Lake Shelbyville

The 11,000-acre Lake Shelbyville offers plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, biking and swimming. Sun yourself on one of the public beaches or dock your boat at one of three marinas located around the lake.

CITY: Shelbyville

Firefly Grill

Firefly Grill is a modern roadhouse restaurant located on the shores of Lake Kristie. This wonderful place operates on an oasis of American fresh cuisine in the heart of the Midwest. Firefly's menu changes daily and boasts fresh seafood, oak fire steaks and brick oven pizzas. Firefly uses local ingredients whenever possible and fresh herbs and vegetables from their garden. The beautiful facility and grounds make this the perfect place for a wedding or group event. Cooking demonstrations and tours are also available.

CITY: Effingham

Tuscan Hills Winery

Tuscan Hills Winery, recently opened in 2011, is located on Historic Hills Drive, directly behind the Harley Barn. This winery is located on eight picturesque acres which helps bring an Old World Tuscan feel to the heart of Effingham. The owners are focused on creating elegant, approachable, and perfectly balanced wines of the highest quality. Wine tastings, along with space available for reservations makes this a must stop for group tours. Tuscan Hills Winery wants you to "Come as our guest, but leave as our friends."

CITY: Effingham

Little Brick House

Listed on the National Register, it has six restored rooms with china, furniture, engravings, and books that belonged to the settlers when Lincoln attended the legislature.

CITY: Vandalia

Lincoln Park

Located across from the Statehouse in Vandalia, the park features a life-size, bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln. This is a favorite spot for photos with the 16th president.

CITY: Vandalia

My Garage Museum Collection

Showcasing classic and one-of-a-kind Corvettes and memorabilia, My Garage Museum is a must-see attraction for any car enthusiast. Corvettes on display include Indy pace cars, racing machines, the last C-4 and the first 21st century model.

CITY: Effingham

Lithia Rental Cabins

Formerly Lakeside Cabins. There are 4 cabins with full kitchenettes, screened porches, boat parking with electric. Also a 2 bedroom house, and 3 bedroom house. Campfire rings, grills, picnic tables, playground. Fishing Guide Service is available. Open April-October.

CITY: Shelbyville

Family Aquatic Center

This aquatic center has a frog slide, water slide, wet playground area, a sand playground, concessions, a shaded picnic area and a bath house.

CITY: Shelbyville

Lake Sara

A quiet cove at dawn, where the only sound is the whir of a casting reel and the gentle splash of the fly hitting the water’s surface...that’s Lake Sara. A sunny afternoon slalom skiing behind a powerboat or running along the beach...that’s Lake Sara. A family picnic in the grass at water’s edge or a family reunion, with fried chicken and the works, under one of the pavilions...that’s Lake Sara. Lake Sara is an 800-acre recreational lake nestled into a wooded shoreline, encircled by a winding road. Spend a day, a week, or a season on the shores of Lake Sara. Lake Sara has something for everyone, in every season of the year.

CITY: Effingham

Evergreen Tree Walk

The Evergreen Tree Walk features over 90 species of trees indigenous to Illinois. Markers beside the trees list the common and Latin names of each species. The tree walk is a relaxing experience, especially after a long day of travel.

CITY: Effingham

Vandalia State House

Step inside the Illinois’ oldest surviving State Capitol building. Vandalia was the fourth statehouse in Illinois, and is best known for the era when Abraham Lincoln served in the Illinois House of Representatives. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of this restored landmark.

CITY: Vandalia

Willow Ridge Vineyards & Winery

Family owned and operated on a Sesquicentennial farm. Nestled in a rural setting, there is a relaxing Tuscan style atmosphere. Facilities include a banquet room that seats 190 people and a wine tasting room with seating for an additional 40 people. Both are available to rent for special occasions.

CITY: Shelbyville

Wilhelmina Art Gallery

Browse award-winning oil paintings by Wilma Woldt Krueger. Limited and open edition prints, landscapes, wildlife, still life and portraits are sold.

CITY: Effingham

Chautauqua Auditorium

Built in 1903, the auditorium is the largest building of its kind from anywhere in the world, and is included on the National Register of Historic Places. Above the stage are Grecian statues designed by Robert Root.

