Weekend Getaway to Southwest Illinois
From cozy coffee shops to hidden gems and riverfront views here’s how to spend three perfect days exploring the small towns of Southwest Illinois. I grew up boating on the Mississippi River and have such fond memories of family adventures in the towns along the water. It was so fun taking my kids to some of these special places. This guide can be used for a weekend adventure, a short drive from St. Louis, or just a guide for a day trip!
Southwest Illinois is beautiful all year round.
Day 1 - Collinsville and Edwardsville
Begin your adventure at Verona Coffee, a welcoming spot in the heart of Edwardsville that serves up expertly crafted lattes, pour-overs, and pastries. It’s the perfect fuel for a day of local exploring.
Head to nearby Willoughby Farm, a working demonstration farm with barnyard animals, gardens, hiking trails and an amazing playground area. It’s a great stop for kids and adults alike who want a taste of rural charm without venturing too far from town. This place was AMAZING! It’s free and so much to explore. You can pack a lunch and stay all day.
We headed to Edwardsville for lunch. Cafe Birdie is a cute, bright and cozy eatery offering seasonal fare. We also love Ed’s Delicatessen, with fantastic sandwiches and sweet treats.
Next, spend some interactive time at the Edwardsville Children’s Museum, where little ones can explore hands-on exhibits and imaginative play spaces. It’s $10 for kids 12 and under and $8 for everyone over 13. This is a great spot for indoor play but they have an amazing out door play area.
Hit the Great River Road, one of the most scenic drives in the Midwest. As you wind along the Mississippi, keep your camera ready for sweeping river views and charming roadside stops.
Stop at the Grafton Winery for a glass of local wine and beautiful views overlooking the river. The outdoor patio is especially stunning around sunset.
Check in at Pere Marquette Lodge and grab dinner with their legendary fried chicken dinner. Served family-style in a historic stone-and-timber lodge, it’s as cozy and satisfying as it gets. They also have a giant chess board which is so fun for kids!
Pet the animals, explore a working farm and play for hours at the play ground area at Willoughby Farm,
Cheeseboard and local beer at Grafton Winery and Brewhaus.
Day 2: Alton & Grafton Adventures
Kick off your Saturday with brunch at Old Bakery Beer, a certified organic brewery in a cool industrial space. Their rotating brunch menu features elevated comfort food with a local twist. They have a delicious breakfast burrito.
After brunch, take a walk through downtown Alton. Browse boutiques, antique shops, and don’t miss Funky Planet Toys, a quirky, colorful toy store that’s fun for all ages.
Stop at Post Commons, a beautifully restored post office turned café. Sip coffee, grab a homemade pastry, and relax in the sun-filled main hall. They also have a kids play area.
Another hidden gem! Head into nature at the John M. Olin Nature Preserve, where you’ll find a paved trail, natural playscape, and gorgeous bluffs. It’s stroller-friendly and ideal for a gentle hike or riverside picnic.
As the sun sets, settle in at The Loading Dock, a waterfront restaurant with live music, casual eats, and unbeatable river views. It’s a local favorite and the perfect spot to unwind.
End the day with a stop at Grafton Fudge and Ice Cream, where homemade fudge and old-fashioned scoops will satisfy every sweet tooth.
Views from the overlook at John Olin Nature Preserve!
Day 3 - Grafton
Brunch at Pere Marquette and a walk around Pere Marquette State Park. They have lots of trails to explore and a little visitor’s center with a few interactive exhibits.
Grab a coffee from a sweet couple at Lighthouse Coffee!
Time for the views! Take the Grafton SkyTour to the top of the bluffs. You can take a chairlift or enclosed gondola. It’s $12 per person and is the only way up to Aerie’s Resort, where thrill-seekers can ride the alpine coaster, zipline, or just enjoy a relaxed meal at the restaurant with panoramic river views. The restaurant and winery serves up yummy flatbreads, charcuterie plates and yummy wine!
Aeries Resort and restaurant offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River!
Where to Stay:
Pere Marquette offers cabins which are perfect for families. They have a pool on site.
Aeries Resort is another great place close to everything.
There are also campgrounds if that’s more your vibe!
The giant chessboard at Pere Marquette Lodge is a hit for visitors of all ages!