Shake out your wings: it’s almost time for the annual Alton Audubon Eagle Ice Festival in Alton, Illinois. Held on Jan. 6, the festival marks the start of eagle-viewing season, when majestic bald eagles arrive for the winter along the Mississippi River. Visitors have the unique opportunity to meet a live American bald eagle from the World Bird Sanctuary during a meet-and-greet at the Alton Visitor Center on Piasa Street. Additional birdwatching opportunities are available at the Audubon Center at Riverlands.
Prime eagle viewing locations line the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, which runs from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park. To help guests experience these spots, Eagle Shuttle Tours offer guided, 45-minute excursions with expert commentary. The shuttle departs from the Audubon Center and stops at popular viewing sites including Maple Island, Heron Pond and Ellis Island. Seating is limited, so reserve in advance. Tickets are affordably priced at $5 per person.
The region hosts other related events through January, including the Bald Eagle Festival at Pere Marquette Lodge on Jan. 28, which provides more chances to learn about and observe these impressive raptors. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or looking for a family-friendly winter outing, the Alton Audubon Eagle Ice Festival and associated tours offer a memorable way to see bald eagles in their winter habitat along the Mississippi River.