Information
Running parallel to the Ohio River, this scenic route rolls through Southern Illinois' Ohio River Valley, offering stunning views of the lush Shawnee National Forest, dotted by quaint river towns chock-full of Civil War history.
This National Scenic Byway follows the Ohio River in southern Illinois for 188 miles, ending at the confluence of the Ohio with the Mississippi River in Cairo, Illinois. The Scenic Byway reflects the culture and history of the rolling, hilly land along the Ohio River Valley in Illinois, passing through the eastern portion of the Shawnee National Forest near recreation areas such as Glen O Jones Lake, an Illinois State Conservation Area, and Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock, Pounds Hollow, and Cave-in-Rock State Park. A drive on the Illinois portion of the Byway at any time of year offers spectacular views of the Ohio from several places, including Golconda and historic Fort Massac State Park, as well as refreshing stops at beautiful recreation areas that promise relaxing moments and exciting adventures. Spring, summer and fall wildflowers grace the woodlands associated with each stop, including breath-taking glimpses of cliffs and unique rock formations. Roadside wildflowers are plentiful and are dominated by dogwood and redbud trees in the spring, garden phlox and tall thoroughwort in the summer, and asters, goldenrods and butterfly milkweed in the fall.
Video & Images
What's Happening Near Cairo
Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes at the Museum of Science & Industry
Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes celebrates Marvel history with more than 300 artifacts including or...
Read MoreIrish Wine Pairing Dinner at Pere Marquette Lodge
This is a gourmet dinner party like no other, hosted in our Lodge Restaurant. You can expect 4 cours...
Read MoreCivil War Weekend
Civil war era speakers, exhibits, music and history.
Read MoreJefferson Starship at the Effingham Performance Center
National, regional and local performers take the stage at the Effingham Performance Center! The EPC,...
Read MoreJohn Mueller's Winter Dance Party at the Effingham Performance Center
National, regional and local performers take the stage at the Effingham Performance Center! The EPC,...
Read MoreAnnual Oregon St. Patrick's Day Pub Crawl
Saturday, March 13th from 2-8 pm, get ready to have fun at the Shamrockin' Oregon St. Patrick's Day ...
Read MoreSweet Home Chicago Blues: Celebrating 50 Years of Alligator Records Virtual
The Sons of Blues will serve as house band for the show, backing each of the headliners.
Read MoreSt. Charles St. Patrick's Celebration
The 2021 St. Patrick's Celebration will have a decreased footprint due to health and safety restrict...
Read MoreLocation
Explore the Area
