Illinois Has A Brand New Alpine Coaster – And You Have To Ride It

In October 2022, Aerie's Resort and Winery, on the Mississippi River near Grafton, unveiled the first alpine coaster in Illinois. That's right - folks in the Land of Lincoln can finally enjoy the thrill of an alpine coaster as they scream along a set of bluff-top rails in Illinois.

Aerie's Resort and Winery is located just north of the St. Louis metropolitan area near Grafton, Illinois.

As its name implies, it offers lodging, dining, a gift shop, and a winery - all perched atop the bluffs on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River.

It also offers a handful of attractions, like its Sky Tour.

On ​​this ride, you soar over the river bluffs in a chair lift or gondola car.

If you're feeling more adventurous, you can also go on a ziplining adventure through the treetops of the forested river bluffs.

The resort's newest attraction, though, is its alpine coaster.

The coaster opened in October 2022, and is the first alpine coaster in Illinois.

On the alpine coaster, you sit in a small car that's attached to a narrow set of rails.

Once you get going, gravity does the rest, propelling you at thrilling speeds through the resort's forested property.

The alpine coaster is open year-round, so dress appropriately if you visit during colder months.

And be prepared for any weather as you zoom along the rails.

Afterward, enjoy a glass of wine and a snack - or a meal - with a view at the resort.

For pricing, schedule, and other information, visit the resort's website. Be sure to make time to explore the historic river town of Grafton, which is where the Illinois River meets the Mississippi - it's particularly lovely in the fall.

Have you had a chance to ride the alpine coaster at Aerie's Resort and Winery? Are there any other new attractions in the Land of Lincoln that we should know about?