The history of Grafton, Illinois is tied to the two rivers, the Illinois and the Mississippi, that come together at this town's riverside location. Boat making, fishing, plus quarrying limestone caused this town to be established in 1832. The Old Boat Works, which once crafted paddle wheelers and then later PT boats, now hosts antique and craft shows throughout the year. The Schafer's Wharf Historic District was once one of the largest commercial fishing centers that was located on the Mississippi Rivers during the late 1800's.
Today, Grafton's industry is tourism. The small town of Grafton draws many visitor each year with Bald Eagle watching, the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail running through the town, Eckert's Orchard nearby, Pere Marquette State Park a few miles away, the Grafton Ferry, and many restaurants, wineries, antique shops and fun annual events and festivals.
Grafton Visitors Center
950 East Main Street
Grafton, IL 62037
618-786-7000
Grafton Illinois Chamber of Commerce Website, Grafton Illinois Facebook page
The Lodge at Pere Marquette State Park Link
Pere Marquette State Park Lodge grounds Link
Welcome to Grafton Illinois! Link
The Great River Road between Grafton and Alton Illinois Link
Brussels Ferry in Grafton Illinois Link
Main Street Grafton Illinois Link
Apple Orchard at Eckerts Link
Grafton Illinois City Hall Link
Streetview in Grafton Link
Streetview in Grafton Illinois Link
The Brussels Ferry in Grafton Illinois Link
Biking on the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail Link
Eckerts Farm Grafton Illinois Link
The Country Store at Eckerts in Grafton Link
Raging Rivers Waterpark in Grafton Illinois Link
Inside the Pere Marquette Park Lodge Link
Eagle Roost Overlook at Pere Marquette State Park Link
Raging Rivers Waterpark in Grafton Illinois Link
Eckerts Farm in Grafton Illinois Link