2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 1-96 of 172 items
Doc’s Soda Fountain
Located on historic Route 66, this was originally a pharmacy built in the 1880’s. The soda fountain was added to the business in the 1950’s. Stop in for an old-fashioned treat or ice-cream. Doc’s is also open for lunch and dinner.
CITY: Girard
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Built in 1927, Old Chain of Rocks was the fifth bridge to cross the Mississippi River, which shortened the distance between St. Louis, Missouri, and Edwardsville, Illinois by 15 miles.
CITY: Edwardsville
Henry's Ra66it Ranch
This quirky must-see Route 66 attraction, information center and souvenir gift shop is home to rabbits of all kinds, bunny and VW, as well as Mother Road memorabilia.
CITY: Staunton
Scotty's Route 66 Bar & Grill
Drive Route 66 to one of the Mother Road's few remaining original diners, and try your hand at golf on the nine-hole course next door.
CITY: Hamel
The Ariston Cafe
Route 66 Hall of Fame: established in 1924 in Carlinville, relocated to Litchfield in 1929. Specializing in American & Tex-Mex cuisine.
CITY: Litchfield
Wood River Refinery History Museum
Step back in time more than 75 years at the Shell History Museum in Roxana, Illinois. Trace the history of Shell Wood River and neighboring communities as you look at early photographs and the many items of interest, including vintage gasoline pumps, glass motor oil bottles Shell product advertising and city maps.
CITY: Roxana
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Ralph Korte Stadium & Sports Complex
This 3,000-seat venue is home of the SIUE track & field and soccer programs. The complex, which has hosted the NCAA Division II Championships on three occasions, is completely lighted and has a seperate throwing area for field events.
CITY: Edwardsville
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Cougar Field and SimmonsCooper Baseball Complex
These newly constructed additions to the sports facilities at SIUE serve as the home of the softball and baseball teams, respectively.
CITY: Edwardsville
Dream Catcher Ranch and Kennel Petting Zoo
Specializing in small animals that kids can touch and play with, at Dream Catcher you can also tour the farm and ride the zoo train.
CITY: Staunton
Aquatic Center
Splash around at the Aquatic Center. Climb up four stories and launch down your choice of two waterslides with more than 320 feet of winding turns and diving wells, or take a dip in the pool.
CITY: Wood River
Main Street Gallery
The Main Street Gallery was created to display the works of juried artist. The art is professionally shown and is available for sale. Blown glass, pottery, paintings, drawings, metalwork, and jewelry are just a few of the art pieces available.
CITY: Edwardsville
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Vadalabene Center
The Vadalabene Center on the Division I campus at SIUE is a flexible venue with seating for 4,000. The main gym can be configured for several different court setups: three full-sized basketball, six volleyball or five badminton. The center is also home to the SIUE wrestling program.
CITY: Edwardsville
The Wildey Theatre
Opened in 1909 as an opera house and a meeting hall for the Independent Order of Oddfellows, the Wildey has undergone many transformations through the years. The most recent one is a $2 million renovation inside and out.
CITY: Edwardsville
Macoupin County Jail
The historic 1869 Macoupin County Jail was designed by E.E. Meyers. It was built using the "cannon ball" method which prevented jail breaks by making it nearly impossible to remove the blocks. This unique medieval-inspired fortress housed many lawbreakers during its 119 years of use, but only one prisoner escaped. He was soon apprehended a few blocks from the jail.
CITY: Carlinville
Skate Zone, Indoor Skating Rink
Show off your best roller skating moves at this indoor skating rink.
CITY: Litchfield
Shoal Creek Nature Preserve
This 260-acre site offers nature trails for visitors to explore wetlands, prairie openings, and sandstone bluffs and ledges. The preserve is home to more than 700 plants and 70 bird species, including bald eagles during the winter months.
CITY: Litchfield
Bilbrey Farms
Just outside of Edwardsville, Bilbrey Farms is home to exotic animals and trained birds. Come feed the animals or stay at the bed and breakfast.
