Grafton is recognized for its all-encompassing views and lively city Centre. It is situated at the convergence of two great rivers in the United States namely the Illinois River and Mississippi River.
It originated as a river community. Thus, mills, quarries, and construction of boats were part of its early industrial practices. During the 1960s, it even housed a facility that mainly produced boats.
This breathtaking place is home to a local prized winegrower, water park along a river, an indoor ice rink in the banks of the river of Mississippi, and a zipline haven.
Upcoming Events of Grafton Illinois
The culture that makes Grafton one of a kind is manifested in its fun events throughout the year. Here are some of the upcoming events to expect in Grafton Illinois:
November 7th Winery Comedy Tour:
The Winery Comedy Tour is set to take place on the 7th of November 2020 from 8:00 to 9:30 in the evening at the Grafton Winery & Brewhaus. This tour welcomes nationally recognized comedians from across the globe to taste local wine and gather new fans through quality comedy shows. Couple your wine with hysterical waves of laughter from the comedic scripts of the best comedians.
American Hauntings’ Ghosts of the River Road Dinner Tour:
Get ready to have a night full of cold chills as you journey the Great River Road to search for spirited tales and ghosts. This river road dinner tour will be held on November 13, 2020, and December 5, 2020, from 7 pm to 10 pm at the Bluff City Grill. The evening commences with dinner at the Bluff City Grill followed by a tour along the river of Mississippi going to Grafton. The hauntings of the place, history, scary stories, and eerie sites shall be discussed throughout the exhibition.
Pere Marquette Lodge’s Thanksgiving Feast:
This feast shall take place on the 26th of November 2020 beginning from 11 am to 5 pm at the Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center.
Everyone is bound to have full bellies and heartfelt memories.
Places to Eat in Grafton, Illinois
Situated within the confines of two rivers, Grafton is home to an abundance of seafood restaurants. Here are some of the stores and restaurants you might want to consider visiting while in Grafton:
The Loading Dock:
The Loading Dock is perhaps the city’s top-secret. It features majestic and panoramic river views. It has elegant outdoor dining, ice skating, overnight lodgings, live music, etc. This is your go-to place for wedding receptions, birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, and the like.
Mary Michelle Winery:
This is in Pere Marquette Lodge. It delivers locally made but award-winning Illinois Cellar and Mary Michelle wines. The selection of wine is served solely at Pere Marquette Lodge.
Documents Needed When International Travelers Plans to Visit the United States
International tourists who wish to go to the U.S. must be ready to answer queries about Electronic System for Travel Authorization or ESTA application USA. You may apply if you want to have a new authorization for a person or group, plan to go to the US for vacation or business, go on a trip for 3 months or less. Individuals who do not have a visitor’s visa, an eligible national of the Visa Waiver Program or a citizen of the country may also apply for this program.
The upsurge of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the country have led to instances where tourists may not be allowed to enter the U.S. for a certain period. You must always be ready for situations like this. Thus, if you are planning to travel to Grafton, Illinois, you should bring a certificate of immunity indicating that you are COVID-19 free and an ESTA travel authorization as well.
Remember that if you are sick, you may not be allowed to travel or even go somewhere else rather than your house. However, if you intend to visit Grafton, it should only be for the purposes of business or leisure. Also, it should not last for more than 90 days.
Tourist Attractions in Grafton, Illinois
Grafton is a popular tourist destination thanks to its outstanding attractions. Here are popular tourist attractions that Grafton has to offer.
Zipline at the Aerie’s Resort:
The zipline at Aerie’s Resort will undoubtedly give you a heart-shaking escapade. This treetop canopy venture begins at 14 West Main Street of downtown in Grafton up to Grove Memorial Park.
Pere Marquette State Park:
This is a stunning sweeping state park along the Illinois River. It is the dream paradise for every nature-lover.
Grafton Winery:
The Grafton Winery is an excellent place to warm up with wine tasting. The wines come in different varieties and are all delicious.
Great River Road Illinois:
This well-known road is 2,000 miles in length. It passes through ten states along the Mississippi River together with the hundreds of river towns.
Grafton Hiking Trails
If you love hiking, you will be pleased to know that Grafton is furnished with hiking trails. They include:
Hickory South, North, Fern Hollow, and Goat Cliff Loop:
This loop is a 6.3-kilometre trail positioned near Grafton, Illinois. It provides the opportunity to see the beauty of wildlife. This is chiefly used for nature trips, running, and hiking. Dogs can use this trail, but they must be on a leash.
McAdams Peak:
This trail consists of a 3.1-kilometer trafficked trail near Grafton. It is principally used for hiking and is available throughout the year. Dogs can also use this trail but still, they must be strictly kept on a leash.
An escape to this historic river town while experiencing the best of Grafton may be the best decision you will ever make in your life. Spend quality time with yourself and loved ones and let this beautiful place help you unwind and re-connect with nature.
