The mighty Mississippi is a top draw in Savanna
On the Mississippi River in western Illinois, Savanna was a commercial hub when steamboats and trains moved goods throughout the region. The population grew when the Savanna Army Depot, an ammunition testing facility, opened in 1920. Railroad operations slowed and the depot closed its doors, but the city’s remaining 2,700 residents still thrive on the banks of the mighty Mississippi. “The river and Mississippi Palisades State Park are the big draws,” says Amy Barnes, designated managing broker and owner of Barnes Realty, with 26 years of local experience.
Water recreation and scenic hikes define this riverside town
Savanna residents are within 5 miles of Mississippi Palisades State Park. Hiking and biking trails wind along scenic riverside bluffs, and anglers and boaters set off from the boat launch. “There’s a lot of outdoor recreation in Savanna,” Barnes says. “All kinds of watersports — boating, fishing, waterskiing, tubing, swimming.” The Great River Trail, a popular cycling and walking route, starts in Savanna and stretches over 60 miles to the Quad Cities. The playground, sports courts, playing fields and nature trail at Old Mill Park are tucked into a curve of the Plum River. The city honors its military past with the Savanna Veterans Memorial, a commemorative site near the river. Marquette Park is another riverside spot with boating, fishing and picnic areas. During September’s Shadfly Festival, food and craft vendors line the riverbank at Marquette Park, and a boat parade floats by at dusk. Visitors to the Savanna Museum & Cultural Center can inspect Civil War memorabilia and embark on historic walking tours of the city.
A blend of 1900s National designs and midcentury ranch-style homes
Savanna’s shaded residential streets lead past midcentury ranch-style homes and National builds dating to the early 1900s. Many houses are within walking distance of the small downtown, and sidewalks make it easier to navigate on foot. A few properties offer river views, but direct water access is rare. Most centrally located homes are packed closely together on lots that include short paved driveways or garage space. Some residents park in the street. Properties outside the main residential areas might include more acreage. Fixer-uppers cost $80,000 to $85,000, while well-maintained National and ranch-style homes sell for $150,000 to $280,000.
Downtown Savanna mixes shopping, dining and nightlife
Locally owned restaurants, bars and shops fill the red-brick buildings in downtown Savanna. Shoppers find military-grade gear, outdoor equipment and collectibles at Savanna Military Surplus, and Savanna Home & Hardware sells household equipment and lawn and garden supplies. Classic breakfast and lunch fare is on the menu at Sunshine Restaurant, where diners watch freight trains roll by. Watering holes like Iron Horse Social Club, Hawgdogs and Whiskey River offer a dose of nightlife. Poopy’s Pub & Grub is a roadside hangout with live music, biker events, gaming machines and a swim-up bar. Groceries are available at Sullivan’s Foods.
Students head to West Carroll High School in Mt. Carroll
Students start at West Carroll Primary and Middle schools in Savanna and receive C grades from Niche. The community is about 10 miles from the C-plus-rated West Carroll High School in Mt. Carroll. High school students can participate in extracurriculars like the West Carroll chapter of the National Future Farmers of America Organization and the Illinois Masonic Academic Bowl quiz competition.
Major highways connect Savanna to Iowa and nearby cities
U.S. Route 52 connects Savanna to Iowa via a bridge over the Mississippi River. Travelers can start the 60-mile drive to Davenport and the Quad Cities on state Route 84. It’s a 70-mile drive to Quad Cities International Airport, and the closest health care center is Morrison Community Hospital, about 30 miles away. Carroll County Transit provides residents with on-demand public transportation.
Freight train noise and flood risk
Savanna is home to several railroad crossings. Freight trains are required to sound their horns when approaching the crossings, which means residents regularly contend with the noise. Due to the city's riverside location, some homes might also be at risk of flooding.
