Opened in 1997, the Pere Marquette Visitor Center is situated just north of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers confluence in Grafton and should be the first stop when visiting the park. When you walk into the Visitor Center you are greeted with a three-dimensional map of the park and a wealth of other displays and exhibits focusing on the Illinois River, wildlife habitat, local history and geology.

Trail maps are available inside the center and will soon be available at trail heads. Park staff will be on hand to explain the trail system and give trail advice during normal office hours. Several informational park videos are highly recommended and available for viewing in the Audio/Visual room of the Visitor Center. Pere Marquette: The Park by the River, A story of Hope: The Civilian Conservation Corps in Illinois, Where Eagles Soar, Dinky (historic rail car footage), and Resource Conservation.

Free guided hikes to the different scenic areas on the park are available to be scheduled for any group size. If interested in organizing one, call the visitor center to schedule.

Schools and Scout groups may arrange reservations for a guided hike on the park's history and geology to McAdams Peak and Twin Mounds Peak. Please contact the park office Monday through Saturday at 1-618-786-3323

Binoculars are available for rent (FREE!) with a state issued I.D. at the front desk of the Visitor Center.

Visitor Center Hours

Monday - Saturday, 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Conrad Wittmond and his wife opened a trading post in Brussels, Illinois in 1847. Brussels is located in Calhoun County on a tiny peninsula between the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. In 1863 the couple added a two-story structure to accommodate river travelers and renovated again in 1885. Today the business no longer accommodates overnight guests, but the Wittmond Family, now in the sixth generation, continues to run the restaurant. The Wittmond Hotel is the oldest continuously operating business in Brussels.

Wittmond Hotel Meal:

The Wittmond Hotel serves a family-style meal. There is no way you can leave there still hungry. The first course is the relish tray. You can always tell restaurants that have been in businesses for generations when they bring out a relish tray. I’ve been served many relish trays in the past but none as extensive as the one you will have at the Wittmond Hotel.

Here is what it included:

Pork sausage

Coleslaw

Applesauce

Cinnamon apple rings

Pickled beets

Corn relish

Carrots

Celery

Chicken noodle soup

Dinner rolls

Peach preserves

Hours: Closer Mondays

Tuesday - Sunday open from 11am-8pm

Some of the best American food in town with a stunning view of one of the last lift span bridges in the world! The great Joe Page Bridge!

The Grafton SkyTour is a local attraction like no other! Our scenic aerial lift not only provides a unique way to reach Aerie's Hill, but also showcases the breathtaking views of the unique Grafton bluffs, and the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers. The SkyTour is a perfect activity for all ages, so if you're looking for things to do, come see our view!

The first alpine coaster in Illinois is at Aerie's Resort in Grafton, Illinois! Our exciting gravity coaster is perfect for family and friends of all ages. With nearly 4,000 feet of track, 7 hair-pin turns, and 8 waves/twisters you'll feel the thrill of a ride like never before! Our coaster is located on our hill and is reached via the Grafton SkyTour

With miles of slides and thousands of gallons of water, so many ways for your family to have fun!!

Once the area’s best kept secret, The Loading Dock has become known as a top St. Louis destination. Featuring stunning river views, outdoor dining, live music, monthly flea markets, and seasonal ice skating, The Loading Dock guarantees a fun time for all.

Pere Marquette Stables is open to the public Wednesday through Monday and open May through October. We are located about 2 miles north of Grafton on the Great River Road and approximately 22 miles north of Alton.

Walks ins are welcome but we do recommend making a reservation. Call today 618-786-2156 to schedule your personal horseback ride today.

Over the last 20 years we have developed an impressive collection of horses for your riding enjoyment. We constantly monitor the quality of the tours we sponsor. Your safety is always a priority with us. Experience clean air, natural sights and local wildlife such as deer, wild turkeys and red tailed hawks on a 45-50 minute ride through 2 1/2 miles of scenic trails through the park

Our knowledgeable ride consultants are a wonderful resource which is entirely at your disposal. They have many years of collective experience with horseback riding and can answer any questions about horseback riding that you might have.

Whether you live in the St Louis area or on vacation you will find that our expert staff and amazing scenery will make the time you spend with us a great experience. Contact us today with any questions you might have.

Grafton Oyster Bar is Illinois only floating restaurant located on the river in the heart of beautiful, Grafton, Illinois. We specialize in Seafood and Cajun Creole Cuisine. Stop in and try our Award-Winning Dishes, service, music, and atmosphere.

Ornamental Iron, Paintings, Pottery, Flower Arrangements and Vintage Pieces