23 Scenic Drives In ILLINOIS (Historical, Scenic, & Joyful)

Illinois is most famous for its outdoor attractions offering numerous recreational activities.

Its historical and cultural enrichment attracts local and foreign visitors to explore them.

You’ll observe the beautiful and natural woodlands, forests, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls on your way.

Several scenic drives in Illinois offer entertainment, shopping, on-road restaurants, and many more.

You must have heard about Route 66 and River Road, and there are plenty of other gorgeous scenic drives that this article will highlight.

This article will provide incredible information about the location of routes, cities covering the roads, beautiful sites to observe, and speed limits.

It will be full of interest exploring this.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Bike Trails in Illinois.

Scenic Drives in Chicago, Illinois

1. The United States Route 66 (Historic Route 66)

It is also called Main Street of USA, US 66, Illinois Route Sixty Six Mother Road, and Route 66.

Stretching over 300 miles, this road connects St. Louis and Chicago.

Originally a 2500 miles road came from Chicago, and historically this scenic byway was used to migrate people to the West in the 1900s.

Starting from E. Jackson Boulevard, it ends at the Rock’s Bridge Old Chain in Granite.

Automobile travelers used this route for their journey, but now Interstate 55 has replaced this road, and its 300-mile road still carries traffic. 

This scenic drive has numerous historical landmarks, including 1940s gas pumps, drive-in restaurants, famous museums, theaters, and art and memorabilia.

You can also download the route maps and other essential brochures from its official site to help your journey.

Before taking this drive, explore and dig into its history.

Address: 1045 S 5th St, Springfield, IL 62703, United States

2. Wells Street Bridge (River Views)

Crossing this beautiful bridge offers one of the most scenic drives in Chicago, providing a view of the Chicago River and the bridge.

It crosses over the Chicago River and connects the loop to River North.

This worthy landmark is a double-decked bridge, and its beauty and scenic viewpoints attract the locals and visitors.

Lined with CTA’s Purple (3.9 miles) and Brown (11.4 miles) lines, the upper deck acts as a bridge, while the lower deck consists of three lanes for traffic with sidewalks.

You’d experience the gorgeous sight of the river, and at the right time, you’ll enter the loop with a train passing above you.

This drive reflects the beauty and reveals the hidden glassy skyline of the city to the passengers and people crossing the bridge.

You can observe its majestic views in your automobile, on elevated trains, or as a pedestrian.

Address: 299 North Wells Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606, USA

3. Midway Plaisance (Historical Drive)

Also famous as the Midway, it is a public place that joins with Washington and Jackson Park and offers a beautiful drive.

This drive features lush green lands between the roadways and the majestic historical building of the University of Chicago on its north.

You’ll witness a gorgeous Fountain of Time, numerous beautiful gardens, delicious restaurants, and shopping blocks.

The DuSable Museum reflecting African American History is located west of the loop, while its east side features Jackson Parks’ Lagoons.

Reflecting the unique architecture, trees lining the boulevards, ice skating rink, and offering numerous facilities make it a must-visit point.

This natural attraction is also famous for being the venue of amusements during the Columbian World’s Exposition.

You can access Old Vienna, Carl Linnaeus’ statue, the Chinese Village, soccer facilities, and the theater in this park.

Would you like a short pleasure drive around it? 

Address: 1130 Midway Plsne, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA

4. Lake Shore Drive (Lake Michigan Views)

It is a public expressway with multiple levels, beaches, and parks across Lake Michigan’s shoreline.

In 1927, it was called Leif Ericson Drive, but now it has multiple names, including The Drive, LSD, or DuSable LSD.

This expressway features numerous skyline views, green areas, renowned institutions, parklands, towering buildings, and aqua-hued waters.

Due to its features, it is considered a symbol of Chicago, representing the city’s cultural and architectural history and heritage.

Various luxury apartments on its west side are available for rent due to the high demand for breathtaking views.

You can also explore its Lakefront paved trail that offers various viewpoints on Lake Michigan’s shoreline and Lincoln Park featuring a zoo, golf course, and natural museum.

Lake Shore Drive is one of the prettiest drives in Illinois, and the best way to experience it is by moving south to north.

Address: Lake Shore Drive. 680 N. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60611, United States

5. Columbus Drive (Cityscape Drive)

Crossing through Grant and Millenium Park, it merges with Lake Shore Drive, and becoming Fairbanks Court, it ends at Chicago Avenue.

Its main lanes are on a multilevel structure’s deck and intersect various streets.