CITY: Edwardsville
Benjamin Godfrey Memorial Chapel
Originally called Monticello, the village of Godfrey was named for a Massachusetts sea captain, Benjamin Godfrey who founded the Monticello Seminary in 1838. One of the more rapidly growing Illinois community colleges, Lewis & Clark Community College, now calls the Monticello campus home. Located on the campus, the Benjamin Godfrey Chapel, built in 1854, has become a landmark in the community. This church has been designated as one of only six churches outside of the northeastern United States that are authentic copies of New England church architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
CITY: Godfrey
Architectural Ceramics
Architectural Ceramics has a great selection of ceramics for home decor, gifts, and more.
CITY: Edwardsville
Imo's Pizza
Imo’s Pizza is known for their famous thin crust. Originally from St. Louis, Imo’s uses Provel cheese instead of mozzarella. Their fresh, never frozen ingredients are piled edge to edge over their homemade sauce. Side that with a salad.
CITY: Bethalto
Log Cabin Museum
In the park next to Hamel School, this building was built between 1820 and 1852 and moved to Hamel in 1980. Artifacts from the period are displayed inside.
CITY: Hamel
Walton Park
Home of the first Litchfield Chautauqua, with speakers such as William Jennings Bryan and Carrie Nation in 1905. Beautiful lake, playground and picnic areas.
CITY: Litchfield
Edwardsville Children's Museum
The museum focuses on expanding young minds through a variety of educational programs. It is available for birthday parties and field trips.
CITY: Edwardsville
Brooms Orchard
Apples, peaches, strawberries, jam and a country store. Pick your own pumpkins, apples, peaches and strawberries. Special events in September and August.
CITY: Carlinville
Forsee Vineyards
Surrounded by stately oaks, Forsee Vineyards offers estate handcrafted wine in a serene country atmosphere. Sit on the patio and listen to music or take your favorite glass and stroll the six acres of vineyards.
CITY: Coffeen
Historic Wabash Train Depot
This historic train depot features a preserved facade and a renovated interior that houses specialty shops.
CITY: Litchfield
Malham Orchards
The roadside market sells homegrown apples (20 varieties), peaches, nectarines, pears and plums. Choose to "Bag Your Own Apples" and mix varieties, or pick up cider and apple butter.
CITY: Carlinville
Macoupin County Historical Society Museum
The Macoupin County Historical Society Museum is housed in the John Anderson mansion, originally built in 1883. The main house is a museum with exhibits that chronicle the development of Macoupin County and its citizens. In addition to the mansion, several other buildings on the grounds emphasize the county's history: a one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, church, wash house, granary and herb garden.
CITY: Carlinville
Coffeen Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
22 species of fish are found in this lake, including bass, white crappie, channel catfish, bullhead, yellow bass, bluegill, and carp. This 1,100-acre lake is surrounded by native oak and hickory forests. Picnicking, hiking, and limited hunting and trapping.
CITY: Coffeen
The Doll Corner
The Doll Corner has a large selection of antique dolls and collectibles.
CITY: Edwardsville
Carlinville Historic District
The Historic District includes the Macoupin County Jail, Million Dollar Courthouse, and the largest collection of Sears & Roebuck mail-order homes in the U.S.
CITY: Carlinville
Watershed Nature Center
A 3,000 ft. wheelchair-accessible pathway at lake level and wood-chipped trails wind through forested areas. An elevated walkway spans the wetlands and two observation towers, a wildlife viewing blind, an outdoor amphitheater and classroom.
CITY: Edwardsville
Backwoods Berry Farm
Pick up fruits of the season from the roadside stand or head to the fields to pick your own strawberries, black raspberries or asparagus.
CITY: Hettick
Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House
This two-story brick home is a wonderful example of Federal-style architecture from 1820. Col. Stephenson, who was a contemporary of Lewis & Clark, moved there in 1809.
CITY: Edwardsville
Plainview Vineyard
Plainview Vineyard grows 16 varieties of grapes in their vineyard. During the summer, be sure to try our frozen wine drinks. All our wine grape varieties were grown, harvested, and bottled at Plainview Vineyard.
CITY: Plainview
Governor Coles Memorial
This memorial in Valley View Cemetery honors Edward Coles, the second governor of Illinois (1822-1826). A former slaveowner from Virginia, Coles became an abolitionist and won the 1822 gubernatorial election as the candidate of anti-slavery forces.
