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Ride the Grafton SkyTour aerial lift for sweeping views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, plus access to mountain coaster thrills and ziplines at Aerie's Resort. Perfect for all ages, this regional gem blends scenic calm with family-friendly adventure.
Ride the Grafton SkyTour aerial lift for sweeping views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, plus access to mountain coaster thrills and ziplines at Aerie's Resort. Perfect for all ages, this regional gem blends scenic calm with family-friendly adventure.
Book with Aerie's Resort
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Operated by Aerie's Resort · Grafton, Illinois
Perched above the meeting point of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, the Grafton SkyTour at Aerie's Resort offers a distinct vantage point to witness one of the Midwest’s most striking river confluences. Located in Grafton, Illinois, this aerial lift is more than a ride—it’s a gateway to the region’s soaring bluffs, winding waterways, and abundant outdoor activities. The SkyTour carries visitors 15 to 20 minutes each way between the town below and Aerie’s hilltop facilities, delivering expansive views that capture both nature’s breadth and the subtle human touch in this storied landscape.
This unique attraction features 60 open-air chairlift seats alongside six enclosed gondolas, providing options for comfort and scenic immersion regardless of the weather or preference. The day pass allows unlimited rides, encouraging visitors to come and go at leisure as they enjoy Aerie’s full suite of activities. Once at the summit, guests can indulge at multiple restaurants—the Terrace and the Winery—each boasting panoramic views alongside fresh, regional fare.
Adventure seekers will find the Alpine Coaster a thrilling addition, with its twisting track through wooded terrain, while the ziplines offer an exhilarating way to soar among the tree canopy. These extras complement the relaxed yet invigorating pace of the SkyTour and position Aerie’s Resort as a standout in regional outdoor recreation.
The surrounding bluffs are composed primarily of limestone, etched over millennia by river currents and weather. Wildlife sightings, from soaring hawks to white-tailed deer, enrich the experience. Grafton’s history as a river town and ferry crossing adds a layer of cultural texture, while Aerie’s commitment to sustainable tourism supports the preservation of this area’s natural charm.
All ages and skill levels can enjoy the SkyTour, making it an accessible and memorable way to experience the heart of Illinois river country.
Each ride takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes one way, offering plenty of time to soak in the views.
Yes, the SkyTour is family-friendly with safety measures in place, and gondola cabins provide extra comfort for younger riders.
Bicycles are not allowed on the SkyTour chairlift or gondolas for safety reasons.
Pets are not permitted on the SkyTour, except for certified service animals.
The day pass covers unlimited SkyTour rides, but activities like the Alpine Coaster and ziplines require separate tickets.
Currently, the SkyTour is not wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the lift chairs and gondolas.
Aerie's Resort is a family-friendly adventure destination located in Grafton, Illinois. The resort operates Illinois' first alpine coaster — nearly 4,000 feet of track with seven hair-pin turns and eight waves — accessed via the SkyTour aerial lift. The SkyTour provides scenic rides with panoramic views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers and direct access to Aerie's restaurants, the Alpine Coaster, and the property ziplines. Aerie's also offers guided UTV tours: 30-minute excursions in brand-new six-passenger Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT vehicles that take guests across hills and hollows, through creek beds and past limestone formations where local wildlife sightings are common. Tours are led by trained staff who focus on safety and route familiarity, and the resort welcomes guests of all ages to enjoy the attractions. Public parking and visitor information available.
Book with Aerie's Resort