Where is the Illinois River Road?
Traversing both east and west sides of the Illinois River from Ottawa, 150 miles south to Havana, the Illinois River Road has spurs to the communities of Princeton and Canton. The Illinois River Road corridor has over 100 natural and historic sites and numerous unique communities located throughout its 10-county region.

The Scenic Byway is conveniently located between Chicago and St. Louis, but just far enough to get away from it all. So get off the beaten path and see what the Illinois River Road has in store for you!

Experience the Pekin Gateway Along the Illinois River Road

The city of Pekin is located in west central Illinois, along the eastern bank of the Illinois River. Robert DeLaSalle is believed to be one of the first European Lavender Creek Farmexplorers to visit the area in 1680. In 1829, County Surveyor, William Hodge laid out what was to become Pekin. He called it "Town Site," indicating the land was suitable for settlement. The town was named Pekin, after China's City of the Sun - Pekin(g). Today, visitors can enjoy swimming, horseback riding, golf, a one-of-a-kind park system, and for those interested in politics, the Dirksen Congressional Center. Pekin also offers numerous community festivals, a nearby zoo and entertainment center, unique restaurants and various shops.

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Pekin Gateway Itineraries

Below are PDF files containing predefined itineraries for the Pekin Gateway area. Please download and print these helpful guides for your journey. Each itinerary requires the use of the FREE Adobe Acrobat Reader software available here.

Central Southern Byway Itinerary

Pekin Gateway Maps

Below are links to Pekin Gateway PDF maps to assist you in planning your journey. PDF maps require the use of the FREE Adobe Acrobat Reader software available here.

Pekin Photos Pekin Gateway Resources

The time of year doesn't matter - you'll find it's a great time to visit the City of Pekin. Whether it's a weekend getaway or you're just passing through, there are endless opportunities to enjoy. The Pekin area is close enough to the big cities to be convenient, but far enough away to provide you with a real value for your dollar.

Pekin is a full-service community with hotels, motels, shopping, antiques, collectibles, and an excellent selection of food and drink at a variety of local establishments.

The Pekin area's best value might be golf. Lick Creek Golf Course (operated by the Pekin Park District) has been nationally recognized as one of the best public courses in America. But you'll also find great golf and a great value at the other Park District Course, Parkview Golf Course.

Depending upon the time of the year, you'll find many other attractions, including the World's Greatest Sundial, Pekin's Winter Wonderland, the annual Marigold Festival, the Dragon's Dome, ongoing downtown Pekin Main Street events and the July 4th Honor America Celebration.

We hope you'll visit us soon - and often!

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