Columbus Drive’s mid-level runs over the Chicago River via a Chicago kissing bascule bridge and intersects North Water Street.

Its northbridge offers an underside view of the bridge deck from the river level, and you can see it as an impressive and catchy perception.

This beautiful 3.56 km drive features green areas, sightseeing benchmarks, trees lining the roads, and small parks.

While you’re driving, you’ll pass beneath a BP Pedestrian Bridge, which was architect designed by Frank Gehry.

You’ll also witness a breathtaking view of Buckingham Fountain and its beautiful small gardens.

If you’re driving, you must pass underneath the Pedestrian Bridge to gain its whole experience.

Address: Chicago, Cook County, IL 60611, United States

6. Logan Square Boulevards (Historical Landmarks)

Stretching over 265 acres, this district is home to historical and architectural styles and attracts locals and tourists.

It highlights various areas of Humboldt and Logan Boulevard, small parks, green lands, Squares connecting the boulevards, and many more.

Famous as a millionaire’s boulevard, it is Chicago’s oldest and finest landmark and is mainly viewed by visitors.

Dual-way traffic lanes featuring extensive medians and narrower one-way streets are on its roads.

Featuring the most renowned and historical Centennial Monument, it offers a drive full of historical buildings made of brick, artwork, and gray stone houses.

Beautiful seasonal and natural trees, plants, and lawns are well-suited at the intersections of the medians.

The gorgeous homes, stylish civic buildings, and high rises enhance the beauty of this drive.

These squares offered residents various recreational areas and activities and were called Chicago Landmarks.

Are you ready for a long drive around it?

Address: Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

7. Wacker Drive (Multilevel Scenery)

The south side of this drive covers the central part of the Chicago River, while the east side runs across the river’s south branch in the Loop.

It is a multilevel double deck featuring traffic lanes on the upper and lower levels for the service trucks and vehicles working for the buildings.

Wacker Drive is most famous for a filming scene in The Dark Knight, in which the Joker, Batman, and other cops have a chase under the streets of the city.

The upper Wacker offers a pleasant drive, with heart-pounding views from Franklin and Harrison Street intersections.

A third tier is also present under the lower Wacker, known as Lower Lower Wacker Drive, and most people don’t know about it.

You’d experience beautiful viewpoints, including the buildings, high-rises, Lake Michigan, Wills, Mather Tower, and many more.

Driving through the city’s streets shortcuts offers different feelings and scenic views, especially at night.

Address: 233 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois, USA

8. Humboldt Drive (Historical District)

Passing centrally through the 197.26 acres of Humboldt Park, this drive offers numerous scenic views, historical sites, and recreational areas.

This drive highlights an old house featuring a fitness center, gymnasiums, meeting rooms, a beach, lagoons, boat houses, and many more.

Beautiful weather offers blessing viewpoints, especially after rain when the sun shines on the lush green grounds and natural plants.

While driving around its lakes, you’ll witness people jogging the winding trails, and teams are ready with their swan boats moving along the lagoon.

You’d also observe various communities enjoying recreational activities in its gorgeous soccer and baseball fields, playgrounds, and tennis courts.

The National Puerto Rican Arts and Culture Museum is also worth visiting, reflecting the complete history, arts, and culture of Puerto Rican.

You can also enhance your experience and journey by taking Luis Munoz Marin Drive. 

Visit this park when the weather is agreeable to enjoy its entire drive.

Address: 1440 North Humboldt Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60622, USA

9. Western Avenue (Longest Street Views)

Also known as 24th Avenue and Asbury Avenue, it is the most famous and longest street in Chicago, offering heart-pounding sceneries.

Stretching over 27.38 miles, it progresses south of the city and ends at a cornfield.

Its name was taken from the western border of the city between 1851 to 1869.

Passing through the middle of the city, it highlights gas stations, renowned car dealerships, local residences, railroads parks, historic and oldest Rosehill Cemetery, and industrial areas.

On your tour, you’d also observe gorgeous strip malls and the finest ice cream parlors offering diverse refreshments.

It also provides a beautiful look at numerous immigrant and cultural communities.

You can also pause your drive and explore the majestic West Ridge Nature Park.

Western Boulevard crossing the Chicago River is the second most mysterious place that offers a pleasant drive without heavy traffic, cars, and delivery boys.

You can enjoy this scenic drive using the Brown, Pink, and Orange line services on a bike or vehicle.

Address: North Western Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60645, United States

10. Michigan Avenue (Magnificent Mile)

This famous prime shopping location along the Chicago River features massive buildings and architecture.

