The Byway Discovery Center at Great Rivers Park is designed to connect travelers with the communities, landscapes, and outdoor adventures found along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, a 33-mile stretch of road between Hartford and Grafton in southwest Illinois.

Developed by the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau with public and private partners, the approximately $7.4 million first phase of the project represents a major investment in the future of outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism. The Byway Discovery Center was funded by a $7 million Capital grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Located along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, the Discovery Center will introduce visitors to experiences stretching from Hartford through Alton and Grafton to Pere Marquette State Park and the surrounding region.

Interactive and immersive exhibits will help travelers discover opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, paddling, birding, scenic drives, wildlife viewing and other outdoor experiences while encouraging them to explore nearby communities, attractions, restaurants, shops and lodging.

The Byway Discovery Center is the first phase of a larger vision for Great Rivers Park which is perched on the banks of the Mississippi River near Piasa Creek.

Plans for the next phase include approximately 55 acres of outdoor recreational space connecting the Discovery Center with the Mississippi River and Piasa Creek. Proposed amenities include walking trails, interpretive exhibits, outdoor learning areas and fishing access — creating additional opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the river landscape.

The project has been made possible through partnerships with the State of Illinois, Jersey County, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Great Rivers Land Trust and the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau.

Operating hours of the Byway Discovery Center will be Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. year-round.