIP PARK n GLAZEBROOK PARK 410 Wickliffe St. • Troy • (618) 667-6887 1401 Stamper Ln. • Godfrey • (618) 466-1483 Nearly two miles of trails circle Troy’s signature park. Enjoy 3 miles of walking trails in this scenic city park The ag-lime surfaces also extend around the high featuring two ponds, and in the fall, the Great school football area creating a 2 ½ mile track. Godfrey Corn Maze. n THE GARDENS AT SIUE n LAVISTA PARK TO CLIFTON TERRACE PARK 6 Arboretum Ln. • Edwardsville • (618) 650-3070 2421 W. Delmar • Godfrey • (618) 466-1483 Paved and mulch paths wind through the scenic Walk the 1-mile trail along the Mississippi River bluffs. 36-acre botanical gardens. A half-mile paved loop is ADA The trail winds through wooded areas and alongside accessible. The Shade Stroll Path, a mulch trail, takes visitor a creek as it makes its way down to the waters of the through wooded areas to explore understory plantings. Mississippi River. For more information on these hiking and biking experiences, BIKING & From the edges of historic Route 66 to the Mississippi River near St. Louis, Madison County go to: RiversandRoutes.com HIKING TRAILS Transit has well over 100 miles of trails designed to suit any hiking or biking requirement. n MCT BLUFF TRAIL New Poag Rd, Edwardsville n MCT GOSHEN TRAIL Edwardsville & Glen Carbon n MCT QUERCUS GROVE TRAIL n GREAT RIVERS BIRD & BIKE TRAIL Hartford to Grafton Travel the Great American Bottoms’ ancient bluff line Ten tunnels and a 175-foot bridge are just some of the Staunton, Hamel, Worden & Edwardsville View migrating warblers, herons, egrets and hundreds of on two miles of paved trails on the SIUE campus. highlights of this scenic 8-mile trail connection from Troy Historic Route 66 communities are connected by this 18.9 other birds native to the region on this Missouri Audubon to Edwardsville/Glen Carbon trails. mile paved and limestone trail. Start in Staunton on the endorsed trail. n CONFLUENCE BIKE TRAIL Alton to Granite City north end and finish your trek in Edwardsville. Stop in at This 20.5 mile paved trail follows the Mississippi River from n MCT NATURE TRAIL Edwardsville & Granite City Weezy’s in Hamel or the Yellow Dog Café & Bar in Worden n ALTON BIKE TRAIL the river city of Alton to Granite City. Stops include the This well-traveled 15-mile paved trail winds through for refreshments. A short jaunt along Alton’s historic riverfront is available National Great Rivers Museum, Lewis & Clark Confluence the woods, spans local creeks and is a favorite hangout on this 0.78 trail located in Riverfront Park. This trail serves Tower, and the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site. for wildlife. n MCT RONALD J. FOSTER HERITAGE TRAIL as a connector between the Confluence Bike Trail and Glen Carbon Sam Vadalabene Bike Trails. n MCT NICKEL PLATE TRAIL Explore the historic community of Glen Carbon along this New Douglas to Pontoon Beach paved 12-mile trail. Highlights include the Glen Carbon TRAVEL TIP: Stretching over 28 miles across farmland, woods and Covered Bridge and connections to local parks. urban areas, this combination paved and limestone n Alton to Grafton Be sure to walk or ride across the historic trail passes near Glen Carbon’s Miner Park and the SAM VADALABENE BIKE TRAIL Old Chain of Rocks Bridge for breathtaking Edwardsville Children’s Museum. An awe-inspiring 20-mile paved trail running parallel to views of the Mississippi River. the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. Stretching from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park, the trail hugs the base of towering limestone bluffs and provides breathtaking views of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers.

17 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 18 TRAVEL TIP: For a complete schedule of cruises on board the Hakuna Matata or The Spirit of Peoria, go to: AHOY MATEY! RiversandRoutes.com/cruises.

MAGNIFICENT MARINA FEATURES INCLUDE: Floating Docks Luxury Bathrooms Full Service Fuel Satellite TV & Wi-Fi Swimming Pool & Hot Tub Laundry Convenience Store & Deli Much More!

IT’S NOT UNUSUAL TO SEE SAILBOATS, PONTOONS AND PLEASURE BOATS SKIP ACROSS THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER SHARING THE WATERS WITH MASSIVE BARGES AND LOCAL FERRIES. Spending time on the Mississippi and Illinois rivers has become a major recreational activity for residents and visitors alike in the Great Rivers & Routes region. Make your escape to the rivers and glide along sparkling waters taking in spectacular views of (618) 462-9860 the massive limestone river bluffs and seeing the area in an entirely new light. Great Transient Rates Available | Reservations Encouraged

5 Anchor Marina with Deluxe Amenities! At the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, Alton Marina is full to the gunwales with boating Amazing Winery, Restaurant and Gift Shop Grafton Harbor has boating adventures designed to fit amenities. Both permanent and transient boaters are Boat Rentals all comfort levels. The 49-passenger excursion boat, the treated to a full concierge service, from dock to boat, Hakuna Matata, sails throughout the spring, summer for boaters. “It’s room service to your boat,” says Karen Riverboat Cruises: Corporate, Wine, Sunset and fall with hour-long sightseeing and lengthier Baker-Brncic, marina manager. A large swimming pool, Haunted & Fall Colors sunset dinner cruises. The boat has a 360-degree open sundeck, convenience store, deli and outdoor patio are Wedding Ceremonies and More! air top deck and an enclosed mid-deck. Pontoon boat also part of the marina’s charm. Don’t miss the Alton Come check out the Oyster Bar rentals are available at the harbor for longer excursions Marina annual anniversary party, open to the public, and our Floating Winery! on the river. Jet ski’s can also be rented on site. and held the last Saturday in August. It boasts live music, Grafton Harbor, a 5-Anchor facility, floats on top of the food and . rivers' waters. Located at Mile Marker 0 on the Illinois For a change of pace, take a scenic Mississippi River River, it sits directly on the confluence of the Illinois and cruise on an authentic paddlewheel river boat. The Mississippi. A gift shop, floating winery, outdoor bar, Spirit of Peoria sails into the region each year and swimming pool, laundry, shower facilities and Grafton has morning, afternoon, lunch and dinner cruises. Oyster Bar restaurant complete the harbor’s river The boat’s schedule will be limited in 2020 due to experience. Transient and permanent slips are updates on Illinois River locks and dams. available for boaters. Or book your full Mississippi River cruise with American A few nautical miles south of Grafton, boaters can drop Cruise Lines, which makes Alton its newest homeport. their anchors at the Alton Marina. A 5-Anchor marina, The cruise line brings its replica paddlewheel boats with the facility offers transient and permanent slips for boat modern amenities to the city’s historic riverfront for owners. The marina has a scenic setting along the city’s boarding and deboarding passengers. Themed cruises riverfront in the shadow of the iconic Clark Bridge. are available for music, history and culinary aficionados. For more information, or to book a cruise, 618-786-7678 | GraftonHarbor.com | 215 West Water Street | Grafton, Illinois go to: AmericanCruiseLines.com 19 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 20 TRAVEL Check out area hotels for special deals on overnight COOL OFF TIP packages which include admission to local water parks. THE AXE COMPANY MORE ENTERTAINING OPTIONS 20B Kettle River Dr. • Glen Carbon (618) 650-9053 n AIRPORT PLAZA BOWL 4 Erwin Plegge Blvd. • Bethalto Think you have what it takes to (618) 377-2131 throw an axe at a target? The Axe n AMC EASTGATE SHOWPLACE 6 Company gives guests age 12 and 625 Lewis and Clark Blvd. • East Alton older that chance. You can even (618) 254-6058 bring your own beverages… just n AMC EDWARDSVILLE 12 not into the throwing pen. Walk 6633 Center Grove Rd. • Edwardsville (618) 659-7479 in target throwing is available but n reservations are recommended. BING FIELD PAINTBALL AND AIRSOFT PARK Theaxecoedw.com 500 Bing Field Rd. • Alton EDISON’S (618) 692-8271 ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX n BOWL HAVEN LANES 3003 Washington Ave. • Alton 2477 S. State Rt. 157 • Edwardsville (618) 465-2695 (618) 307-9020 n CAMELOT BOWL Boutique bowling, a laser 801 Beltline Rd. • Collinsville Trade in the four walls of an indoor office for the wide in the sun supplies and more. No outside food or drinks tag arena and more than 65 (618) 344-8610 open spaces, sun and fun of two area water parks. are allowed in the park. Picnic areas are located outside arcade games are just a few n COLLINSVILLE MARYVILLE Raging Rivers in Grafton and Collinsville Aqua Park the park in the parking areas. Raging Rivers Water Park is of the activities at Edison’s TROY YMCA Entertainment Complex. Food 1 Town Center Dr. • Maryville have refreshing, relaxing and adventurous summer open Memorial Day through Labor Day. (618) 346-5600 and drinks are also available distractions for all ages. n EAST ALTON ICE ARENA ESCAPE THE SUMMER HEAT AT INDOORESCAPES in casual indoor and outdoor Make a splash at the Collinsville Aqua Park located at 10 631 Lewis And Clark Blvd. • East Alton THESE AREA POOLS AND SPLASH PADS: facilities. After 10:30 p.m., (618) 254-7465 Gateway Dr., in the city’s Convention Center District. With Leon Corlew Splash Pad, Edwardsville; Edwardsville Edison’s is open to guests 18 and n EDWARDSVILLE YMCA seven water slides, a lazy river, leisure pool and lap pool, Glen Carbon Community Pool; Roxana Community Pool; older only. edisonsfun.com MEYER CENTER Aqua Climb Wall and Monsoon Mountain, water fun is in 7348 Goshen Rd. • Edwardsville Donor Pool, Jerseyville; Litchfield Memorial Pool; Central Let’s face it. The weather ALTITUDE TRAMPOLINE PARK (618) 655-1460 store for all ages. Park Pool, Hillsboro; Carlinville Public Pool. doesn’t always cooperate. 91 Fountain Dr. • Glen Carbon n EDWARDSVILLE YMCA (618) 744-6959 The Aqua Park’s leisure pool has zero depth entry and a Which means you can’t NIEBUR CENTER wide array of activities including two slides (one open Jump to new heights on the 1200 Esic Dr. • Edwardsville always play outside. That’s (618) 656-0436 and one enclosed that are three stories high), a water wall-to-wall trampolines that n just fine in the Great Rivers make up Altitude Trampoline FUSION FITNESS & AQUATICS fortress play area where you can jostle waves, shoot water 1210 E. Tremont St. • Hillsboro streams and take a 9-foot enclosed slide into 2-feet of & Routes region where a Park’s indoor adventures. Try (217) 532-3896 out the Ninja Warrior course, water. Monsoon Mountain is a 50-foot tall water wealth of indoor adventures n KNISLEY’S HILLSBORO BOWL play Extreme Dodgeball, 217 N. Main St. • Hillsboro of fun. Five slides of varying shapes along with buckets await. From escape rooms Trampoline , or just (217) 532-9384 and hoses for dousing friends and family are available. to laser tag, high bouncing take a dive – into a Foam Pit n LITCHFIELD BOWLING INC. And the mountain unleashes its 500 gallons of water on trampoline fun, indoor rock filled with 15,000 foam cubes. 3320 Il Rt. 16 • Litchfield (217) 250-2047 anyone below every five minutes. altitudeglencarbon.com climbing and even edgier n LOADING DOCK ICE RINK While Collinsville Aqua Park does charge admission, axe throwing, there is no 401 E. Front St. • Grafton ESCAPE ROOMS (618) 786-3494 there is free parking, free inner tubes for the lazy river shortage of options. and free life jackets. Concessions are available on site. No There’s no pressure, but you only n MARVEL THEATRE 1 & 2 have 60 minutes to solve the 228 W. Main St. • Carlinville outside food or drinks are allowed. The park is open from (217) 854-8016 riddles to escape themed rooms at Memorial Day through Labor Day. n RIVERBEND AXE THROWING 28 acres of fun in the sun! these popular area escape rooms. Ride a “Run Away Raft”, escape from the jaws of a shark 205 Eastgate Plaza • East Alton Wave Pool • Tree House Harbor Put your puzzle and riddle solving (618) 471-9050 and swirl through the Swirlpools at Raging Rivers Water Endless River • Body Flumes skills to the test. n SIUE COUGAR LANES Park, 100 Parkway, Grafton. Located on the SwirlPools • Itty Bitty Surf City 1 Hairpin Dr. • Edwardsville banks of the Mississippi River, the 28-acre water park ALTON ROOM ESCAPE (618) 650-5263 319 Ridge St. • Alton n has a Cascade Body Flume, Endless River, Itty Bitty Surf (618) 876-9768 SKY VIEW DRIVE IN THEATRE 1500 N. Historic Rt. 66 • Litchfield City and a wave pool. Three different concession stands BEAST ESCAPE ROOM (217) 324-4451 operate at the park including the Casa Grande Restaurant, 4517 State Rt. 159 • Glen Carbon n TRI-COUNTY BOWL Riverside Grill and Sunshine Café serving up , (618) 530-7341 207 Krause Dr. • Jerseyville hot dogs, chicken, salad, Mexican meals, Dippin Dots (618) 498-5978 SAFE ESCAPE ROOMS n and more. The Port Of Call Gift Shop has swim suits, fun WESTSIDE CINEMA 1-618-786-2345 • www.ragingrivers.com 15 Junction Dr. • Glen Carbon 1305 W. Hudson Dr. • Litchfield Located on the Great River Road in Grafton, Illinois. 618-692-5540 (217) 324-3113

21 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 22 DON’T TELL FISH STORIES WHERE THE PEOPLE KNOW YOU. PARTICULARLY, DON’T TELL THEM WHERE THEY KNOW THE FISH – Mark Twain

TWO RIVERS FAMILY FISHING FAIR Grafton • June FISHING HOT SPOTS Spark a love for fishing in the KING KAT CATFISH Be sure to try your skills at these kids during this day-long family- TOURNAMENT popular regional fishing holes: friendly event. Held annually at ■ Pere Marquette State Park in June. Grafton • October BEAVER DAM STATE PARK 14548 Beaver Dam Ln. Favorites include a catch-and- Bass Pro Shops Cabela’s presents Plainview release bluegill pond, a bow-fishing this annual Mississippi River catfish (217) 854-8020 station and a one-cast station where tournament held in Grafton each everyone is a winner. This is a free October. The tournament features ■ HORSESHOE LAKE event and no license or fishing a weigh in, and a free fishing rodeo STATE PARK 3321 Highway 111 • Granite City gear is needed. for kids. Teams of anglers from across the country take part. (618) 931-0270 FISHING DERBY AT Winners have the chance to ■ LAKE LOU YAEGER LECLAIRE PARK compete in the national King 4943 Beach House Trl. Litchfield A-Lure-ing Fun Edwardsville • June Kat Classic Tournament. (217) 324-5832 Let the kids try their skills at the LET’S GO FISHING RUMOR HAS IT THERE IS A 700 POUND CATFISH LIVING IN THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER annual Fishing Derby at Leclaire Park Forgot your bait or need Gateway Convention Center NEAR ALTON. WHETHER THAT IS FACT OR FICTION, ANGLERS COME FROM FAR in Edwardsville. some new line? Collinsville • January AND WIDE EAGER TO FIND OUT. ■ BLUFF CITY OUTDOORS It’s all about fishing at this annual ALTON CATFISH CLASSIC 2813 E. Broadway St. • Alton three day show which is dedicated Take your turn and cast a line in the Mighty Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri rivers to reel in channel Alton • September (618) 465-6175 to anyone who loves to fish. Check catfish, largemouth bass and crappie. In surrounding lakes and ponds, there is no shortage of Grab your bait and test your fishing out the rods and reels, fishing boats, ■ DENNY’S PACKAGE great places to reel in the catch of the day including crappie, bluegill, sunfish, trout and white bass. skills at this new fishing tournament. free seminars, live demos, kids LIQUOR & BAIT SHOP Last year’s winning catch of three fish activities and free fish pond. The 126 W. Ryder St. • Litchfield Fishing has become a popular pastime in the Great Rivers & Routes region for anglers of all ages. (217) 324-2628 weighed in at 96.56 pounds. A public highlight of the show for most is the weigh in is held on the city riverfront Here are just a few fishing ideas for a fishing getaway! “fishing tackle super-store.” ■ LUTES BAIT & ESCAPE during the Alton Expo and includes 1446 W. Main St. • Grafton 100 teams of up to three people per (618) 786-4025 team. Grand prize is $15,000.

23 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 24 AWESOME animals

Bobcats, pelicans, and bald eagles, oh my. ____

The Great Rivers & Routes region has its fair share of sanctuaries and animal parks for the region’s feathered and four-legged residents. And the best part? They are all free and open to the public. TreeHouse Wildlife Center, in rural Jersey County just north of the historic Village of Elsah, is a full service wildlife center committed to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing injured and sick animals back in to the wild. During this process, many of the animals can be seen in cages and pens at the center. In situations when an injured animal can’t be released, they are trained as education ambassadors for the non-profit center. Meet Ed, a sassy White Pelican resident, and Einstein, a turkey vulture who has made a name for herself as the “diva” of the center. TreeHouse is also home to coyotes, foxes, bobcats and a variety of reptiles and amphibians. The center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are accepted in lieu of admission. Visit Willoughby Heritage Farm and Conservation Reserve in Collinsville and discover what life was like on a 1940’s farm. Chickens, goats, donkeys, rabbits, a pig, a steer and miniature horse make the farm their home. Visitors can see the animals up close and personal daily from 9 a.m. to dusk. Admission to the farm is free. Plan a visit in the fall or spring for Willoughby Farm Days. These day-long, family-friendly events highlight life on the farm and include vendors, music, wagon rides and more. Chonkey the Donkey. Parker the Zebu. Lily the Llama. Those are just a few of the animals that call Tri-Township Park in Troy home. The park has, among other attractions, a petting zoo open to the public. Zoo residents include swans, a turkey, peacocks, an alpaca, goats, assorted chickens, ducks and a potbellied pig. Journey along historic Route 66 and check out Henry’s Rabbit Ranch in Staunton. There aren’t as many rabbits as there used to be, but owner Rich Henry enjoys letting the bunnies greet visitors. Henry’s Rabbit Ranch also has a giant metal rabbit outside, perfect for photo memories. Admission to the ranch is free but it’s best to call ahead and make sure it’s open before stopping by. Looking for a wilder animal experience? See birds and more in their natural habitats at the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary in West Alton. Viewing platforms and bird blinds are the perfect spot to see migrating birds. Trumpeter Swans, American Bald Eagles, Canada Geese, egrets, herons and more spend their days at the sanctuary at varying times of the year. Hike along 8 ½ miles of trails through prairie and marshland to get the best views of birds and other resident wildlife. The Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge in Brussels is a bit off the beaten path but offers great opportunities to see American Bald Eagles in their natural habitat each winter. More than 500 eagles have been counted as they congregate at the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Flocks of migrating American White Pelicans visit the center each spring and fall.

25 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 26 AUBURN

DON’T MISS

ROUTE 66 SITES VIRDEN

GIRARD: Doc’s Soda Fountain. GIRARD Formerly Deck’s Pharmacy, the historic building and fountain are

still a favorite with road trippers on the Mother Road. Enjoy hand- drawn fountain sodas from the

original 1929 equipment. CARLINVILLE CARLINVILLE: Million LITCHFIELD Dollar Courthouse and the Cannonball Jail. GILLESPIE GILLESPIE: Illinois Coal Museum. MT. OLIVE LITCHFIELD: Neon lights at STAUNTON the iconic Ariston Café draw in Route 66 visitors from around DECAMP STATION the world. The cafe is the oldest, continuously operating restaurant

on Route 66. Be sure to visit the city’s Route 66 Welcome Center HAMEL and Museum. MT. OLIVE: Visit Soulsby Service

Station for great photo moments. EDWARDSVILLE

The Mother Jones Monument, a GLEN CARBON tribute to a famous union activist, stands in the city cemetery.

STAUNTON: Henry’s TROY Rabbit Ranch. COLLINSVILLE LIVINGSTON: A giant pink elephant draws visitors to the aptly named Pink Elephant Antique Mall. A 20 foot waitress,

a 1960’s original Futuro House and an ice cream shop shaped like a, well, ice cream cone. That’s just the beginning. Visit the MADISON: Chain of Rocks repurposed school gym filled EASE ON DOWN THE ROAD Bridge. Once a major Route 66 to the gills with antiques and bridge across the Mississippi collectibles. A 1950’s-style River, the bridge is best known for SHORT DRIVES with it musicians, miners diner and candy shop ROUTE 66 > the unusual kink halfway across. and even mobsters. complete the experience. Closed since 1970, it now is a Sometimes taking to the open road is one of the best ways to relax 85 MILES Although the original road has since HAMEL: Weezy’s Route 66 Bar & pedestrian and bike pathway. been eroded by interstate highways Grill and the Route 66 Creamery. and, let’s face it, to escape. And the Great Rivers & Routes region It’s not called the Mother Road over the years, remnants of the COLLINSVILLE: EDWARDSVILLE: Ginger Rogers, Mounds State Historic Site. for nothing. The two-lane narrow red brick and asphalt route has highways and byways ready to take you on great adventures Al Jolson and Douglas Fairbanks Ironically, the Mother Road carves highway that makes up Route 66 linger from just south of Springfield and deliver memorable experiences. Jr., took the stage at the iconic through part of this ancient site was really the nation’s first paved in Virden, IL to outside St. Louis. A Wildey Theatre in downtown which is the largest mound system total of 85 miles of Route 66 wind Cruise along the nation’s Mother Road, Route 66. Or take one of roadway that allowed people to Edwardsville. Now the theatre is created by Native American tribes travel by car across the country. through the prairies, woodlands home to community events and north of Mexico. Be sure to stop the most scenic roadways in the U.S – the Meeting of the Great and American Bottoms. vibrant live music on weekends. and climb Monks Mound and walk The legendary route carved a Don’t miss Dewey’s and through the Interpretive Center. Rivers National Scenic Byway. From historic to pastoral, the region path through the southern part Take a day or two and explore The Stagger Inn. has highways and byways to cover every road trip appetite. of Illinois on its journey from all the road has to offer. Chicago to California and brought

27 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 28 TRAVEL BY FERRY

SHORT DRIVES There is a certain mystique about riding a river ferry. The journey is reminiscent of the MEETING OF THE GREAT RIVERS days of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn riding a raft in the river NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY > 33 MILES and going on great adventures.

Four different ferries connect the Great Rivers & Routes region. From to discover a route to the Pacific The Illinois and Mississippi rivers It’s a roadway that was carved the Brussels and Kampsville ferries Ocean. Visit the Lewis & Clark State come together in the riverside out of a narrow strip of land crossing the Illinois River between Historic Site in Hartford for an in- community of Grafton. The best between the banks of the Calhoun County and the Great depth look at that journey. views of this confluence are available Mississippi River and towering River Road to the Golden Eagle high on the bluffs at Aerie’s Resort limestone river bluffs. Now, The Lewis & Clark Confluence Ferry and Grafton Ferry, linking or during an overnight stay at the Meeting of the Great Rivers Tower, also memorializing the Illinois to Missouri across the Tara Point Inn. National Scenic Byway is journey, stands 150-feet tall just Mississippi River. a mile from the museum. The Illinois’ largest state park, Pere considered one of the Seven The Brussels and Kampsville confluence of the two rivers is Marquette, hugs the northern edge Wonders of Illinois and one of ferries are free to ride and are visible from the three scenic of the byway which travels along the the most scenic roadways in the operated 365 days a year, weather platforms at the tower. Illinois River as this point. . That’s no small permitting. Take the road less feat for what is a relatively Dive deep into the life of a river at Although the byway officially ends traveled with a side journey short spur of road. But what it the National Great Rivers Museum at the park, the road itself becomes through Calhoun County. Miles lacks in mileage, it makes up at the Melvin Price Locks & Dam in the Great River Road and and miles of roads range across the Alton. Lock wall tours are available continues its journey north. lush farmlands and countrysides for in natural beauty and its and provide a birds-eye view into in this peninsula of land located relationship to America’s three the inner workings of an active river between the Mississippi and great rivers. lock. The museum showcases the Illinois rivers. environmental impact rivers have on Reflecting the confluence of the Take the Brussels Ferry, a free ferry the surrounding lands. Missouri, Mississippi and Illinois operated by the Illinois Department rivers, the road stretches from The byway cuts along Alton’s of Transportation, from Grafton Hartford on its southern end to Pere riverfront with views of the Liberty to Brussels in Calhoun County. Marquette State Park on its northern Bank Alton Amphitheater, iconic A journey through the county edge. It is also a link in the National Clark Bridge, and the Argosy includes stops at roadside stands Great River Road which runs Casino Alton, the state’s first-ever and farms where some of the parallel to the Mississippi River from gaming site. Alton’s place in history juiciest peaches and vegetables Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. is highlighted by the Lincoln- are grown. Calhoun County is also Douglas Square debate site, just home to an extensive Barn Quilt Flowing through the riverside a few yards from the byway. The self-guided tour. The Kampsville communities of Alton, Elsah and city is also home to the Miles Davis Ferry operates at the northern end Grafton, the byway connects rivers Statue, Lovejoy Monument, of Calhoun County. and roads throughout the region. Robert Wadlow Statue and dozens The Grafton Ferry operates Plan a day or two (how about of locally owned and operated seasonally from late April through three?) and explore the towns and restaurants and shops. early November. There is a charge to communities along the byway. Historic Elsah, where the entire village ride the ferry between Missouri and Enjoy these highlights during is on the National Register of Historic downtown Grafton. It is a popular your journey. Places, sits on the edge of the byway. short cut for visitors traveling to the The byway begins where explorers Stroll through the village, nestled region from Missouri. Lewis & Clark started their westward between bluffs and the river. Quaint The Golden Eagle Ferry crosses journey in 1804. At the confluence of shops, bed and breakfast inns and between Golden Eagle in Calhoun the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, Principia College, the nation’s only County to St. Charles, MO. There is the explorers established a camp Christian Science college, are part of a charge to ride the Golden Eagle. as they prepared for their quest the scenic delights.

