The Scenic Drive In Illinois That Runs Straight Through Countless Charming Small Towns In Southern Illinois
By Linze Rice|Published August 07, 2023
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
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 pack up your essential road trip gear and let’s take a look at what makes this stunning drive one of the best in the Prairie State (and country!).
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.
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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.
In Greenville, travelers will find another quaint town filled with historic buildings, lush trees, and within just a short drive to St. Louis. The Bond County Courthouse, seen here, dates all the way back to 1884.
You'll also pass through the small town of Troy, which 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.
Of course, this is a lot of ground to cover, so why not make it a multi-day getaway? The small town of Effingham is right in the middle of the route, making this updated lakefront cabin a perfect place to stay while you're on the road.
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? Have another road trip or scenic drive suggestion? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your road trip by checking out the National Scenic Byway Foundation’s website, and don’t forget to make local accommodations (like at this renovated A-frame cabin) so you can enjoy a true Southern Illinois getaway!
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