The River Road
- Bob Fromm
- Aug 7, 2016
- 2 min read
Nothing like a Sunday drive during a mid-summer weekend. One of our favorite drives is to head south from Springfield, heading down to Carlinville, then heading west to take the ferry across the Illinois River to Kampsville. Often timehs, we stop at the Kampsville Inn, on the western banks of the river, for lunch. Then it is south towards tHeritage Project. It is located just south of Kampsville and while it isn't a huge facility, it is well woth the time take to stop, especially if you are into nature. Getting back on the road, the usual trip heads down to Grafton, with a stop off at at least one of the antique shops along the highway. We rarely buy anything here, but we have found a few unique hockey items in one shop.
After stopping in Grafton, it is on to Elsah. It would not be a proper Sunday drive if you didnt stop in this quaint little village. It is a trip into the past, a simpler time, peaceful and laid back. If you can, stay a night or two at the Maple Leaf Inn, one of a couple of B&B's located in town. We like the Maple Leaf, a really old property, but you truly get the feeling that you have gone back in time. The gentleman that used to greet us for breakfast was a real treat. Not sure if he is still there, it seems to me that the last time we stayed, he wasnt, but not sure if it was just a short term thing. Very colorful character, made breakfast time a real treat.
From Grafton, on down to Alton, the drive is spectacular. High cliffs along the river, you get the feeling that you are no where near Illinois. During the winter, this is a great place to see the Eagles that hang out here.
On the way back, we often jump on the Brussels Ferry and take the back way back into Hardin, which by the way, is a great place to get world famous Calhoun County fruit. Apples, and my favorite, peaches can be picked up at road side orchards just across the bridge from town. Best peaches you can get, sweet and juicy.
For those that think Illinois is nothing but corn and beans, take this drive along the beautiful Illinois River. Check out another side of this beautiful state and enjoy the day.
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