29 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 30 HIDDEN GEMS ON Route PREPARE TO GET LOST Check out Silvernick’s, 231 E. Jackson St., Virden – a A one-room log cabin has become a historic stop Relatively new to the Route 66 experience is ON THE MOTHER ROAD. true picker’s delight. The shop, located just off Virden’s on Route 66 in Hamel. The Hamel School Log Vintage 71, 813 N. Main St., Edwardsville. The town square, has a gift shop, thrift shop and antique Cabin, 400 W. State St., was constructed of white shop has vintage décor, shabby chic, industrial Lose yourself in acres of classic cars, store. Described as an ‘eclectic shop” with antiques, pine in the early 1800’s and has become a historic and rustic designs under one roof. or in the aisles of small antique stores. furniture, home décor and more, it’s worth a visit. site and provides visitors with an authentic view of Get lost in a good book with Route 66 book stores Get lost in bookstores, on bridges and While it’s not exactly hidden from sight, Country early pioneer life. in Edwardsville and Virden. Afterwords Books, 441 in a historic log cabin. Turn back the Classic Cars is worth a stop if only to feast your A former Route 66 toll bridge has become a E. Vandalia St., Edwardsville, has filled a small house with books, both new and used. Browse through three clock in small towns that made a big eyes on the rows upon rows of cars. Located just off pedestrian and biking causeway across the Interstate 55 on Route 66 in Staunton, visitors can Mississippi River, if you can find it! Located off contiguous buildings filled with books at Books on the impact on Route 66. enjoy an indoor showroom and a historic gift shop. Route 3 in Madison, IL, just north of Granite Square, 154 E. Jackson St., Virden. More than 50,000 books fill the shelves in this Route 66 store. Tucked away inside historic small Studebakers, Model T’s and Dodge Brothers cars from City, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is off the buildings or hiding in plain sight, there the early 1920’s sit side-by-side with newer 1950’s typical Route 66 path and isn’t easily found with Desotos, a 1979 Alfa Romeo and classic Corvettes. cell phone GPS. The 5,353 foot span provides are scores of hidden gems to discover breathtaking views of the river, the St. Louis skyline TRAVEL TIP: Take a detour back in time to Benld and relive the Route 66 on Route 66 between Virden and on clear days and has a 20 degree bend halfway music and dancing at the Coliseum Ballroom. The The Mother Road was used as the main rum- St. Louis in southwest Illinois. across. It’s the perfect spot for memorable photos Coliseum was destroyed by fire in 2011, long after its running route for Chicago gangsters throughout and a great way to stretch your legs after a long heyday as ‘the place to be on Saturday night’, but a the 1930s. Al Capone was rumored to have used Route 66 journey. silhouette of dancing figures and a historic plaque Route 66 as he traveled to St. Louis and was bring the site to life again. said to have spent time at The Tarro Coliseum in Benld and the Luna Café in Mitchell.

SOME BEAUTIFUL PATHS CAN’T BE DISCOVERED WITHOUT GETTING LOST. – Erol Ozan on Route 66.

31 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 32 TRAVEL

THROUGH TIME replicated not far from 1803 until their expedition Monks Mound. Special launched on the Missouri It’s a magical concept – the possibility of time travel. While it isn’t technically possible… sunrise services are held at River in May 1804. The yet… opportunities exist throughout the Great Rivers & Routes region to retrace the Woodhenge on the Sunday Lewis & Clark State past and experience it in new and exciting ways. morning closest to the Historic Site, #1 Lewis & Spring and Fall equinoxes. Clark Trail, Hartford, sits Explore a once vibrant Native American mound civilization or walk in the footsteps near the confluence of the of America’s greatest explorers. Meet a young Abraham Lincoln and his entrepreneurial Mississippi and Missouri friend Benjamin Godfrey. Both helped shaped the face of area cities. rivers and is near the place Find the roads that created a nation and encounter the men and women who helped historians believe the men shape the region. Escape into the past and discover new ways to see the present. established a fort during the winter months of their training. Once upon a time, more to 80 surviving prehistoric The first stop on the than 1,000 years ago, a great CAHOKIA MOUNDS mounds and the largest, national Lewis & Clark civilization spread across QUICK FACTS Monks Mound, which Trail, the interpretive the American Bottoms stands at 100 feet tall. The The mounds were named center has a 55-foot not far from present day first settlements at Cahokia after the Cahokia tribe, a cutaway replica keelboat Collinsville. A culture and occurred around 700 AD historic Illiniwek people and exhibits highlighting population that rivaled that and from around 1000 AD living in the area when the the training and of , England, grew first French explorers arrived to 1200 AD, the area was a Learn more about the preparations the group into what is now known as in the 17th century. sprawling regional Native highly sophisticated made for their journey. Cahokia Mounds, the American complex. There is civilization at the Cahokia A 12-minute film, “The largest mound civilization no written documentation Mounds Interpretive Journey’s Edge”, provides north of Mexico. of the ancient civilization, Center, 30 Ramey St., insight into the expedition but mounds interpreters Collinsville and see life as it Today, Cahokia Mounds Established in 1979 of uncharted territory west believe that ultimately, once existed in the area. is celebrated as both a the Cahokia Mounds of the Mississippi. over-farming, disease and state historic site and a State Historic Site is a Hundreds of years after wars with other native The interpretive center, UNESCO World Heritage National Historic Landmark Cahokia, and in the tribes contributed to the built to resemble the prow Site, one of only 24 such and a designated site for early days of America, decline of Cahokia Mounds. of a boat, also includes a places in the U.S. It is home state protection. two young explorers replica fort and a settler’s Excavations have established a camp at cabin on the grounds. uncovered a or the confluence of the that defended the Mississippi and Missouri Not long after the Grand Plaza. The barrier river, near present-day Lewis & Clark expedition, was nearly two miles long Hartford, as they prepared in 1806 the federal and was rebuilt four times to explore the unknown government authorized throughout the course of western part of the U.S. funds to create a national Cahokia Mounds' existence. road stretching from the Meriwether Lewis and A circular sun calendar Potomac River to the William Clark, along called Woodhenge, created River. The National with 45 men skilled at from evenly spaced red Road eventually extended hunting and with frontier cedar posts was also into southwest Illinois experience, built a camp discovered on the site. It is carving its way through at the banks of the considered an impressive Troy and Collinsville to Mississippi River. Camp example of science and St. Louis and beyond. DuBois was home for the engineering to this day. The road, originally called group from December Woodhenge has been the Cumberland Road,

33 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 34 DON’T MISS THESE OTHER followed trails created by Native Local entrepreneur Benjamin Godfrey Abraham Lincoln was no stranger to OPPORTUNITIES TO TRAVEL Americans. It became the main artery left his mark on the Alton-Godfrey the region. He made repeated visits THROUGH TIME IN THE GREAT for stagecoaches, Conestoga wagons area. He established the first women’s to southwest Illinois as a young circuit RIVERS & ROUTES REGION: lawyer and later as a candidate for and settlers eager to settle in the seminary, the Monticello Female n Underground Railroad Tours, western U.S. Remnants of the road Seminary in 1838, modeled after state and national office. He earned Alton: Follow in the footsteps can be found throughout the region curriculum available to men at Yale a reputation in the area as a lawyer, of fleeing slaves as they seek along U.S. Highway 40. University. Godfrey, a former ship duelist and orator. The Lincoln & freedom in the free state of captain, landed in the region in Civil War Legacy Trail was created Illinois. RiversandRoutes. The Abolitionist Movement was 1832 from New Orleans and in Alton to commemorate his impact com/Shuttle spurred into the national spotlight in became a successful, powerful and on the area. n 1820 Colonel Benjamin the fledgling river town of Alton with prominent citizen. In addition to the Walk in the footsteps of Lincoln, his Stephenson House, the 1837 death of Elijah P. Lovejoy. Edwardsville: Col. Stephenson women’s college (now Lewis & Clark wife Mary Todd Lincoln and Civil War The Presbyterian minister and helped mold the current state Community College), he built Alton’s soldiers from both the North and newspaper editor died defending of Illinois from a territory into first church and helped charter his printing press from an anti- South throughout Alton. Stops on the 21st state in the Union. the first railroad in the region. He the trail include the historic Ryder abolitionist mob at a warehouse n Million Dollar Courthouse, also platted the Village of Godfrey Building, Small Pox Island, Lincoln- on the city’s riverfront. Lovejoy Carlinville: Explore (formerly called the Village of Shields Duel, Lyman Trumbull House, is considered the first martyr to the Macoupin County Monticello.) Follow Godfrey’s impact Alton Confederate Prison, the Franklin freedom of the press and ignited the Courthouse in Carlinville and on the area with the new Benjamin House and Lincoln-Douglas Square. abolitionist movement nationwide. find out why it was one of the Godfrey Legacy Trail. The trail is At each site, interpretive panels most scandal-ridden projects The Lovejoy Monument was erected available at: riversandroutes.com/ tell the story of Lincoln and Alton’s in the region. Check out the in the Alton National Cemetery and is GodfreyLegacyTrail. connection to American history. For Cannonball Jail with a tour of the tallest monument in Illinois. more information on the trail and trail this building with walls built sites, visit: riversandroutes.com. from cannonballs.

35 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 36 ■ MACOUPIN COUNTY COURTHOUSE ■ WOOD RIVER CAMP DUBOIS History is alive and well at area historical sites and museums. 201 E. Main St. • Carlinville • (217) 854-3181 Rte. 143 & Rte. 3 • Wood River • (618) 254-1993 Escape into displays highlighting Route 66, the world’s tallest man, History ■ MACOUPIN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM ■ WOOD RIVER MUSEUM & VISITORS CENTER and the development of local communities. Indulge a passion for 920 W. Breckenridge St. • Carlinville • (217) 854-2850 40 W. Ferguson Ave. • Wood River • (618) 254-1993 the past with some history lessons at these local archives. ■ MADISON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY ■ WOOD RIVER REFINERY HISTORY MUSEUM LESSONS MUSEUM & ARCHIVES 900 S. Central Ave. • Roxana • (618) 255-3718 801 N. Main St. • Edwardsville • (618) 656-7562 ■ YANDA LOG CABIN ■ MINER’S THEATRE • 204 W. Main St. • Collinsville 148 S. Main St. • Glen Carbon • (618) 288-7271 ■ MOTHER JONES MUSEUM ■ 1820 COLONEL BENJAMIN STEPHENSON HOUSE ■ D.D. COLLINS HOUSE 215 E. Main St. • Mt. Olive • (815) 754-4750 409 S. Buchanan St. • Edwardsville • (618) 692-1818 703 W. Main St. • Collinsville • (618) 346-5200 ■ NATIONAL CEMETERY ■ ALTON MUSEUM OF HISTORY & ART ■ DOUGHBOY STATUE 600 Pearl St. • Alton • (800) 258-6645 2809 College Ave. • Alton • (618) 462-2763 4445 Alby St. • Alton • (800) 258-6645 ■ NATIONAL GREAT RIVERS MUSEUM ■ BENJAMIN GODFREY CHAPEL ■ DOUGHBOY STATUE 2 Lock and Dam Way • Alton • (618) 462-6979 5800 Godfrey Rd. • Godfrey • (618) 466 -3411 144 Center St. • Glen Carbon • (800) 258-6645 ■ OLD MACOUPIN COUNTY JAIL ■ BETHALTO HISTORICAL MUSEUM ■ EAST ALTON HISTORY MUSEUM 205 E. 1st St. • Carlinville • (800) 258-6645 124 W. Main St. • Bethalto • (618) 975-0156 119 N. Main St. • East Alton • (618) 216-2781 ■ PIASA BIRD • Rte. 100 • Alton • (800) 258-6645 ■ BRUSSELS HISTORIC VILLAGE JAIL ■ EDWARDSVILLE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 131 E. Main St. • Brussels • (618) 883-2752 722 Holyoake Rd. • Edwardsville • (618) 692-2094 ■ PRINCIPIA COLLEGE 1 Maybeck Pl. • Elsah • (618) 374-2131 ■ CAHOKIA MOUNDS STATE HISTORIC SITE ■ GLEN CARBON HERITAGE MUSEUM AND INTERPRETIVE CENTER 124 School St. • Glen Carbon • (618) 288-7271 ■ ROCKY FORK AREA 30 Ramey St. • Collinsville • (618) 346-5160 Rocky Fork Rd. • Godfrey • (800) 258-6645 ■ HAMILTON PRIMARY SCHOOL ■ CALHOUN COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 107 E. Main St. • Otterville ■ VILLAGE OF ELSAH MUSEUM 204 N. County Rd. • Hardin • (618) 576-2660 26 LaSalle St. • Elsah • (618) 374-2626 ■ HARKEY HOUSE ■ CENTER FOR AMERICAN ARCHEOLOGY 305 S. Broad St. • Hillsboro • (217)246-1121 ■ VIRDEN’S HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SQUARE 101 N. Broadway St. • Kampsville • (618) 653-4316 Downtown Virden • Virden • (800) 258-6645 ■ HASKELL PLAYHOUSE ■ CHENEY MANSION & COMPLEX 1211 Henry St. • Alton • (618) 463-2235 ■ WESTERN MILITARY ACADEMY MONUMENT 601 N. State St. • Jerseyville • (618) 535-5017 2009 Seminary Ave. • Alton • (800) 258-6645 ■ HAYNER GENEALOGY AND LOCAL HISTORY LIBRARY ■ COLLINSVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 401 State St. • Alton • (618) 462-0677 406 W. Main St. • Collinsville • (618) 344-1834 ■ ILLINOIS COAL MUSEUM ■ CONFEDERATE CEMETERY & MEMORIAL 121 S. Macoupin St. • Gillespie • (833) 228-8603 635 Rozier St. • Alton • (800) 258-6645 ■ JERSEY COUNTY COURTHOUSE ■ CONFEDERATE PRISON 201 W. Pearl St. • Jerseyville • (618) 498-5571 William St. & Broadway St. • Alton • (800) 258-6645 ■ LEWIS & CLARK STATE HISTORIC SITE ■ CURIOSITY MUSEUM #1 Lewis and Clark Trail • Hartford • (618) 251-5811 301 E. Broadway St. • Alton • (618) 465-3200 ■ LITCHFIELD MUSEUM & ROUTE 66 WELCOME CENTER 334 Historic Old Route 66 North • Litchfield (217) 324-3510

interactive exhibits melvin price lockS & dam group tours education

2 Lock and Dam Way FREE ADMISSION Alton, IL 62002 Open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 7 days a week (618) 462-6979 Closed on Thanksgiving, meetingoftherivers.org Christmas Eve, Christmas Day St.Louis District New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day MTRF.org mvs.usace.army.mil

37 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 38 ALTON HAUNTINGS ALTON HAUNTED ODYSSEY MCPIKE MANSION

Renowned haunted history expert Marlene Lewis has no doubt spirits Meet Henry McPike, or at least his vandals. The Luedke’s are working to Troy Taylor takes hundreds of people walk the streets of Alton and reside in spectral figure, during a tour of restore the massive building back to on tours throughout Alton and the the historic buildings and homes in McPike Mansion, one of the most its former glory. Great River Road during his popular the city. Co-founder of Alton Haunted haunted buildings in Alton, and Visitors to the mansion might meet Alton Hauntings Tours. The tours Odyssey Tours, Lewis and her team of reportedly among the 10 most WHEN SOMETHING STRANGE Henry, his wife, mother or one of focus on the city’s history and how committed ghost enthusiasts provide haunted sites in America. their servants during dark room HAPPENS IN ALTON, EVERYONE that links to current hauntings. trolley tours throughout October According to owner Sharyn Luedke, sessions that take place monthly BLAMES IT ON THE GHOSTS. “We take the unusual history of each year. The non-walking tours Henry, and other members of in the basement wine cellar. Tours Alton and the Great River Road and take visitors past some of Alton’s his family, have yet to leave the of the house itself are unavailable. The city has been called “One of the Most blend it with the legend and lore most haunted buildings including home, now under renovation and Ghost experiences at the mansion Haunted Small Towns in America” and for that has been a part of the area for the historic Ryder Building – which uninhabited. By anything living typically begin in April and run good reason. Alton is seriously haunted. And nearly 200 years,” Taylor says. served as a courthouse in the 1800’s at least. through October. Private experiences and is now home to My Just Desserts we aren’t talking about ho-hum run of the Tours include stops at the Mineral The brick home, built in 1869, was are available by reservation. For more, – the Piasa Masonic Lodge and mill hauntings. These are the stuff of Ghost Springs Hotel, home to recorded EVPs once home to the McPike Family go to: McPikeMansion.com McPike Mansion. Dinner tours are and the chilly presence of former who also owned the adjoining 15 Adventures legends. Just ask Zac Bagins who also offered and include a sumptuous guests; the first Unitarian Church, site acres. The home, located in the spent time in Haunted Alton last year. meal at My Just Desserts before of an unfortunate suicide; and the heart of Alton, was used as a country embarking on a haunted experience. Spectral shapes appear in the windows of former Alton Prison where over 2,000 estate by the family. It was here stately mansions when the buildings have Confederate and Union soldiers died For a change of pace, take a Haunted that Henry McPike perfected the been empty for years. The scent of jasmine during the Civil War. Craft Beer Walk through Alton famous McPike Grape and created with the Alton Haunted Odyssey perfume wafts along the staircase and Taylor also hosts two haunted an extensive orchard. The McPike team. Old Beer in Alton hallways of a former hotel, now a home for conferences in the city each year: family lived in the home until 1936. provides 5 ounce pourings of its Dead of Winter in February and the Over the years, the stately mansion retail shops, after they are closed for the night. organic craft beer at five haunted Haunted America Conference in changed owners and eventually sat Or before they open in the morning. Strange locations throughout the city. June. Both give ghost adventurers empty until Sharyn and her husband lights appear in a pitch black wine cellar during Stops on the tour include the Ryder the opportunity to expand their George purchased it in 1994. The a dark room session in a famously haunted Building, Kendall Cracker Factory, ghostly expertise. Mirror scrying, building had fallen into extreme mansion. Eerie footsteps echo around an Enos Sanitarium, and the Old Post encouraging dream visitation, disrepair caused by weather and Office. For more information, go to: empty underground swimming pool. paranormal hypnosis and more are Altonhauntedtours.com It doesn’t matter if it’s day or night. The part of the uncannily eerie schedule ghosts of Alton dance through the streets and of events. For more information on the two conferences, go to: buildings of the city all year long. Americanhauntingsink.com McPike M And while there are no official ghost busters ed ounds & a t ion Gr Cellar n n ans Tou s in Alton, there are several different haunted u M r i a o tour organizations dedicated to showing off n the shadowy side of the city. H

Haunting Escapes 2018 Alby 618.830.2179 Alton, IL 618.462.3348

M cP om ikeMansion.c

39 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 40 THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE home

THERE IS AN OLD SAYING It’s the rivers and connections to large metropolitan THAT HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS. AND areas. It’s the history and relaxed lifestyle. It’s the quirky character of towns and cities. The reasons why MORE THAN 300,000 PEOPLE CALL THE people choose to live in the region vary from family ❝ Our life is extraordinary SIX COUNTY GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES to family. Meet some of the families who have in its simplicity. It’s real. It’s REGION HOME FOR GOOD REASON. turned the area into their home. homemade. It’s an alternative to what most people are

used to; and it’s a joy sharing

that experience with others For Tom and Sade Guarino, five minutes – driveway Edwardsville, O’Fallon through our ❝ farm. the decision to raise their to driveway – from my and Springfield, is 2 ½ year-old daughter parents.” The couple 10 minutes from the Chloe in the Edwardsville- purchased a home in Glen Edwardsville location. Glen Carbon area was Carbon two years ago. “I really like the four pretty simple. Both are The proximity to St. Louis, seasons we have here in natives of Madison County to major highways, and the Midwest,” Tom says. in southwest Illinois and both of their jobs was “And here in Glen Carbon MATTERS they wanted to be close also a factor, Tom notes. we are close to major to family. Sade, a nurse at St. Louis cities. We can watch live “It’s comfortable here,” University Hospital, has and hockey easily. It’s all about the simple Sade points out. “We are an easy commute to work. And there is a tight-knit things for Regan and close to St. Louis without Tom, co-owner of Bella community here that I like Christie Joehl, and the owners of Greene Fields

FAMILY being in it and we live Milano Restaurants in being involved in.” Regan, who farms the land Farm in rural Greene alongside his father and The Guarino’s have strong play on and a field full of County want to keep it brother, and Christie, a family ties to the area. pumpkins and mums that SIMPLE that way. former agriculture teacher, Their parents and siblings we worked hard as a family raise their five sons, live nearby and that is That’s why they have to grow. When families Nathan, Caleb, Jeremiah, a major factor in their chosen to live on a family come here, the tablets ❝ farm midway between Ryan and Jackson on get left in the car and a Here in Glen Carbon decision to remain in the their family’s farm. Their slower, more wholesome we are close to major cities. area they grew up in. Carrollton and Greenfield. U-Pick Farm is designed gratification awaits them.” We can watch live baseball It’s also why they share “We are here because to provide real, family, and hockey easily. And their U-Pick pumpkin Sharing farm life with

of the location but the farm, fun for visitors by there is a tight-knit patch with visitors others is what the

number one reason is showcasing the flowers, community here that I like every fall. Joehl’s in the region. KEEPING IT ❝ family,” Sade says. crops and livestock that being involved in. “We live in the country The area is also centrally support the family. “Our life is extraordinary because it’s away from in its simplicity. It’s real. located in Illinois. Major “We are a real farm and we the crowds but near what It’s homemade. It’s an interstate highways link share our farm experience matters to us,” Christie alternative to what most St. Louis and Chicago with families every fall. points out. “We have people are used to, and and are easily accessible There are no bounce great farmland and even it’s a joy sharing that from the Edwardsville- houses or carnivals. We better neighbors. It’s a experience with others Glen Carbon area. have a corn box and straw different environment through our farm.” “Really, you can go than the city; very much a piles, a huge log kids anywhere in the world close community but with from here,” Tom says. plenty of room to grow.”

41 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 42 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES Proud to call LIKE THE VIBRANT THREADS IN A COAT OF MANY COLORS, COMMUNITIES IN THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION COMBINE DIVERSITY, CHARACTER AND BEAUTY. Discover the collection of cities, towns, and villages that blend into a cohesive region in the only The Riverbend place in America where the Mother Road meets the Great River Road. Home Alton

EAT SHOP Breakfast is considered the most For antiques, there is no better place important meal of the day so start to look than the city’s Antique District it off with an Elvis Presley inspired in downtown. Country Meadows, Hunka Hunka Burnin Love French Tinner’s Anvil Antiques, and Wilson’s toast concoction with brunch at State Antiques, are all within a stone’s throw Street Market, located in the historic of each other. Check out hand thrown 3rd Street Entertainment District. Or fill pottery, made on site at Mississippi up on a more Midwestern-style meal Mud Pottery. Olive Oil Marketplace at Joe K’s in Upper Alton or GB Grill has oils, coffee beans and cooking on Broadway in downtown. For a more utensils. Shop at Alton Square Mall eclectic morning meal, visit The Post for gourmet popcorn, clothing and Commons, where coffee, organic food more. Hand-crafted and custom order and more are served in the repurposed goods available at Farmstone Roots. Old Alton Post Office building. Lunch Clothing boutiques in downtown and dinner options are plentiful. Fill include the independently owned up on comfort food with Castelli’s Rushmore, The Grapevine (for at 255 secret recipe or children’s clothing), Mississippi Hippie, homemade toasted . Tony’s in and JL & Co., The Mercantile. For almost 200 years, Alton has downtown Alton, the city’s original provided an escape for visitors with house, has a famous pepperloin PLAY Located in historic, downtown steak, seafood, and, or course, pasta. the mighty Mississippi as its front Riverboat gaming came to Alton in the Tempt your pallet with Guac Bites at Alton, Simmons Hanly Conroy early 1990’s and hasn’t left. Argosy door. Four distinct and historic Bluff City Grill and Brown Bag Bistro Casino Alton, docked on the riverfront, is dedicated to our clients serves up sumptuous , neighborhoods link the city with no longer sails, but shows off a riverboat salads and a delightful Crab Bisque. and our community. The themed interior, two floors of gaming character and charm along brick Soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts action and three restaurants. World firm has donated millions and paved streets. Family owned are always on the menu at My Just famous Fast Eddies Bon Air, an iconic Desserts. Authentic Irish fare is of dollars and countless and operated restaurants, a vibrant dive bar that has cheap food, the coldest available at Morrison’s Irish Pub and beer in town and live music every night volunteer hours to charitable nightlife and strong historical Shoguns has and a hibachi grill of the week, is a must stop destination. for customers' enjoyment. organizations across the heritage sets the city apart. For a great belly laugh, get tickets for a play or musical at Alton Little Theater, Riverbend area - a place we the state’s longest continuously have been proud to call home operated community theater. for more than 20 years.

