This Quaint Illinois City Boasts Gorgeous Fall Foliage Along The Mississippi River

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Just because October has rolled around, doesn't mean you've missed peak season for discovering beautiful fall foliage. In some states, peak season is just around the corner, so you still have time to enjoy those bright yellow, red, and orange hues that turn green forests into technicolor beauties. This quaint city in Illinois has some incredible fall foliage colors just along the Mississippi River that you definitely don't want to miss.

If you're wondering where to see colorful fall foliage outside of New England, then we're going to let you in on a hidden gem that's bursting with color in late-October, so you still have plenty of time to plan some great road trip routes in America for unforgettable fall foliage views. Alton, Illinois sits approximately 22 miles north of St. Louis, Missouri, and is located right along the beautiful Mississippi River in Madison County.

Alton is one of the most charming small towns in Illinois for a weekend getaway. With a population that coasts just under 25,000, a visit to Alton will surely give you those small town vibes as you wander its streets, or take in a colorful riverfront walk along the Mississippi River as the fall foliage colors reflect and dance on top of the water's surface.

Alton is situated in what's called the Great River and Routes Region of America, so with a title like that, you know you're in for some stunning fall foliage. Great River Road runs along the Mississippi River for a whopping 3,000 miles, and runs all the way from north Minnesota down to the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America).

If you're looking to experience the best things to do in Illinois that steer clear of Chicago, then driving this stunning route is exactly what you need to do. The entire drive along Great River Road takes about 36 hours of nonstop driving from north to south, but typically most travelers will do the route in segments, or take almost two weeks to complete the journey. Doing the Illinois portion heading west takes you right through Alton to Elsah, Grafton, and Pere Marquette State Park, and what better way to marvel at the fall foliage than with a road trip down one of America's most beautiful routes.

After enjoying some time on the road taking in all of the wonders of fall, why not stop in at Alton's craft brewery, The Old Bakery Beer Company, for a few pints and some delicious snacks like pizzas, homemade pretzels, and artisan sandwiches. They even have a kid's menu, so your little one can fuel up after a long drive as well.

Founded in 1837, the city of Alton is jam-packed with history, which will excite and intrigue history buffs. Not only was Alton, Illinois the site of the final debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, the world's tallest man, Robert Wadlow, was also born and raised in the city. Jazz musician Miles Davis was also born in Alton, and for those that love a good ghost story, especially with Halloween approaching, Alton is also known as the most haunted city in America.

For those that like to shop, downtown Alton is the place to be. Filled with cozy antique shops (called "Arts & Antique Row"), locally-owned boutiques, thriving bars, and lively restaurants, whatever you're in the mood for, Alton has it. Stay for the weekend at one of Alton's B&B's, so you can meander around downtown streets in the morning with the locals.

Want to test your luck during a night on the town? Head over to Argosy Casino to try your hand at winning a game of Blackjack, or try to score big at one of 800 gaming slots that are on-site at the casino. For the "Best View in Town," head to Journey restaurant at the casino, or for a nightcap, stop in at Hops House on the casino's main floor for some regional craft beers.