CITY: Shelbyville

Sculpture on the Avenue

Come explore the sculptures that have transformed the City of Effingham's avenues into an art gallery! Over 40 sculptures created by some of the Midwest's best known and unknown sculptors bring life to the streets of Effingham through this outdoor exhibition. The Sculpture on the Avenues program is a self-guided walking tour that begins at City Hall in downtown Effingham. From there, the exhibition winds in and out of downtown Effingham. An informative guide, which facilitates a walking tour, is available at Effingham hotels, downtown businesses, the Effingham Visitor Center (Tourism Office) and City Hall.

CITY: Effingham

Driftstone Pueblo

Driftstone Pueblo carries many craft supplies including sinew, heshi, findings and cords. Also, kid's toys, beads, jewelry, canes, soapstone, metaphysical items, artifacts, crystal cubes, knives, swords, and much more.

CITY: St. Elmo

Fayette County Museum

Located behind the Statehouse in a century-old church, this museum is full of Lincoln-era memorabilia, including his letter cabinet and an axe carved with his initials.

CITY: Vandalia

General Dacey Trail

This trail is a multi-use recreational trail -- accessed mainly by walkers, runners, and bikers. As you move along the pathways of the Dacey Trail, you will find nature at its best -- with many scenic views of Lake Shelbyville. The trail is being added to and improved each year and runs through parts of Shelbyville, Forest Park, and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Shelbyville. You can begin the trail at Forest Park or at the Dam West Recreational Area (9th St.).

CITY: Shelbyville

Rock Kreations

Unique rock carvings, leather, purses, jewelry, pipes, and hand- carved miniatures.

CITY: Shelbyville

Vahlings Vineyards & Winery

All wines are fermented and bottled on site at this family-owned winery.

CITY: Stewardson

National Road Interpretive Center

The National Road Interpretive Center in Vandalia, Illinois tells the story of the surveyors, laborers and travelers of the National Road, sometimes called the Cumberland Road or National Pike. The Interpretive Center is a museum with hands-on activities for children including a Conestoga wagon that the youngsters can load for its journey. Abraham Lincoln’s connection to Illinois National Road towns is also spotlighted. One of the largest artifacts is an original National Road timber dating to the 1830s. Visitors will develop a better understanding of the importance of this road to Illinois and American history as well as an appreciation for the people that were involved in its construction.

CITY: Vandalia

John Boos & Company

John Boos & Co. is the oldest industry in Effingham, open since 1887. John Boos products, butcher blocks and cutting boards, are being used by celebrity chefs throughout the U.S. Some celebrity chefs currently using the products are Charlie Trotter, Ming Tsai, Paul Kahan, and Susan Spicer at Bayona Restaurant in New Orleans, just to name a few. In addition, the country's premier food channel, "The Food Network," features chefs, such as Mario Batali and Emeril Lagasse, who prepare meals every day on John Boos cutting boards. A factory outlet and showroom is open to the public for tours, groups, or just to purchase the products.

CITY: Effingham

White Tail Crossing Cabin Village

Eighteen units are available with 1-5 bedrooms. All cabins are very nice, spacious and well-appointed with kitchens, fireplaces, front porches. There are 2 swimming pools, 2 fishing ponds, private hiking trails, 3 hole golf course and much more. Five full hookup campsites are also available. Open March to December 20th every year.

CITY: Shelbyville

Altamont Living Museum

Used today as a theater for live music and dance performances, as well as fine art exhibits, this 1912 church gives you a taste of "old-time religion" with its luminous stained-glass windows, curved oak pews and great acoustics.

CITY: Altamont

Deer Trail Golf Course

Nine holes of golf located next to Lake Shelbyville at the old "Country Club." Come and enjoy a round of golf and then come and enjoy food and a refreshment while looking over the Lake.

CITY: Shelbyville

Vandalia Lake Camping

Vandalia Lake provides high quality camping facilities for overnight camping. The campground includes sites with electric outlets, modern shower with flush toilets, and a dump station for recreational vehicles. Campgrounds are open from Memorial weekend through last weekend in September.

CITY: Vandalia

Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

As a major stopping point for migrating ducks and geese, this 9,486-acre area offers excellent public waterfowl hunting opportunities.

CITY: Vandalia

Ben Winter Museum

This museum's fascinating collection of memorabilia includes scale model locomotives and stationary industrial engines. Take a trip on the miniature train that travels through the surrounding orchards.

CITY: Altamont

The Wishing Well

Unique Antiques & Home Decor. Come in a see the antiques, quilts, inspirational signs, framed prints, candles, Pipberry Accents, Jim Shore, primitives.