GO: State Street Market • 208 State St. • statestreetmarketofalton.com; Joe K’s • 2530 State St. • joeksrestaurant.com; G-B Grill • 1858 E. Broadway; The Post Commons • 300 Alby St. • postcommons.com; Castelli’s at 255 • 3400 Fosterburg Rd. • castellis255.com; Tony’s Restaurant • 102 W 9th St. • tonysrestaurant.com; Bluff City Grill • 424 E. Broadway • bluffcitygrillalton.com; Brown Bag Bistro • 318 E. Broadway; My Just We stand for our clients. Desserts • 31 E. Broadway • myjustdessertsalton.weebly.com; Morrison’s Irish Pub, 200 State St. • morrisonsirishpub.com; Shogun Steak House • 2723 Corner Ct. • shogunsteakhousealton.com; Country Meadows • 401 E. Broadway; Tinners Anvil Antiques • 211 Langdon St.; (618) 259-2222 simmonsfirm.com Wilson’s Antiques • 217 E. Broadway; Mississippi Mud Pottery • 310 E. Broadway • mississippimudpottery.com; Olive Oil Marketplace • 108 W. 3rd St. • oliveoilmarketplace.com; Alton Square Mall • 200 Alton Square • shopaltonsquare.com; Farmstone Roots • 2215 Piasa St.;Rushmore • 11 E. Broadway • shoprushmore.com; The Grapevine • 2 W. Broadway • thegrapevineofalton.weebly.com; Mississippi Hippie • 301 E. Broadway • itsrainingzen.com; JL & Co The Mercantile • 300 E. Broadway; Argosy Casino Alton • 1 Piasa St. • argosyalton. com; Fast Eddie’s Bon Air • 1530 E. 4th St. • fasteddiesbonair.com; Alton Little Theater • 2450 N. Henry St. • altonlittletheater.org. Alton Chicago Los Angeles New York San Francisco St. Louis

43 Great Rivers & Routes One Court Street | Alton, Illinois | 62002 | 618-259-2222 | simmonsfirm.comRiversandRoutes.com 48 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES Summer fun Collinsville for the

EAT whole family! A visit to the city isn’t complete without first responders and military non-profits. first stopping at Kruta’s Bakery for Get retro at Rich’s Record Emporium pastries, donuts, Danishes and more. where real vinyl records are sold. This 100-year-old family operated Spirito’s Italian Grocery Store is a nod bakery still uses some of the original to the city’s Italian heritage with some recipes founder Frank Kruta brought great Italian food. with him when he immigrated from Eastern Europe. Centuries old recipes are cooked up at Ramon’s El Dorado Restaurant which has been a staple to the culinary scene for over 50 years. Casual American fried chicken is part of Ravanelli’s charm. Pair a plate of chicken with pasta and a loaf of bread and garlic butter. Uptown Collinsville World famous for its 170-foot is home to Old Herald Brewery & tall water tower shaped like a Distillery, Sloan’s Pub House, Mungos Italian Eatery, Who Dat’s Southern catsup bottle, Collinsville is also Food and Bert’s Chuckwagon. For a the horseradish capital of the relaxed, upscale dining experience, PLAY www.collinsvilleaquapark.com • (618) 346-4571 world. Located just minutes from visit Porter’s Steakhouse. Live horse racing takes place every Tuesday and Saturday at Fairmount 10 Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL Downtown St. Louis, the city has Park. The mile long racetrack is the a rich heritage, a world class only live thoroughbred track outside Chicago. Off track betting is available convention center and a thriving every day at the track. Cool off in the culinary scene. summer at Collinsville Aqua Park featuring sliding, climbing and surfing water attractions. Tour the historic D.D. Collins House, visit Willoughby Heritage Farm featuring a 1940’s farmhouse, or bowl a few frames at Willoughby Farm Camelot Bowl. From June through September, the streets of Uptown and Conservation Reserve Collinsville become home to a variety of festivals including the annual SHOP International Horseradish Festival in June; Smokin’ on Main in July; and the Stroll through Uptown Collinsville and annual Italian Fest in September. wow your tastebuds with Code 3 Spices, the place to go for grilling spices and utensils. A portion of each sale goes to

Kruta Bakery • 300 St. Louis Rd. • krutabakery.com; Ramon’s El Dorado Restaurant • 1711 St. Louis Rd. • ramonseldorado.com; Host a Private Event GO: Ravanelli’s • 26 Collinsport Dr. • ravanellis.com; Old Herald Brewery & Distillery • 115 E. Clay St. • oldheraldbrewing.com; Sloan’s Pub House • 119 W. Main St.; Mungo’s Italian Eatery • 100 E. Main St. • mungosrestaurant.com; Who Dat’s • 118 E. Main St. • Visit the Animals ~ Hike the Trails whodatsrestaurant.com; Bert’s Chuckwagon • 101 E. Main St.; Porter’s Steakhouse • 1000 Eastport Plaza Dr. • porterscollinsville. com.; Code 3 Spices • 302 E. Main St. • code3spices.com; Rich’s Record Emporium • 131 W. Main St. • richsrecordemporium.com; Spirito’s Italian Grocery • 228 W. Main St.; Fairmount Park • 9301 Collinsville Rd. • fairmountpark.com; Collinsville Aqua Park • Educational Programs 10 Gateway Dr. • collinsvilleaquapark.com; D.D. Collins House • 703 W. Main St. • friendsoftheddcollinshouse.org; Willoughby Heritage Farm • 631 Willoughby Ln. • willoughbyfarm.org; Camelot Bowl • 801 Beltline Rd. • camelotbowl.net www.willoughbyfarm.org • (618) 977-0941 PARKS & RECREATION 631 Willoughby Lane, Collinsville, IL 45 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 50 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES

PLAY GO: 222 Artisan Bakery & Café • 222 N. Main St. • 222artisanbakery.com; Sacred Grounds Café • 233 N. Main St. • A Little Taste of Heaven Bakery • 219 Hillsboro Some of the best live music in the Ave. • heavenbakery.com; Cleveland-Heath • 106 N. Main St. • clevelandheath. city can be found at The Wildey com; Chava’s Mexican Restaurant • 217 E. Vandalia St. • chavasmexican.com; Theatre every weekend. The 1818 Chophouse • 210 S. Buchanan St. • 1818chophouse.com; Peel Wood revamped opera house is now home Fired Pizza • 921 S. Arbor Vitae • peelpizza.com; Mike Shannon’s Grill • 871 S. to top notch national and regional Arbor Vitae Dr.; mikeshannonsgrill.com; Doc’s Smokehouse • 6108 Shoger Dr., bands. A $2 Tuesday movie night and Suite D • docssmokehouse.com; Annie’s Frozen Custard • 245 Buchanan St. • community events fill in the rest of anniesfrozencustard.com; Gingham Buffalo • 500 N. Main St.; Water Sweets the venue’s calendar. For more active Soap Company • 112 N. Main St. • watersweetssoap.com; A Wildflower Shop entertainment, journey to Edison’s • 2131 IL Rt. 157 • awildflowershop.com; What to Wear • 921 S. Arbor Vitae; Entertainment Complex which has Seams for the Soul Boutique • 216 S. Buchanan St. • seams4thesoul.com; Good 12 bowling lanes, a laser tag arena Sports Cards & Memorabilia • 1990 Troy Rd., #C; Four Muddy Paws • 2127 S. and game arcade. Rock climbing, State Rt. 157 • fourmuddypaws.com; Whisker Bones Supply Co. • 138 N. Main roller skating and more are on the St. • whiskerbones.com; Chef's Shoppe • 2320 Troy Rd. • chefsshoppe.com; agenda at the Edwardsville YMCA Wildey Theatre • 252 N. Main St. • wildeytheatre.com; Edison’s Entertainment Edwardsville Meyer Center. Make it a movie day Complex • 2477 S. State Rt. 157 • edisonsfun.com; YMCA Meyer Center • or night at the AMC Edwardsville 7348 Goshen Rd. • edwardsvilleymca.com; AMC Edwardsville 12 • 12 to see newly released films. The As the third oldest city in Illinois, EAT SHOP 6633 Center Grove Rd. • amctheatres.com; Edwardsville Children’s Museum • Edwardsville Children’s Museum Edwardsville has retained its 722 Holyoake Rd. • edwardsvillechildrensmuseum.org Edwardsville is known for its Load up on great buys at the locally has fun for kids of all ages. historic charm with renovations abundance of great restaurants. Take owned and operated stores that a walk down Main Street, home to dot the city’s streets and shopping of the Wildey Theatre and the cozy 222 Artisan Bakery & Café districts. The Gingham Buffalo has neighborhood historic districts. The where the coffee is fresh and pastries, gifts, home furnishings and more. city is one of the fastest growing quiche and oatmeal are made in-house Water Sweets Soap Company makes daily. Nearby, Sacred Grounds Café handmade soaps and bath bombs. communities outside St. Louis. offers food entrees all day. Check out Visit Wildflower Shop, Seams for the A thriving downtown district their vegetarian breakfast items and Soul Boutique and What to Wear specialty coffees – all in a for trendy clothing. For the sports accents the city’s place on Route setting filled with local art. Tucked enthusiast, Good Sports Cards and 66 and its burgeoning culinary away in downtown, A Little Taste Memorabilia is a good bet. Four reputation. Edwardsville is also of Heaven, a family owned bakery, Muddy Paws and Whisker Bones is a little like walking into Grandma’s Supply Co., have everything a four- home to Southern Illinois University kitchen. Cleveland-Heath takes legged pal could want. Be sure to stop Edwardsville and the wildly popular comfort food to an entirely new level at The Chef 's Shoppe to fill up on with its Japanese Pancake appetizer gourmet popcorn, specialty foods Land of Goshen Community Market and tender pork porterhouse. Chava’s and kitchen supplies. held every Saturday on city streets Mexican Restaurant brings a taste from May through October. of Guadalajara to the Midwest. Dine outdoors at 1818 Chophouse Visit Campus for lunch or dinner. Original pizza creations paired with its own craft Stop by to explore our beautiful campus with miles of scenic trails, rolling hills and beer sets Peel Wood Fired Pizza apart. Mike Shannon’s Grill offers lakes. Schedule a tour with the Office of Admissions to learn more about our progressive American food and check top-ranked academic programs and student life. out Doc’s Smokehouse for down-to- earth mouthwatering BBQ. For a sweet treat, go to Annie’s Frozen Custard.

siue.edu/visit

47 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 48 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES Jerseyville

Jerseyville has the distinction of George’s Local Brew, known for its cold Attic is the go-to shop for a constantly being the largest city in Jersey beer, cocktails, sandwiches and classic changing inventory of antiques and County and is home to the annual thin crust pizza. Everything is handmade collectibles. Outdoor enthusiasts at the 1880 Pizza Pasta House. Enjoy can browse through Outrageous Jersey County Fair. The historic salads, and paninis in addition to Outdoors for a wide variety of hunting Cheney Mansion and nearby domestic and imported wines and gear, magazines and more. Fulkerson Mansion, rich with beers. DJ’s Pub & Grill has daily lunch and specials. The Olive Branch PLAY Underground Railroad History, Café sits at the south end of Jerseyville and even a bit of ghostly activity, greeting visitors with its breakfast, lunch History lovers delight in visiting the historic Cheney Mansion built keep the city’s history alive. A and dinner options. Be sure to get an ice cream at the Redbird Deli & Ice Cream in 1827 and once a ‘station’ on the vibrant downtown district provides Parlor or McCarry’s Dairyland. Underground Railroad. Historical shopping and dining options. tours and paranormal investigations are held throughout the year. Pre- SHOP arranged tours are available at the EAT Explore the richly decorated Lula Bells historic Fulkerson Mansion. The Espresso Yourself in the city with a stop shop filled with gifts, home décor and 1866 mansion is rich in artifacts and at the aptly named bakery for muffins more. Primitive and country home antiques. Take a walk and enjoy a and classic cinnamon rolls. Stop in at decorations fill the walls at Beyond picnic at the Wock Family Lake and the Big Boys Donuts for more sweet the Backyard Gate. A true picker’s Walking Trail. Family-fun is waiting delights. Good times are brewing at delight, State Street Antiques & Jim’s at Tri County Bowl.

GO: Espresso Yourself Bakery • 410 W. Carpenter; Big Boys Donuts • 933 S. State St.; George’s Local Brew • Glen Carbon 205 S. State St. • georgeslocalbrew.com; 1880 Pizza Pasta House • 208 S. State St.; DJ’s Pub & Grill • 117 W. Prairie St.; Olive Branch Café • 1668 S. State St. • olivebranchjerseyville.com; Redbird Deli & Ice Cream Parlor • 109 S. State St.; McCarry’s Dairyland • 400 W. Carpenter St., Ste. B; Lula Bells • 519 S. State St.; Beyond the Backyard Gate • 301 N. State St.; Rich in heritage and considered EAT SHOP State Street Antiques & Jim’s Attic • 115 N. State St.; Outrageous Outdoors • 902 S. State St. • outrageousoutdoors.com; Cheney Mansion • 601 N. State St. • cheneymansion.net; Fulkerson Mansion • 25007 U.S. Highway 67; “One of the Best Places to Live in Take a break while exploring Glen Gently used women’s fashions line Wock Family Lake & Walking Trail • 206 June St.; Tri County Bowl • 207 Krause Dr. • tricountybowl.com the U.S.”, Glen Carbon sits on the Carbon’s noteworthy past at the the racks at Karma on Main in downtown Glen Carbon. Pick up a edge of major interstate highways Wooden Nickel Pub and Grill. Handcrafted woodwork and oak floors piece of unfinished pottery at Pottery and has easy access to St. Louis. carry over the “rustic” past theme. Stop Hollow Painting & More and paint A replica covered bridge welcomes in for a quick drink at the Old Towne it on site. Planning a party? Check out Tavern, which has been serving the party décor at To Do’s. Stop in for drivers to the downtown district the community since 1890. Enjoy new shoe styles at Allison’s Comfort and the historic Yanda Log Cabin, smoked meats, paninis, salads, sides Shoes & Boots. located on Main Street, brings and hoagie and some great munchies including Bacon Fat Popcorn PLAY pioneer life front and center. which complement the selection of Leap in to fun at Altitude Trampoline Be sure to visit the Glen Carbon wines, specialty cocktails and rotating Park with wall-to-wall trampolines. menu of seasonal craft beers at The Thousands of square feet of bouncing Heritage Museum and take a walk, Cabin at Judy Creek. Be sure to stop fun include Extreme Dodgeball, or bike ride, on the miles of paved by the Weeping Willow Tea Room for Trampoline Basketball, a Foam Pit and more. Hone your axe throwing skills at trails curving through the village. a hearty soup, or salad. The Axe Company. Plan a great escape at The Beast Escape room or the Safe Escape Rooms. Explore the history of the village at the Yanda Log Cabin and the Glen Carbon Heritage Museum.

GO: Wooden Nickel Pub and Grill • 171 S. Main St. • woodennickel.secure-ordello.com; Old Towne Tavern • 155 S. Main St.; The Cabin at Judy Creek • 3730 S. State Rt. 157 • thecabinatjudycreek.com; Weeping Willow Team Room • 123 Glen Crossing Rd. • weepingwillowtearoom.com; Karma on Main • 164 S. Main St.; Pottery Hollow Painting & More • 23 Junction Dr. • potteryhollow.com; To Do’s • 4215 S. State Rt. 159; to-dos.com; Allison’s Comfort Shoes & Boots • 4225 IL Rt. 159 • allison’scomfortshoes.com; Altitude Trampoline Park • 91 Fountain Dr. • altitudeglencarbon.com; The Axe Company • 20 B Kettle River Dr. • theaxecoedw.com; Beast Escape Room • 4517 IL 159 • beastescaperoom.com; Safe Escape Rooms • 15 Junction Dr. • safeescaperooms.com; Yanda Log Cabin • 148 S. Main St. • glen-carbon.il.us; Glen Carbon Heritage Museum • 124 School St. • glen-carbon.il.us

49 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 50 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES

Godfrey

Scenic views, rolling hills and CANCER. EAT SHOP abundant nature trails are just a Start your day at the only Mister Browse shelf after shelf of antique few of the charms of this village Donut shop still operating under its glass at My Antique Store. original name (think Dunkin’ Donuts Specializing in glass, and It’s personal. which spans the banks of the now) and snag a cup of coffee and flatware, there is also small furniture, Mississippi River to the prairie an original gooey glazed donut. art and pottery available. Dresses, To learn more, visit osfhealthcare.org/cancercare. of southwest Illinois. Named in For anyone looking for pancakes at shawls, jewelry along with scarves, noon, Clifton Country Inn & Bake handbags, home décor and more fill honor of Capt. Benjamin Godfrey, Shop serves breakfast all day. Shop the rooms of Josephine’s Tea Room a native New Englander who and dine at the highly regarded and Gift Shops. Shop for gifts, resale Josephine’s Tea Room & Gift Shops. items and enjoy a cup of coffee at The settled in the village, Godfrey The elegant restaurant serves lunch Shoppes at Beverly Farm. has dozens of shops, restaurants in a historic mansion with landscaped and tea rooms. The village is also gardens. Don’t forget dessert! Hickory PLAY smoked hand pulled pork is just Stroll through the Monticello home to Lewis & Clark Community one of the regular menu choices at Sculpture Gardens at Lewis & Clark Carver’s Southern Style BBQ. The College, originally founded as the Community College. Self-guided food consistently wins Best BBQ Monticello Seminary for Women. tours are available of the grounds competitions. Farm-to-table quality which have been designated by paired with Midwestern comfort food the Missouri Botanical Gardens as a highlights the menu at Bakers & Signature Garden. Discover trails and YOU CAN SEE YOUR Hale. Lunch, dinner, brunch and kids paths through a diverse landscape menus on tap. For a quick meal or to including hardwood forests, prairies stock up for a planned picnic, stop in FUTURE FROM HERE and wetlands at The Nature Institute. at Godfrey Meat Market. Watch your Be sure to stop by Glazebrook Park, favorite team and game at Roper’s a 120-acre area with two ponds, Regal Beagle, a relaxed sports pub playgrounds and three miles of and grill. Be sure to stop at Shivers walking trails. In the fall, get lost in Frozen Custard for a cool treat. the Great Godfrey Maze.

Mister Donut • 2720 Grovelin, Ste. A • mister-donut.com; Clifton Country Inn & Bake Shop • 3015 W. Delmar Ave.; Josephine’s GO: Tea Room • 6109 Godfrey Rd. • josephinesltd.online; Carver’s Southern Style BBQ • 2716 Grovelin St.; Bakers & Hale • 7120 Montclaire Ave. • bakershale.com; Godfrey Meat Market • 6017 Godfrey Rd. • godfreymeatmarket.com; Roper’s Regal Beagle • 3043 Godfrey Rd. • ropersregalbeagle.com; Shivers Frozen Custard • 3318 Godfrey Rd. • shiversfc.com; My Antique Store • 1007 W. Delmar Ave. • myantiquestore.com; The Shoppes at Beverly Farm • 6133 Humbert Rd. • beverlyfarm.org; Monticello Sculpture Gardens • 5800 Godfrey Rd. • lc.edu; The Nature Institute • 2213 S. Levis Ln. • thenatureinstitute.org; Robert E. www.godfreyil.org l (618) 466-3324 l Glazebrook Community Park • 1401 Stamper Ln. • godfreyil.org; Great Godfrey Maze • 1401 Stamper Ln. • godfreyil.org

51 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 52 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES

ILLINOIS

Grafton

Breathtaking views of the EAT SHOP confluence of the Illinois and Weekends were made for breakfast Stroll down Grafton’s Main Street and Mississippi rivers are just part at Abigail’s Tap Room housed in the discover exciting new art at Buena historic Ruebel Hotel. Get a look at the Vista Art, featuring steam punk and of Grafton’s charm. Add in restored bar from the 1904 World’s Fair cyber punk creations and handcrafted historic buildings, a growing while enjoying lunch and dinner. Dine jewelry. Stop in at Harrison’s Gifts for whimsical décor. New To You and shopping, dining, boating and out in an aquarium restaurant at Fin Inn where the fish and turtles join diners at Treasures Past & Present are the adventure scene and the city tableside aquariums. Both O’Jan’s Fish places to go for antique hunters. Enjoy comes together as a thriving Stand and Beasley’s Fish are no frills a taste of the Southwest at Pajarito. For outdoor food stands serving up fresh a memento of the trip to Grafton, don’t riverfront community. The largest . Sit beside the Mississippi River miss River Bank Gifts. One weekend a American Flag on the Mississippi and enjoy a drink and Dock Salsa at The month from April through October, the Grafton Riverside Flea Market is the EAt shop PLAY STAY waves over the city's riverfront Loading Dock. Enjoy award winning local wines along with refreshing lunch place to find vintage and collectibles. alongside a commemorative and dinner entrees at Grafton Winery lighthouse. Explore Grafton’s & Brewhaus or travel to the top of the PLAY river bluffs and enjoy the views at The Main Street, spend the night in a Glide along the Mississippi and Illinois Winery at Aerie’s Resort. Good old rivers on the 49-passenger Hakuna variety of guest houses and bed fashioned barbeque is on the menu at Matata excursion boat. Take your and breakfast inns, and walk the Hawg Pit BBQ Barn. Be entertained adventure to the next level with a by the décor and live music at the 3rd the streets outlaw Jesse James ride 300-feet high on the new aerial Chute Bar & Grill. Cajun food is served Grafton SkyTour. Then tour the tree reportedly wandered. up at the Grafton Oyster Bar. For a canopy on the river bluffs with Grafton sweet treat, stop in at Grafton Fudge & Zipline Adventures. In the winter Ice Cream Shop for homemade fudge months, enjoy indoor ice skating and candy. The Whole Scoop also has beside the Mississippi River at The sundaes, cones and shakes perfect for Loading Dock Ice Rink. Summer fun hot summer days. begins at Raging Rivers Water Park.

GO: Abigail’s Tap Room • 217 E. Main St. • abigailstaproom.com; Fin Inn • 1500 W. Main St. • fininn.com; O’Jan’s Fish Stand • 101 W. Main St.; Beasley Fish Stand • 1521 W. Main St.; The Loading Dock • 401 Front St. • graftonloadingdock.com; Grafton Winery & Brewhaus • 300 W. Main St. • thegraftonwinery.com; The Winery at Aerie’s Resort • 600 Timber Ridge Dr. • For a complete list aeriesview.com; Hawg Pit BBQ Barn • 821 W. Main St. • hawgpit.net; 3rd Chute Bar & Grill • 220 W. Main St. • 3rdchute.com; Grafton Oyster Bar • 215 W. Water St. • graftonoysterbar.com; Grafton Fudge & Ice Cream Shop • 321 E. Main St.; The Whole of events and Scoop • 222 E. Main St. • thewholescoopil.com; Buena Vista Art • 307 E. Main St.; Harrison’s Gifts • 224 E. Main St.; New To You • 315 E. Main St.; Treasures Past & Present • 1504 W. Main St.; Pajarito • 316 E. Main St. • River Bank Gifts • 225 E. Main St.; Grafton adventures visit Riverside Flea Market • 401 Front St. • graftonloadingdock.com; Hakuna Matata • 215 W. Water St. • graftonharbor.com; Grafton SkyTour • 3 W. Clinton • aeriesview.com; Grafton Zipline Adventures • 14 W. Main St. • aeriesview.com; The Loading Dock Ice Rink • 401 Front St. • graftonloadingdock.com; Raging Rivers Water Park • 100 Palisades Pkwy • ragingrivers.com

53 Great Rivers & Routes EnjoyGrafton.com GraftonIlChamber.com CARROLLTON THE GREAT RIVERS THE MOTHER ROAD

COURTHOUSE SQUARE river road route 66 VIRDEN HISTORIC DISTRICT

HARDIN JERSEY COUNTY FAIR

JOE PAGE GIRARD DOC’S SODA ARISTON CAFé LIFT BRIDGE JERSEYVILLE FOUNTAIN

LAKE LOU YAEGER MILLION DOLLAR COURTHOUSE (Macoupin County Courthouse) SKYVIEW DRIVE IN ROUTE 66 WELCOME PERE MARQUETTE STATE PARK CARLINVILLE Square “Cannonball” Jail CENTER & MUSEUM

LITCHFIELD I L L I CARLINVILLE N PRINCIPIA COLLEGE O GRAFTON IS R HILLSBORO IV GREAT RIVERS PARK THE NATURE INSTITUTE ILLINOIS COAL MUSEUM E R ELSAH GILLESPIE M GODFREY ISS HENRY’S IS PIASA BIRD SIPP I R RABBIT BREMER SANCTUARY IV BRUSSELS ER ALTON VISITOR CENTER RANCH BENLD MOTHER Audubon Center MT. OLIVE JONES ALTON NATIONAL GREAT RIVERS MONUMENT R at Riverlands WEST ALTON E IV R I MUSEUM AT MELVIN PRICE STAUNTON PP Soulsby Service Station SI TWO RIVERS IS LOCKS AND DAM SS MI NATIONAL Decamp Station LIVINGSTON WILDLIFE REFUGE WOOD RIVER

MISSOURI RIVER PINK ELEPHANT ANTIQUE MALL WILDEY THEATRE HAMEL

WEEZY’S DINER LEWIS & CLARK LEWIS & CLARK HARTFORD STATE HISTORIC SITE CONFLUENCE TOWER EDWARDSVILLE COLLINSVILLE GLEN CARBON Chain of BROOKS CATSUP BOTTLE Rocks BRIDGE Cahokia Mounds

Fairmount Park MISSOURI ILLINOIS OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES Escape to

Est. 1853

*

Elsah

Massive limestone bluffs cradle SHOP PLAY the Village of Elsah, located in a Step back into a simpler time with Take a bike ride through the streets small valley along the Mississippi a leisurely walk through the village. of historic Elsah. Or drive through Be sure to stop at the Elsah General the grounds of Principia College, River and the Great River Road. Store and pick up a bottle of vintage located high on the bluffs overlooking SHOP S TAY As historic as it is picturesque, the soda, old-fashioned candy, local the village. The college is the only Christian Science college in the U.S. Elsah General Store Green Tree Inn entire village has been named to honey, pottery and more. Peace Works – A Market With a Mission is and features architecture by Bernard Bed & Breakfast Maybeck. Visit TreeHouse Wildlife Jeremiah's the National Register of Historic stocked entirely with fair trade goods Center for an up close look at animals where each item has a mission and Resale Shop Maple Leaf Places. Settled in the mid-1800’s, native to the region. Wander through a portion of the purchase price is Cottage Inn all of the original homes were built the Village of Elsah Museum for a donated to charitable organizations. The Look Factory look into the past. Bed & Breakfast out of limestone quarried from a Merchant on Mill has quaint gift Sisters of Elsah The perfect destination for: nearby site. The village is often items and cottage inspired vintage STAY Cottage in the Woods home décor. Boho, peasant luxury Art Studio referred to as the “village where and festival fashions are available Enjoy a peaceful overnight stay in Weddings, Family Reunions, Elsah. Homemade breakfasts and and Gallery Suite Jane time stood still.” at The Look Factory. Stroll through afternoon snacks are on tap at the Relaxing Getaways, the Sisters of Elsah Art Studio for a Peace Works Elsah River House variety of hand painted art. Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast, a bed and breakfast inn. Check out “A Market with a Mission” Scenic Retreats Maple Leaf Cottage Inn Bed & Breakfast for a peaceful stay, also Merchant on Mill * Statewide vote by the located in the heart of the village. Illinois Bicentennial Commission and the State Journal Register GO: Elsah General Store • 22 LaSalle St. • elshageneralstore.com; Peace Works – A Market With A Mission • 7 Mill St.; Merchant on Mill • 43 Mill St.; The Look Factory • 43 Mill St. • shopthelookfactory.com; Sisters of Elsah Art Studio • 108 Mill St.; Principia College • 1 Maybeck Pl. • principiacollege.edu; TreeHouse Wildlife Center • 23956 Green Acres Rd. • escapetoelsah.com treehousewildlifecenter.com; Village of Elsah Museum • 26 LaSalle St. • historicelsah.org; Green Tree Inn of Elsah • 15 Mill St. • greentreeinnelsah.com; Maple Leaf Cottage Inn Bed & Breakfast • 12 Selma St. • mapleleafcottageinn.com /Elsah – A Step Back in Time – Village in Illinois

57 Great Rivers & Routes OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES

Calhoun County Striking natural beauty and EAT PLAY lush farmlands blend together in Brussels: The historic Wittmond Brussels: Eagles, American White Calhoun County which is bordered Restaurant is home to all-you-can- Pelicans and more call the Two Rivers eat, family-style meals. Fried chicken, National Wildlife Refuge home. on the west by the Mississippi River fried catfish, burgers and roast beef Make a stop at the Historic Brussels and on the east by the Illinois are on the menu at AJ’s Bar & Grill. Jail, originally called a “calaboose” Hardin: Dine on a catfish sandwich or where inmates at one time had to River. The location between the filet at the iconic Illinois Riverdock sleep standing up. Check in to the Carrollton rivers gives the peninsula county a Restaurant, located on the banks Calhoun Visitor Center for maps and of its namesake. Go to the Straight information. Hardin: Browse through desirable micro-climate perfect for Home Bar & Grill for tasty meals and the Calhoun County Historical Rolling hills and farmland EAT growing peaches, apples and other cold drinks. Pick up a burger and fries Society Museum. Take a ride across at the Hardin Drive In. Batchtown: the Joe Page Bridge, one of the few surround Carrollton, the county Enjoy coffee during the day and wine produce. Picturesque barn quilts Cedar Hill Resort offers outside lift bridges left on the Illinois River. seat of Greene County and home and spirits in the evening at Copper dining. The Old Fill Inn Station has a Kampsville: The Center for American Stills & Mash. A limited food menu adorn the sides and fronts of rural to the historic Courthouse Square. diner atmosphere attached to a bar. Archeology provides a look at is also available and live music is on buildings. Migrating birds make prehistoric history of the region. The courthouse is a limestone tap just about every Saturday night. the county home during the fall SHOP Romanesque-Revival building built Authentic flavors and ingredients and spring. American Bald Eagles Brussels: Stop by Village highlight the pizzas at Alfonso’s. For in the late 1800’s and occupies an more casual tastes, check out the Dairy fly in for the winter months. Consignments in Brussels for treasures and farm décor. Visit the entire city block. The courthouse Bar of Carrollton for local ice cream and sandwiches. For cool treats on hot wide variety of orchards and roadside and surrounding 12 block business stands for fresh fruits, vegetables and days, stop by Paradise Shaved Ice. pumpkins including: Hagen Family district is listed on the National Orchard, Toppmeyer’s Orchard and Register of Historic Places. STAY Odelehr’s Roadside Market; Hardin: Spend the night at the Farmhouse Tom Ringhausen Orchard & Market; Loft, located in the heart of Golden Eagle: Eberlin’s Orchard, downtown Carrollton. The guest Jacobs Orchard and Kamp’s Orchard. house is near dining and the historic county courthouse.