It also highlights Water Tower, Millennium Park, Art Institute, warehouses, and famous buildings such as The Dark Hotel and Wrigley Building.

These buildings and institutes are why this place is famous as Magnificent Mile among the locals and visitors.

Its fantastic sceneries, spectacular buildings, creative foods, and beverages attract tourists and urge them to go shopping.

Located in the city’s heart, you can access famous neighborhoods, including the Loop, River North, and Gold Coast.

Offering multiple sceneries, you can enjoy its architecture across the river by foot or boat and snap photos there.

You can observe many sea creatures with histories at Shedd Aquarium.

There are various departmental, designer, and grocery stores for shopping and numerous activities for kids and adults.

You will have unlimited fun at the Mag Mile, so manage your time accordingly.

Address: Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Also see our article on Train Rides in Illinois.

Scenic Drives in Galena, Illinois

1. Great River Road (Mississippi River Drive)

Passing through ten different states, this scenic byway consists of a network of local roads and runs along the Mississippi River.

This name represents the network of roadways and many roads crossing the U.S. states.

Its Illinois portion starts from the Galena and looks fantastic in the Fall.

Providing an easy scenic drive, the tourists and locals use this road for recreational activities and enjoyment.

The river glow in its full flow, and its wooded limestone bluffs and natural beauty offer heart-pounding views to its guests.

Home to migratory birds, it is the best destination for birdwatching and hunting.

Spanning the entire state, it covers 550 miles featuring UNESCO World Heritage places, historical buildings, inspiring views, and quaint towns.

You’d experience many celebrations, events, and festivals on this road throughout the year, reflecting the history and culture.

The rushing waters of the river and beautiful green areas provide a blessed and peaceful drive.

Address: Great River Road, Galena, IL 61036, United States

2. Elizabeth Scales Mound Road (Hilly Scenery)

This beautiful hilly drive passing the east side of the Galena offers numerous breathtaking scenes to refresh your mind and soul.

At Elizabeth Town, the road divides off, and you’ll see its scenic beauty after 12 miles of driving connecting to Stagecoach Trail.

On this road, the Stagecoach Trail offers a scenic drive worth visiting.

This road features gorgeous vistas, rolling mountains, fall foliage, and its highest point, Charles Mound.

You’d experience smooth roads, sweeping edges with sharp elevation variations, and numerous wildlife grazing there.

Visitors say you’ll see deer there, especially during dawn and dusk.

If you reach one end of the route, turn around and start your journey at the opposite end to experience its full beauty.

This is the best destination for your drive with your partner, family, and friends offering exceptional natural views.

Address: Elizabeth Scales Mound Rd, Galena, IL 61075, United States

3. Stagecoach Trail (Historic Galena-Chicago Trail)

Connecting the Galena to the Lena, it is a part of the great Galena-Chicago Trail and passes through the entire state.

Running across the Waddams Hill, Charles Mound, and Illinois-Wisconsin boundary, it features charming, worth-visiting farms, towns, and historical sites.

Highlighting the fantastic landscapes, the unique architecture of Galena Town, galleries filled with art, antique markets, local beverages, and delicious cuisine, it is the best destination for bikers and long drives lovers.

You can also explore historic buildings, including the Old Market House and the Washburne House, designed in Greek Revival Style.

Passing through the amazing rural valleys offers Illinois communities the most pleasurable scenic drives.

You can also use this road instead of U.S. Route 20 to access locations between the Lena and Galena, featuring beautiful landscapes and historical communities.

The Galena Cellars Winery and Vineyard force you to pause your journey and enjoy it there.

Address: W Stagecoach Trail, Galena, IL 61036, United States

4. Apple River Canyon Street Park (Natural Beauty Drive)

Access to this park also offers you a drive full of pleasure, scenic views, and a wide range of recreational activities.

Built by the flowing seawaters of Apple River, it features numerous hills, limestone bluffs, springs, small lakes, deep ravines, and wildlife habitats.

Stretching over 1907 acres, you’ll witness many marvelous scenes and explore the beautiful park.

You’ll find numerous historical canyons having colorful dotted walls due to the action of lichens, mosses, and other bushes.

Much wildlife is observed there, including squirrels, eagles, deer, hawks, and a wide range of birds.

It also allows access to neighboring sites, including Witkowsky Wildlife Area, Hanover Bluff Nature Preserve, Falling Down Prairie, and Tapley Woods.

You’ll see unique types of ferns, herbaceous plants, and various natural flowers there.

