You can experience life in a real river town! Grafton, Illinois is located at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers, tucked in the river bluffs only 45 minutes from St. Louis, Missouri, on the National Scenic Byway. Grafton has a resort atmosphere that allows you to take a fresh look at life. The vitality of the town is evident in the many gift shops, antique stores, restaurants, fudge and ice cream shops, taverns, wineries, and award winning bed and breakfast inns. A newly constructed marina and public boat ramp bring recreation to your door step.

As you drive or bike along the Great River Road (Route 100) you will enjoy the scenic bluffs and the various towboats pushing their barges up or down the rivers. Powerboats, canoes, and kayaks are available for the adventurous. Fishing is very popular in Grafton and record fish have been caught in the area. Wildlife abounds via the Mississippi flyway where ducks, geese, herons, pelicans, and bald eagles are plentiful. Ferries are available to access beautiful drives through Calhoun County peach and apple country or the St. Charles, Missouri historic downtown district, which is only twelve miles away by ferry.

     Other activities include the annual Tow Boat Festival, which is held the fourth weekend in June. Bargain hunters can enjoy the Riverside Flea Market, which is held at the old Grafton Boat Works building on the fourth weekend of each month, from April through October. Music and great food abounds on the weekends at one of many venues with both outside and inside dining. During the summer months, various music groups share their talent with the public at open sessions of music in the Grafton City Park.

  Outdoor recreation abounds as Grafton is located on the National Scenic Byway. The famous Vadalabene Bike Trail gives bikers access to travel to the St. Louis Gateway Arch or the 8000 acre Pere Marquette State Park just to the west of Grafton. Jeni J’s is located on Main street across from the Illinois and Mississippi rivers and the new Grafton Harbor marina. Boating and fishing activities, as well as eagle watching, abound in Grafton.