GO: EAT – Brussels: Wittmond Restaurant, 166 E. Main St., AJ’s Bar & Grill, 124 Main St.; Village Consignment, 144 E. Main; Hardin: Illinois Riverdock Restaurant, 501 Front St., ilriverdock.com; Straight Home Bar & Grill, 1725 E.; Hardin Drive In, 207 N. Park St. Batchtown: Cedar Hill Resort, Dogtown Rd.; Old Fill Inn Station, 208 N. Main St. SHOP – Golden Eagle: J L Krafts and Flowers, 69 Rose St.; Brussels: Hagen GO: Copper Stills & Mash • 430 N. Main St.; Alfonso’s • 514 N. Main • alfonsospizza.biz; Dairy Bar of Carrollton • Family Orchard, 2260 E. Brussels Ferry Rd.; Toppmeyer’s Orchard, 480 Meyer Ln.; Odelehr’s Roadside Market, 7127 Illinois River Rd.; Hardin: 334 5th St.• dairybarcarrollton.com; Paradise Shaved Ice • 422 N. Main St.; Farmhouse Loft • 506 N. Main St. • fhloft.com. Tom Ringhausen Orchard & Market, Rt. 16 & Rt. 100; Golden Eagle: Eberlin’s Orchard, 1218 Two Story Hill; Jacobs Orchard, 148 Ridge Rd.; Kamp’s Orchard, R.R. 1; PLAY – Brussels: Two Rivers National Wildife Refuge, 364 Wildlife Conservation Rd., fws.gov/refuge/two_ rivers; Historic Brussels Jail, 131 E. Main St.; Calhoun Visitor Center, 133 E. Main St.; Hardin: Calhoun County Historical Society Museum, 204 N. County Rd.; Joe Page Bridge, Rt. 100; Kampsville: Center for American Archeology, 101 N. Broadway, caa-archeology.com

59 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 60 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES Litchfield Hillsboro EAT EAT SHOP Take a break from driving down the The sign says Sweet Addictions and Take a walk down Main Street in Mother Road at the historic Ariston Street Eats, but burgers are on the Hillsboro and browse through Nzuri Café. Known for its neon signage and menu along with the refreshing taste Boutique, a women’s clothing store wide menu of food, it is believed to be of hand dipped ice cream, concretes that supports global non profits. the oldest café on Route 66 today. The and more. The Cozy Café is just Upscale meets upcycling at The Ariston is also listed on the National that, cozy and welcoming. Famous Refinery Vintage Goods where a Register of Historic Places. Don’t miss for its Sweet & Sour Chicken, it’s the mix of interesting home décor lines dessert and luscious baked goods at secret recipe egg rolls and chili that the shelves. The Gold Pan: Record Jubelt’s Bakery, located a hop-skip brings customers back for more. For Store & Recording Studio is a and a jump from the Ariston. Enjoy a more upscale dining experience go haven for record collectors featuring fresh burgers, fries and shakes at to the Canton Inn. Authentic Italian carefully curated vinyl. Herbal teas, Highway 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries, delicacies are on the menu at Gianni’s supplements and more are available a retro-themed soda fountain diner. PLAY Take a coffee break at the House of Pizza & Italian Ristorante. Enjoy the at Sage on Sage. Hand crafted and Spend an evening enjoying a great Sunshine Coffee Shoppe & Book pub atmosphere at Half Time Bar one-of-a-kind items are available at movie complete with popcorn and Nestled in the hills of rural History and heritage mingle Nook. Casual homestyle food is on the & Grill with cold drinks, appetizers Blackboard Mercantile. a soda at the Sky View Drive-In Montgomery County, Hillsboro in Litchfield which sits right on menu at Tosi’s Route 66 Café. and more. Be sure to stop in at Black Theater, the last original operating offers a relaxed retreat from the Rabbit Coffee Roasters where the PLAY the Mother Road of Route 66 in drive-in on Route 66 in Illinois. Visit brew is freshly ground and the flavors SHOP hustle and bustle of larger cities. The Orpheum Theatre not only southwest Illinois. The city is the Litchfield Museum & Route 66 one-of-a-kind. Don’t miss The Opera brings first run movies to the big Explore historic downtown Litchfield full Welcome Center for a look at Mother Abraham Lincoln spent time here House Brewing Company for a cold, known for its outdoor recreation screen, it also makes movie night an of antique shops, home décor boutiques Road memorabilia and a dive into the locally crafted beer. as a young circuit lawyer and the experience. Walk through a lobby of opportunities at Lake Lou Yaeger, and more. The perfect antique awaits at city’s rich history. Enjoy a picnic, spend Phyllbena’s Antiques. Nana’s Hidden the day on the beach, kayak, hike and downtown district, highlighted by sand and pretend Aladdin has come its don’t miss monthly Pickers to life. Life-sized zebras and more Attic, the Litchfield Vintage Mall bike at Lake Lou Yaeger. Explore the a historic courthouse, is a vibrant, Markets, turn-of-the century decorate the lobby during a showing and Litchfield Indoor Flea Market Shoal Creek Conservation Area blossoming spot anchored by a of The Lion King. Knisley’s Hillsboro architecture and Mother Road also yield up treasures to the careful with a camera at this home to over Bowl has open bowling daily in a shopper. Stop in at Whiskey River 700 species of plants, 70 kinds of craft brewery, coffee roaster and memories of neon, roadside diners Dry Goods a boutique specializing in butterflies and 74 different species of family-friendly atmosphere. quirky movie theater. and drive-in theaters. The city is women’s clothing, men's items, hand birds. From April through October the painted clothing and more. Motorcyle Litchfield Pickers Market takes over located 60 miles north of St. Louis enthusiasts should make Niehaus Cycle the streets of downtown Litchfield the and is adjacent to Interstate 55. Sales a must stop. second Sunday of each month.

GO: Sweet Addictions and Street Eats • 400 S. Main St.; GO: Ariston Café • 413 N. Old Route 66 • ariston-café.com; Cozy Café • 633 S. Main St.; Canton Inn • 303 22nd St.; Jubelt’s Bakery & Restaurant • 303 N. Old Route 66 • Gianni’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante • 1233 Vandalia Rd. • jubelts.com; Highway 55 Burgers & Shakes • 1403 W. giannisitalianpizza.com; Half Time Bar & Grill • Ferdon • hwy55.com; House of Sunshine Coffee Shoppe Visit 206 S. Main St.; Black Rabbit Coffee Roasters • & Book Nook • 1200 E. Union Ave.; Tosi’s Route 66 Café • 313 S. Main St. • blackrabbitcoffee.com; The Opera 318 S. Old Route 66; Phyllbena’s Antiques • 623 N. State St. House Brewing Company • 405 S. Main St.; Blackboard • phyllbenas.business.site; Nana’s Hidden Attic • 18395 Mercantile • 227 S. Main St.; Nzuri Boutique • 305 S. W. Frontage Rd.; Litchfield Vintage Mall • 121 W. Ryder St. • Litchfield Main St.; The Refinery Vintage Goods • 107 Tilson Place; litchfieldmall.com; Litchfield Indoor Flea Market • Litchfield Gold Pan Records & Recording Studio • 309 S. Main St.; 110 W. Union Ave.; Whiskey River Dry Goods Company • Sage on Sage • 509 S. Main St.; Blackboard Mercantile 904 W. Union Ave. • whiskeyriverdrygoodscompany.com; • 227 S. Main St.; Orpheum Theatre • 316 S. Main St. • Niehaus Cycle Sales • 718 N. Old Route 66 • niehauscycle. bestmoviedeal.com; Knisley’s Hillsboro Bowl • com; Sky View Drive-In Theater • 1500 N. Old Route 217 N. Main St. 66 • litchfieldskyview.com; Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center • 334 Historic Old Route 66 • Get Your Kicks! litchfieldmuseum.org; Lake Lou Yaeger • 4313 Beach STAY ON ROUTE 66 • 6 HOTELS AND 30 RESTAURANTS House Trail • visitlitchfield.com; Shoal Creek Conservation Area • 1177 Yaegerlake Trail • visitlitchfield.com; Pickers VisitLitchfield.com Market • downtown streets • visitlitchfield.com. 866-733-5833

61 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 62 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES

Carlinville East Alton

Coal mining played a large part EAT SHOP Adjacent to the City of Alton, EAT SHOP in the development of Carlinville For more than 100 years, Taylor’s For those on the hunt for eclectic East Alton has a storied past as a Start off the day with breakfast at Bargain hunters enjoy shopping at on the Illinois’ prairie. The Mexican Chili Parlor has been antiques and vintage and magical railway community and industrial First Stop Bake Shop, home to a Pure Bliss Home Décor. Most furniture, providing top-notch chili, finds, stroll through Country Gypsy. sourdough breakfast panini, décor, rugs and accent pieces are up rural community is best known center. Today it is home to a and butter bean soup to diners. More antiques, upcycled and recycled and lox, and French pastries. Watch to half off ordinary retail prices. Locally now for its historic Sears Homes Taylor’s has been recognized as an goods are available at OLDE, on the growing retail and culinary scene planes take off and land from High owned and operated, the Community neighborhood, built in 1918 to official “Maker” in the Illinois Made city square. Mother Road Antique and celebrates its community Flyers Grille which sits beside the Feed and Seed has outdoor lawn program. Fresh ingredients are key for Mall is open seven days a week for runway at St. Louis Regional Airport. ornaments and more. Wander through house coal miners by the Standard Abella’s Restaurant, a family friendly shoppers and has antiques of all history in a local city-run museum. A lunch buffet, daily specials and a Sandi’s Costumes & Alterations. Oil Company, and the Million spot serving up breakfast, lunch and shapes, sizes and prices. One-of-a-kind wide variety of local craft beers are on There’s too much to see in one day! dinner. Stop in at the Tangled Vine gifts and souvenirs are available at tap. New to the East Alton food scene Dollar Courthouse. A picturesque Restaurant & Lounge for any meal Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs. is J.J. Thermo’s, home to Jalapeno PLAY downtown square, quaint shops of the day for new and traditional Belly Bombers, Pickle Fries, Popeye’s Lace up a pair of skates and take to and restaurants and links to American favorites. Enjoy the rustic PLAY Spinach Salad and a host of aptly atmosphere at Crabby’s Supper named sandwiches and entrees. the ice at East Alton Ice Arena. The Tour the historic Macoupin County Route 66 provide a charming Club, a family-friendly spot. Desserts For a quick bite, stop in at Magnum’s city owned rink has open ice skating “Million Dollar” Courthouse, built are made in-house and check out Bar & Grill. Airliner Bar & Grill is year round. Axe-perts come together welcome to visitors. Carlinville is at a cost of $1.3 million in 1870. It took the pies made every weekend by the family-friendly and has lunch and at Riverbend Axe Throwing, a new also home to Blackburn College, a residents more than 40 years to pay off owner’s mother. dinner specials in addition to cocktails bar and lounge that has specially the construction costs. The building private liberal arts school. and beer. Super premium small-batch designed axe throwing targets, pool is a working courthouse to this day. ice cream is made in-house at Blue tables, big screen TV’s and more. If Don’t miss the historic Cannonball Ice Creamery. it’s movie and popcorn time, head Jail, a fortress-style building built to AMC Classic Eastgate 6 for big with Civil War era cannonballs and screen entertainment. once a Route 66 stop.

GO: Taylor’s Mexican Chili Parlor • 510 N. Side Sq. • taylorschili.com; Abella’s Restaurant • 127 S. Broad St. • abellasrestaurant. GO: First Stop Bake Shop • 611 E. Airline Dr. • firststopbakeshop.com; High Flyers Grille • 16 Terminal Dr. • highflyersgrill. com; Tangled Vine Restaurant & Lounge • 531 S. West St. • tangledvinerestaurantandlounge.godaddysites.com; Crabby’s wordpress.com; J.J. Thermo’s • 17 Eastgate Plaza; Magnum’s Bar & Grill • 407 E. Main St.; Airliner Bar & Grill • 573 E. Airline Supper Club • 18838 Route 4; Country Gypsy • 118 N. West St.; OLDE • 254 S. Side Square; Mother Road Antique Mall • 106 N. Side Dr.; Blue Ice Creamery • 127 Eastgate Plaza • blueicecreamery.com; Pure Bliss Home Décor • 935 E. Airline Dr.; Community Square; Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs • 236 E. Side Square; Macoupin County “Million Dollar” Courthouse • 201 E. Main St. • Feed and Seed Company • 300 N. Shamrock St.; Sandi’s Costumes & Alterations • 136 E. St. Louis Ave. • itssewsandi.com; macoupincountyil.gov; Cannonball Jail • 215 S. East St. • macoupincountyil.gov. East Alton Ice Arena • 631 Lewis & Clark Blvd. • eastaltonicearena.org; Riverbend Axe Throwing • 205 Eastgate Plaza • riverbendaxethrowing.com; AMC Classic Eastgate 6 • 625 Lewis & Clark Blvd. • amctheatres.com

63 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 64 OUR TOWNS • MUST SEE PLACES City of TROY Iinois TROYMARYVILLECOC.COM

CAREER/VOLUNTEER FAIR: 3/26/20 TROY FIREWORKS Troy City Wide Garage Sales: July 4 Fireworks start at dusk Troy has been a crossroads town EAT STAY Tri-Township Park since it was founded in the early 5/15/20 – 5/16/20 It may not look like much from the Five different hotels offer overnight Exit #18, east, right at FCB Bank 1800s. Once the site of the first outside, but Kelly’s Butcher Shop options, all conveniently located near & Deli is where the locals go for hot interstate highways. Stay at the Best 9/18/20 – 9/19/20 stagecoach stop for travelers to and meals daily. Look for it behind the 4-0 Western Troy Hotel and enjoy room from St. Louis along the newly Quick Shop at the intersection of U.S. amenities like a wet bar, jetted tubs created National Road, the vibrant 40 and Troy-O’Fallon Road. To satisfy and suites. Free breakfast bar, indoor a taste for Tex-Mex, check out Terra pool and fitness center are part of any Recycle Event: city now sits at the intersection of Sur. For pizza, check out Alfonzo’s stay at the Holiday Inn Express-Troy. Interstates 55 and 70. With both Pizzeria and Joe’s Pizza and Enjoy a suite complete with whirlpool Pasta. Handmade ice cream is hot tubs, mini fridge and microwave 5/16/20 & 9/19/20 small town charm and easy access the perfect treat available at at Red Roof Inn St. Louis – Troy. to St. Louis (just 18 miles away) City Scoops Creamery. Complimentary continental breakfast the city has developed a growing and a heated indoor pool are part of PLAY the Super 8 by Wyndham Troy IL/St. culinary scene and has a wealth of Louis Area experience. BACK-TO-SCHOOL A skateboard park, Frisbee golf course, overnight options. lake, over two miles of walking trails and a petting zoo are all available MOVIE NIGHT: at Tri-Township Park. There is also a radio controlled vehicle crawler 8/7/20 course. Every July 4, the city presents one of the largest fireworks displays in the St. Louis Metro area. For bargain hunters, citywide yard sales are held each spring and fall. SRA BRADLEY SMITH 5K September 12, 2020 SrA Bradley R. Smith GO: Kelly’s Butcher Shop & Deli • 804 S. Main St. • kellysbutchershopanddeli; Terra Sur • 920 Edwardsville Rd.; Alfonzo’s Pizzeria USAF TACP • 611 Edwardsville Rd. • alfonzospizzeria.net; Joe’s Pizza and Pasta • 904 Edwardsville Rd. • orderjoes.com; City Scoops KIA 01-03-10 Creamery • 300 Edwardsville Rd.; Tri-Township Park • 410 Wickliffe St. • tritownshippark.org; Best Western Troy Hotel, 2020 Formosa Rd. • bestwestern.com; Holiday Inn Express Troy • 2011 Formosa Rd. • ihg.com; Red Roof Inn St. Louis – Troy, 2030 FALL COMMUNITY EXPO: Operation Enduring Freedom Formosa Rd. • redroof.com; Super 8 by Wyndham Troy IL/St. Louis Area • 910 Edwardsville Rd. • wyndhamhotels.com 10/29/20 65 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 70 SPRING, SUMMER, FALL, WINTER – THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION HAS IT ALL. SEASONAL escapes GREAT SEASONAL ESCAPES THAT IS! Summer l

The lazy, hazy days of summer begin on Memorial Day with the opening of area water parks, swimming pools and splash pads. Collinsville Aqua Park and Raging Rivers in Grafton welcome sun worshipers and water adventurers. The City of Collinsville ushers in the summer season with a Memorial Day celebration near the Gateway Convention Center with food vendors, music and a huge fireworks display at dusk. Don’t miss the city’s International Horseradish Festival that takes over the streets of Uptown Collinsville each June. Escape to Lake Lou Yaeger for boating, swimming and hiking fun. Summer months are perfect for overnight campouts at the lake and Pere Marquette State Park. Fireworks light up the night skies throughout the region in late June through early July. The Alton Fireworks Spring l Spectacular on the city riverfront is held July 3. The City of Troy has dazzling fireworks every July 4. Live music takes Fall l Winter l Throw off the winter coats and take a spring time journey center stage at the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater l throughout the six county region of Great Rivers & Routes every summer. National performers bring their shows to the Shorter days and cooler temperatures are a sure sign that A sure sign that winter has returned to the region is the from March through May. With the blossoming of the trees outdoor riverfront amphitheater delighting audiences. More Fall has arrived in the Great Rivers & Routes region. That arrival of Trumpeter Swans and American Bald Eagles to and flowers, the area dresses itself in the bright greens, pinks than 20 regional food trucks are in the spotlight during the means the haunted season in Alton ramps up with walking the region. Swans begin making their way from Wisconsin’s and yellows of the season. annual Alton Food Truck Festival held at the end of August. and trolley tours of historically haunted sites. North Woods in late November while the American Bald Eagles don’t arrive until the end of December or early March is the ideal time to rediscover Route 66. Take a brisk Fall color drives along the Meeting of the Great Rivers January. Both enjoy the relatively warmer climate and open walk across the mile long Old Chain of Rocks Bridge over National Scenic Byway between Alton and Grafton are waters of the area until February. Their return is celebrated the Mississippi River. Explore the Pink Elephant Antique great escapes, as well as scenic drives through Calhoun Mall and use the visit as an outdoor photo op beside its during the annual Alton Audubon Eagle Ice Festival and County and Jersey and Greene Counties. Put the top down meet-and-greet sessions with eagles at the Alton Visitor giant elephant, alien spaceship and oversized chipmunks. on the convertible and take a drive along the 60-mile stretch The rabbits come out to play at Henry’s Rabbit Ranch Center on Saturdays throughout January. of the Mother Road from Virden to just outside St. Louis along the historic road. No one celebrates March like the Holiday events warm up the cool December days and nights. during the sunny and warm Indian Summer days of fall. folks at Morrison’s Irish Pub in Alton. A St. Patrick’s Day Pub Christmas Wonderland in Alton brings the season to life Crawl is held in the middle of the month and features green Local festivals including the Edwardsville Art Fair held with millions of holiday lights. The Light Up Parade in beer, great food and lively entertainment. outside in City Park and the Collinsville Italian Fest in Uptown Collinsville kicks off the holiday season in the city. Uptown Collinsville return each September. Bethalto’s Christmas Village, Jerseyville’s Downtown In April, as gardens begin to bloom with new growth be Country Christmas, Santa’s Chocolate Express in Grafton, sure to take a walk through the Nan Elliott Rose Garden at The end of October means its time for annual Halloween Carlinville’s Holiday Market and Hillsboro’s Storybook Gordon Moore Park in Alton. Visit the Watershed Nature Parades including the longest running parade in the nation Christmas keep the festivities going all month. Center in Edwardsville and walk along its raised paths. – the Alton Halloween Parade. Edwardsville has one of the Celebrate Spring with Farm Days at Willoughby Heritage largest parades in the region as floats, bands and a variety of Will it be a short winter or a long one? Only Murray the Farm in Collinsville. ghosts and other seasonal character roam the city’s streets. Groundhog knows for sure. Find out his prediction at the annual Ground Hog Day Celebration at the Celebrate May with the opening of local farmer’s markets. Alton Visitor Center Feb. 2. Downtown Edwardsville is home to the Land of Goshen Community Market which runs every Saturday from May through October. The Alton riverfront hosts the Alton Farmers’ and Artisans' Market every Wednesday and Saturday May through October. The historic Village of Elsah hosts an annual Spring Celebration each May with food vendors, crafts and live entertainment. River cruises kick off with the onset of warmer weather. Discover a new side of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers on sunset, dinner and sightseeing cruises on the Hakuna Matata in Grafton.

