Illinois has plenty of places that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether it's the overlooks at Mississippi Palisades Park or the observation tower at Dixon Waterfowl Refuge, you can get a birds' eye view of some of the most scenic parts of the state. Located in the small industrial village of Hartford, a place that, at first glance, doesn't seem very scenic, the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower offers panoramic views that would tell you otherwise. It's also a part of the National Park system, so you know it's filled with history.

Built in 2010 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the start of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower stands at 180 feet tall.

Not only is this a point of interest along the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail but it marks the beginning of the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway.

Overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, the tower has observation decks at 50, 100, and 150 feet, giving visitors views of the two great rivers as they've never seen before.

Visitors can get to the tower's observation decks either by taking the elevators or climbing the stairs. The property is also ADA accessible.

At each observation deck, visitors can learn about Hartford's history as well as Lewis and Clark's westward journey and the importance of the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.

The views of the confluence of the two great rivers to the west are breathtaking! And to the east, you'll get a birds' eye view of Hartford's industrial skyline.

Aside from the tower, the museum has numerous exhibits, and outside you can explore the grounds where you'll find a fountain and interpretive signs.

With beautiful grounds and panoramic views from the tower's observation decks, the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower is a worthwhile place to visit and one of our favorite National Park destinations in Illinois.

Have you enjoyed views from one of the platforms at the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower in Hartford, Illinois? We would love to hear from you if you've visited in the past! For more information, visit the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower webpage on the National Park Service website. And if you have any other Illinois favorites that are a part of our National Parks, let us know!

Want to visit another tower in Illinois? You can read here about the Leaning Tower of Niles and plan your visit!