Fall is one of our favorite times of the year, and is perfect for a cruise along the country roads in the Alton and Great Rivers Region. As you travel around Alton you'll discover lovely small towns, charming festivals, apple orchards and farmer's markets that are bursting with fall flavors to sample, and a few spooks and fun corn mazes to explore. And, we're sharing five fun fall activities to enjoy on your trip to Alton!
1. On a trip to a local orchard you can sample the freshest apple cider and bite into the richest apple pie around. And, many orchards have weekend music, children’s play and haunted houses, along with hayrides, pumpkin patches and plenty of fun fall activities to enjoy. There's also the Wood River Farmer's Market, located at 143 and 1st Street offers a variety of fresh produce and treats from 4 p.m. to Dusk, every Thursday from July into September as long as the weather and crops permit.
2. Speaking of fall fun, take a cruise to Godfrey and “Keep Calm and Farm On” at the Great Godfrey Maze! This fun Maze is open through Oct. 29. The whole family will enjoy a-mazing quest as they twist and turn through this maze cut out of a seven-acre cornfield. In October, get ready for the heart pounding thrills when the maze becomes haunted! For more information on the Great Godfrey Maze and upcoming events call (618) 466-1483.
3. If you're looking for a few fall spooks and ghostly tales, then head to Alton, which was named “the most haunted small town in the USA” by Fate magazine, a publication that has been reporting paranormal activity for more than 40 years.
Guided Ghost Tours are available from early September through mid-November for the spookiest season of all. Call the Alton Visitors Center at (800) 258-6645 or (618) 465-6676 for a listing of tour guides and haunted tours.
4. A popular way to experience the changes of fall is by horseback riding or hiking the more than 15 nature trails highlighting the wildlife and plants in the area. A walk is transformed into a fulfilling nature lesson with some trails providing interpretative stations along the way. Saddle up at Pere Marquette State Park for an adventurous horseback ride. Bring along your camera to catch the beautiful monarch butterflies that migrate to the region and flock to the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge in Grafton. They dance from each blossom to the next along the Gilbert Lake Trail.
5.Take a day trip along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway and enjoy the fall colors. Take a half day trip by starting at Jerseyville, turn west at Rte. 16. Cross Jersey County; turn southbound on Rte. 100. Drive down the Illinois River Road directly to Pere Marquette State Park. Continue southbound on Rte. 100, and it will bear eastbound as the byway turns to head back down to Grafton, Elsah and Alton. A Half day gives you time to cruise along this beautiful National Scenic Byway, and make a few stops along the way for lunch, and browse some the wonderful antique and boutiques you find along the way.
Plan Your Trip To Alton, Illinois
Of course, the best way to discover the endless opportunities for fun and recreation in the Alton area is to order a current copy of the Visitor's Guide and Calendar of Events visiting the Alton Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau. Call (800) 258-6645 and they can also help you plan a trip designed around the activities and attractions as well!