67 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 68 A historic opera house. A vacant newspaper Now, craft beer vats sit in the basement of the building Carrot Cake Brown. Check out the core seasonal beers building. A former bakery factory. Once next to old newspaper printing equipment. The stainless and limited releases like Gentle Giant, a tip of the hat steel distillery stills operate on the main floor. Photos of to Alton’s Robert Wadlow the world’s tallest man, and empty buildings have new life as home former newspaper staff and the building dot the walls. A Cerveza con Lima, a Cinco de Mayo favorite. to local craft breweries. Querty keyboard, created by Whitney, has a prime spot in The City of Edwardsville has made its mark on the craft the event room. And even the beer names pay homage to The smell of ink on newsprint and the roar of beer scene with two independent brewers. Recess the building’s past. printing presses has been replaced by the slightly Brewing Company, 307 N. Main St., and Peel Brewing yeasty scent of craft beer and the quieter sounds Printer’s Ink, Late Edition, Proofreader Pale Ale, Read All (brewed in nearby O’Fallon, IL and served at the Edwardsville of glasses clinking and casual conversation in Over and Witty Headline brews highlight the beer menu. location of Peel Wood Fired Pizza), 921 S. Arbor Vitae. the former Collinsville Herald building. Derik and Clear craft spirits including vodka, gin, rum and agave are After establishing itself as the go-to place for creative, Whitney Reiser have brought a craft beer and used to create signature cocktails. mouth-watering pizzas, the owners of Peel branched into distillery to town. Old Herald’s beers and spent grains are used in the the craft brewery field. They hit the craft beer scene with Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, 115 E. Clay St., restaurant to enhance the flavors of the food. Grains are a signature Blood Orange Wheat brew and the Double was born in the closed newspaper building and used in the batter on fish and onion rings. Beer is used in Take Blonde. Peel is experimenting with its new Four printing plant in Uptown Collinsville. In addition sauces and in the beer cheese dip for pretzels. Brandons-Pale Ale and the Chocolate Cherry Quad. to craft brews, a full lunch and dinner menu are During warm weather, an outdoor patio was created for Recess Brewing offers a relaxed, bring your own food, available in a family-friendly atmosphere. customers to enjoy their meal and drinks. Live music is atmosphere that is focused entirely on its beers. The “We saw the (vacant) building and had a vision,” available on weekends. Try out your bocce ball skills on community supported brewery includes a 1,500-square Derik remembers. The craft brewery and distillery the outdoor bocce court. foot brewery and 1,100-square foot tap room. Sample opened for business in January 2019. The former Hillsboro Opera House also has new life. The the Four Square: Nut Brown and Recess’s take on popular hefewiezen beer with Hefepotumus Rex. “We are in the heart of the Metro East (St. Louis building, built in 1864 as the city’s Odd Fellows Hall, is now area). There is nothing like it. A lot of folks travel home to the Opera House Brewing Company, 405 S. Grafton Winery & Brewhaus, 300 W. Main St., Grafton, through the area and we are able to help bring Main St., Hillsboro, which serves up its unique take on beer. keeps its craft beers simple yet hearty. Try a flight of them to Collinsville,” he adds. Patrons can sample beers like the German Hefeweizen handcrafted beer including American Pilsner, American DISCOVERIES Pour-a-nora or the American pilsner, Locked & Loaded Wheat and Colaweizen among others. The couple had been experimenting with creating while watching the brewing process through an open craft beer from their home garage since the early floor viewing platform. Enjoy beer like the Copper Rabbit, 1990s. And they discovered their brews tasted better made from coffee beans roasted at nearby Black Rabbit than anything they could buy. Adding a distillery Coffee Roasters. Small batch creative brews are produced had been in the back of their minds at the same regularly and sell out quickly. Customers are encouraged to time. When they discovered the Old Herald building, bring their own food to eat while enjoying a beer. creating a craft brewery and distillery seemed like the perfect merger of the two products. The Old Bakery Beer Company, 400 Landmarks Blvd., in Alton has repurposed the vacant Colonial Bakery building “I have worked with a lot of great distilleries in the near the city’s riverfront. An organic craft brewery, one country the last three years to make sure we get off of just a handful in the U.S., head brewer and co-owner on the right foot,” Derik says. “We developed our James Rogalsky has created a new take on popular gin recipe during a trip to Louisville. Creating spirits American beers. Try the brewery’s Citrus Wheat; Hibiscus is an art and a science and it’s the combination of Tart, a farm-to-glass brew as well as Basil Pale Ale and the two that makes it fun.” CRAFT IT’S NOT JUST BEER …

CRAFT DISTILLERIES HAVE ALSO BLOSSOMED IN THE right.” He bottled his first batch in 2011 and sold out GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION. Mastermind Vodka quickly. Levering’s vodkas have won gold medals in the in Madison County led the way when its high end ultra World Spirits Competition and are distributed locally. premium vodka was developed 9 years ago. It was a trial and Blue Stem Vodka, a distillery and tasting room in error process for founder Carl Levering who built his first Bethalto, was created by a group of friends and scientists still in his home. The railroad engineer experimented with who designed a one-of-a-kind production process. The potatoes, wheat and sugars to develop a drinkable vodka. vodka is distilled from corn and cut with reverse osmosis “I almost burnt my house down,” Levering remembers of water. The vodka is named after the state prairie grass in the early days. “I finally found a formula that worked when Illinois and Missouri – Blue Stem. A new Blue Stem Hard I started using corn in the process. It took 40 tries to get it Seltzer is also available.

69 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 70 Start your wine journey at Grafton AND THERE’S MORE! ■ GRAFTON WINERY Winery & Brewhaus and its award- & BREWHAUS Twelve different wineries twine 300 W. Main St. • Grafton winning wines. Enjoy a glass of Apple across southwest Illinois. Small 618-786-3001 Crisp or Harbor Red while taking in communities are home to scenic ■ GRAFTON WINERY the relaxing views of the Mississippi wineries created to celebrate wine THE VINEYARDS River from the winery’s downtown and the beauty of the region. 21028 Eckert Orchard Rd. • Grafton 618-786-3004 Grafton location. For a more peaceful Here’s a list of wineries to check ■ wine tasting experience, head over out during your Wine Not journey. GRAFTON ICE HOUSE WINERY to The Vineyards, Grafton Winery’s 214 W. Main St. • Grafton 618-786-2737 four acre lakeside retreat, vineyard ■ THE #5 MINE WINERY ■ and production facility. Fifteen 413 E. Central Ave. • Benld MARY MICHELLE WINERY 217-835-3555 13653 Lodge Blvd. • Grafton different wines produced on site are 618-786-2331 ■ HALF WITT WINERY available. Bring a picnic basket or 240 N. Hirst St. • Witt • 217-594-7151 ■ GRAFTON HARBOR enjoy a boxed lunch. ■ FLOATING WINERY FORSEE VINEYARDS & WINERY 215 W. Water St. • Grafton Just 25 miles north of The Vineyards, 18165 N. 4th Ave. • Coffeen 618-786-7678 217-534-6347 Mary Michelle Winery creates wines ■ ■ THE WINERY AT under its Illinois Cellars and Mary VIXEN HILL WINERY AERIES RESORT Michelle labels. The winery’s signature 7331 Palmyra Rd. • Palmyra 600 Timber Ridge Dr. • Grafton 217-691-4331 soft, smooth wines include Velvet Red, 618-786-7477 ■ WILD PICKINS WINERY WINE Rose and White wines, sparkling wines 14223 Rte. 111 • Chesterfield WINE BARS and the popular Norton, a red wine. 618-753-3833 It’s been a long day ■ COPPER BAR AT STATE Although the winery isn’t open to the strolling along the ■ THE WINERY AT SHALE LAKE STREET MARKET public, wines are available at the Mary 1499 Washington Ave. • Staunton 212 State St. • Alton • 618-462-8800 Madison County 618-637-2470 Michelle Winery tasting room at Pere ■ SOLERA Transit Trails in Marquette Lodge & Conference 212 W. 3rd St. • Alton NOT! Edwardsville. A drive Center as well as area retailers. 618-433-9655 along Route 66 has worked up a powerful thirst. The waters of the Mississippi River bring to mind a glass W I N E T A S T I N G - L I V E M U S I C - of wine. Okay, maybe M I C R O B R E W E R Y - P A T I O S E A T I N G - that’s a stretch. But E V E N T S & P A R T I E S - K I T C H E N O P E N D A I L Y you get the idea. It is,

after all, wine o’clock 3 0 0 W M A I N S T G R A F T O N , I L 6 2 0 3 7 in the Great Rivers & W W W . T H E G R A F T O N W I N E R Y . C O M Routes region. 6 1 8 - 7 8 6 - 3 0 0 1 Red, white and pink. Sweet, dry, sparkling. Chardonnay, Vignole, Cabernet. Grapes, peaches, apples. It would take days to explore all the local wineries and wine bars the region has to offer. So, wine not?

71 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 72 What was once a bank in downtown Alton has been transformed into a specialty coffee house and craft beer taproom. Germania Brew Haus has become the go-to spot for a cup of coffee serving up Crimson Cup coffees including award winning Armando’s Blend. Enjoy a cup of hot coffee, coffee over ice, frozen and espresso SACRED GROUNDS CAFÉ inside or on the scenic outdoor patio 233 N. Main St. • Edwardsville overlooking the Mississippi River. (618) 692-4150 Conveniently located on Main Street in Downtown Edwardsville, Sacred Grounds Cafè embraces its COPPER STILLS

COFFEE coffeehouse vibe with special brews, & MASH lattes, and great baked goods in a 430 N. Main St. • Carrollton

GREAT casual, family-friendly atmosphere. A (217) 702-4803 STOPS vegetarian breakfast and lunch menu Copper Stills & Mash is a coffee shop is available as well. by day and a wine and spirits bar by night. The split personality ends there, VERONA COFFEE COMPANY however. This downtown Carrollton spot is a great place to gather with 101 E. Main St. • Collinsville friends, grab a cup of coffee (or tea) (618) 696-1522 and read a book or just soak in the Relax at Verona Coffee Company ambiance of the historic building. in Uptown Collinsville with a White Take your pick of teas, Italian sodas Mocha Espresso or an Iced Caramel and coffee including the aptly named 5 Macchiato. The coffeehouse sits inside “Black Eye”, a brew coffee with a GERMANIA BREW HAUS Bert’s Chuck Wagon restaurant and double shot of espresso. serves up Kaldi blend coffee. Pair your 617 E. Broadway St. • Alton brew with a homemade scone, energy (314) 667-4751 bite or bar cookie.

AND HERE'S A FEW MORE: ■ 222 ARTISAN BAKERY & CAFE ■ UGLY MUGS COFFEEHOUSE 222 N. Main St. • Edwardsville 125 W. State St. • Nokomis ■ MAEVA’S COFFEE (618) 659-1122 (217) 630-2138 1320 Milton Rd. • Alton • (618) 581-7510 BLACK RABBIT ■ COFFEE XPRESSO ■ MAGIC BEANS COFFEE ROASTERS ■ POST COMMONS 514 W. Union Ave. • Litchfield COFFEE HOUSE 300 Alby St. • Alton • (618) 433-8871 (217) 324-4009 101 S. 2nd St. • Girard • (217) 556-8842 313 S. Main St. • Hillsboro Tucked into downtown Hillsboro, Black There’s nothing like the smell of freshly Rabbit Coffee Roasters offers a relaxed atmosphere where people gather in the BE SURE TO STOP BY: ■ ■ ESPRESSO YOURSELF BAKERY roasted coffee. Or better yet, the first sip industrial chic building to enjoy a cup 6105 Center Grove Rd. • Edwardsville 410 Carpenter • Jerseyville of a bright, lively cup of a special blend or two of their uniquely roasted coffee. ■ LUCIANNA’S PASTRIES (618) 659-8690 (618) 639-2877 607 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 433-9395 ■ of beans. For coffee lovers, or those Owners and Isaac Reynolds work STARBUCKS IN TARGET ■ BIG BOY'S DONUTS with coffee traders throughout the ■ WEEPING WILLOW TEA ROOM 2350 Troy Rd. • Edwardsville • (618) 659-3200 933 S. State St. • Jerseyville who can’t start the day without a fresh world to find the best beans available. 123 Glen Crossing Rd. ■ TEASPOONS CAFE (618) 498-8715 cup of Joe, a trail of locally owned and They then roast the beans in a 10 kilo Glen Carbon • (618) 205-8557 2125 State Rte. 157 • Edwardsville ■ HOUSE OF SUNSHINE COFFEE drum roaster housed in the coffee ■ GOSHEN COFFEE COMPANY (618) 655-9595 SHOPPE & BOOK NOOK operated coffee shops dot the Great shop’s basement. 206 E. Linden St. • Edwardsville ■ 1200 E Union Ave. • Litchfield (618) 659-0571 2720 Grovelin St. • Godfrey • (618) 466-6327 (217) 324-6215 Rivers & Routes landscape. “It’s more interesting if we do one ■ STARBUCKS ■ THE SHOPPES ■ DUNKIN’ small lot at a time,” Isaac says. Isaac Have your first cup of coffee of the 1077 Collinsville Crossing Blvd. AT BEVERLY FARM 819 Edwardsville Rd. • Troy grew up in Guatemala where coffee is Collinsville • (618) 343-9062 6133 Humbert Rd. • Godfrey • (618) 466-1187 (618) 667-9931 day… or your second… or third at one king. It’s where he also developed ■ STARBUCKS ■ AERIE’S GROUNDS & GIFTS ■ WOOD RIVER DONUT SHOP of these great local . a love for good coffee. 6680 Edwardsville Crossing Dr. 600 Timber Ridge Dr. • Grafton 102 S. W. Edwardsville Rd. Edwardsville • (618) 692-7817 (618) 786-8438 Wood RIver • (618) 251-5331

73 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 74 For more information on family-friendly escapes ALL IN throughout the region, visit: RiversandRoutes.com THE FAMILY

The Great Rivers & Routes Enjoy some vintage fun are delighted by a visit to Let the kids see how his death in 1940. Walk it, snacking on it while region has more than its with an outdoor movie Henry’s Rabbit Ranch. they measure up against over to the nearby Alton you pick! Journey to share of family-friendly at the Sky View Drive- Meet the resident bunny the World’s Tallest Man, Museum of History & Eckert’s Grafton Farm adventures along the rivers in Theatre in Litchfield. rabbits and walk through Robert Wadlow, at the Art for an in-depth look at and head in to the fields and roads that connect its Watch first-run films from the Volkswagen Rabbit outdoor bronze Robert Robert Wadlow’s life. to pick some of the best six counties. Spend days in the comfort and privacy Wadlow Statue. Called peaches, berries, apples Stonehenge. Climb aboard The Legend of Alton’s the sun at area water parks. of your car. This is a great Alton’s Gentle Giant, and pumpkins around. the giant metal rabbit Piasa Bird is sure to Pick-your-own produce at escape for families with Wadlow suffered from Take a wagon ride to the outside the building for a delight children of any local orchards and fields. small children who like to an overactive pituitary fields and after gathering one-of-a-kind photo op. age. Stop by the Piasa Roast marshmallows over talk during shows. gland that resulted in his your fruit of choice let A giant pink elephant, Bird on the an open fire after tromping 8-foot 11.2 inch height at the kids go free in the Kids of all ages, and that baby T-Rex and a group limestone bluffs just north through miles of woodland play area where they can includes mom and dad, of smiling chipmunks of Alton on the Meeting of trails. Have a family photo visit farm animals, play greet visitors to the Pink the Great Rivers National taken with the World’s miniature golf and more. Elephant Antique Mall Scenic Byway. The story Tallest Man in Alton. Unplug at Greene Fields on Route 66. Meet the of the man-eating dragon Farm in Greenfield. The Create a new family ❝Today is your giant statues, get lost in is re-told underneath the rural working farm offers tradition exploring the day. You’re off the gymnasium-sized massive painting. U-Pick-Em pumpkins and Mother Road, Route 66, antique mall and top off to Great Places. There is nothing like gourds during the fall. Kids which stretches from the visit with a bag of You’re off spending the day can play on straw piles, a Virden to just outside St. candy from the adjacent outside picking fresh corn box and more. Louis. A stop at Litchfield’s and away! Pink Elephant Candy Shop. produce, and, let’s face Lake Lou Yaeger for ❞ Dr. Seuss Or better yet, enjoy an ice an overnight camping cream cone served from trip or a day kayaking – wait for it – a giant ice and swimming in the PACK UP cream cone at the Twistee lake is sure to delight THE KIDS. Treat Diner. all members of the YOU CAN EVEN Blend a history lesson with family. Be sure to bring BRING THE DOG. a climb up a prehistoric marshmallows, graham IT’S TIME TO Native American mound crackers and chocolate to CREATE A FUN FILLED at Cahokia Mounds. make s’mores. FAMILY VACATION. Bring a sack lunch and enjoy a picnic at the destination for children 2,200-acre UNESCO World and includes a play Heritage Site. A climb area for toddlers. Every up the 100-foot Monk’s Tuesday is $2 movie night Mound provides vistas of at The Wildey and families the surrounding area and can enjoy a popular older nearby St. Louis. Be sure to movie, along with a bag visit Willoughby Heritage of the theatre’s famous Farm in Collinsville and popcorn at family meet the resident farm friendly prices. animals and take a hike on Take the clan to cool miles of trails. off at local water parks No family-friendly trip including the Collinsville is complete without a Aqua Park or Raging stop at the Edwardsville Rivers Water Park in Children’s Museum or $2 Grafton. Or let the little movie night at the historic ones splash and play Wildey Theatre. The at Edwardsville’s Leon museum is a hands-on Corlew Splash Pad.

75 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 76 All the info you need for a Great Rivers & Routes wedding is available on RiversandRoutes.com/Weddings

You said “Yes!” and now it’s time to plan for your “I Dos”. Creating a dream-come-true wedding and Audubon takes planning and the Great Rivers & Routes region has just what“IT’S you FOR need THE to BIRDS” make your Let your wedding love soar day at WEDDING TIP: Bremer Wildlife Sanctuary. memorable. Below are a list With of tips over and 40 areatricks to planning a wedding in southwest Illinois. Expecting out-of-town Center at Riverlands , With the largest state wedding guests? Wedding BOOK YOUR LODGING EARLY “NATURALLY GREEN” welcome bags are available to hotels and numerous guest houses, you can find the park in Illinois, Pere Marquette, Nan State Elliott Park Rose help your guests experience perfect fit to accommodate every group size and and several outdoor venue options including, and Grafton all the Great Rivers & Routes match every budget. If you need more than 25 rooms, Willoughby Heritage Farm , Watershed Nature Center region has to offer. For the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau sales team Garden , you can create a serene more information go to: can help collect quotes for yourSituated room in blocks. the Midwest, the Winery the Vineyards environment for your ceremony and reception. RiversandRoutes.com/ CLIMATE & SEASONS Weddings Great Rivers & Routes region has four distinct seasons “HISTORIC CHARM” Host an intimate with average annual temperature swings from 40-89 ceremony at the opulently restored BEALL , walk in the footsteps of famous . degrees. Check out the weather page on our website Mansion to help settle the debate between an outdoor versus Need a theme to explorers at the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site indoor venue and how to pack for your stay. or travel back in time in the Village of Elsah WEDDING RECEPTIONS - TASTING ROOM IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES INVITE YOUR GUESTS Greet TO your EXPLORE out-of-town GREAT spark some creative wedding inspiration? Or looking RIVERS & ROUTES for an inspired shot for engagement photos? Here are guests with a complimentary welcome bag a few suggestions: including the Great Rivers & Routes regional visitor 21028 ECKERT ORCHARD RD “GET YOUR KICKS ON ROUTE 66” Whether, walking youthe guide. Bursting with insider tips, maps and lists of GRAFTON, IL 62037 are standing underneath the towering statues activities to enjoy during their stay, your guests can , you at the Pink Elephant Antique Mall make the best use of their free time before and after aisles of a former opera theater, or gathering in you say “I do.” Need inspiration on how to the gazebo in Carlinville’s Historic Square THINK LOCAL can celebrate the spirit of Route 66 at several sprinkle some local flair into your happily ever after? GRAFTON attractions in the region. Look for unique reception and ceremony venues “GO WITH THE FLOW” Incorporate the Liberty majestic celebrating the rich history of the region or your or confluence of the Missouri, Illinois and Mississippi fond memories of previous visits. Work with a local WINERY , Riverview Park rivers with riverside ceremonies at the caterer focusing on farm-to-table menus to ensure , Old Bank Alton Amphitheater ingredients will be local and fresh. Give your guests . Enjoy breathtaking views of the , Goshen Coffee , Argosy Casino gifts and special treats from local, Buena makers Vista including Art THE river high atop the. Or bluffs host family-friendly at Aerie’s Resort rehearsal and Mississippi Mud Pottery Raging Rivers Water Tara Point Inn . Herald Brewery, &the Distillery options are endless. dinners and receptions at Kruta’s Bakery VINEYARDS Park and Collinsville Aqua Park Embrace the , Lincoln- “MONUMENTAL MEMORIES” , WWW.THEGRAFTONWINERY.COM region’s history and capture unforgettable photo and moments at the Robert, Elijah Wadlow P. Lovejoy Statue Monument Douglas Square , Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower WINE PRODUCTION - CORPORATE EVENTS Piasa Bird many more.

77 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 78 MORE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS

■ ALTON MUNICIPAL BAND Performs at Riverview Park and Haskell Playhouse Boutique Bowling | Laser Tag | Arcade 101 E. Third St. • Alton Restaurant & Bar | Giant TV Screens | Party Rooms The Outlet at Edison’s Event Center ■ ALTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 5800 Godfrey Rd. • Godfrey ALL-ACCESS PASSES STARTING AT JUST $18 ■ ALTON YOUTH BOWLING LASER TAG ARCADE SYMPHONY ENTERTAINING escapes 5800 Godfrey Rd. • Godfrey ■ CALHOUN ENTERTAINMENT Travel to the magical, mystical land of Brigadoon led by the COMPANY actors from a community theater. Let the vintage rock sounds (618) 576-9237 of the Grateful Dead wash over you during a live concert surrounded ■ GREAT RIVERS by 300 fellow fans. Enjoy the sounds of music shimmying along the CHORAL SOCIETY 1212 W. Homer M. surface of the Mississippi River at an outdoor riverfront amphitheater. Adams Parkway Live music … live theater … it’s all about the live performances Godfrey • (618) 401-1450 in the Great Rivers & Routes region. ■ GREATER ALTON CONCERT ASSOCIATION 5800 Godfrey Road • Godfrey Take a seat at the historic Wildey Theatre in downtown Edwardsville for (618) 468-4222 great weekend entertainment options. Once a hot spot for Vaudeville ■ HATHEWAY CULTURAL performers like W. C. Fields and Al Jolson, the theatre now welcomes CENTER AT LEWIS & national and regional tribute bands, legendary rock bands, comedians CLARK COLLEGE 5800 Godfrey Road • Godfrey and more. The Wildey is also the home theatre for Opera Edwardsville (618) 468-3220 where twice a year international opera stars take the stage. Community bands and events also call the theatre home. (And every Tuesday night ■ GOSHEN is $2 movie night at the Wildey. It’s not live entertainment, but it is fun!) THEATRE PROJECT Edwardsville WildeyTheatre.com ■ CARLINVILLE Let the cast of characters at Alton Little Theater take you on a MUNICIPAL BAND sometimes hysterical, sometimes poignant, and always entertaining journey. Celebrating its 87th season of bringing the world of live theater to ■ CURTAIN’S UP audiences, productions include Broadway favorites and classic comedies. THEATER COMPANY (618) 530-5822 The 2020 season includes the compelling classic play, ‘Inherit the Wind’; the comedy ‘Holy Laughter’ and Lerner & Loewe’s classic musical, ‘Brigadoon’. ■ EDWARDSVILLE AltonLIttleTheater.org MUNICIPAL BAND (618) 973-7318 Warm summer evenings were made for outdoor entertainment and ■ the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater is the perfect place for open air SIUE THEATER AND DANCE concerts. The amphitheater season typically runs from June through Dunham Theater September and has hosted national talent including Nelly, The Steve Miller Band, Kenny Rogers, Travis Tritt, the Beach Boys and more. Seasonal ■ JACOBY ARTS CENTER festivals are also part of the excitement at the amphitheater and include 627 E. Broadway • Alton (618) 462-5222 the Alton Expo, Alton Food Truck Festival and the Jazz & Wine Festival. LibertyBankAmphitheater.com

79 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 80 “I had connections with agents and bands and knew that if we had a good thing here they would come,” Canal says. “Now we have an MAKE YOUR ESCAPE amazing venue and the acts call us.” TO LEGENDARY PLACES Canal changed up the focus of the theatre from a movie house to more Visionaries l Entrepreneurs l Artists l Places live performances. He keeps the place packed every weekend and now the community enjoys $2 Tuesday movie night. The theatre is also operating BUILDING A LEGENDARY in the black and has a reputation for DESTINATION RELIES ON providing quality entertainment at TRANSFORMING BOLD DREAMS affordable prices. INTO PASSIONATE REALITY. “It is rare to have this kind of a facility The Great Rivers & Routes region flows in any community,” Walker adds. “The with the spirit of our local legends. renovation of the Wildey is really part of a bigger rebirth of the Edwardsville Meet our local legends on these pages. community at large and the region as Better yet, come see them in person. a whole.” Canal agrees. “The Wildey is still WILDEY THEATRE MIKE GASSMAN AND JUDY DEMOISEY • WORLD'S LARGEST CATSUP BOTTLE INC. EDWARDSVILLE being defined. That is true of every venue,” he points out. “We have only If the walls of the Wildey Theatre ticked off 20 to 30 percent of what we in Edwardsville could talk, oh the Joan Evers, her father, and later her “It was a fascinating, exciting, can be doing. The vision for this place stories they could tell. two sons worked at the theatre until grueling and painful process,” Walker is for it to continue to grow.” Tales of vaudeville star Al Jolson it was shuttered in 1984, the victim of says of the 12 years it took to raise the playing craps for money in the a crumbling structure and a tornado needed $3 million. “While there were WORLD’S TALLEST basement of the theatre – minus his that blew down part of the building a lot of hills and valleys, there were CATSUP BOTTLE WATER AL CANAL trousers – which hung neatly nearby. during a showing of ‘Footloose’. also a lot of things to celebrate.” TOWER • COLLINSVILLE The building sat empty and an idea Douglas Fairbanks Jr. taking the stage The City of Edwardsville purchased A 170-foot water tower shaped floated around the city that it should in front of more than 1,000 fans. The the building and it reopened in 2011 and painted like a catsup bottle be torn down to make way for a city first-ever ‘talking’ movie projected as a movie house, live performance is now a legendary Collinsville onto the big screen in 1927. The parking lot. venue and home for community roadside attraction. commotion the 1939 movie “Gone That’s when Rich Walker, an events. The theatre portion of the “The Catsup Bottle is really an iconic With the Wind” caused. Edwardsville City Alderman at the building was reduced to 300 seats, piece of roadside architecture,” Mike And Edwardsville resident Joan Evers time, entered the picture and decided including a balcony area creating a Gassman, President/CEO and ‘Big to save the legendary building. more intimate performance setting. has seen it all. Ever since she was Tomato’ of the World’s Largest Catsup The first few years of the reawakened a tiny child toddling along beside “My first experience with the Wildey Bottle Inc. says. “There’s a lot of Built in 1909 as an opera house, the In its early years, an upper floor of the building were rough, Walker says. It her father, her life has been closely was walking down Main Street with nostalgia, history and design qualities theatre boasted the largest stage three story brick building doubled as operated in the red for several years. entwined with the historic building. my wife and talking about needing all rolled in to one here.” south of Chicago, which put it on the a boxing ring for young men, Evers more parking and here is this old In 2014, the city hired Al Canal as “My father was a printer by day and highly-prized vaudeville circuit. The says. Young girls often took dance Built in 1949 by the W.E. Caldwell abandoned theatre. I looked in the the manager/director of the theatre. the Wildey projectionist by night,” building was also used as a meeting lessons when the boxing ring Company for the G. S. Suppiger windows and said ‘This isn’t right. It Canal brought his experience as a Joan Evers remembers. “My father’s hall for the Independent Order of was removed. catsup bottling plant in the city, needs to be saved for the future’,” comedy club manager and talent true love was this theatre and as Oddfellows. Almost immediately after the massive structure was a “What people don’t realize about Walker remembers. “My journey with booker to Edwardsville, snagging soon as I was big enough, I was the theatre opened, it was upgraded childhood landmark for Gassman, the Wildey is at one time it had two the theatre started that night.” top-notch live performers including allowed to run everywhere I wanted to provide a movable screen and a Collinsville native. to at the Wildey.” That meant Evers balconies and could hold almost 1,000 bands, comedians and singers. He projection booth for silent films. It was Walker spearheaded a fundraising “When we were kids, the catsup mingled with stars and workers alike people,” Scott Evers, Joan’s youngest also turned the two upper level enhanced again to allow for “talking effort alongside Joan Evers to bottle was here and it was a part throughout the building. She also son, notes. “It even had side boxes for rooms into private event space which movies” and then remodeled in 1937 purchase the building and fund much of our growing up. It was really developed an intimate knowledge of ticket holders. As a kid, I came here all is highly prized for receptions and replacing the Victorian décor with an needed renovations. awesome,” he remembers. Located the theatre and what it took to keep the time for movies. It was such a vital community events. art deco styling. right next to the plant that bottled it running. spot for such a long time.”