CITY: Shelbyville

Super 8

Suites available, small pets allowed, cable/movies, kitchenettes aveniable, in-room safe, FREE super start breakfast from 6:00 am - 10:00 am.

CITY: Effingham

Ballard Nature Center

Located just minutes outside of Effingham, Ballard Nature Center is home to dozens of species of birds and wildlife. Natural prairie, wetlands, butterfly and hummingbird gardens, ponds, and creeks round out the outdoor experience. Activities at the Nature Center includes trail walks, kids' fishing, bird watching, picnics, and much more. An indoor activity center provides plenty for the whole family to do any time of year.

CITY: Altamont

Country Charm Bed and Breakfast

The delightful, historic colonial was built in 1858 and sits on a 1/2 acre parcel that boast beautiful views of a mini orchard. There are 4 nostalgic rooms on the 2nd floor. There is boat and RV parking. Open all year and has Wi-Fi. No pets allowed.

CITY: Shelbyville

Wolf Creek Lodge

Your "Cabin at the Lake," fully furnished cabins. Enjoy a peaceful, wooded country setting on over 20 acres bordering U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property. 1, 2, & 3 bedroom units include full kitchens, porches, and patios, grills, and campfire rings.

CITY: Shelbyville

Olivier's Country Creations & Gifts

Fabric, craft supplies, beads, finished crafts, gifts, handmade quilts, birdhouses, collectibles, books, videos, furniture, and much more.

CITY: Strasburg

Gregory's Resort Motel and Cabins

Come stay in one of the 12 clean, comfortable rooms or a cabin after a long day of fishing or playing! 60 seconds from boat launch. Adjacent to Lithia Campground and Marina. Boat hook-ups, bait shop & store. Pavilions, grills and fire pits. Borders U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property. Open April 1st - October 30th every year. Has free Wi-Fi.

CITY: Shelbyville

Coon Creek Lodge

Seven clean and comfortable kitchenette rooms with living room, kitchen, bedroom and bath within walking distance of Coon Creek Beach and Boat Ramp. Rooms are equipped with pots and pans, table settings, coffee maker & toaster, towels, and bed linens. Only 1/2 mile from Lake Shelbyville. Open April - November.

CITY: Shelbyville

Wal-Mart Supercenter

Newly expanded, this Wal-Mart Supercenter has everything from groceries with deli, meat, and fish departments, to a pharmacy, one-hour photos and vision center. They also have clothing, furniture, gardening supplies, along with much, much more

CITY: Effingham

Cross at the Crossroads

Soaring nearly 200 feet into the Midwestern sky, the Cross is a landmark for the more than 19 million travelers who pass through Effingham each year along Interstates 57 and 70. Other features of the site include a visitor center, chapel and a 10 Commandments display.

CITY: Effingham

Shelby County Historical and Genealogical Society

Historical items are displayed throughout this former jail and previous sheriff's residence. Tour the basement where the old jails cells are located, or trace your family tree.

CITY: Shelbyville

Varvil Orchard

This orchard offers in-season peaches, apples, pears and pumpkins.

CITY: Wheeler

Martin Ranch Bed & Breakfast

Newly constructed French Country style home located on 100 acres featuring equine hotel, nature trails, and fishing pond. The outdoors is as enchanting and as lively as it is indisde. Each of the 4 guest rooms is tastefully decorated.

CITY: Effingham

K-mart

K-mart features comfortable shopping and more selection for the customer.

CITY: Effingham

Brazle Haus Bed and Breakfast

Modern Alpine home reflects heritage. View beautiful scenery. Fireplace, TV, VCR, books, and games in common areas. Full breakfast. Twenty minutes from Vandalia.

CITY: Brownstown

Late Bloomer on Main

Full-service florist with unique gift items.

CITY: Shelbyville

Dr. Charles Wright House

Built in 1889 by Dr. C.M. Wright, this stately Renaissance Revival home holds three generations of Wright family furnishings, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Altamont

Ramsey Lake State Park

A one-mile walking trail winds through the park, and a 13-mile horse trail is located at the north end alongside a campground for horses.

CITY: Ramsey

J & R Antiques

General antiques specialing in toys, timepieces and oil lamps.

CITY: Wheeler

Comfort Suites - Effingham

All suites with kitchenettes. Accessible rooms, FREE local calls& HBO.

