Springtime Things to Do in Southwest Illinois

Spring is finally here and nature is alive at last! Blades of luscious green grass are dancing across the landscape.

Migrating birds are making their triumphant return. And the Mighty Mississippi River is freely flowing toward your next adventure. Stop waiting and start living in the moment. Flock to the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois this spring and discover the Great Outdoors Inside the Midwest!

For more information on exploring the Great Rivers & Routes region during spring, request a Visitor Guide.

Spend the night where the great rivers meet great moments. Find all of our deals and packages to plan your getaway.

Celebrate the Great Rivers

The Mississippi River is one of America's Great Rivers, celebrated as a flyway for migrating birds, a super highway for exported goods and a source of recreation for young and old alike.

Go with the Flow

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the 49-passenger excursion boat, the Hakuna Matata, sailing out of Grafton Harbor. Take your pick of sightseeing, lunch, dinner, or wine cruises. Or rent a pontoon boat available from Grafton Harbor and create your own river adventure.

Rare Finds on the River

You have nothing but time on your side this spring. Browse the shops in historic riverfront communities or along the famous Mother Road of Route 66 for a new antique find throughout the region and then, sip wine with a river view or tranquil views of the Illinois prairie.

Explore the Mother Road

Let adventure guide you as your enjoy a look at the 'real' Americana found on the Mother Road of Route 66. Meet giant pink elephants, sip an old-fashioned soda, and talk a walk across the Mississippi River on the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. There's plenty to see on the last 100 Miles of Route 66 in Illinois!