Ottawa, situated at the confluence of the Illinois and Fox rivers, is a vibrant tourist destination located 80 miles outside of downtown Chicago. The city is chockfull of historic homes that cater to the curiosity of history buffs and architectural fans alike. American Queen Voyage guests also note its friendly and neighborly, hometown feel. Here, everyone is a special guest, and the area businesses provide personal attention to everyone’s needs and expectations. The residents offer a handshake, a warm greeting, and an experience made from the heart. This is a place of progress, trendsetters, and modern movements, from the innovators of the past to the forward thinkers of today. A diverse culinary scene, large murals and public art displays, mom-and-pop shops, historic American figures, and adventure activities. There’s a lot packed into this hidden gem of the Midwest as you will see during your visit. In addition to historical landmarks, Ottawa is surrounded by open spaces, rivers, trails, a nature preserve, and four state parks, all within 20 minutes of downtown. The city is best known as the scenic gateway to Starved Rock State Park, the most popular state park in Illinois, with some 2 million visitors per year. The Park derives its name from a Native American legend. In the 1760s, Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe was attending a tribal council meeting. At this meeting, a great battle started. Fearing death, the Illinois tribe took refuge on the great rock but died of starvation giving this historic park its name – Starved Rock. 

Ottawa is a city of intricacy: butterfly gardens and gardens mingle alongside its city streets. Elegant boutique shops and modern eateries satisfy the urban explorer. Explore treasures old and new in this delightful city.

Ottawa is a city of intricacy: butterfly gardens and gardens mingle alongside its city streets. Elegant boutique shops and modern eateries satisfy the urban explorer. Explore treasures old and new in this delightful city.

The largest city on the Illinois River, Peoria is the oldest European settlement in Illinois. Named after the Peoria Native American Tribe, the city was settled in 1680 by French explorers. With a good blend of government and official buildings as the county seat – Peoria also offers a bustling art and culture scene and offers a robust historical story to entertain guests from around the world.

This town gives way to the discovery of the heart and soul of the Illinois River. Within its borders lies a rich cultural heritage, red-brick streets and beautiful Riverfront Park. Nature lovers and history buffs alike will relish the day touring this beautiful scenic port.

Watch small river towns and lush landscapes slowly become lost in the horizon as sunlight plays upon the deck. Take hold of a literary classic, curl up on a plush chair in a cozy corner and relish in the moment of tranquility. Experience the fulfillment that river cruising offers.

Hannibal could be described as ordinary, but the father of American literature would beg to differ. The town, with style and dignity, comes to life in the writings of Mark Twain. People, entities and livelihoods of Hannibal’s past endure within the pages of masterpieces such as “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and “Life on the Mississippi,” and the town’s preservation efforts allow the quests to step right onto the page where Twain left off. Today, the river stretches north toward country that’s almost as wild and beautiful as it must have been then, and, still enlivened by the coming and going of rivercraft, this exuberant port marks the start of adventure for all who visit. 

Grafton is the oldest city in Jersey County, founded as a river community with an eye on supporting riverboats traveling between Chicago and St. Louis. Boat construction, quarries, and mills were part of the city’s early industrial years. Grafton housed a factory that made boats through the 1960s. The city’s early history is the stuff of legends. Early Grafton was reminiscent of the Wild West. Due to the relatively short distance across the river to Missouri, the city lured outlaws who would hide out in surrounding hollows and caves. Infamous outlaw Jesse James and his gang reportedly spent time at The River House Hotel, or the “Bloody Bucket” as it was later known. Now known as the Great Rivers and Routes region, this is the only place where the Mother Road of Route 66 meets the Great River Road. The convergence of those two iconic roads is also the intersection of fascinating people, places and things that make this region so special. 

Alongside famous roads, history and small-town charm, the region celebrates three of the nation’s great rivers – the Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois. Where else can you find: the remnants of a prehistoric native civilization; ties to both Abraham Lincoln and Miles Davis; and a historic bridge that takes a sharp bend in the middle. Grafton’s history is openly depicted in every rustic home, residents’ undeniable hospitality, sweeping views and its vibrant downtown district. Discover museums that highlight the city’s history, explore unique shops and eateries or sip robust wines from one of the many wineries across the county.

As the journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town. Enjoy the city at your leisure, or consider an airport transfer.