Illinois, the Midwest heartland, is not only famous for its cosmopolitan cities, such as Chicago, and historic sites, but also for its natural splendor. From rolling hills to unspoiled lakeshores, there's no lack of awe-inspiring scenery on Illinois road trips. For those who love the open road and the exhilaration of a scenic drive, it has some of the most scenic routes you can drive.
Whether you're driving down tree-lined roads in autumn or viewing colorful vistas in spring, the beautiful Illinois views will amaze you at every turn. In this blog, we'll guide you through the best scenic drives in Illinois, giving you a glimpse of the state's stunning views, seasonal colors, and natural wonders.
Illinois has various landscapes, and the most wonderful way to experience these mixed environments is by going on a relaxed ride along its most scenic roads. The state has forests, rivers, lakes, and farmland, providing more than enough venues for visitors to embrace nature from their automobile.
If you want to unwind, take in the changing seasons, and see some of the most lovely Illinois scenery, there's no better way than with a nature drive. Car travel in Illinois lets you do things at your own speed, stopping wherever you want to view the scene or take a photo. Plus, with many scenic routes passing through small towns and communities, you’ll also have the chance to explore some of the state’s charming destinations.
Stretching along the Mississippi River, the Great River Road is one of the most iconic scenic drives in Illinois. This old road makes its way along the northern boundary of Illinois through the southern portion of the state, passing quaint villages, beautiful bluffscapes, and greenery-covered riverbank landscapes. Traveling down the way, you will encounter spectacular riverfronts and glimpses of creatures large and small. The road also offers several opportunities to stop at state parks, including the popular Pere Marquette State Park, where you can take a hike or enjoy a peaceful picnic.
The Great River Road is a scenic drive all year, but it's especially lovely in autumn when the trees along the way explode into bright red, orange, and yellow hues. The Illinois fall colors are not to be missed, and the Great River Road provides one of the finest views to experience them.
The Shawnee Hills Scenic Byway is situated in southern Illinois and is famous for its rugged landscape, dense woods, and panoramic vistas. The 120-mile drive takes you through the Shawnee National Forest, one of the state's most popular natural treasures. You'll find yourself winding through the forest and encountering colossal bluffs, shimmering lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows. Along the route, you'll also drive through the quaint towns of Harrisburg, Goreville, and Vienna, where you can grab a meal or visit local sites.
The Shawnee Hills Scenic Byway is a great route for nature enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy hiking, birding, or simply taking in the quiet and tranquility of the region. Don't forget to make a stop at the Garden of the Gods, a breathtaking overlook that offers one of the most spectacular vistas of the Shawnee National Forest. Whether you feel like taking a short hike or just want to sit and appreciate the view, this is one of the finest views on the entire byway.
Autumn is the ideal season to witness the Shawnee Hills' lovely Illinois vistas. During autumn foliage, the forest becomes a palette of autumnal hues, and the crisp air provides a pleasant drive. The byway is just as lovely in the spring and summer when the rich greenery and wildflowers in bloom are the focal point.
Referenced as the "Main Street of America," Route 66 is among the most iconic roads in the United States. From Chicago to Santa Monica, California, some of the most legendary sections of this vintage route are located in Illinois. Although only slightly more than 300 miles make up Illinois' portion of Route 66, the state provides an amazing journey through small towns, roadside attractions, and rolling rural countryside.
Special not only because it's historically famous but also aesthetically breathtaking. Driving it, you can pass iconic spots of Americana like the Pontiac's Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum, the large Gemini Giant at Wilmington, and the peculiar Chain of Rocks Bridge. But it's the drive itself that will amaze you—the open highway, rolling fields, and down-home charm make this drive a must for those traveling in Illinois by automobile.
Spring and summer are great times to travel along Route 66, especially when the fields and countryside are in full bloom. Fall is also a fantastic time, as you’ll experience the seasonal transformation of the landscape. The crisp air combined with colorful fall foliage Illinois makes for a picture-perfect road trip.
Starved Rock State Park, which runs along the Illinois River in Utica, is famous for its sandstone cliffs that rise high into the air, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking views. The park features a chain of lovely hiking trails that culminate in spectacular overlooks. Still, if you prefer to see the scenery from the comfort of your vehicle, there are some lovely scenic drives within the park itself.
The park's primary road, Starved Rock Drive, offers some of the most scenic views of the Illinois River and its adjacent woodlands. Pull over at one of the park's numerous scenic overlooks and be rewarded with views of steep cliffs, valleys, and wooded hills. Starved Rock is also a great place to see the fall colors in Illinois, as the park's oak and maple trees stage a beautiful display of color every fall.
Fall is definitely the busiest time of year to visit Starved Rock, due to the stunning fall colors. The park is also lovely in the spring and summer when the waterfalls are full and the wildlife is plentiful.
For something other than your run-of-the-mill scenic drive, think of the Tunnel Hill State Trail in southern Illinois. Although technically a rail-trail for bike riders and walkers, the paved trail is well-suited for scenic driving as well. The 45-mile path spans from Harrisburg to the Vienna community along the path of the old Illinois Central Railroad. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with broad vistas of the countryside, woodlands, and even an abandoned railroad tunnel that lends the trail its name.
One of the best things about this route is the section close to the Tunnel Hill Tunnel, where you can catch a glimpse of Illinois' rural charm and see what railroad days were like in the area. Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy the variety of habitats along the trail, such as wetlands, forests, and open fields.
The autumn colors in Illinois along this route are stunning, so fall is the perfect time to take a drive. The colorful changing leaves and cool breezes create the ideal weather to enjoy this scenic byway.
While not all of it lies within Illinois, the Great Lakes Circle Tour follows part of the state's north border and offers some of the best lakeshore vistas in the Midwest. The tour follows the shores of the Great Lakes through Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. The section between Chicago and the Indiana border has some of the most beautiful lakeshore views in the Midwest.
Gazing upon Lake Michigan, watching the white beaches that run alongside it, and being surrounded by green parks are some of the sights one experiences while driving along the highway named the Great Lakes Circle Tour. Coastline lovers will certainly not be let down by the gorgeous landscapes of Illinois nestled along this route, with a serene lakefront atmosphere.
Summer is best for driving along the Great Lakes Circle Tour, which has all the beaches and parks along the lake shore open to visitors. However, you can go in fall variants when the crowds lessen, and you can move freely to witness the spectacular fall colors along the lake shore.
Whether you're looking to explore the natural beauty or just want to witness the best of the fall foliage Illinois, the state has some of the best scenic drives in the Midwest. The historical Route 66 and the serene environs of Starved Rock State Park simply offer endless possibilities for some good Illinois road trips filled with sightseeing moments. Driving around just allows you to sit back and enjoy the views at your own leisure.
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