435 Confluence Tower Drive
off IL-3
Hartford, Illinois
618-251-9101

The Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower was built in commemoration of the historic 1804 to 1806 expedition by Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark from the St. Louis area to the Pacific Ocean. The 180-foot tower has three viewing platforms at 50, 100, and 150 feet connecting the two towers that represent Lewis and Clark and the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Each level of the tower tells stories about the area's history, including the Village of Hartford, the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, Lewis and Clark and the confluence of the two great rivers. The decks between the twin towers give visitors a panoramic view at the spot where the two rivers meet and, to the south, a view of the St. Louis skyline and the Gateway Arch, and looking north to where the Illinois River meets the Mississippi in Grafton, Illinois. The observation tower complements the nearby Lewis and Clark State Historic Site commemorating Camp Dubois, where the explorers who accompanied Lewis and Clark were trained and equipped before sojourning west at President Thomas Jefferson’s behest.

There is a visitors center at ground level where guests can learn about the expedition and the surrounding area and plan a trip along the 33-mile route of the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway with interactive exhibits, videos and graphic panels that tell stories of the history, wildlife, and communities all along the byway. On a clear day, visitors can see downtown St. Louis and the Gateway Arch, which is 19 miles south of the Tower.

Visiting the Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower
Currently closed for winter hours except by appointment
Visitors need to know that trips to the top are by guided tour only and take about 30 minutes.
Seasonal hours from April 1 - October 15
Wednesday - Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday: Noon to 5 pm
Admission to the Tower . Reduced rates for adults 62 and over, active military and military veterans, and children 12. Children two and under are free. Group rates are available for 12 or more people and reservations can be made by calling the Alton Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau at 618-465-6676.