No matter your background, I guarantee you will be welcome in Savanna.
Savanna is a vibrant little river town nestled between the Mississippi River and the Bluffs of the Driftless area in Northwest Illinois. Settled in 1828 by explorers from Galena, Savanna is one of the oldest towns in Illinois. Located on the Great River Road, Savanna attracts visitors from all over the Midwest, United States and the World. We are located just 30 miles from one of Illinois most popular destinations, Galena, but are competing for the top spot as one of Illinois tourisms best kept secrets. The list is endless, but here are 10 things to explore while visiting Savanna.
So, plan your next weekend getaway and come see us.
1. DISCOVER THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI RIVER
The Mississippi River flows for 2,350 miles – from Lake Itasca in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, and how lucky are we to live right on it?! Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Savanna has three boat launches to experience every thing the river has to offer. Spend the day boating, tubing, Kayaking or fishing and the night relaxing with a river view at one of our restaurants, bars or Inns. Visit Marquette park to stroll along the river, sit and watch the River Boats or do a little fishing. The Mississippi River is one of the world’s largest river systems and is a must see while in Savanna.
2. TAKE IN THE VIEWS AT MISSISSIPPI PALISADES STATE PARK
If massive cliffs, stunning views, and the peacefulness of nature are your affinity, it is hard to beat Mississippi Palisade State Park.Untouched by glaciers that left their mark elsewhere in the state, this park is rich with rock formations carved by erosion. The Mississippi Palisades State Park is located in Savanna along the lofty, wooded palisades of the Mississippi River, the park's inhabitants include pileated woodpeckers, migratory waterfowl and other upland wildlife. Enjoy hiking more then 15 miles of trails and five breathtaking scenic overlooks. This is the only State Park the Still allows rock climbing. Mississippi Palisades State Park also has an impressive 241 campsites!
3. EXPLORE ON TWO WHEELS ON THE GREAT RIVER BIKE TRAIL
The Great River Trail is a breathtaking journey along more than 60 miles of the Mississippi River in northern Illinois. Starting in Savanna, you’ll head south through several small towns with traditions still steeped in river culture before reaching the industrial center of the Quad Cities, which includes Rock Island and Moline. Many opportunities exist for browsing antiques, enjoying catfish dinners, and viewing river traffic. Camping and lodging are available for overnight trips.
4. ENJOY SAVANNA'S MUSIC SCENE
Savanna is bustling with live music every single weekend during the summer months, and on most weekends during the colder season too! Whether you want to see a high energy show at Poopys, sip on a martini and listen to some acoustic at A.O. Elliot, or join the best of them at Iron Horse Social Club for Sunday afternoon day drinks, Savanna has something for everyone.
5. EXPLORE SAVANNA'S HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
Founded in 1828, Savanna is one of Illinois’ oldest towns. Now located on the Great River Road National Byway, Savanna’s Historic Downtown has something for everyone. Browse our quaint shops, plan a spa day, have dinner and drinks and one of our bars or restaurants, enjoy some world class live music or just grab a coffee and people watch on main Street. What ever you enjoy, you can find it in Downtown Savanna.
6. HOP ABOARD THE FERRY
With the bridge connecting Savanna, IL to Sabula, IA temporarily closed, there's a new service to get across the Mississippi River. It's a car and passenger ferry! The ferry runs from 6am - to 6pm Sunday - Friday and 8am - 8pm on Saturdays! And it's completely free! Hop on the ferry and take the short ferry ride to Iowa's only island city for some ice cream or a cocktail on the river.
7. STOP FOR A BITE TO EAT
Enjoy a summer bite at one of Savanna's various places to enjoy a summer bite. Circa 1888's sprawling patio situated on the Mississippi River offers plenty of relaxed seating that will get you feeling those relaxed summer vibes. Order up for lunch or dinner then stay awhile for a few rounds of cocktails.
8. GO FOR A DRIVE ON THE GREAT RIVER ROAD
The stretch of the Mississippi River north of Rock Island, Illinois is considered by many to be the most scenic drive along the Mississippi. One reason is that most of this portion of the Great River Road lies within the “Driftless Area” a unique geologic formation from the last glaciers to cover Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Northern Illinois. It is characterized by deeply carved river valleys, high bluffs, numerous rivers, creeks and springs, cave formations, and dramatic canyons. The bluffs that line the Upper Mississippi can reach as high as 600 feet above the river. Take a cruise and explore all of the amazing places the Great River Road will take you.
9. sleep under the stars or in a comfy home away from home
Savanna offers new opportunities to stay in style, whether under the stars or beneath 400-thread count sheets. Yup, we’ve upped our game since you were last here. If you’ve never been to see us, you’re right on time. Check in at a house overlooking the Mississippi River, a full service hotel, a pet friendly bnb, or bring your favorite camper and enjoy the views. We offer some of the best lodging in Illinois Travel.
10. visit nw illinois best wine trail
Sit on the deck with a glass of wine and enjoy the view at one of our nearby wineries. Choose to visit one winery or make it a girls weekend and spend a few days staying in Savanna and visiting each one.