Known for their collection of record-holding sized sculptures of average objects — like the giant ketchup bottle — the towns along the Historic National Road in Illinois are alive with character and charm of small-town USA. The historically important byway was the first federally funded road in US history and opened Illinois up to westward-bound settlers. Today, the route is teeming with small towns that draw visitors with their festivals, food, and quintessential American roadside attractions.
Historic National Road – IL
Local Visitor Information
Discover more ways to experience this byway — photos and local partners.
William Eccles
Photo
Explore Resources
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Byway Overview
National Road: America’s First Major Federal Highway
The National Road, also known as the Cumberland Road, was the first major improved highway built by the federal government in the United States.
Constructed between 1811 and 1837, this historic 620-mile route connected the Potomac River to the Ohio River and served as a vital transportation path westward for thousands of early settlers.
As a National Scenic Byway, it represents a cornerstone of American history and westward expansion, offering travelers a journey through the nation’s early transportation heritage and pioneering spirit.
A must-drive for history enthusiasts exploring America’s foundational roads.
Quick Facts
- Designation
- All-American Road (2000/2002)
- Intrinsic Qualities
- Cultural, Historic
- Location
- IL, IN, MD, PA, WV
- Total Length
- 164 of 824 total miles
Visitor Information & Byway Partners
Contact Details
For personalized travel assistance and local recommendations, please reach out to our regional visitor center.
Local Byway Partners
Mirrored by US Route 40 and Interstate 70, the Illinois Historic National Road traverses 164 miles from Marshall at the Indiana border to the Mississippi River in East St. Louis. The route encompasses seven counties — Clark, Cumberland, Effingham, Fayette, Bond, Madison, and St. Clair, and provides an immersive way to experience a cross-Illinois excursion.
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Casey, IL
A southeast Illinois town housing eight objects recognized by Guinness World Records and a bunch of other oversize items — all of them interactive.
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Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Remains of the largest prehistoric city in North America are preserved at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
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Teutopolis Monastery Museum
The Teutopolis Monastery Museum, housed within the monastery that was once home to Franciscan Friars in the 19th century, features religious artifacts from the friars depicting the pioneer era in the German Catholic community.
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A Delightful Cross-State Road Trip
Starting from Marshall, heading westward along the Historic National Road, enjoy this cross-state drive full of character and unassuming delightful roadside attractions. Marshall is home to the oldest house in the state of Illinois. Start your drive at the welcome center in the historic Harlan Hall. Next, continuing west along the byway, stop in Casey, IL for its must-see, record-holding collection of giant things such as windchimes, rocking chair, mailbox, and golf tee. Continuing westward, you’ll drive through quaint Greenup, IL and its beautiful Jackson Truss covered timber bridge. Proceeding west across the state, Teutopolis and Effingham, IL house historic monasteries, museums, and a giant 198-foot cross for additional stops. Vandalia and then Greenville, IL are steeped in National Road history and contain historic buildings with ties to Abraham Lincoln and the Underground Railroad. Finally, continuing west towards, Collinsville and Cahokia Mounds, you will have reached the western boarder of Illinois and the largest pre-historic site north of Mexico, a remarkable way to conclude your cross-state tour.