81 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 82 Brooks old original Rich & Tangy ARISTON CAFÉ “A restaurant is a restaurant is a says he realized that being part of a Catsup, the structure was really a LITCHFIELD restaurant,” Law says with a chuckle. restaurant was his passion. Law and touchstone for the city. Once the “We thought we would come in the other co-owners decided they plant closed in the early 1960s, the When Will Law became co-owner and run a restaurant. We thought it wanted to carry on the history of the water tower began to show its age of the Ariston Café in Litchfield would be super simple … but the restaurant and even create a little and lack of care. in 2018, he thought he was just Ariston isn’t a restaurant. It’s an iconic history of their own. So they took a buying a restaurant. Turns out he When Judy Demoisey, known now as destination not only for locals but for leap and bought the Ariston. was part owner of a legend. people around the world.” the Catsup Bottle Lady, first saw the “I didn’t really know much about rusty landmark in the early 1990’s she Dressed in neon lights, the yellow Route 66 before the Ariston,” Law says. was struck by its architecture and, of brick building that houses the Ariston “Now Route 66 is our life. Thousands course, its stature. has achieved fame as one of the oldest of people travel this road each day and “It was kind of like looking at the Eiffel American restaurants on the Mother I am trying to learn the history and Tower and knowing where you are. Road of Route 66. It opened in 1924 become a storyteller for the road.” in Carlinville on Illinois Route 4. The When you see the Catsup Bottle, you A wide range of classic entrees original building was moved to the know you are in Collinsville,” she says. fill the Ariston menu from classic Route 66 alignment in Litchfield in “It is a riveted steel water tower and hamburgers to steaks and spaghetti. 1935 where it remains 85 years later. they don’t even make those anymore. Souvenirs of Route 66 are also The cap of the structure alone is Law had available at the restaurant. 8-feet across.” worked for Since then, the Catsup Bottle has But what Law has discovered is it’s Demoisy learned the structure was more than become a global phenomenon not so much the food that draws going to be demolished and decided 25 years at attracting travelers from around the people in as much as it is Route 66, its she couldn’t let that happen. She Litchfield’s U.S. and world. stories and souvenirs. joined a group of 14 community Maverick Steak volunteers who spent two years “It really has taken on a life of its House and “We thought we would serve raising funds to save the landmark. own,” Gassman says. took some time burgers and cook steaks but what we discovered is everyone who walks “I just couldn’t believe it was just Nearly every Route 66 itinerary off to catch his in here wants a story, wants the sitting there. It was this piece of art includes a stop at the Catsup Bottle, breath from history. And you never know who is in the middle of a two lane road,” even though it’s location isn’t the chaos of going to walk through the door. It she says. precisely on the Mother Road. It the restaurant industry. When could be someone from Australia on The group raised $80,000 over a two misses by about two blocks. he heard that their honeymoon along Route 66. Or year period, $5 at a time, Demoisy “All roads lead to Collinsville and the the owners Europeans … it’s cool how so in love says and were then able to restore Catsup Bottle,” Gassman jokes. “Route of the Ariston Europeans are with Route 66. It’s neat the structure. It became recognized 66, the National Road, and the Great were ready to see and to hear their stories and as a local landmark and in 2002 was River Road all go through the city.” to retire, he their passion for the road.” placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

MEET THE REST OF OUR LOCAL LEGENDS:

Mac Lenhardt of Mac’s Downtown Fred & Sherri Whitworth of Jan & Joe DeSherlia of Grafton Harbor Ben & Trudi Allen of The Loading Dock Ann Badasch of My Just Desserts Felicia Breen & Chad Nelson Josephine’s Tea Room & Gift Shops of Mississippi Mud Pottery

83 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 84 For more information on these and other events, signature events go to RiversandRoutes.com/events

EVERYONE ENJOYS A GREAT CELEBRATION. EDWARDSVILLE ART FAIR From eagles to horseradish, barbeque to peaches, rivers to roads, JULY AUGUST National and regional artists display there is no end to the variety of signature events and celebrations ALTON FIREWORKS PEACH FESTIVAL AT PERE their work in City Park for three held across the Great Rivers & Routes region. SPECTACULAR MARQUETTE LODGE days during this end of summer PLAN A WEEKEND ESCAPE AROUND THESE FESTIVALS AND FAIRS: Independence Day comes early in Peaches are the toast of the town in extravaganza. The juried show features Alton when fireworks explode over the summer months in Madison, Jersey the work of 100 artists along with great the Mississippi River on July 3. A full- and Calhoun counties. So why not food and refreshments. scale celebration is held on the city’s have a Peach Festival? Pere Marquette riverfront including live music, food Lodge hosts the event which features OCTOBER JANUARY FEBRUARY vendors and more. A grand fireworks all things peach-related, peach display takes place at dark. pit-pitching contests and more. WORDI GRAS You’ve heard of Mardi Gras. Well, EDWARDSVILLE ROTARY welcome to Wordi Gras, the Village CRITERIUM FESTIVAL of Worden’s redneck take on the The streets of Downtown Edwardsville famous New Orleans celebration. A INTERNATIONAL becomes a high speed racetrack for parade winds through the small town bicyclists. Enjoy an afternoon of high HORSERADISH FESTIVAL streets featuring, naturally, redneck- speed bicycle races complemented styled floats and trucks. Enjoy food Did you know that horseradish is a with foot races, free kid’s races and an and refreshments. The parade is 3,000-year-old plant that has been art tent for kids. There is a Food Zone appropriate for all ages, but the 21 and used as a treatment for rheumatism as featuring food from local restaurants over crowd will enjoy the live music at well as a flavoring for food? This potent JERSEY COUNTY FAIR and an open container perimeter. local bars later. and mysterious root is celebrated in For over 150 years, Jersey County Collinsville, arguably the Horseradish residents have celebrated farm life SEPTEMBER MAY Capital of the World, during a two day with the Jersey County Fair. Today MISSISSIPPI festival on the streets of its Uptown the fair features a rodeo, tractor pull, ELSAH SPRING FESTIVAL EARTHTONES FESTIVAL GRAFTON RENDEZVOUS district. Horseradish ice cream, demolition derby, midway carnival The historic Village of Elsah celebrates horseradish flavored vodka and more and, of course, livestock, baked goods Celebrate the Mississippi River through History comes to life on the banks the return of Spring to the region with are on the menu along with live music, and more. art, music and conservation on the of the Illinois River when the annual its annual spring festival. Live music, crafts and kids activities. streets of downtown Alton during this Grafton Rendezvous sets up camp. craft and food vendors are on tap SMOKIN’ ON MAIN annual festival. Live music, food, drinks Fur traders tents, Native American during this two day event. GLEN CARBON HOMECOMING teepees, archery demonstrations, It’s barbeque time on the streets of and craft vendors. tomahawk and knife throwing and a Father’s Day weekend is homecoming Uptown Collinsville when Code 3 JUNE trading camp are part of the fun. weekend in Glen Carbon. Enjoy carnival Spices holds its annual Smokin’ on Main ALTON AUDUBON rides, food and refreshments during BBQ contest and festival. Grillers from NOVEMBER EAGLE ICE FESTIVAL this two day, small town festival. throughout the country vie for top The first Saturday in January is a barbeque honors. And then the party celebration of the return of American really begins when festival goers begin Bald Eagles to their winter homes in sampling the food. the region. The free festival is held jointly at the Alton Visitor Center, 200 Piasa St., Alton and the Audubon ITALIAN FESTIVAL Center at Riverlands, 301 Riverlands The city’s Italian heritage comes to Way, West Alton. See American Bald life on the streets of Uptown Eagles up close and personal, enjoy Collinsville for two days every live ice carving and wood carving, September. The family friendly event games and eagle hot spot tours. It’s includes a pageant for the title of the relatively mild winter temperatures Mr. and Miss Italian Fest, a Bocce Ball and the open waters of the Mississippi, CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND EDWARDSVILLE Tournament, live music, Italian food, Illinois and Missouri rivers that draw drinks and more. More than 4 million holiday lights ROUTE 66 FESTIVAL the eagles from Minnesota and Canada transform Alton’s Rock Spring Park into to the region from late December Celebrate all things Route 66 related a Christmas Wonderland from the day through mid-March. at this all day festival held in City Park. after Thanksgiving through the end of This free event includes live music, December. Discover the holiday spirit children’s activities, an art show, food during a drive through the park which vendors, beer tent and more. is open every night.

85 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 86 escape THE ORDINARY

Just about anyone can cook a burger or fries. But what about a Japanese pancake or crispy deviled eggs? Ever want to tantalize your taste buds with snoots or fried kool-aid? STEP OUTSIDE THE BOX AND TRY SOME OF THESE UNUSUAL FOODS THAT HAVE BECOME LOCAL FAVORITES AT AREA RESTAURANTS.

SNOOTS > Add a snoot to your JAPANESE PANCAKE > Order GUAC BITES > There’s nothing ON order of hot wings and fries. Lovett’s the Japanese Pancake appetizer quite as addictive as the Guac Bites Soul Food, 2512 College Ave., Alton, when dining at Cleveland-Heath, at Bluff City Grill, 424 E. Broadway, exploded onto the local restaurant 106 N. Main St., Edwardsville, and you Alton. The fresh, spicy guacamole IT scene with its rare blend of soul won’t be disappointed. The appetizer is wrapped in a won ton and fried feast food, fried food and desserts. And, blends wild caught shrimp, bacon, until it’s golden brown. Served of course, its snoots. Snoots, for the cabbage, Kewpie mayo, barbeque, with your choice of Cajun ranch WHEN IT’S TIME TO EAT THERE IS NO BETTER uninitiated, aren’t really the nose green onion and bonito flakes into or sweet chili sauce. PLACE TO DISCOVER THE TANG OF NEW of the pig as most people imagine. a hot, crispy food that continues to BACON POTATO PIZZA > FLAVORS, CLASSIC FAVORITES AND JUST Instead, it is the bridge of the pig’s cook, and yes, tremble like a freshly Creativity and originality require nose, prized for its tenderness and caught fish at the table. DOWN RIGHT UNUSUAL MEALS THAN IN great amounts of imagination and the flavor. Lovett’s cuts the snoot into THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION OF chefs at Peel Wood Fired Pizza, 921 fine pieces and adds their own sauce BIG ELWOOD ON A STICK > Fast Eddie’s Bon Air, 1530 E. 4th St., S. Arbor Vitae, Edwardsville, have that SOUTHWEST ILLINOIS. which makes this entrée stand out Alton, is world famous for serving in bucket loads. Unusual blends of from the crowd. Lovett’s fries pickles, Locally owned and operated restaurants, many the coldest beer in town and cheap ingredients are added to crispy pizza corn on the cob, oreos and twinkies. food. And the food includes The crusts on an almost weekly basis. A in business for five decades or more, serve up They also fry kool-aid which has Big Elwood on a Stick, a marinated menu staple thoughout is the Bacon their versions of comfort food and cutting edge become a local favorite. They look tenderloin wrapped with peppers. Potato Pizza which uses fingerling cuisine. From the velvety texture of chicken salad like donut balls and taste like your The cash-only establishment is open potatoes, cheddar, parmesan cream, sandwiches, the deeply satisfying crunch of secret childhood, co-owner Brandon only to those 21 and over. fresh chives and sour cream. And, of recipe fried chicken and the smooth blend of beer Lovett says. and bacon into a special sauce, take your pick of course, bacon. CRISPY DEVILED EGGS > DOGGIE MENU > Just to prove delightful breakfast, lunch and dinner meals that your four-legged best bud Who knew you could fry up deviled BACON FAT POPCORN > served up daily. deserves to eat well, Who Dat’s It’s pretty simple really: pop some eggs? The cooks at The Tangled Southern Food, 118 E. Main St., popcorn, add bacon, sea salt Vine Restaurant, 531 S. West St., Collinsville, has a menu just for dogs. and pepper and serve it up as an Carlinville, have perfected their crispy Order a Soup Sucker (chicken broth, appetizer. That’s what the folks at deviled egg appetizers combining peas and carrots frozen on a milk Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, the crunch of fried food with the bone), a Barkin Bowl entrée and top it 115 E. Clay St., Collinsville did and it velvety smooth texture of the egg. off with a Beef Cocktail. has become a staple on their menu. Bet you can’t eat just one.

87 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 88 FEAST ON IT

PUT AN EGG ON IT STEAK & PASTA Everything is better with an egg, Find the perfect pasta and right? That’s the idea behind the deliciously tender steaks at a porterhouse pork chop topped with variety of different restaurants. a sunny side up egg at Edwardsville’s 1818 Chophouse prides Cleveland-Heath. The restaurant, itself on its 30-day wet aged a James Beard finalist two years in a steaks and Mike Shannon's PUT A row, is all about comfort food. From Grill, has both steaks and its grass-fed beef burger to Coq Au burgers on its menu. Both Vin and Vegetable Curry entrees, the are located in Edwardsville. FORK food is consistently top-notch. Make Tony’s Restaurant in Alton sure you try dessert. Old fashioned has been serving up a famous IN IT cherry pie and with milk Pepperloin Steak for over 60 jam are favorites. years. Porter’s Steakhouse There’s a certain sense of comfort One of the most popular burgers at in Collinsville, known for its that comes with the first bite Sloan’s Pub House in Collinsville steaks, has a casually chic atmosphere for diners. The of a piece of hot, juicy, freshly is the Sloan's House Burger. A thick steakhouse has been named fried chicken. The crunch of the ½ pound beef patty is topped with one of the Top 100 Steakhouses golden brown skin. The pungent American cheese, lettuce, onion and a fried egg. Sloan’s is also famous for in America. For 20 years, Jeff Carver owner since 2014. Owner Doc Richardson explosion of flavor from the co- its Downtown Gooey Burger which For plates piled high with pasta of Carver’s Southern BBQ, 2716 uses a slow smoke competition-style mingling of juice, meat, oil and HOP ON includes white cheddar cheese dripping with homemade spices. It’s that, “Oh yes. That’s Grovelin St., Godfrey has slow cooking process to perfect his meats. sauce, mild cheddar cheese and sauce and topped with meat BOARD THE cooked chicken, pork and beef Doc’s signature menu item is a twist What I’m Talking About” moment. onion straws. and cheese, both Bella Milano over a sweet hickory fire in a wood on a classic, a slow smoked sliced Make your escape and Who knew creating a great burger in Edwardsville and Mungo’s burning pit behind the restaurant. brisket. Treat yourself to the slow- BBQ TRAIN discover a culinary comfort was a craft? The chef at Roper’s Italian Eatery in Collinsville are The secret to Carver’s smoked burnt ends and the pork food scene in Madison, Macoupin, Regal Beagle in Godfrey does. The famous for their Italian entrees. 1880 Pizza Pasta House in IT STARTS WITH THE SMELL. success lies in hand cutting the steak which sell out quickly. Jersey, Calhoun, Montgomery signature, ‘over the top’ Hangover Jerseyville has pizza, pasta You know … that sweet aroma meat, seasoning with a dry rub Big Boys Q, 301 E. Broadway, Alton, and Greene counties in Burger is a one-of-a-kind treat with and sandwiches. of wood smoke mingling with the and cooking each meat to Carver’s blends the tang of barbecue with a southwest Illinois. a beef patty, ham, bacon, cheddar sizzling scent of chicken, pork or required tenderness. All of the meats soul food bite. From burgers topped cheese, Swiss cheese and a sunny For a new farm-to-table side up egg. Enjoy it on a toasted culinary experience, visit the beef on the grill. The whiff of are cooked without sauce. Carver’s with burnt ends, a pulled pork philly pretzel bun. It’s tough to eat it all at newly opened Moussalli’s barbecued meat is enough to specialty is hickory smoked pulled cheesesteak sandwich, or mac and pork which is always served with one sitting so be prepared to take Prime. Located on five acres on make your mouth begin to water meat, owner Ron Boles delights home a doggie bag. the outskirts of Edwardsville, sauce on the side. Stop in and try and intoxicate your senses. in creating one-of-a-kind custom the restaurant serves up angus the St. Louis Ribs, naked or dipped, dishes. Be sure to take your meal FRY IT UP The search for the perfect barbecued beef steaks, seafood and more. or sample it all with the Sampler with a side of sweet potatoes, collard Home cooked fried chicken is meal really starts with the aroma of platter. Carver’s is a favorite with greens or southern fried potatoes. considered a major comfort food. DESSERTS meat smoked “low n slow.” local residents and consistently wins And area restaurants have perfected It shouldn’t be all about the For a more laid back barbecue Creating the perfect barbecue has reader’s choice awards. the golden, crispy and slightly greasy desserts, but sometimes … experience head over to the become a skilled craft. Think of it entrée. Take a trip to Pere Marquette well it just is. Order dessert first Winner of the National Barbeque Hawg Pit, 821 W. Main St., Grafton, as Barbecue-ology. No one knows Lodge and Conference Center in at Alton’s My Just Desserts, News’ 2019 Best of the Best barbeque for some ‘cue beside the Illinois that better than the owners of area Grafton for the famous fried chicken a soup, salad and sandwich restaurants in America, Doc’s River. This open air restaurant is dinner. Served family-style with restaurants that specialize in these restaurant, that specializes in Smokehouse, 6108 Shoger Dr., Suite a favorite stop for motorcyclists potatoes, vegetables and rolls, there’s homemade pies, brownies slow cooked meats … and the D, Edwardsville, has been serving up and car clubs. Ribs, pulled pork no doubt the crispy golden chicken and cheesecakes. Josephine’s sauces that make the food explode its signature sauces, rubs and meat sandwiches and smoked chicken is the star of the show. Castelli’s Tea Room and Gift Shop in with flavor. breasts top the menu. Restaurant at 255 in Alton has Godfrey specializes in hearty served up its crunchy on the outside, lunch fare. But leave room for tender on the inside fried chicken the desserts created daily in the MORE BARBECUE STOPS: Red Top Barbeque and Chili • 605 Vandalia St. • Collinsville; Bandana’s Bar-B-Que • for nearly 80 years. Chicken is king kitchen. Rural Grantfork is home at Ravanelli’s in Collinsville. Daily 4 Commerce Dr. • Collinsville; D.J.’s Pub and Grill • 117 W. Prairie • Jerseyville; Sugarfire Smoke House • 2323 Plum St. • to Diamond Mineral Springs specials feature variations of fried and its foot high banana, Edwardsville; Jackson’s Fox & Hound BBQ • 113 W. Main St. • Hettick; Fire-N-Smoke Wood Fired Kitchen • 914 Edwardsville Rd. • chicken paired with fried cod, shrimp, chocolate, coconut crème and Troy; Fire-N-Smoke Wood Fired Kitchen and Frozen Custard • 1800 Vaughn Rd. • Wood River. pasta and Italian Beef. lemon meringue pies.

89 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 90 FEAST ON IT TRAVEL TIP: For a complete list of local and sweet shops, go to: RiversandRoutes.com Check out more secret-recipe dishes including the fried chicken at Castelli’s at Shhhhh… 255 and the Pepperloin Steak at Tony’s Restaurant, both in Alton. IT’S A SECRET SWEET TREAT TRAIL

ASK ANY RESTAURANT OWNER FOR THE RECIPE sauce. We use high end ingredients in everything we do. IMAGINE BITING IN TO A CRUNCHY ON THE OUTSIDE, FOR A SAUCE OR DISH AND THEY WILL LIKELY JUST Everything is made from scratch. That’s what sets us apart.” VELVETY SMOOTH ON THE INSIDE CRÈME HORN. SMILE AND SAY, “IT’S A SECRET.” Guarino says the Bella Milano restaurant, which opened in Can you taste the powdered sugar and rich vanilla flavors? Or WEEKENDS = BRUNCH 2003, has been successful in part due to the food but also maybe your taste buds lean more towards the just cooked yeasty WEEKENDS WERE MADE FOR Area restaurants closely guard the recipes for their salad because of the people who work at the restaurant. flavors of a glazed donut. There are dozens of options in the Great LEISURELY MORNINGS AND dressings, pasta meat sauces, fried chicken, grilled steaks Rivers & Routes region to satisfy any sweet tooth. and egg rolls. It is, after all, what keeps them special. “We strive to be better each day and we instill that in our THE MOST IMPORTANT MEAL staff. We have a nice family atmosphere at the restaurant Visit Kruta Bakery in Collinsville for donuts, pastries, pies and more baked OF THE DAY – BRUNCH. “You can’t come to Bella Milano without having our salad,” where you can come on a first date or just hang out with the Tom Guarino, co-owner of the popular Edwardsville Italian bartender. We care about the food but we also make friends from family held Eastern European recipes. Kruta’s has been satisfying yens Start your Saturday with friends restaurant says. “It’s what we are best known for.” The in the restaurant,” he says. for sweet treats in the region for over 100 years and has been named an and a tribute to Elvis Presley at dressing is sought after by diners and Guarino won’t release Illinois Maker. Duke Bakery in Alton has been baking up its cookies, pies, The Cozy Café in Hillsboro makes world-famous egg rolls Alton’s State Street Market’s details of its ingredients. “Our dressing is a sweet Italian cakes and oh so wonderful glazed donuts for over 40 years. For a cinnamon from scratch daily. In fact, owner and chef Lum Clayton makes brunch. Feast on a Hunka Hunka vinaigrette. It blends perfectly with the cheese and prosciutto roll that tastes like it came from Grandma’s kitchen, head over to The Cookie Burnin Love French toast meal or in the salad. It has its own flavor,” he adds. 30 dozen egg rolls daily. Factory in Alton Square Mall. And pick up a dozen melt-in-your mouth butter crunch on a basket of bacon. At “I make them from a Vietnamese recipe that has been passed Another sought after recipe is Bella’s Sicilian-style sweet meat cookies at the same time. Abigail's Tap Room in Grafton, sauce used in a number of the entrees. Tempt your tastebuds down in my family for years,” he says. “Basically I use a 50-50 Award-winning cupcakes topped with made-from-scratch buttercream frosting breakfast takes center stage on with the Pasta Three Way, or the ratio for them: 50 percent meat and 50 percent cabbage. The seasoning is what makes them special.” highlight a visit to Edwardsville’s The Cup. Try a cakewich, gooey butter cake, the weekends with fresh from the Baked Mostaccioli and you will be hooked. farm eggs, bacon and more. Mac’s And that’s the secret he won’t divulge: what goes into cake in a cup or a buttercup – a miniature sweet treat. Visit A Little Taste of “We pay close attention to the ingredients we use,” Guarino Downtown in Alton is known for the seasoning. “I get a lot of requests to have my egg rolls Heaven Bakery in Edwardsville for treats that taste like they came out of notes. “We use Altacucina tomatoes in our house made meat its breakfast on Saturdays and shipped to Florida and Texas but I don’t do it,” Clayton says. Grandma’s kitchen. The Chef’s Shoppe, also located in Edwardsville, can satisfy that need for sweet yet salty craving with its flavored popcorn. Enjoy Sunday brunch. Sweet and savory candy coated, caramel or salty and buttery style corn. Poputopia in Alton is or traditional, 1818 Chophouse another salty, yet sweet, stop for popcorn. in downtown Edwardsville has a range of brunch delights. Be sure Return to your childhood with vintage treats at local candy stores. Sherry’s to try the Crab Cake Benedict. Snacks in downtown Edwardsville has jars and jars loaded with taffy and old fashioned candy. The Pink Elephant Antique Mall on Route 66 in Livingston also has a full-fledged candy shop attached with creamy homemade fudge and For breakfast and brunch options, vintage candies that sell by the pound. While in Grafton, be sure to stop at the go to: RiversandRoutes.com Grafton Fudge & Ice Cream Shop for fudge, hand dipped ice cream and more.

Enjoy your get-away and leave the Rest to us!

Collinsville Collinsville 8 Commerce Drive Collinsville 12 Commerce Drive 618-477-8946 7 Commerce Drive 618-803-4032 618-346-4400

91 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 92 FEAST ON IT

CELEBRATE THE TASTES OF THE REGION DURING RESTAURANT WEEK EVENTS IN LOCAL CUISINE ALTON, COLLINSVILLE AND EDWARDSVILLE. Locally owned and operated restaurants in the celebrate participating communities showcase their signature fare with lunch and dinner fixed price specials.

