Morraine View State Recreation Area is a beautiful, 1,687-acre state park located just off I-74 near Bloomington/Normal in East Central Illinois. It's where many Illinoisians turn to for camping, picnicking, swimming, hunting, and horseback riding. However, it also has one of the best scenic drives in Illinois.
The Dawson Lake Scenic Drive is a 3.3-mile loop around the glistening Dawson Lake within the Moraine View State Recreation Area, 27374 Moraine View Park Road, in LeRoy, Illinois.
You'll pass through tall thickets of lush green trees that decorate the landscape. Make sure to bring your binoculars, as it's also an ideal place for birdwatching!
Even in the winter when the leaves have fallen, the exposed forest and frozen lake provide tranquility, making the loop a great option for some quick cold-weather outdoor time.
Have you ever taken the Dawson Lake Scenic Drive? Do you think it's one of the best scenic drives in Illinois? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by checking out the Dawson Lake Scenic Drive website, as well as the Moraine View State Recreation Area website. And after a day on the trails, check out nearby Joe's Station House Pizza Pub — a favorite eatery among locals!
In a state filled with country backroads and historic byways, planning a scenic drive or road trip is always a great opportunity to experience a new part of Illinois. And while the Lincoln Highway may be the best scenic drive in Northern Illinois, the best scenic drive in Southern Illinois is its own incredibly unique adventure that's steeped in history and definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list. So let's take a look at what makes this one of the best scenic drives in Illinois (and perhaps also the entire country!).
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The Historic National Road is one of the oldest in the country, spanning a whopping 620 miles across five states between the Ohio River and the Potomac River. That includes 164 miles in Illinois that connect seven counties between Marshall and East St. Louis.
National Road takes the form of US 40 and I-70 in Illinois, with US 40 being the main roadway. Originally known as the Cumberland Road or "Old Pike," the highway was built in 1806 with funds assigned by President Thomas Jefferson and also features landmarks associated with President Abraham Lincoln.
The route, which can be completed between 2.5 and 3 hours, takes you through countless historic, charming small towns that are rich in character.
Near the Indiana border is Marshall, which boasts a colorful business district that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Give me a credit card and drop me in a historic shopping district and don't come back for me for at least two days!
Moving along, you'll also pass through the quirky town of Casey.
This small town is known for BIG things — literally. The town holds 12 certified Guinness World Records for its supersized everyday items and "world's largest" attractions. This place is definitely on my bucket list! I love the idea of things being much smaller, or larger, than normal, and that this town has put so much energy into creating unique points of interest.
Next up is Vandalia, Illinois, which used to be the western terminus for the route before it was expanded.
Another great stop for those who enjoy historic architecture and small-town charm, Vandalia showcases a number of cool homes — like the John Cullity residence, 629 W. St. Clair St., built in 1857.
It is populated with homes like the William W. Jarvis House, 317 E. Center St., which was built in 1867 and is also now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Before hitting St. Louis, the ancient and mysterious Cahokia Mounds are a great place to stop and stretch your legs. The mounds are believed to have been settled in around 600 C.E. by an ancient civilization that turned the area into a thriving city. However, no written records exist that tell the full story of what happened to its people. Today, it's a 2,200-acre park with about 80 man-made mounds.
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Of course, this is a lot of ground to cover, so why not make it a multi-day getaway? to stay while you're on the road.
The small town of Effingham is right in the middle of the route, making this updated lakefront cabin a perfect place. While following the best scenic drive in Southern Illinois, you'll also want to get some rest at one of the best vacation rentals.
The 1,500-square-foot home can sleep up to 12 (half of which can be adults) between its three bedrooms, which each feature a King-size bed. With vaulted ceilings, a modern kitchen, and all the at-home amenities you need, this place can fit the whole family.
The best part? It's right on Lake Sara, which means you'll also get access to a swimming beach, a floating dock for lake jumping, a private boat dock, space for fishing, a canoe, and five kayaks. Plus, grab a seat at one of the outdoor patios — ideal for sipping coffee, wine, or enjoying a meal.
So, would you cruise down the best scenic drive in Southern Illinois? Where would you want to stop along the way? Would you agree that it is among the best road trips in Illinois? Do you have another road trip or scenic drive suggestion? We'd love to read about your experiences in the comments section below. And don't forget to share your great pics, too!
The 48 hours that make up the weekend can slip by quickly. There are so many mini adventures to be had in our own backyard that it’s worthwhile to make an itinerary, get in the car and go out to see some hidden gems. We’ve put together a spontaneous road trip through southern Illinois that is the perfect way to spend a weekend. It can be done in one day if you are willing to get started early in the day, but I recommend setting aside two full days to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy each of these spots. There’s a great camping spot at the halfway point as well!
Rendleman Orchard has been operational since 1873, supplying southern Illinois with some of the freshest nectarines and apples available. I am a sucker for fresh apples so there’s no way this fifth-generation farm wasn’t making the list. Be sure to visit the Farm Market to browse their selection of produce, jams, jellies, country gourmet specialty foods and gift items. Having some fresh fruit on-hand as a healthy snack throughout your road trip will get your journey started on the right foot.
The Makanda Boardwalk is a can’t-miss shopping experience in southern Illinois. The area is known for its vibrant arts scene, thanks in part to Dave Dardis who creates metal jewelry, sculptures and fountains. There is a sculpture garden just outside of his studio where visitors can walk around and get lost in the whimsical atmosphere Dardis has created.
Stretching over more than seven acres, the Mandala Gardens create an oasis of greenery, flowers and stunning paths. There is a stone labyrinth in the shape of a traditional mandala as well as a pond where visitors can fish. Beautiful mosaic patios bring a pop of color. My jaw dropped when I saw the view through the circular stone sculpture.
Having been around since 2005, Morello’s has been a go-to spot for locals hosting big parties; but for road trippers, it’s also the ideal place to stop to feel like a part of the greater community.
The Franklin County Historic Jail Museum was originally built in 1905, but it has since been transformed into an interactive museum. There is a wooden structure outside of the jail that replicated the staging where people were executed by hanging less than 100 years ago.
Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area - Whittington
This sprawling state park is a great spot to pull out a folding chair, kick up your feet and get some fresh air. If you are camping along your road trip, be sure to reserve your campsite a few days before arriving.
Maybe you heard about 17th Street Barbecue’s owner and champion pitmaster Mike Mills on Good Morning America, or maybe you heard about the BBQ joint on the Travel Channel.
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In any case, you won't want to miss this legendary establishment in Murphysboro.
The final stop on the road trip brings you back within walking distance of the first stop. To wrap up a long day (or two) of traveling all over southern Illinois, I can’t imagine anything nicer than sitting outside and enjoying a glass of wine. There are 20 acres of apples and 15 acres of grapes growing at the winery to create some of Von Jakob’s beloved beverages. In addition to being a winery and brewery, Von Jakob is also a bed & breakfast, so this could be a great place to start and end your weekend trip.
If you are interested in a longer trip that stops off in some of the most charming small towns in Illinois, consider following this route instead. As you plan out your snack game plan for the road, check out this passenger seat caddy to keep your car organized.
Have you been to any of these road trip destinations? Let us know if there are any nearby spots you’d add to this list!
