Carroll County
Savanna
Savanna’s brick main street runs downhill toward the Mississippi, with Mississippi Palisades State Park’s limestone bluffs rising just north of town. The old Savanna Army Depot is now the Lost Mound Unit of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, and river-town antique shops and diners still anchor downtown.
Fuel the day
Eat & Drink
- SavannaKountry KettleSmall diner serving American-style cuisine since 1986. Donuts made daily on site. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ample parking for motorcycles and boats on trailers.
- SavannaUncle Sean’s Marina CafeGood burgers, hand-cut fries, daily specials, relaxed/friendly atmosphere.
- SavannaCirca 1888Urban farmhouse kitchen in downtown Savanna, overlooking the Mississippi River. Homemade food with a modern twist. Casual indoor/outdoor dining. Family-friendly, relaxing, beautiful views. FB/website for hours.
Out and about
Things to Do
- SavannaHavencrest CastleTour Carroll County's grandest mansion, a 5 story, 63 room hilltop home with an eternal love story. Open for self-guided & VIP tours weekends in May and October, Self-guided 10am–4pm. (Close at 5). Dozens of themed rooms, 1000s antiques, art, & fantasy. VIP TOURS are guided by owner/artist Alan St. George limited to 10 people at 4PM sharp.
- SavannaMississippi Palisades State ParkMississippi Palisades State Park, located just north of Savanna along the Mississippi River, offers more than 2,500 acres of rugged beauty and outdoor adventure. Towering limestone bluffs, wooded ravines, and scenic overlooks provide some of the most breathtaking views in Illinois, making the park a favorite destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. The park's dramatic landscape is part of the Driftless Area and is rich in Native American history and natural features. Visitors can explore miles of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes that wind through rock formations, forests, and river overlooks. Popular viewpoints such as Lookout Point, Ozzie's Point, and Louis' Point offer spectacular views of the Mississippi River valley. The park also features accessible trails and overlooks, making scenic experiences available to a wide range of visitors. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound throughout the year. Campers can choose from more than 240 campsites, including sites with electrical hookups and modern amenities. Rock climbers come to tackle the park's cliffs and formations, while birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts may spot bald eagles, migratory birds, deer, and other native species. Fishing, boating, geocaching, cross-country skiing, and seasonal nature exploration add even more ways to enjoy the landscape. Whether spending an afternoon taking in the river views or enjoying a weekend under the stars, Mississippi Palisades State Park provides a memorable escape into one of northwest Illinois' most striking natural settings.
- SavannaPalisades Golf CoursePalisades Golf Course in Savanna, IL, is a charming 9-hole public course nestled between the river and the surrounding bluffs, known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful setting. Family-owned and operated for decades, the course features well-groomed fairways and greens, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced golfers. With a par-33 layout stretching just over 2,300 yards, players can enjoy a complete round in under two hours, perfect for a casual afternoon on the links or a friendly outing with companions. In addition to the course itself, Palisades offers practice facilities, a welcoming clubhouse environment, and is a local favorite for community events and informal tournaments. Its convenient location off Illinois Route 84 makes it an accessible stop for visitors exploring the scenic Great River Road region.
Home base
Stay
- SavannaSNL Getaway LLCQuiet, cozy Airbnb home on the hill with a large family room, main-level bedroom, half bath, and laundry. Rich woodwork, extensive landscaping, gas-forced air conditioning, and whole-house humidifier. Perfect for outdoor entertaining.
- SavannaSavanna Inn & SuitesConveniently located at Hwy 64 and Hwy 84, midway between Dubuque and the Quad Cities, and minutes from the Mississippi. Features single, king, double, and queen rooms, Jacuzzi suites with fireplace, business suites, indoor pool and hot tub, breakfast, electrical outlets for boats/trailers. All suites have microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers. Fitness room, conference, and meeting spaces available. Pet friendly.
- SavannaBluRiver Canopy2BR/1BA apt, queen beds, kitchen/living area, sectional pullout, luxury shower, smart TV, deck, bonfire, motorcycle parking. Near downtown Savanna. Rent whole house with BluRiver Nest for 6–10. Airbnb link.