CITY: Effingham

Motel 6 - Effingham

Outdoor pool and Evergreen rooms which are filtered for people with allergies.

CITY: Effingham

Stephen A Forbes-State Recreation Area (Kinmundy)

140 camp sites open year round for outdoor lovers! Great location!

CITY: Kinmundy

Vandalia Artworks Gallery

The gallery uses exhibit space in the Fayette County Museum. Special exhibits are scheduled through the year.

CITY: Vandalia

Paradise Inn - Effingham

Small pets allowed, cable/movies, bus parking, adjacent to restaurants.

CITY: Effingham

Boarman Chevy BelAir Museum

This museum openin in 2005 with Bob's private collection. The building is decorated in 50's sock hop style with black and white checkered floors. The walls are lined with 50's memorabilia, chevy clocks and neon signs. A jukbox takes you back to that popular era. The museum has eight vintage cars as well as a 1993 Indy Pace Car with only 28 miles. Mr. Boarman restored most of the cars himself and has been collecting over 25 years.

CITY: Shelbyville

Super 8 Altamont

Playgrounds, movie channels, located near interstate

CITY: Altamont

Effingham County Courthouse

The current courthouse was built in 1871 after Effingham was named the county seat. The courhouse retains a pristine exterior and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Effingham

Clay County Museum

Housed in the old county jail, this museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

CITY: Louisville

Lithia Resort

Located at the southeast end of Lake Shelbyville and 1/4 mile from Lithia Springs Marina and access area for launching boats. Wireless internet in office. Lithia Lodge, Luxury Cabins, Motel Rooms. 12 rooms and 10 Luxury cabins. Campfire rings, grills, picnic tables, playground, parking with electric, catch and release fishing pond. Fishing Guide Service Available. Open April-November every year.

CITY: Shelbyville

Our Old House

1200 Square foot house with 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, central air. Garage with electricity. Fully equipped kitchen, washer & dryer, all linens provided, satellite TV. Free Wi-Fi, Stocked fishing pond, fishing guide service available Campfire ring, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, BBQ grills, swimming pool, electric boat parking. Pets allowed. Open all year.

CITY: Shelbyville

Madonna of the Trail Statue

The Madonna is one of 12 statues in the U.S. that honors the pioneer women who traveled along the National Road.

CITY: Vandalia

The Shelby Inn

Charming lodging with Victorian and modern-styled rooms. Registration and office in a turn-of-the-century, restored National Registry Home. Standard, Deluxe, and King accommodations. 45 rooms; Free Wi-Fi, expanded boat parking with electricity; 24 hour voice mail; flat screen TVs w/cable; comfortable and charming setting; convenient to golf, boat ramps, recreational areas, attractions & events. AAA rated. Open all year.

CITY: Shelbyville

Possum's Treasures

Shelbyville's most unique gift shop with gift Items for all ages. Realistic wildlife figurines, handcrafted gemstone jewelry, specialty cookbooks for camping, RV's etc., gourmet foods, tapestries, Amish jams, butters, jelly, and mustard. Stash teas, Jelly Belly, novelty T-shirts and Lake Shelbyville Souvenirs.

CITY: Shelbyville

Best Wedding Chapel

This chapel, once a Catholic church, was purchased by the Best family who now offers it for weddings. Built in the 1870s, the chapel has its original 14-foot stained glass windows that complement the 33-foot cathedral ceiling.

CITY: Shelbyville

Buck Stop Archery

Newly opened archery shop in downtown Shelbyville. Carry hunting supplies and accessories, clothing, and more.

CITY: Shelbyville

Abe Lincoln Motel

American family owned and operated for over 20 years. AM coffee and local calls free. Some kitchenettes available.

CITY: Effingham

Comfort Inn - Effingham

Indoor pool, sauna, whirlpool, exercise room, FREE continental breakfast, in-room safe, and 5 whirlpool suites

CITY: Effingham

Downtown Effingham

Downtown, outdoor, shopping at several diversified stores.

CITY: Effingham

Timber's Lodge

Three Story, six bedroom log home on 30 acres with fireplace, large deck, kitchen, central air, spa, large meeting room, trail rides, continental breakfast, TV, VCR, 5-person spa, gas grill and 2 charcoal grills. Next to Hidden Springs State Forest.