CITY: Edwardsville
Hot Metal Heaven Museum
This museum features a collection of letterpress printing memorabilia.
CITY: Beneld
Madison County Historical Society Museum & Archives
The 1836 Weir House is filled with an amazing display of artifacts representing local and county history, in addition to a historic research library.
CITY: Edwardsville
Arts of Fire
Arts of Fire has a pottery painting studio, ceramics painting, silver jewelry, and parties.
CITY: Edwardsville
Rustic Acres Campgrounds
155 campsites available April 1 - October 31, fishing and boating available
CITY: New Douglas
Edwin Hardt
Buy jack-o-lanterns, decoratives guords, squash and mini pumpkins here.
CITY: Litchfield
Historic Montgomery County Courthouse
This historic courthouse was built circa 1858.
CITY: Hillsboro
Mennel Milling Of Illinois
This mill produces everything from animal feed ingredients to cake, biscuit and organic pastry flour.
CITY: Mount Olive
The Quilted Garden
The Quilted Garden has distinguished quilting fabric, supplies, silk, ribbon, embroidery, classes, and gifts.
CITY: Edwardsville
Ben Marne Asparagus
Buy fresh asparagus in season at this roadside stand or pick your own.
CITY: Litchfield
Carnegie Public Library
This historic 1904 building houses one of the most complete genealogy departments in the area.
CITY: Litchfield
Macoupin County Courthouse
The Macoupin County Courthouse, built in 1870, used to be the largest county courthouse in the United States, with the possible exception of one in New York City. It was even larger than the Illinois Statehouse. While the courthouse still serves as the seat of county government, it has also become a showplace that attracts tourists, architects and artists from across the country, as well as overseas.
CITY: Carlinville
O'Brians Top of the Town
Piano bar and entertainment lounge. Dinner and cocktails, wine dinners, tastings and live music.
CITY: Staunton
The Winery at Shale Lake
Rent a 4-wheel Surrey bicycle and take a bottle of wine down to the lake. They make six varieties of wine on site. You'll love the picturesque setting: the wine garden; deer running across the field; wild turkeys making their way into the woods and lots of rabbits. Campgrounds are available for anyone who wants a real getaway.
CITY: Williamson
The Holy Dormition of the Theotokos Catholicon of the Patriarchal Russian Orthodox Catholic Church
Established in 1907 by a group of Russian immigrants who lived and labored in Beneld, the group built homes and raised their families while adding their customs to the area's ever-mixing cultures.
CITY: Beneld
Springers Creek Winery
Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of cushy chairs, antiques, and the welcoming hospitality of owners Sam Makler and Colette Andre as you sample a fine glass of wine.
CITY: Edwardsville
Andria's Countryside Restaurant
With such delicious dishes as Prime Beef Carpaccio, Fried Calamari, and Escargot en Croute, Andria's is a rare jewel of dining delight.
CITY: Edwardsville
Franchise Sports Bar & Grill
Home of the $5 pizza on Mondays and 25-cent wings on Wednesday, the Franchise Sports Bar and Grill is an upscale sports bar that is also family friendly. Varied menu which ranges from catfish sandwiches to shrimp/lobster ravioli to ham and beans with cornbread. Hours: Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - midnight and Sunday, noon - Midnight.
CITY: Wood River
The Glades Restaurant
The Glades Where We’ve Been Dine’n Fine Since 1959”. Located on Route 4 South of Historic Carlinville on Route 66. Specializing in American fare- steaks, chops, chicken, fish, pasta, sandwiches and desserts. Proud to be able to say all of our salad dressings, sauces and desserts are made from scratch on premise. Be sure to try our #1 selling dish “Rattlesnake” served with our secret “snake” sauce. Top it off with a piece of our famous “Bonnie’s Ice Cream Caramel Hot Fudge Pie”. Step back into The Glades and experience the atmosphere of a 50’s-60’s supper club. Enjoy the dining room which is white linen service or the 19th hole,a casual glassed in room looking out onto the Carlinville Country Club Golf Course. “What’s your poison?” Stingers, Manhattans, Old-Fashions, Rob Roys, Tom Collins or a Grasshopper, Pink Lady, Golden Cadillac, Brandy Alexander, all made with real ice cream. Banquet Facility available for Private Events- indoor seating up to 120. Outdoor event space available.
