Spots to Stop

If You Enjoy Cultural Sites

Following the path of the Illinois River, The Illinois River Road Scenic Byways winds through a landscape rich in natural beauty and cultural history. The route connects several towns and offers a glimpse into the rich culture that defines the region.

Cultural Sites Apple Map Guide - https://www.illinoisriverroad.org/cultural-sites-map

Scan to open Apple Maps

Take the Illinois River Road Cultural Sites Guide with You

We've gathered some of our favorite museums, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions into a convenient Apple Maps Guide(opens in new tab). Take this collection of Illinois River Road cultural destinations with you wherever you travel!

✓ Save locations
✓ Navigate easily
✓ Discover local history & culture

We recommend calling or visiting each website for up-to-date information on hours of operation, etc.

Northern Leg of the Byway

Oglesby

Stared Rock State Park is rich with historical significance, offering a glimpse into the area's Native American heritage and French exploration. Today, visitors can explore these historical ties through interpretive trails, scenic overlooks, and markers that recount the park's storied past.

LaSalle

The Hegeler Carus Mansion is an architectural masterpiece and a key to the rich history of the Illinois Valley, the Midwest and the nation. Located near Starved Rock State Park, the mansion has remained virtually unaltered since its completion more than a century ago. The grounds were developed shortly after the mansion was built in 1874 and features many unique plants and architectural marvels.

Central Leg of the Byway

Peoria

The Peoria Riverfront Museum is a multidisciplinary cultural institution offering a wide range of exhibits in art, science, history, and technology. The museum features interactive displays, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and a giant screen theater, providing immersive experiences for visitors of all ages. Its diverse collection includes regional history exhibits, fine art pieces, and rotating special exhibitions that cover various topics.

Peoria

Grandview Drive a scenic roadway renowned for its stunning views of the Illinois River and surrounding landscapes. Often referred to as the "World's Most Beautiful Drive," a title bestowed by President Theodore Roosevelt during his visit in 1910, the drive stretches through lush, tree-lined areas and overlooks rolling hills, river valleys, and picturesque homes. Grandview Drive is popular for walking, jogging, and cycling, offering a peaceful retreat with panoramic vistas.

Henry

The Charles Perdew Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Charles Perdew, a renowned craftsman and decoy carver. Known for his intricately hand-carved and painted duck decoys, Perdew became a significant figure in American folk art and waterfowl hunting culture. The museum, situated in Perdew’s former home and workshop, showcases his tools, decoys, and other artifacts, offering visitors insight into his craftsmanship and the traditional decoy-making process. It celebrates both his artistry and the local heritage of Henry, a town deeply connected to the Illinois River and its hunting traditions.

Southern Leg of the Byway 

Havana

Havana’s Downtown Historic District features well-preserved 19th and early 20th-century architecture, reflecting the town's riverboat and railroad-era prosperity. Visitors today can enjoy numerous dining, shopping, and lodging options.

Canton

Canton Area Heritage Center is a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of the Canton area and Fulton County. The center features exhibits that highlight the region's industrial past, including the influence of manufacturing giants like the International Harvester, as well as local history, agriculture, and community life.