CITY: Strasburg

Jake's Antiques & Amish Warehouse

Antiques & Oak reproductions. Mattresses, Amish made furniture, Bicycles, Yard Decorations and furniture.

CITY: Shelbyville

Howard Johnson - Effingham

Meeting facilities, handicap access, free breakfast, small pets allowed, indoor pool, bus parking, meeting services available, free movie rental.

CITY: Effingham

Effingham Performance Center

Arts Connection of Central Illinois has been established for the citizens of Effingham County and beyond to showcase arts and entertainment, to encourage interaction with and appreciation of live performance, to endorse the educational process and to enhance the quality of life and cultural vitality of the region.

CITY: Effingham

Ingram's Pioneer Log Cabin Village

Pre-Civil War log structures rescued from destruction by the Ingrams. Many of the 17 homes and other buildings are furnished with authentic pieces and open to the public. Visit Jacob's Well Inn, frequented by Abraham Lincoln.

CITY: Kinmundy

Lincoln Marker

Vandalia, Illinois is where Abraham Lincoln began his historical political career and his life and achievements are commemorated on the marker.

CITY: Vandalia

Legacy Harley Davidson

Legacy Harley-Davidson is not only a great place to stock up on the latest Harley-Davidson gear, but it is an attraction that brings thousands of visitors to the area. The Harley Barn houses new and pre-owned motorcycles, along with clothing, merchandise, parts, and much more. The folks at the Harley Barn also invite travelers to visit their one-of-a-kind events that they hold throughout the year at the barn.

CITY: Effingham

Spillway Motel

"The Best Motel by a Dam Site" located across from the Lake Shelbyville Dam, on the Kaskaskia River. Twenty-One 2-3 bed units with Wi-Fi, microwave, refrigerator, TV, hair dryer, Jacuzzi suite available. All rooms are ground floor. Free electric hook-ups for over 30 boats. Excellent location for fisherman, boaters, water skiers, sunbathers, picnickers and passers by. Bait Shop.

CITY: Shelbyville

Glen Carbon Heritage Museum

This museum is located in a beautiful brick building that is a renovated 1914 school located in the "Old Town" section of the Village. The museum has old dolls, weapons, pictures, and much more.

CITY: Vandalia

Altamont Motel

16 rental units, 7 including kitchenettes

CITY: Altamont

The Shelbyville Connection

Name-brand clothing for less! Clothing and accessories for missy, petite and juniors.

CITY: Shelbyville

Whalen's West Side Floral

Unique and one-of-a-kind floral designs and home decor. Small, cozy shop that will delight and inspire.

CITY: Shelbyville

T.G.I. Fridays - Effingham

Full service, credit cards accepted, non-smoking area, handicap accessible, delivery.

CITY: Effingham

Sally's On The Square

Charming restaurant in a restored turn of century building located on the south side of monument square in a historical section of downtown with unique storefront columns. Serving breakfast all day long. Salad Bar, Senior Discount everyday.

CITY: Shelbyville

The Farmhouse Family Restaurant

The Farmhouse seats 92 people and has a reputation in the area for "down-home" cooking. There are lunch buffets daily and Friday and Saturday breakfast and dinner buffets.

CITY: Shelbyville

Veterans Educational Museum

Items on display are from the Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and Desert Storm along with flags from 45 countries.

CITY: Vandalia

Olde Picket Fence

Olde Picket Fence offers a custom line of primitive farmhouse furniture. Each item is handcrafted, one at a time, and every item is unique.

CITY: Farina

Joe's Pizza and Italian Foods

Family friendly atmosphere with homestyle pizza and italian foods.

CITY: Shelbyville

China Buffet - Effingham

Chinese food. Handicap accessible restaurant.

CITY: Effingham

The Farmers Monument

This impressive black granite piece located on the grounds of Vandalia's Tourist Information Center is a tribute to prairie farmers.

CITY: Vandalia

Homewood Grill

Opens in April and closes in October. Snack stand with ice cream and frozen yogurt.

CITY: Effingham

Ramsey Lake Golf Course

This nine-hole golf course opened in 1965.

CITY: Ramsey

Words, Wicks, and Wood

Come explore our wide variety of books or just simply find the book you've been looking for, as you discover the numerous titles available at this fine bookstore.

CITY: Vandalia

Old State Cemetery

Bronze markers give biographical information about prominent citizens from the earliest history of the community.

CITY: Vandalia