CITY: Carlinville
Maggie's Primitive Cottage
Maggie's Primitive Cottage sells Life's Little Care Package Greeting Cards, Cugino's gourmet soups and sauces, and much more.
CITY: Edwardsville
Children's Museum of Edwardsville
Toddlers to 12-year-olds can enjoy the unique interactive exhibits and seasonal events at this fun children's museum.
CITY: Edwardsville
Josephine's Tea Room
Enjoy a Girls' Day Out with lunch at Josephine's Tea Room in Godfrey. Fresh salads, soups, sandwiches and desserts made daily highlight the menu. While at the tea room, browse the many gift shops on the complex, including Josephine's Gifts, the Monticello House, Fred's Shed featuring discounted merchandise and the new Christmas House. Jospehine's is the perfect stop for a girls' day out shopping and having fun. Hours: M -F 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., S 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Open on Sundays in December 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.
CITY: Godfrey
From My House To Yours
Historic home with five rooms plus a garden area crafts, used furniture, candles, nick knacks, flavored coffees, old plows, wheel barrel and more. "Five rooms to browse".
CITY: Mount Olive
Ripson Bridge
Located north of Greenville in Sorento, this covered bridge holds festivals every year that draw thousands of visitors.
CITY: Sorento
Chico's Restaurant & Lounge
Home of the hand-dipped double coated onion rings, Chico's offers daily food and drink specials. Burgers, sandwiches and wraps and pizzas are among the menu features. Karaoke each Wednesday. Hours: Sunday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. and Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.
CITY: Wood River
Annie's Frozen Custard
Annie's Frozen Custard has a variety of tasty flavors and portions so generous two can share.
CITY: Edwardsville
Rustic Acres Campgrounds
155 sites, recreation building, swimming pool, lake fishing, boat rentals, tent camping, handicap access.
CITY: New Douglas
Beaver Dam State Park
Camping, fishing, and restaurant. Named for beavers whose dam-building formed the lake more than a century ago, the state park is not home to the industrious rodents today.
CITY: Plainview
Feb 4
El Mezcal
Stop by for real homemade Mexican food. Can enjoy us at our Alton, Godfrey or Bethalto locations. Don’t forget the margarita!
CITY: Bethalto
Comfort Inn
This Edwardsville IL hotel features full-service facilities and amenities including: • Free breakfast with hot waffles • Free local calls • Free weekday newspaper • Indoor pool Guests will enjoy walking the spacious and beautifully landscaped grounds. Business travelers will appreciate conveniences like free wireless high-speed Internet access in all rooms, data ports and access to copy and fax services. There are two conference rooms with over 1,500 square feet of meeting space. The hotel offers deluxe guest rooms and suites that feature microwaves, refrigerators and two-person whirlpool bathtubs. All rooms are equipped with coffee makers and cable television. In addition, non-smoking rooms are offered. The Comfort Inn & Conference Center is proud of its courteous and professional staff. They look forward to hosting both business and leisure travelers when staying in the Edwardsville.
CITY: Edwardsville
Harkey House
This historic home is furnished with memorabilia from the early days of Montgomery County, and is open by appointment.
CITY: Hillsboro
Geno's 140 Club
Geno's 140 Club in Bethalto is a great place to have lunch or dinner. The original owners began Geno's in 1942. The same traditions of excellent food and friendly service were begun on their opening day and have continued. Famous for our steaks, stromboli and salads, Geno's 140 Club has a wide menu that has something for everyone. Pasta and sandwiches are offered alongside steak and chicken entrees, with generous portions to satisfy the appetite. Venture out to Bethalto for your next meal at Geno's 140 Club. We'll be happy to see you and you'll be glad you came.
CITY: Bethalto
Indian Grove Campground
Overnight tent camping, overnight pull through spots and permanent camper sites. Call ahead -- space limited for overnight trailer sites.