ALTON A new initiative highlighting RESTAURANT the growing culinary landscape in Edwardsville is underway. WEEK “Edwardsville – A Foodie Kind of Town” promotes the delicious 2020 destinations and trendy menu creations developed in the city. ALTON RESTAURANT WEEK COLLINSVILLE RESTAURANT ALL STAR RESTAURANT SAVOR – EDWARDSVILLE Edwardsville, located just 30 minutes JAN. 17 - 26 WEEK • FEB. 28 – MARCH 8 WEEK • JULY 10 - 19 TBA from St. Louis, has become a vibrant Dig in to some great comfort food Celebrate Leap Year with the Hit a homerun during All Star Each September, Edwardsville’s destination for food connoisseurs in January during the annual Alton first-ever Collinsville Restaurant Restaurant Week held in Alton, trendy culinary scene is spotlighted EDWARDSVILLE over the last decade. With James Restaurant Week. More than 23 Week. Six restaurants will showcase Grafton, Godfrey, Bethalto and East with the annual SAVOR Restaurant A FOODIE Beard finalist restaurants like restaurants throughout Alton, their lunch and dinner menus Alton. The baseball-themed 10 day Week. The 10-day event salutes the KIND OF TOWN Cleveland-Heath, and popular Godfrey, Grafton, Bethalto and East with specials entrees. Lunch is $10 dine out includes fixed price lunch restauranteurs, cuisine and diners of favorites Bella Milano, Peel Wood Alton feature the best of their menus and dinners are $25 per person. and dinner specials. More than 20 the area. Fixed price breakfast, lunch Fired Pizza, Chava’s Mexican with $10 lunch and $25 (or two can Participating restaurants include: restaurants throughout the area and dinner specials are available at For more information Restaurant and Doc’s Smokehouse, dine for $25) dinner specials. Be sure Mungo’s Italian Eatery, Old Herald participate each year. Be sure to participating restaurants. Enjoy a on Edwardsville and the variety of dining options is rapidly to collect the commemorative pint Brewery & Distillery, Carisilos Mexican collect the commemorative pint meal at a favorite restaurant or try its restaurants, go to: expanding with the addition of Thai, glass special when you bring your Restaurant, Friday’s South, Fazzi’s and glass special when you bring your out a new spot. RiversandRoutes.com Asian, Fusion and more each year. Restaurant Week receipt to the Alton Sloan’s Pub House. Restaurant Week receipt to the Alton Visitor Center. Glasses are available Visitor Center. Glasses are available while supplies last. while supplies last.

102 WEST 9TH ST. DOWNTOWN ALTON, ILLINOIS VOTED THE BEST STEAK OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 11 A.M. – 4 P.M. FRESH DAILY! SOUPS & SALADS SANDWICHES HOMEMADE PIES. 31 E. BROADWAY, ALTON 618-462-5881 618-462-8384 WWW.MYJUSTDESSERTS.COM TONYSRESTAURANT.COM

93 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 94 FEAST ON IT delicious DESTINATIONS ASIAN. ITALIAN. IRISH. GREEK. SOUL FOOD. CLASSIC AMERICANA. Offering a diverse menu, a YOU NAME IT, THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION HAS IT WHEN IT COMES TO GREAT DINING. relaxing lounge & sports bar. Our banquet hall seats over 400 guests.

STATE STREET MARKET 208 State St. • Alton • (618) 462-8800 Statestreetmarketofalton.com CASTELLI’S AT 255 GREAT RIVERS TAP & GRILL MORRISON’S IRISH PUB Relax in the New Orleans-inspired outdoor 3400 Fosterburg Rd. • Alton 3559-B College Ave. • Alton (618) 462-1220 200 State St. • Alton • (618) 433-8900 courtyard with a soup, salad or made (618) 462-4620 • Castellis255.com Greatriverstapandgrill.com Morrisonirishpub.com from scratch sandwich or quiche. Stop by Secret recipe fried chicken, made-from- Enjoy tasty dishes like the cornmeal dusted Everyone is a little bit Irish at this family for Saturday brunch or lunch and dinner scratch toasted ravioli and more highlight and fried fish , house made soft owned and operated pub/restaurant. throughout the week. the menu of the family-owned and pretzels and the mouthwatering Big Cheese Eat, drink and sing with your favorite pint operated restaurant that has been in sandwich. Lunch and dinner served daily. of Guinness or Irish whiskey paired with business for over 80 years. authentic Irish fare.

THE LOADING DOCK 401 Front St. • Grafton • (618) 786-3494 Voted One of the Top Steakhouses in the USA Graftonloadingdock.com JOHNSON’S CORNER RESTAURANT BELLA MILANO 2000 State St. • Alton • (618) 465-5640 MY JUST DESSERTS Sip your favorite drink, enjoy a serving 1063 S. State Route 157 • Edwardsville Johnsonscorneralton.com 31 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 462-5881 of Dock Salsa and let the waters of the (618) 659-2100 • Bellamilanos.com Myjustdessertsalton.weebly.com Mississippi River take your cares away at A neighborhood restaurant famous for its this riverfront restaurant/bar. Made from scratch, classic Italian entrees pork tenderloin, wood fired pizzas, salads Downright famous for its homemade pies, highlight any visit to Bella Milano. Located and cheese dip, find a new favorite here. ½ pound chicken salad sandwiches and Toll Thursdays are near Edwardsville hotels and Southern Open daily. House Brownies, the menu changes daily PoThursdaysrter’s is a classical steakhouse are Illinois University Edwardsville. Private based on the daily cravings of the kitchen. Primewith a seasonal Rib menu,Night extensive at dining rooms available for special events. Homespun and hearty atmosphere. Prime Rib Night at Powinerter list,’s casually Steakh chic atmosphereouse. A classicalPoandrter steakhouse amazing’s S diningteakh with aoptions. seasonalous menu,e. A classical steakhouse with a seasonal menu, extensive wine list, casually chic atmosphere and extensive wine list, casually chic atmosphere and THE WINERY AT AERIES RESORT juicy prime rib special with live music 600 Timber Ridge Dr. • Grafton juicy prime rib special with live music (618) 786-7477 • Aeriesview.com every Thursday night. JOURNEY STEAKHOUSE AT every Thursday night. ARGOSY CASINO ALTON Breathe in the views from 300 feet above BLUFF CITY GRILL OLD BAKERY BEER COMPANY the Mississippi River while enjoying a 424 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 433-8288 1 Piasa • Alton • (800) 711-4263 400 Landmarks Blvd. • Alton • (618) 463-1470 menu designed with the winery’s private Bluffcitygrillalton.com Argosyalton.com Oldbakerybeer.com label wines in mind. Sandwiches, soups, Enjoy a relaxed, casual dining experience in Enjoy views of the Mississippi River and Family-friendly restaurant and bar with salads and small plate meals available for Alton’s iconic Clark Bridge while dining on downtown Alton with a menu that ranges seasonally-rotating sandwiches, salads and lunch and dinner. from salads and sandwiches to steaks and this docked riverboat restaurant. Steaks, soups designed to pair with the brewery’s pasta. Watch your favorite game on the 14 seafood, specialty appetizers and more are organic beer. Daily food specials and the TV’s in the lounge & sports bar. available including an extensive wine list. menu has vegan and gluten-free options.

1000 EASTPORT PLAZA DRIVE | COLLINSVILLE, ILLINOIS | 618.345.2800 | PORTERSCOLLINSVILLE.COM

1000 Eastport Plaza Drive | Collinsville, Illinois |618.345.2800 | Por tersCollinsville.com TONY’S RESTAURANT 102 W. 9th St. • Alton • (618) 462-8384 Tony’srestaurant.com GRAFTON WINERY & BREWHAUS PERE MARQUETTE 300 W. Main St. • Grafton • (618) 786-3001 LODGE RESTAURANT Considered the region’s original Pasta Thegraftonwinery.com 13653 Lodge Blvd. • Grafton House, Tony’s Restaurant has served its (618) 786-2331 • Pmlodge.net Pair a glass of award-winning wine with famous pasta and Pepperloin Steaks for 1000 Eastport Plaza Drive | Collinsville, Illinois over 65 years. Family recipe pasta, Italian spectacular views of the Mississippi River Famous for its family-style fried chicken 100061 Eastport8.345.2800 Plaza | PoDrivertersCollinsville.com | Collinsville, Illinois and a full menu ranging from appetizers to dinners, the restaurant, part of the historic dressing and more highlight the menu. salads, Grafton Burgers and more. Pere Marquette Lodge, also has seasonal 618.345.2800 | PortersCollinsville.com weekend brunch specials and more.

95 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 96 BATCHTOWN: Cedar Hill Resort, Old Chuckwagon, Bob Evans, Cafè Agape Eatz, Cleveland-Heath, Crushed Red, & Grill, China Garden, Lumpy's Bar and GRANTFORK: Diamond Mineral Springs FEAST ON IT Express, Carisilos Mexican Restaurant, Crystal Garden Banquet & Event Center, Grill, Mi Casita, Miner's Family Restaurant, Fill-Inn Station HAMEL: Route 66 Creamery, The Other China Lin Restaurant, Colton's Steak House Dewey's Pizza, Doc's Smokehouse & Rocco's Italian Pizzeria BENLD: JoDanni's Amore, Pamey's Place On The Hill, Weezy's Route 66 Bar & Grill, Denny's, Fazzi's Bar & Grill, Friday's Catering, EdgeWild Edwardsville, Edison's RESTAURANT LISTING BY CITY Chill N Grill GIRARD: Doc's Soda Fountain & Grill South, Horseshoe Lounge & Restaurant, Entertainment Complex, El Maguey, ALTON: 3rd Chute II, Alton Sports Tap, BETHALTO: Eagle's Nest Restaurant, Hurricane's Bar & Grill, Joe's Pizza and Foundry Public House, Gilliganz Bar and GLEN CARBON: Applebee's HARDIN: Hardin Drive In, Illinois Applebee's, Big Boys Q, Bluff City Grill, El Mezcal, Geno's 140 Club, Imo's Pizza, Pasta, Lottie's Cafè, McDill's Irish Pub, Grill, Global Brew Tap Room, Gulf Shores Neighborhood Grill, Denny's, IHOP, Old Riverdock Restaurant, Straight Home Bossanova Restaurant & Lounge, Brown Laux Brickhouse Grille, New China Buffet, Mungo's Italian Eatery, New China, Old Restaurant & Grill, Hotshots Sports Towne Tavern, The Cabin at Judy Creek, Bar & Grill Bag Bistro, Captain's Table Buffet - Argosy Bar & Grill, Imo's Pizza, Joe's Pizza and Weeping Willow Tea Room, Wooden Roma's Pizza Herald Brewery & Distillery, Peking Garden, Jackson's Fox & Hound BBQ Pasta, Kyoto Sushi Steakhouse, La Casa HETTICK: Casino Alton, Castelli's Restaurant at 255, Porter's Steakhouse, Ramon's El Dorado Nickel Pub & Grill BRUSSELS: AJ's Bar & Grill, Mexicana, La Fonda Mexican Restaurant, HARTFORD: R.J.'s Place CC's Icees Galore, Chez Marilyn, China Restaurant, Ravanelli's, Ruby Tuesday, Wittmond's Restaurant McAlister's Deli, Mike Shannon's Grill, GODFREY: Alton-Wood River King, Chinese Buffet, Chubby's Bar & Grill, Sloan's Pub House, Spring Garden Family HILLSBORO: Canton Inn, China MOD Pizza, Moussalli's Prime, Mr. Curry's Sportsmen's Club, Bakers & Hale, Carver's Cookie Factory Bakery & Cafe, Copper HILL: Sage House, Wok, Cozy Cafe, Gianni's Pizza & Italian Restaurant, St. Louis Bread Company, The India Restaurant, Nori Sushi & Japanese Southern-Style BBQ, China Wok, Clifton Bar at State Street Market, Decaro's, Don Village Drive-In Ristorante, Half Time Bar & Grill, Red Bar & Grill, Waffle House, Who Dat's, Grill, North Main Diner, Obar Cafe, Oriental Country Inn & Bake Shop, El Mezcal, & Penny's, Fast Eddie's Bon Air, Frank's, Abella's Restaurant, Hillsboro Garden Family Restaurant, CARLINVILLE: Zapata's Mexican Restaurant Spoon, Panera/St. Louis Bread Co., Godfrey Meat Market, Imo's Pizza, Joe's G-B Grill, Gentelin's on Broadway, Golden Carlinville Plaza Cafè, Crabby's Supper Pantera's Pizza, Peel Wood Fired Pizza, Pizza & Pasta, Josephine's Tea Room Lomas del Sol, Main Dish, Mulligan's Corral, Great Rivers Tap & Grill, Hops COTTAGE HILLS: Cottage Hills Bar, Club, Little Italy's Pizzeria, Nick's Pizza, Queen's Cuisine Tea Room, and Gift Shops, Lockhaven Golf Club & Lakeside Restaurant House - Argosy Casino Alton, International Grill & Market, Doc Holliday's Saloon & Panda Chinese Restaurant, Reno's Italian Gourmet Burgers, Sacred Grounds Cafè, Banquet Facility, Roper's Regal Beagle, IRVING: Grandma's Kitchen House of Pancakes, Joe K's Family Steakhouse, Polly's Restaurant, Pizzeria & Ristorante, Sol De Mexico, Sgt. Pepper's Cafè, Shangri-La, Stagger Round Table, Shang Hai House Chinese Restaurant, Johnson's Corner Restaurant, The Pork Barrel JERSEYVILLE: 1880 Pizza Pasta House, Tangled Vine Restaurant & Lounge, Inn Again, Sugarfire Smoke House - Food, Sunset Bar & Grill, Tony's Ranch Journey - Argosy Casino Alton, Lovett's Canton Restaurant, Casa Tequila, Dj's Pub Taylor's Mexican Chili Parlor, The Uptown DORSEY: Prairie Inn Bar & Grill Edwardsville, Sugo's Spaghetteria, Taj House Restaurant & Lounge Soul Food, Mac's Downtown, Morrison's Tavern, The Wood Duck Bar & Grill Indian Cuisine, Taqueria Z, Teaspoon Café, & Grill, Fran & Marilyn's, George's Local DOW: Do Drop Inn 3rd Chute Bar & Grill, Irish Pub, My Just Desserts, New D.J.'s Bar Texas Roadhouse, The Corner Tavern, GRAFTON: Brew, Imo's Pizza , Los Tres Amigos, Nick's CARROLLTON: Alfonso's Pizza, & Grill, Old Bakery Beer Company, Olga's EAST ALTON: Airliner Bar & Grill, Casa The Orient, The Orient Wok & Chop Suey, Abigail's Tap Room, Drifters' Eats & Drinks, Pancake House, Olive Branch Cafe, Pig Brass Door Restaurant, Copper Stills & Kitchen, Co., Post Commons, Romero Restaurant, China Star, High Flyers The Pasta House Co., Viva La Fiesta, Fin Inn, Grafton Oyster Bar, Grafton Pub, on a Wing, QQ Buffet, Redbird Deli & Ice Mash, Goetten Oasis Restaurant, Sol Ragin Cajun Piano Bar, , Riviera Grille, J. J. Thermo's, Magnum's Bar & Grill, Wang Gang Asian Eats , Wasabi Sushi Bar, Grafton Winery & Brewhaus, Hawg Pit BBQ Cream Parlor, The Diner Bar & Grill Mexican Restaurant Maya, Sammi's Sandwiches, Santino's Mr. Pancho's Mexican Restaurant and Grill Wiggler's Bar and Grill, Zapp Thai Barn, Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Steak & Pasta House, School House Grill at CHESTERFIELD: Joker's Wild Sporting Center, The Loading Dock, The Winery EDWARDSVILLE: 1818 Chophouse, FARMERSVILLE: Caddyshack Sports Senior Services Plus, Shogun, Spectators Clays & Restaurant, Wild Pickins Winery at Aerie's Resort , Whalen-Hill American 54th Street Bar & Grill, Bann Thai, Bella Bar & Grill Bar & Grill, State Street Market, Tony's Milano, Big Daddy's, Buffalo Wild Legion Post 648 COLLINSVILLE: Applebee's Grill & Bar, Restaurant, Town Club of Alton, Inc., Wings, Chava's Mexican Restaurant, GILLESPIE: Black Diamond Sports Bar For more information on local restaurants, go Asia Garden, Bandana's Bar-B-Que, Bert's Village Inn Pancake House , China King, Clean to: RiversandRoutes.com/Restaurants “I’m the best in the west and all the rest”

DINE IN | CARRY OUT | GIFT CARDS 3400 Fosterburg Rd. 618.462.4620 Alton castellis255.com

97 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 98 FEAST ON IT QUICK BITES ALTON: , Captain D's Seafood, CC's Icees Galore, China King, LITCHFIELD: Ariston Cafe, Chinatown, Chong Chop Suey, Epicurean Fare, Fast Gianni's Pizza & Italian Ristorante, Huddle Eddie's Fried Chicken, Fazoli's Restaurant, House, Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries, , Hong Kong House, Jack Jubelt's Bakery & Restaurant, La Casita, In The Box, Jimmy John's, Kentucky Fried Los Rancheros - Litchfield, Maverick Chicken, Kentucky Fried Chicken/ Steaks & Spirits, Nancy's Pizzeria, Pizza STAUNTON: Asian Bistro By Olette, Bell, Pizza, McDonald's, Mini Man & Ice Cream Man, Ruby Tuesday, Bamboo Garden Restaurant, Cavataio's Corral Hamburgers, Papa John's Pizza, Sakura Hibachi Sushi Bar, Tosi's Route 66 Restaurant & Pizzeria, El Indio Mexican , Popeye's Fried Chicken, Rally's, Cafe, Steak 'n Shake Restaurant, Little Italy's Pizzeria, R & B Shake Rattle & Roll Drive In, Steak 'N Shake, LIVINGSTON: Country Inn Cafe, Family Restaurant, Rooster's Pub , , Wendy's, White Castle The Twistee Treat Diner TROY: Alfonzo's Pizzeria, Cracker Barrel BETHALTO: Arby's, Burger King, MARINE: Jade Garden Chinese Old Country Store, Fire-N-Smoke Wood Domino's Pizza, DQ Grill & Chill Restaurant, Restaurant, Mariachi's, Millie's Diner Fired Kitchen, Joe's Pizza and Pasta, Terra Kentucky Fried Chicken, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Rally's, Subway, Taco Bell MARYVILLE: Boogie's Restaurant & Sur, Time Out Bar & Grill Sonic Drive-In, Starbucks, Steak 'n Shake, LITCHFIELD: A&W Litchfield, Arby's, Stone Creamery, Culver's, Freddy's Frozen Bar, Red Apple Family Restaurant, The WOOD RIVER: Applebee's Grill & Bar, CARLINVILLE: , Hardee's, Subway, Taco Bell, Wendy's, White Castle Burger King, Casey's Carry Out Pizza, Dairy Custard & Steakburgers, Glazy Squares McDonald's, Subway Donuts, Jilly's Cupcake & Ice Cream Bar, LakeHouse at Buffalo Park Best Buffet Inc., Chico's Bar & Grill, China EAST ALTON: China Star, Domino's Queen Grill & Chill, Denny's, Domino's Northside Dairy Haven, , King, Fiona's Family Restaurant, Fire-N- CARROLLTON: Dairy Queen, Subway Pizza, McDonald's, Sonic Drive-In, Subway, Pizza, , Jimmy John's, MT. OLIVE: Little Italy's Pizza, RT 138 Source Juicery, Strange Donuts, The Cup, Smoke Wood Fired Kitchen, Franchise Taco Bell, The Salad Shop Kentucky Fried Chicken, Silver's, Cafe, Tilley's Tavern COLLINSVILLE: Arby's, Burger King, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Subway, Tropical Snow Sports Bar & Grill, Los Tres Amigos, NOKOMIS: Arturo's Pizzeria Culver's, Dairy Queen, Domino's Pizza, EDWARDSVILLE: Arby's, Captain D's, Taco Bell, Wendy's Madison's Tea Room, Mama Mia's Italian Firehouse Subs, Freddy's Frozen Custard Chick-Fil-A, China King, Crazy Bowls & GIRARD: Doc's Soda Fountain, ROXANA: Dee-Lux Diner Restaurant, O'Ryans Bar & Grill, Pump & Steakburgers, Hardee's, Jack in the Box, Wraps, Culver's, Dairy Queen Grill & Chill, MARYVILLE: Casey's Carry Out Whirl-A-Whip House Bar & Grill, Refinery Bar and Grill, Pizza, Subway SHIPMAN: Sixteen Bar & Grill Jimmy John's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Domino's Pizza, Fazoli's, Freddy's Frozen GLEN CARBON: Annie's Frozen Custard Sukey's China Restaurant Little Caesars Pizza, Long John Silver's Custard & Steakburgers, Green Earth NOKOMIS: Dairy Queen Grill & SOUTH ROXANA: Sparky's GODFREY: Clifton Country Inn & Bake WORDEN: Yellow Dog Cafe & Bar / A&W, McDonald's, Papa John's Pizza, Grocery & Deli, Jack In The Box, Jimmy Chill, Subway Shop, Mister Donut, Shivers Frozen Custard ST. JACOB: The Lucky Rooster Penn Station East Coast Subs, Pizza Hut, John's, McAlister's Deli, McDonald's, Northside Dairy Haven, Panera/St. Louis RAYMOND: Subway Pub & Eatery , , Red Top Barbecue & Chili, GRAFTON: Grafton Fudge & Ice Bread Co., Papa Murphy's, Penn Station STAUNTON: Dairy Queen Grill & Cream, Ruebel Deli & Ice Cream Parlor, East Coast Subs, Pizza Hut, Qdoba , Chill, Subway The Whole Scoop , Sonic Drive-in, Smoothie King, Source Juicery, Steak 'n Shake, TROY: Burger King, Dairy Queen Grill & HILLSBORO: Sweet Addictions Subway, Taco Bell, Teaspoons Cafe, Chill, Dunkin', Imo's Pizza, Little Caesars & Street Eats Wendy's, Pizza, McDonald's, Taco Bell JERSEYVILLE: Big Boys Donuts, FARMERSVILLE: Champs Chicken, WOOD RIVER: Charlie's Drive-In, China Espresso Yourself Bakery, McCarry's Pizza Hut Express, Subway King, DQ Grill & Chill, Hardee's, Hing Wah Dairyland, Redbird Deli & Ice Cream Parlor Chop Suey, Jack In The Box, Jimmy John's, GILLESPIE: Subway Route 66 Creamery King Louie's Drive-In, Little Caesars Pizza, HAMEL: GIRARD: Whirl-A-Whip Long John Silver's, McDonald's, Papa LITCHFIELD: Coffee Xpresso, Jubelt's GLEN CARBON: DQ Restaurant, John's Pizza, Pizza Hut, Subway, Bakery & Restaurant, Pizza Man & Ice Hardee's Red Burrito, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell, Wendy's Cream Man Jimmy John's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, LIVINGSTON: Mother Road Fudge-n- Papa John's Pizza, Subway SWEET TREATS Candy Shop, Twistee Treat Diner AWARD WINNING GODFREY: Arby's, Domino's Pizza, ALTON: CC's Icees Galore, Cookie Millie's Diner DQ Grill & Chill, Godfrey Meat Market, MARINE: Express, Cookie Factory Bakery & Cafe, Hardee's, Little Caesars Pizza, McDonald's, MARYVILLE: Bobby's Frozen Custard, Duke Bakery, Germania Brew Haus, Pizza Hut, Subway Gluten Free at Last!, Silly Grandma's FARM TO TABLE Ketchum's Corner Kreem, LuciAnna's Sweet Creations GRAFTON: Beasley Fish Stand, Grafton Pastries, My Just Desserts BP Hot Stuff Pizza, O'Jan's Fish Stand, NOKOMIS: Cake It On Corner Cakery, BETHALTO: Donut Express, Weather Ruebel Deli & Ice Cream Parlor Ugly Mugs Coffeehouse RESTAURANT Vane Ice Cream HAMEL: McDonald's ROXANA: Cone Barn CARROLLTON: Dairy Bar of Carrollton Subway HARDIN: Blackbird Bakery & Cafe, COLLINSVILLE: Dairy Freeze, Glazy STAUNTON: Dawg House Creamery HILLSBORO: Casey's Carry Out Pizza, Squares Donuts, Kruta Bakery Dairy Queen, Hardee's, McDonald's, Park- TROY: City Scoops Creamery, Dairy N-Eat, Subway, The Korner Store EAST ALTON: Blue Ice Creamery, First Stop Bake Shop Queen Grill & Chill, Dunkin Donuts JERSEYVILLE: Arby's, Burger King, Domino's Pizza, DQ Grill & Chill, Hardee's, EDWARDSVILLE: 222 Artisan Bakery WOOD RIVER: Good Knight Cupcakes McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Redbird Deli & Cafe, A Little Taste Of Heaven Bakery, and Cookies, Wood River Donut Shop & Ice Cream Parlor, Subway, Taco Bell, Annie's Frozen Custard, Bailey Cakes, Cold Wok Restaurant

99 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 100 ALTON CRACKER FACTORY COMFORT INN LUCY MAE’S GUEST HOUSE PERE MARQUETTE LODGE & TARA POINT INN & COTTAGES SPEND 205 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 917-4466 11 Crossroads Ct. • Alton • (618) 465-9999 312 E. Main St. • Grafton • (816) 249-3279 CONFERENCE CENTER 1 Tara Point Dr. • Grafton • (618) 786-3555 Altoncrackerfactory.com Choicehotels.com Lucymaes.com 13653 Lodge Blvd. • Grafton • (618) 786-2331 Tarapoint.com Sweeping views of the Mississippi River, Indoor pool, on site laundry facilities and Nestled in the heart of Downtown Pmlodge.net Stunning views are part of any stay at THE balconies suitable for cookouts, full hot breakfast are just a few of the perks Grafton, this two story home retains its Play a game of chess on a life-sized chess this upscale inn. Located high on the kitchens and more are part of these offered. Suites are also available which early American charm. Near restaurants board, relax in the Great Room, enjoy a bluffs overlooking the confluence of the upscale loft lodging options located in include pull out sofas and whirlpool tubs. and shopping. Just a short walk from the glass of wine at the Mary Michelle Winery Mississippi and Illinois rivers, cabins are the heart of Downtown Alton. banks of the Mississippi River. Tasting Room. The Lodge has a full service available for overnight stays. Guest rooms restaurant and sits in the middle of in the main house are also available. night magnificent Pere Marquette State Park.