Its fall colors bless you with a fresh and peaceful feeling and enhance the experience of your scenic drive.

Address: 8763 E Canyon Rd, Apple River, IL 61001, United States

5. Horseshoe Mound Preserve (Panoramic Nature Drive)

It is the most scenic 200 acres of nature preserve area, offering an impressive drive, hiking trails, picnic areas, and many historical sites.

This natural attraction is filled with numerous spectacular views, greenery, and varieties of birds flying over you.

You’ll also observe the panoramic views of the Mississippi River, the city, and geological mounds.

There are numerous other attractions, such as Casper Bluff, Beautiful Thunder Bay Falls, and Galena River Trail, where you can enjoy a lot.

Its trails bless you with stunning views from the Galena, surrounding areas, and Wisconsin.

On your drive, you can also explore the beautiful sites of Galena City, including various shops, indoor restaurants, and historical buildings and institutes.

You can see a breathtaking aerial view of the town and distant areas from the top of the hiking trail.

On hiking, Council Ring and Galena River Valley welcome you with extensive views and offer you a seating area made of stones. 

Visit this place during sunset and get a charming view.

Address: 1679 N Blackjack Rd, Galena, IL 61036, United States

Also see our article on Ice Skating in Illinois.

Scenic Drives in Ottawa, Illinois

1. Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway (Illinois River Beauty)

This 291 miles most wonderful drive across the Illinois River features scenic displays and natural beauty.

It starts from Ottawa in Illinois, stretches to Havana, and looks at many historical towns and cultures.

You’ll experience the diverse beauty of Ottawa, Starved Rock State Park featuring twisting trails, glorious waterfalls, and historical LaSalle town.

Featuring wetlands, extensive forests, woodland oozes, lakes, winding streams, rushing water, and abundant wildlife, it offers awe-inspiring beauty to its guests.

You’d also observe numerous roadside shops selling their fruits and green vegetables, highlighting the culture of Americans, French, and other settlers.

This scenic drive is the best destination to enjoy the natural beauty of the Illinois River Valley.

In Fall, the roads are dusted with the vibrant leaves from the red and brown tall trees.

The road has recreational activities, including biking, camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Its drive is a must-do experience.

Address: 100 West, Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois 61350, USA

2. Allen Park (River View Drive)

Drive around this park provides you with beautiful natural viewpoints, and you can sit and observe the scenic view of the Illinois River.

This 20-acre park offers many recreational activities and setting areas to pause your journey and observe the glorious river site.

It features an Indian monument, a public boat launch area, pieces of industrial art, and numerous pavilions throughout the park.

Offering a peaceful scenic drive, it runs along the Illinois River, allowing you to observe the river traffic and water drift.

You’d also experience many ducks and geese playing in the water, and cool breezes from the riverside relax.

This park also offers you many other amenities, including fishing, boating, birdwatching, sightseeing, riverwalks, toboggan running, and playing at playgrounds.

If you are looking for a scenic drive and picnic spot, it is the best destination for you and your family.

Address: 400 Courtney Street, Ottawa, IL 61350, United States

Also see our article on Bridges in Illinois.

Scenic Drives in Peoria, Illinois

1. Grandview Drive (Panoramic City Views)

This is the most popular and beautiful drive in Illinois, passing from Peoria, and features a wide range of panoramic views.

Highlighting the beautiful and ancient sites, this 2.5 miles offers a scenic adventure filled with marvelous views of the Illinois River.

Built in 1903, the National Historic Places Register also includes this beautiful drive.

You’d experience prestigious homes and natural beauty with scenic sidewalks and trees lining the roads.

This city offers a pleasant drive around its surrounding and attracts locals and tourists alike.

You’ll be amazed by seeing the architectural styles of the houses with huge lawns and impressive views.

A lovely park with tables and recreational activities suits the family’s picnic well.

You can also enjoy a picnic on the beautiful side of the river, enjoying its cool breezes and scenery.

Remember to bring your camera because this sweet drive offers numerous viewpoints for snaps.

Address: Peoria and Peoria Heights, Peoria County, IL 61616, United States

2. Wildlife Prairie Park (Wildlife Drive)

This park is located just outside the city, but reaching this park offers a scenic drive featuring over 60 unique species and animals.

It offers spectacular landscapes, natural areas, and abundant wildlife habitats.

Consisting of over 1800 acres, this park remains at the top of the list worth visiting in Illinois and the Peoria community.

On your drive, you’ll observe numerous wolves, snakes, elk, black bears, otters, and bobcats enjoying and crossing your way.

