What to do
Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge The largest of three National Wildlife Refuges within the Illinois River National Wildlife and Fish Refuges Complex (the others are the Emiquon and Meredosia), Chautauqua attracts more than 100,000 fall birds. (309) 535-2290; fws.gov/midwest
Peoria Heights North of Peoria, detour from the Illinois River Road byway to pretty Grand View Drive. Restaurants and shops include Leaves n Beans and I Know You Like a Book. (309) 685-4812; peoriaheightschamber.com
Peoria RiverFront You’ll find plenty of places to eat, plus paddle-wheeler excursions, ethnic festivals and a marina. A riverfront museum opened in 2012. (309) 671-5555; peoriariverfront.com
Starved Rock State Park Views of the Illinois River unfold from bluffs in Starved Rock State Park. Hikes hit all of the highlights. See reviews and ratings. (815) 667-4726; www.dnr.illinois.gov
Where to eat
Agatucci’s Pizza Thin-crust pie served in a casual tavern atmosphere has a loyal Peoria following. (309) 688-8200
June A fine-dining destination in Peoria Heights serves dishes such as local eggs with house-made pancetta, coffee-smoked shiitake mushrooms and hollandaise sauce. See reviews and ratings. (309) 682-5863; junerestaurant.com
Where to stay
Mark Twain Hotel A lovely 111-room boutique hotel stands blocks from Peoria’s riverfront. Try the barbecued chicken pizza at Two25 in the hotel. From $129. See reviews and ratings. (866) 325-6351; marktwainhotel.com
Mission Oak Inn With in-room fireplaces, two-person whirlpools and a small lake out the back door, this Henry inn feels like a true escape. From $175. See reviews and ratings. (309) 370-4083; missionoakinn.com
Read our story about a fall drive along the Illinois River Road.
For information and maps: (800) 747-0302; illinoisriverroad.org