YOU’VE SPENT THE DAY EXPLORING THE ROADS AND RIVERS BEALL MANSION – AN ELEGANT THE GREEN TREE INN OF ELSAH BED & BREAKFAST INN 15 Mill St. • Elsah • (618) 374-2821 MAPLE LEAF COTTAGE AND NOW IT’S TIME 407 E. 12th St. • Alton • (618) 474-9100 Escape to the historic Village of Elsah BED & BREAKFAST INN Beallmansion.com SUPER 8 BY WYNDHAM ALTON AERIES RESORT TO GET SOME HARD while enjoying the comforts of home. 12 Selma St. • Elsah • (618) 374-1684 History and luxury combine in this Home cooked breakfast and afternoon Mapleleafcottageinn.com 1800 Homer Adams Pkwy. • Alton 14 W. Main St. • Grafton • (618) 786-8439 turn-of-the-century mansion. Amenities (618) 465-8885 • Wyndhamhotels.com Aeriesview.com EARNED REST. RELAX IN snacks highlight any visit. Take Enjoy a quiet, relaxing stay in the historic include a Chocolate Bar, a glass of Corporate and king suites available and Plan a staycation at Aeries Resort. advantage of the screened in porch, Village of Elsah. Three main buildings champagne upon arrival and whirlpool a Super Start breakfast is available daily. Suites, cottages, riverfront or bluff top A CABIN OVERLOOKING firepit in the garden or fireplace in house five charming rooms perfect tubs. Continental and full breakfast Microwaves, refrigerators and hair dryers stays are available. the great room. Located near historic for overnight stays. An outdoor fire pit THE CONFLUENCE available upon request. in all rooms. museums, shopping and more. complements the surrounding garden OF THE ILLINOIS AND area. Available for weddings, family gatherings and more. MISSISSIPPI RIVERS. OR MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME IN RIVERFRONT For more information on lodging, go to: GUEST HOUSES. ENJOY RiversandRoutes.com/Hotels BEST WESTERN PREMIERE – HAMPTON INN & SUITES THE INDOOR SWIMMING ALTON/ST. LOUIS ST. LOUIS/ALTON POOL AND MADE TO 3559 College Ave. • Alton • (618) 462-1220 1904 Homer Adams Pkwy. • Alton bwpremieralton.com (618) 433-8999 • Hamptoninn3.hilton.com ORDER BREAKFAST AT Enjoy an indoor heated pool, full service on A short walk from the Alton Amtrak HEARTFELT HERITAGE AND site restaurant/bar, in-room microwaves Station, the hotel is also located near GOOD FUN FOR EVERYONE! HOTELS AND MOTELS. and refrigerators. Check out great restaurants and shopping. Indoor heated seasonal deals on overnight stays. pool and fitness center on site. Don’t forget your hot cookie when you check in.

WHISKEY MUSIC BEST WESTERN PLUS FOOD SLÁINTE EVENTS PARKWAY HOTEL LOADING DOCK GUEST HOUSES 1900 Home Adams Pkwy. • Alton 313 E. Front St., 311 E. Water St. & 311 E. Front St. (618) 433-9900 • Bestwestern.com 200 State Street HAPPY HOURS Grafton • (618) 786-3494 Tues.-Thurs. Conveniently located near shopping, Graftonloadingdock.com Alton, IL 4-6pm restaurants and the Amtrak Station, the Located in the heart of historic Grafton, 618.433.8900 hotel has king and queen rooms and is these three guest houses are close to Friday 3-5pm pet friendly. dining and shopping. Perfect for family getaways or staycations. morrisonirishpub.com

101 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 102 SLEEP ON IT ross oads ourt lton, llinois 4

HOTELS & MOTELS GUEST HOUSES CABINS ALTON: Best Western Plus Parkway ALTON: Alton Cracker Factory - Great GRAFTON: Aerie's Resort, Pere Hotel, Best Western Premier Alton-St. Rivers Lodging, George Street Suites, Marquette Lodge & Conference Center, Louis Area Hotel, Comfort Inn, Hampton Haagen House, WOW on Broadway Tara Point Inn & Cottages Inn & Suites St. Louis/Alton, Super 8 by CARLINVILLE: The Campground House Wyndham Alton KAMPSVILLE: Watkins House at CARROLLTON: The Farmhouse Loft McCully Heritage Project CARLINVILLE: CarlinVilla Motel ELSAH: Suite Jane LITCHFIELD: Country Bend 00 00 COLLINSVILLE: America's Best Value Campground omer dams ara Inn, Comfort Inn , Days Inn St. Louis GODFREY: The Lane House omer dams ara Collinsville, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel GOLDEN EAGLE: Poolside Mansion MICHAEL: White Tales Lodge lton, llinois lton, llinois Collinsville, Drury Inn Collinsville, Fairfield 400 Inn St. Louis Collinsville, Hampton Inn GRAFTON: Aerie's Resort, Anchors Inn NEBO: Harpole's Heartland Lodge/ 4 Collinsville, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Guest House, Cedar Grove, Count Me Inn, Heavenly View Cabin DaVine Guest House , DeSherlia Landing Wyndham Collinsville-St. Louis, Super 8 STAUNTON: The Cabins & Cottages at by Wyndham Staunton Suites, End of the Trail Inn, Gold Digger, Shale Lake Gold Nugget, Grafton Homestead Retreat, Comfort Inn EDWARDSVILLE: Grafton Inn, Heaven's Gate, Hilltop, Jacob Edwardsville, Country Hearth Inn & CAMPGROUNDS Riverfront Retreat, Lagniappe Place, Suites, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Loading Dock Guest House: The Fish BETHALTO: Town & Country Lakes Edwardsville, TownePlace Suites By Marriott-St. Louis Edwardsville Market, Loading Dock Guest House: The GRAFTON: Pere Marquette State Park Riverside Cottage, Loading Dock Guest GLEN CARBON: Hampton Inn & Suites House: Tree Top, Lucy Mae's Guest House, KAMPSVILLE: Village of Kampsville Campground, Watkins House at McCully GOLDEN EAGLE: Kinder's No Wake Inn Lutes Bait & Escape, Moonshiner, Pebble Creek, River Point Guest House, River Port Heritage Project GRAFTON: Aerie's Resort, Pere Guest House, River View Guest House, LITCHFIELD: Country Bend Marquette Lodge & Conference Center, Rowling Ridge Guest House, Rustic Main, Ruebel Hotel Campground, Kamper Kompanion, Lake Rustic Red, The Beach House, The Cottage Lou Yaeger Campgrounds, Lazy Days HAMEL: Innkeeper Motel at Dagget Hollow, The Loft at The Whole Scoop, The Stone Cottage, The White HILLSBORO: Countryside Inn Pelican Inn JERSEYVILLE: Jerseyville Harvest Inn, HARDIN: Riverside Super 8 by Wyndham Jerseyville KAMPSVILLE: Watkins House at LITCHFIELD: America's Best Value McCully Heritage Project Inn, Baymont Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn Litchfield, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Litchfield West, Quality Inn Litchfield BED & BREAKFAST INN Route 66, Super 8 by Wyndham Litchfield ALTON: BEALL Mansion an Elegant Bed LIVINGSTON: Country Inn Cafe & Motel and Breakfast Inn, Tiffany Inn RAYMOND: Magnuson Grand Hotel & ELSAH: Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast, Conference Center Maple Leaf Cottage Inn STAUNTON: Super 8 GRAFTON: Tara Point Inn & Cottages TROY: Best Western Troy Hotel, Holiday MITCHELL: Along The Way B & B Inn Express Troy, Motel 6 Troy, Red Roof Inn St. Louis-Troy, IL , Super 8 by WHITE HALL: Greene Gables Inn Wyndham Troy IL/St. Louis Area Conference Center WOOD RIVER: Bel-Air Motel

103 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 104 YOUR SCENIC DESTINATION

ALTON MARINA GIFT SHOP ON THE RIVER! 1 Henry St. • Alton • (618) 462-9860 Altonmarina.com Everything you need for a day on the boat, or a day in the sun can be found at the marina gift shop. Shop for the latest trends in jewelry, hats, bags and more. Adjacent deli has sandwiches and great mixed drinks. WHAT'S in store? HAND-THROWN POTTERY. CYBERPUNK LAMPS. COUNTRY MEADOWS 401 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 465-1965 LOCALLY DESIGNED AND CRAFTED CLOTHING. Searching for antiques, collectibles, or PRIVATE LABEL OILS AND BALSAMIC VINEGARS. vintage pieces? This long-time Alton antique store has an ever-changing SPEND YOUR TIME MEETING THE MAKERS, collection of classic items. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED CREATORS AND SHOP OWNERS WHO PROUDLY SELL THEIR WORK THROUGHOUT THE GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES REGION. Updating your wardrobe? Browse through locally owned and operated clothing boutiques. 2020 RIVERSIDE FLEA MARKET Adding a new spark to your home decor? Shop rows of antique and vintage goods stores. GRAFTON HARBOR GIFT SHOP April 25 & 26 May 23 & 24 215 W. Water St. • Grafton June 27 & 28 July 25 & 26 Seeking a souvenir of your visit? Gift shops (618) 786-7678 • Graftonharbor.com dot the regional shopping districts. Clothing, nautical gifts, liquor, wines and Aug 22 & 23 Sept 26 & 27 children’s gifts are available at the gift Oct 24 & 25 9 am - 5 pm shop attached to the floating harbor. For Vendor Information OPEN YEAR ROUND! Call Trudi (618) 593-2103 Bar & Grill INDOOR ICE SKATING Entertainment Friday, Saturday & Sunday November 23, 2019 - MISSISSIPPI MUD POTTERY March 8, 2020 310 E. Broadway • Alton • (618) 462-7573 Overnight Accommodations Mississippimudpottery.com Open daily during Handmade pottery is created right in Private Event Space Thanksgiving & Christmas Breaks front of your eyes at this shop named an Illinois Maker. Durable bowls, mugs, plates and more are created. Be sure to check out the artistic and authentic leaf and fish designs. 400 Front St. • Grafton, IL • (618) 786-3494 • GraftonLoadingDock.com RiversandRoutes.com 106 WHAT'S IN STORE ELSAH: Elsah General Store SPECIALTY SHOPS BETHALTO: Bethalto Party World, EDWARDSVILLE: A Wildflower Shop, ELSAH: Crocker & Springer Pottery, GILLESPIE: The Village Toy Chest Homestead Flea Market, Round 2 Relics, Afterwords Books, Bagley Farms Meat Ltd., Elsah General Store, Merchant ALTON: 1904 General Store, 5 A’s Thrift Sweet Ashley’s Cottage Market, Big Frog Custom T-shirts and on Mill, Peaceworks: A Market With A GODFREY: My Antique Store Shop, Alton Stained Glass, B & B Custom More, Bike Surgeon , Bin 51 Mission, Sisters of Elsah Art, Studio and SHOPPING DIRECTORY T’s, Baxters Distributing Company, BRIGHTON: Corky’s Emporium, Rusty GRAFTON: Golden Eagle Antiques, Wine & Spirits, BingShop, BJ’s Printables, Gallery, The Look Factory Inc., Bluff City Outdoors, By Design, Rhino, The White Door Cottage Grafton RIverside Flea Market, Treasures Bridal Couture, Chef’s Shoppe, Chocolate Caravan Resale Shop, Christian Science GILLESPIE: The Village Toy Chest ANTIQUES Past & Present Resale Shop BRUSSELS: Brussels Lumber & Chocolate Chocolate, Courage & Grace, Reading Room, Dick’s Flowers, Dora’s Hardware, Village Consignment Doll Corner, Edible Arrangements, GLEN CARBON: Allison’s Shoes, ALTON: 1904 General Store, Alton HILLSBORO: The Refinery Spinning Wheel, Farmstone Roots, Edwardsville Flea Market, Elegant Karma On Main, Pottery Hollow Painting Exchange Mall, Country Meadows, Vintage Goods CARLINVILLE: Catholic Charities Thrift Frew’s Bridal, Golden Road Organics, Brides, Epic Ink, Evermore Gallery & More, To Do’s George Street Antique Mall, J & P’s Store, Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs, JERSEYVILLE: State Street Antiques Grapevine, Hansen Meat, Indigo Moon, Tattoo, Four Muddy Paws, Frames Edelweiss, Mineral Springs Mall, Country Gypsy, Deb’s Ceramics, Main GODFREY: Cleta’s Nutrition, Godfrey & Jim’s Attic It’s Raining Zen, Jacoby Arts Center, JL By 3, Gingham Buffalo, Good Sports Refabuloused Relics, Tinner’s Anvil, & Co., The Mercantile, Making Darrin Street Bridal, Main Street Florist and Gifts, Meat Market, Joe’s Market Basket LITCHFIELD: Briar Rose, Litchfield Cards And Memorabilia, Good Weather Wilson’s Antiques Deals, Merle Norman Cosmetics Salon My Sister’s Closet, Starr’s Primal Meats & Godfrey, Josephine’s Tea Room and Gift Indoor Flea Market, Litchfield Vintage Gallery, Goshen Coffee Company, Green & Spa, Mineral Springs Mall, Mississippi Package Liquor, The Silver Owl Shops, The Shoppes at Beverly Farm BETHALTO: Craft & Antique Mall Mall, Nana’s Hidden Attic, Ooh La La Earth Grocery, Happy Up, Inc., Heroic Hippie, Mississippi Mud Pottery, COLLINSVILLE: Biegert’s Jewelry, GOLDEN EAGLE: J.L. Krafts & Flowers BRIGHTON: Corky’s Emporium, Decor & More, Phyllbena’s Antiques Adventures, Hudson Jewelers, Innovative Mom Said No Gifts, My Just Desserts, Code 3 Spices, Collinsville Sports Store, Rusty Rhino Sports Nutrition, Joe’s Market Basket GRAFTON: Aerie’s Grounds & Gifts, LIVINGSTON: Pink Elephant Mystical Journeys, New Frontiers Home Cullop-Jennings Florist, Dean’s Liquor & Edwardsville, Kettle River Furniture, Buena Vista Art, Eckert’s Country Store CARLINVILLE: It Is What It Is Resale, Antique Mall Furnishings, Olive Oil Marketplace, Party Tobacco Store, Dizzy Dugout, Evolution Massage Luxe, Milo’s Tobacco Road, MOD & Farms, Grafton Fudge & Ice Cream, Mother Road Antiques, OLDE, The RAYMOND: Twisted Whiskers Antiques on Broadway, Piasa Photo, Picture This & Cycles, Habitat for Humanity ReStore on Trend, Mojo’s Music, My Treasure Grafton Harbor, Grafton Winery & Silver Owl More, PopUtopia Gourmet Popcorn and Resale Shop, Jim’s Pawn and Jewelry, VIRDEN:Tattered Treasures House, Olive Oils & More, Otherside Brewhaus, Harrison’s Gifts , Knotty By DONNELLSON: Loose Caboose, Sweets, Refabuloused Relics, Rushmore, Lux Boutique Uptown, Monster Vinyl, Games, Restore Decor, Revival Boutique Country Nature, Lutes Bait & Escape, New to You, Wayside Antique Mall WOOD RIVER: Score! Records, Second Reading Book Rich’s Record Emporium, Spiritos Italian & Gifts, RunWell, Seams for the Soul Meadows Antiques Pajarito, River Bank Gifts, The Wood Shop, Slacker’s CD’s & Games, Something Grocery Store, Swing City Music Boutique , Sherry’s Snacks, Swing City EDWARDSVILLE: The Doll Corner, Artisan a custom clock shop and more, WORDEN: The Chirping Frog Different, Tangled Tinsel Christmas Tree Music, The Bike Factory, The Cyclery & Vintage 71 Farm & Gift Shoppe, Ted’s Motorcycle EAST ALTON: Community Seed & Wild N Crazzy Biker Apparel Feed, Pure Bliss Home Decor, Sandi’s Fitness Center, Tot Spot Resale, Trusty World, The Cyclery and Fitness Center, Chords Record Shop, Underground HAMEL: Flowers by Glenda, Sandy’s The Gift Box, Three Charming Chicks, Costumes, Fabric & Alterations For more local shopping, go to: Artworks, Water Sweets Soap Company, Seasonals & More, LLC White Birch RiversandRoutes.com/Things-to-do What To Wear, Whisker Bones Supply Co y Mae’s Luc guest house

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS & PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES WITH GIANT STATUES TWO LOCATIONS TWISTEE TREAT DINER 401 E. BROADWAY 413 E. BROADWAY Victorian Charm near the ALTON, IL ALTON, IL banks of the Mississippi. ICE CREAM Adorable two unit FRESH FUDGE CHOCOLATES & guest house TAFFY HOURS for up to six adults. RETRO CANDIES

MONDAY  SATURDAY SUNDAY Reservations: (816) 249-3279 908 VETERANS MEMORIAL DRIVE 11:00 A.M.  4:30 P.M. NOON  4:30 P.M. LIVINGSTON, IL lucymaes.com 618-637-2366

107 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 108 WHAT'S IN STORE 1904 Homer Adams Pkwy HILLSBORO: Blackboard Mercantile, TROY: Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, GLEN CARBON: Cato Fashions, Diamonds and Dogs, Edgemont House Grimm & Gorly Too, Joe’s Market Basket Lowe’s, Office Max, Sam’s Club, Slackers, (618) 433- 8999 of Flowers, Nzuri Boutique, The Dressing of Troy, LLC, The Style House Walmart Supercenter Room, The Gold Pan: Record Store & CONVENIENTLY LOCATED VIRDEN: Books on the Square, GODFREY: Factory Connection, Recording Studio, The Holiday Shop, The Silvernicks, The Sly Fox Walmart Supercenter NEXT TO THE NEW Refinery Vintage Goods MULTIƒMODAL WOOD RIVER: Dick’s Flowers, HARDIN: Calhoun Lumber Do-It Center, JERSEYVILLE: 2nd Time Around, Patchwork Plus, Riverbend Resale, Hardin Packaged Liquor, Northside TRANSPORTATION CENTER! Beyond the Backyard Gate, Dance Rustic Roots, The Dress Shop, Von Dell Family Foods Things & More, Good Buddy’s Meat Gallery & Studios Market, JCH Hope Chest Resale Shop, JERSEYVILLE: Cato Fashions, Lula Bells, Nature Kist Nutrition Center, Jerseyville Carpet & Furniture, Walmart Outrageous Outdoors, Peg’s Flower RETAIL STORES Supercenter Cottage, Rosa Linn’s Creations, Sweet ALTON: Alton Square Mall, Cato LITCHFIELD: Action Powersports, Pea’s Floral & Designs Fashions, GameStop, Hibbett Sports, J.C. Family Video, GameStop Prestige, Free Hot Breakfast LITCHFIELD: Action Powersports, Briar Penney’s, Jan’s Hallmark, Kohl’s, Ross Glik’s, Hibbett Sports, Maurices, My Free High-Speed Rose, Family Video, GameStop Prestige, Dress For Less, Target Formals, Overstock Shop, Rural King, House of Sunshine Coffee Shoppe & Book Shoe Sensation, Sullivan’s Health Internet CARLINVILLE: Walmart Supercenter •High Speed WIFI Nook, Litchfield Vintage Mall, Maurices, Mart Pharmacy, Walgreens , Indoor Pool •Indoor Heated Pool My Formals, Nana’s Hidden Attic, Niehaus COLLINSVILLE: GameStop, Kohl's, Walmart Supercenter Cycle Sales, Ooh La La Decor & More, Rural Rural King, Walmart Supercenter Fitness Room •Restaurant & Bar MICHAEL: Herren Hardware & King, Whiskey River Dry Goods Company EDWARDSVILLE: Ashley Homestore, Sporting Goods •24 Hour Fitness Center MARYVILLE: Sew Time Embroidery Beauty Brands, Best Buy, Books-A-Million, WOOD RIVER: Cleary’s Shoes & JUST MINUTES FROM •Free Onsite Parking Carter’s OshKosh B’gosh, Elliott Fine MT. OLIVE: Cristal Lantern Boots, Walmart Supercenter NATIONAL GREAT RIVERS MUSEUM, •Breakfast Buffet Jewelers Inc., Famous Footwear, First to ALTON ANTIQUE DISTRICT & NOKOMIS: New 2 You the Finish, Friar Tuck Beverages, Glik’s, LIBERTY BANK ALTON AMPHITHEATER. •Conventions/Meetings Consignment Boutique GNC, Hibbett Sports, Home Depot, •25 Minutes From St. Louis HomeGoods, Jan’s Hallmark, Kirkland’s, RAYMOND: Creekstone Kettle Works, Ltd. Kloss Furniture, Kohl’s, Mattress Firm, STAUNTON: Country Classic Cars, Maurices, Men’s Wearhouse, Michael’s, Henry’s Rabbit Ranch, Itch’n to be Old Navy, Petco, Ross Dress for Less, Stitch’n, Route 66 Storage & Markets, RP Lumber, Sally’s Beauty Supply, Shoe Vintage Station Carnival, Target, TJ Maxx, Vallow Flooring, Wild Birds Unlimited

mississippimudpottery.com

•High Speed WIFI HELPING TO OPEN DOORS •Indoor Heated Pool in the Riverbend •Restaurant & Bar ALTON | 200 HOMER ADAMS PKWY. •24 Hour Fitness Center 618.465.5656 •Free Onsite Parking •Breakfast Buffet STORES HOURS Sun. & Mon. Noon-4pm Tues. Closed Wed.-Sat. 10am-5pm www.cnbil.com •Conventions/Meetings 310 E Broadway Alton, IL 62002 • 618.462.7573 •25 Minutes From St. Louis

109 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 110 We offer the latest in state-of-the-art innovations and technology in many areas of care while maintaining a hometown feel that provides the warmth and convenience our neighbors have been familiar with for more than 80 years.

Our Services • Cancer Care • Laboratory Services is close to home (Member of the • MRI Services Siteman Cancer • Neurology Network) • Nutrition Counseling • Cardiology IN THE KNOW • Orthopedics Useful information for your visit to the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois. • Diabetes Management • Pain Management • Digestive Health • Senior Care • Emergency Services GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES SNOW • Sleep Disorders On average the region gets about 16-inches of snow each • Imaging Just outside St. Louis in Illinois, three mighty rivers converge • Surgical Services alongside the Great River Road and Route 66. The region year. Typical snowfalls don’t stay on the ground for long includes more than 30 cities, towns and villages and though. Accumulating snow can fall as early as November covers six counties: Madison, Macoupin, Jersey, Calhoun, and as late as March. 1 Memorial Drive, Alton, IL • 618.463.7311 • altonmemorialhospital.org Montgomery and Greene. Two major interstates, I-70 and RAIN I-55, connect the region to St. Louis, Chicago, Indianapolis The region receives about 42 inches of rain each year. © 2019 Alton Memorial Hospital. All Rights Reserved. CS_397126_8/19 and beyond. Amtrak Rail Service has stops in both Alton and April and May are typically the rainiest with between Carlinville. A municipal airport in Litchfield and the St. Louis 4 and 5 inches falling each month. Regional Airport in East Alton provide runways and flight services for small planes. WHAT YOU SHOULD PACK SUMMER: Lightweight clothes, your favorite bathing suit, VISITOR CENTERS flip flops and tennis shoes. ALTON VISITOR CENTER SPRING + FALL: Light jackets, raincoats, sweaters, flannels, 200 Piasa St. • Alton • (618) 465-6676 jeans. Maybe a pair of shorts for those Indian Summer days Open Mon. – Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m and early Spring-feels-like-summer days. Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. WINTER: Insulated boots, gloves, scarves, flannels, Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Easter heavy coats, snow hats. GRAFTON VISITOR CENTER PETS 950 E. Main St. • Grafton • (618) 786-7000 Many lodging properties allow small pets. Dogs are Open Fri. – Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. allowed at most restaurants that have an outdoor patio. POPULATION MARIJUANA Nearly 380,000 people call the six county region home. The In 2019, the Illinois legislature legalized recreational largest cities by population are: marijuana use for adults. Many cities in the state DO NOT allow sales within their locales. At the time of this ALTON – 27,175 publication, no announcements have been made on EDWARDSVILLE – 25,044 the location of marijuana shops in the region. COLLINSVILLE – 24,855 FOLLOW US CLIMATE Find, friend and follow us on our website The region’s Midwestern locale near St. Louis results in mild RiversandRoutes.com winter temperatures and hot summer weather. SPRING: Ave. Temps 38° – 77° F AND SOCIAL MEDIA! SUMMER: Ave. Temps 67° – 90° F FALL: Ave. Temps 39° – 81° F WINTER: Ave. Temps 23° – 45° F

111 Great Rivers & Routes RiversandRoutes.com 112 HOW TO GET HERE

Galena FROM THERE! Chicago, IL GETTING HERE 245 mi/394 km n Amtrak Rail Service Joliet #1 Golf Rd. • Alton (618) 462-1879 • Amtrak.com n Lambert International Airport Bloomington 10701 Lambert International Blvd. St. Louis, MO • (314) 890-1333 Quincy Springfield n St. Louis Regional Airport 8 Terminal Dr. • East Alton • (618) 259-2531 Kansas City Litchfield 258 mi/415 km Alton Indianapolis Grafton Edwardsville 245 mi/394 km MARINAS & FERRIES Collinsville St. Louis n Alton Marina 1 Henry St. • Alton • (618) 462-9860

n Louisville Brussels Free Ferry 278 mi/447 km Rt. 100 • Grafton • (618) 786-3636 Branson 274 mi/441 km n Grafton Ferry (seasonal) Rt. 100 Grafton • (800) 258-6645 Memphis n Grafton Harbor 307 mi/494 km 215 Water St. • Grafton • (618) 786-7678 n Golden Eagle Ferry Ferry Rd. • Golden Eagle • (618) 535-5759 n Kampsville Free Ferry River Front Dr. • Kampsville • (618) 653-4518

113 Great Rivers & Routes TAKE THE GOLDEN EAGLE FERRY Come Aboard for a “Unique River Experience!”

 

E-WA ON Y $8 Mon - Thu Fri - Sat Sunday $15 5am - 9pm 5am - 2am 8am - 9pm RO IP UND TR 75 Ton Load Limit | Open All Holidays 8am - 9pm

CALL US TODAY! 618-535-5759 calhounferrycompany.com Calhoun Ferry Company