New Boston, IL

Set right along the Mississippi River in western Illinois, New Boston is a quiet community with deep roots and an unhurried pace. Originally surveyed by Abraham Lincoln back in the 1830s, the town still holds onto its nineteenth-century charm, featuring historic brick homes and scenic views across the water toward Iowa. Daily life here mostly revolves around the river, offering easy access to boating, fishing on Boston Bay, and watching barges pass through nearby Lock and Dam 17. It is a tiny, peaceful spot that appeals to anyone looking for simple riverfront living well away from the crowds.