CITY: Coffeen
Bead-It
Bead-It has a wide variety of silver, pearls, Swarovski crystal, seed beads, Chinese lamp beads, unique jewelry and much more. At Bead-It, you can also make your own jewelry with our friendly staff ready to help.
CITY: Edwardsville
Neruda Restaurant
Fine American cuisine with excellent service in a casual but stylish setting. Enjoy the more casual, lighter fare in our full-service bar.
CITY: Edwardsville
Bilbrey Farms Inc. Bed & Breakfast and Exotic Animal Farm
A farm with more than 45 animals including exotics such as a llama and zebra. This B & B features state-of-the-art amenities in a tranquil farm setting. They also feature a party barn which holds 100 people.
CITY: Edwardsville
Clifton Country Inn & Bake Shop
If its biscuits and gravy you crave, then Clifton Country Inn & Bake Shop is the place to go in Godfrey. In addition to traditional bakery goods like donuts, this family-owned diner also features a full breakfast and lunch menu. There are also daily lunch specials. Hours: Monday - Friday, 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturday - Sunday, 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.
CITY: Godfrey
Magnuson Grand Hotel
This Magnuson Hotels affiliate is within driving distance to St. Louis, the University of Illinois at Springfield, Lincoln Land Community College, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, golf courses, and shopping areas. Guests will enjoy relaxing in the 10 acres of flowered gardens with gazebo and fish pond, an indoor pool, free wireless internet, local cuisine at the Captain’s Table Restaurant, refreshments at the Yacht Club Lounge, exercise facilities, meeting space is available, pets are welcome with additional charges and some restrictions. Rooms feature either one king bed or two double beds, patio, free wireless internet access, cable TV with extra stations, air conditioning, free local calls, coffeemaker, hairdryer, microwave, mini-fridge, alarm clock, and iron and board. Poolside rooms may be available upon request for an additional charge.
CITY: Raymond
Applebee's - Wood River
Applebee's is an attractive, friendly, neighborhood establishment featuring moderately priced, high-quality food and beverage items, table service and a comfortable atmosphere that appeals to all ages. Applebee's menu features beef, chicken and pork items, as well as burgers, pasta and seafood, with a selection of signature menu items found only at Applebee's.
CITY: Wood River
Goshen Market
Saturdays, May through October, experience the Land of Goshen Community Market! The Market is your best source for locally grown, fresh, naturally ripened farm products; tasty baked goods with locally grown ingredients; and wonderful art and gift ideas.The selection changes weekly so plan to visit more than once to fully appreciate the wide selection available. Live entertainment and free demonstrations add to the festive atmosphere. A safe, wholesome environment for kids, so bring the family and stop on by! From 8:00 a.m. till Noon.
CITY: Edwardsville
Fiona's Family Restaurant
Awesome homemade soups made daily at this little family-style diner which offers a larger, more varied menu than many bigger restaurants. One-of-a-kiind sandwiches include gyros, corned beef, and breaded tenderloin. Breakfast is also served. Billed as a "must" stop for anyone in the Wood River area. Hours: Daily 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.
CITY: Wood River
Rainmaker Campground
Pump track available, approximately 25 weekend sites and 200 permanent sites.
CITY: Butler
Lisa Ann's Antiques & Hidden Treasures
You're sure to find the antique or treasure you've been looking for here.
CITY: Cottage Hills
East Alton Ice Arena
Grab your skates and hit the ice any time of the year at this indoor ice arena. Didn't bring your skates? No problem. Rent a pair and take a few laps around the rink. It's the coolest place in town all year round!
CITY: East Alton
Creative Glass Etching
Creative Glass Etching offers beveled, carved, and ornamental glass. Also, B2B and auto glass.
CITY: Edwardsville
Antique Addict Mall - Litchfield
Antiques, collectibles, new and used furniture, crafts, primitives, books, linens.
CITY: Litchfield
Staunton Country Club
This well-established, hilly nine-hole, semi-private course has many mature oaks, small greens and one water hole. The club also offers a swimming pool, tennis court and snack bar.
CITY: Staunton
