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Shedd Aquarium

Lincoln-Douglas Square

Broadway & Market St., Alton, IL 62002

Historic Sites

Stand the same ground once stood as Abraham Lincoln and Stephan A. Douglas near the Alton riverfront.

The final debate of Stephan A. Douglas and Abraham Lincoln took place in front of Alton's city hall at the corner of Broadway and Market Streets. The senatorial debate drew national attention along with more that 6,000 visitors. Life-like statues of the two statesmen keep the famous series of debates in 1858 frozen forever in time.

What's happening nearby...

Javapalooza 2026

Great Rivers & Routes Region  •  Sep 01 – Nov 30

Javapalooza 2026 is brewing Sept. 1-Nov. 30! Sip signature drinks, explore coffee shops, join scavenger hunts, follow the Coffee Trail that celebrates the bean, baristas and…

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Alton Pride Festival 2026

Belle Street  •  Sep 12 @ 11AM

Celebrate the 5th Annual Alton Pride Festival with live music, dazzling drag performances, local vendors, family-friendly activities, delicious food, and a day full of love, kindness,…

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Mississippi Earthtones Festival

Alton Amphitheater •  Sep 19 @ 12noon

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Mississippi Earthtones Festival, rooted in rhythm! Enjoy live music, interactive art, 100+ educational booths, local food and family fun along…

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Confederate Cemetery and Memorial

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Remember those who died in the infamous Alton prison in 1863 as you visit the Confederate Cemetery and Memorial in Alton, IL.

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Alton's National Cemetery

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Fought on American soil, the Civil War was the deadliest war in American history.

Read more about Alton's National Cemetery

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