Ohio River Scenic Byway of Illinois

"Life is short.  Take the Scenic Route!"

Introduction

ORSB mapCome visit beautiful southern Illinois and explore the many wonders of the Ohio River Scenic Byway (ORSB), with its rich historic heritage, the spectacular Shawnee National Forest, and the beautiful Ohio River.

ORSB proudly represents the seven counties of Gallatin, Saline, Hardin, Pope, Massac, Pulaski and Alexander.  Each county is chock full of history, outdoor adventure, endless recreation opportunities and awesome scenery.  The Byway corridor is unique in its blend of fascinating things to do and see during a day, a week or even a month’s vacation!

Cairo Custom House MuseumThe Illinois portion of the Byway, between the Wabash and Mississippi Rivers, offers breathtaking vistas in any season and an abundance of historical sites, from Old Shawneetown, the original "gateway to the west", to Cairo (pronounced "Kay-ro") and Fort Defiance at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

Cave-In-Rock Park LodgeThe Ohio River Scenic Byway (ORSB) is a 1998 federal designation from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) National Scenic Byways Program.  FHWA recognizes routes that are outstanding examples of our nation’s scenic, historical, cultural, and recreational experiences by designating them as National Scenic Byways.  This designation was established to promote tourism, recreation, economic development, and appreciation of natural and man-made points of interest in communities along the Ohio River.

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