Refreshing you with heart-pounding views, it also offers other amenities at the park, such as boating, biking, camping, fishing, birdwatching, and driving.

There are numerous vast playgrounds to enjoy yourself with your family and kids.

You can visit this area throughout the year, and it also offers a diverse variety of seasonal activities, educational programs, and events.

This park is also used for wedding events and celebrations.

Address: 3826 North Taylor Road, Hanna, Illinois 61536, USA

Also see our article on Skiing in Illinois.

Scenic Drives in Dahinda, Illinois

1. Knox County Scenic Drive (Historical Towns)

Stretching from Knoxville to Dahinda, this 58.7-mile scenic drive offers numerous historical and natural sites.

It features small ancient towns, natural woodlands, and countryside, allowing you to explore their culture and history.

Passing through the Dahinda, you’d experience several farm markets, studios, and natural lands that blessed you with charming scenes.

The route is open throughout the year, but it’s better to visit during the county festival in October, which features many arts and crafts shows, creative food shops, and live entertainment.

Comprising over eight rural towns, this scenic drive featuring events and shows reflects the communities’ rich history and farming culture.

While driving, you’ll observe numerous people working on their lands and harvest.

During the event, you’ll find honey shops, flea shops, delicious meals, homemade goods, and handcrafted items such as art, beauty soaps, and furniture.

This is the best way to explore the community and historic sites with beautiful scenery.

Address: 1636 Knox Rd 1550 N, Dahinda, IL 61428, United States

2. Spoon River Drive (Fulton County Scenery)

Passing centrally through Illinois and a few portions of the Dahinda, this scenic route is also mapped in the Dahinda and ends in Austria.

Covering 140 miles of distance through Fulton County, it highlights significant historical attractions and offers a drive full of entertainment.

It features 17 small ancient towns reflecting their rich culture and history, roads filled with fall colors, rolling mountains, and green farmlands.

You can join this drive by taking Illinois Route 91 and enjoying the scenic displays of the Spoon River Valley.

Each stop on this drive offers you a fun, peaceful atmosphere, and rural heritage, making it the best drive with families and friends.

A Spoon River Festival is held annually in October, featuring historical and cultural sites, cooking demonstrations, and many other activities.

On this route, you’ll find delicious food, handmade goods, handcrafted items, and art and antiques representing the culture of the towns.

If you are a history lover, this drive is for you.

Address: Spoon River Drive, Dahinda, IL 61428, United States

Also see our article on Pumpkin Patches in Illinois.

Scenic Drives in Fulton, Illinois

1. Illinois Lincoln Highway (Historic Highway)

It is one of the most scenic highways in Illinois, passing through the states of the United States, and it enters from Fulton and ends in Lynwood.

This 179-mile route covers the entire state of Illinois, reflecting the historic buildings, showcasing the small attractions and towns, and highlighting the cultures of communities.

It was initially passed through Illinois to assist small farmers in accessing markets, but later it was regularly used by locals, tourists, and automobiles.

Passing through the larger states and highlighting high-rise buildings, institutes, and historical sites makes it the most scenic byway.

At the peak elevation of this highway, you’ll see the great Abraham Lincoln Monument, which was stood by Robert Russin in 1959.

Favorite stops on this route include Paramount Theater, Rochelle Railroad Park, rolling prairies, and riverfront towns.

This is an impressive way to explore Illinois’s historical states, cultures, and communities.

Address: Lincoln Highway, Fulton, IL 61252, United States

2. Emiquon Preserve (Wetlands Drive)

Although it is not centrally located in Fulton, reaching this nature preserve area is a scenic drive for the Fulton County community.

Offering spectacular views, this place is located 6.0 miles from Fulton County and features abundant wildlife habitat, wetlands, and rich history of human cultures.

The drive to this preserve is full of scenic views from the Illinois and Mississippi River and guide tourists about floodplain restoration effects.

It features diverse and enormous species of natural plants and animals in its wetlands and ponds.

With plenty of breathtaking views, it allows a significant range of recreational activities, including boating, hiking, wildlife observation, hunting, migratory birdwatching, and many more.

You can also avail facilities of boat launches, pavilions for picnics, observation benches, hiking trails, and boardwalks.

This is the best combination of scenic displays and recreational activities for the locals and tourists. 

Address: 11304 N Prairie Rd, Lewistown, Fulton County, IL 61542, United States

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Museums, Planetariums, and Beaches in Illinois.

Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on the best Scenic Drives in New York and California’s most relaxing scenic drives.