Welcome to Collinsville, home to the largest pre-Columbian earthwork in North America, the largest catsup bottle in history, and 60% of the world's horseradish supply.
Yes, this town packs 1,000-year-old mysteries and modern-day quirks into one delightful package. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site preserves the remains of the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico, the World's Largest Catsup Bottle towers over Route 159, and the annual Horseradish Festival celebrates the town's spicy claim to fame.
Add in some of the area's best bike trails, and Collinsville makes an ideal base for exploring this stretch of the Mississippi.
Collinsville attractions and activities
Ancient wonders, modern fun
Climb the 154 steps up Monks Mound at Cahokia Mounds, and you'll be looking out over what was once North America's largest settlement, home to 20,000 people. Back in town, the giant red Catsup Bottle water tower is the perfect example of a roadside photo opportunity. Cool off at Aqua Park's lazy river and slides, catch the horses racing at Fairmount Park, or putt your way through Gateway Fun Park. It's deep history, community spirit, and riverside recreation all wrapped into one memorable experience.
-
Cahokia Mounds
Climb 154 steps up Monks Mound for views across 2,200 acres where North America's largest ancient city once thrived. Walk trails past 70 earthen mounds and see Woodhenge, a timber circle that tracked the seasons. Open dawn to dusk while the visitor center undergoes renovations.
Cahokia Mounds -
Brooks Catsup Bottle
This 170-foot water tower disguised as a condiment bottle has brightened Route 159 since 1949. Pull over for photos of one of America's quirkiest roadside landmarks, now on the National Register. Interpretive plaques share its story if you want more than just the perfect selfie.
Brooks Catsup Bottle -
Willoughby Heritage Farm & Conservation Reserve
Kids can feed goats and collect eggs while parents stroll prairie trails on this 40-acre bluff-top farm. Cross footbridges through woods where butterflies flutter, let little ones loose on the playground, or sign up for archery and beekeeping programs that run spring through fall.
Willoughby Heritage Farm & Conservation Reserve -
Collinsville Aqua Park
Race down Monsoon Mountain's five slides or float the lazy river at this city-run waterpark open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Seven total slides include two three-story thrillers, plus aqua climbing walls and lily pad challenges. Free tubes, life jackets, and parking seal the deal.
Collinsville Aqua Park -
Fairmount Park Racetrack & Casino
Watch live horse racing Tuesdays and Saturdays from April through November at Illinois's only track outside Chicago. The adjoining FanDuel casino runs 300 slots daily, while summer brings line dancing and BBQ. Bet trackside or grab a beer and catch races from the open-air stands.
Fairmount Park Racetrack & Casino
Where to Eat and Drink in Collinsville
Horseradish optional, but recommended
Here you'll find family-owned BBQ spots smoking meat all afternoon long, and craft breweries serving their own beers with creative pub food from historic buildings. Bakers whose families have been in the game for generations still shape traditional pastries by hand each morning, and breakfast places cook eggs exactly how you like them. The Horseradish Festival celebrates the town's spicy claim to fame each year, but if you spot horseradish on a menu, you've just got to go for it.
-
Show more in category of Breweries
Old Herald Brewery & Distillery
This former site of the Collinsville Herald newspaper has been transformed into a full service restaurant, production brewery, and craft distillery. Read more about Old Herald Brewery & Distillery -
Show more in category of Restaurants
Bert's Chuck Wagon
Enjoy great food at amazing prices Read more about Bert's Chuck Wagon -
Show more in category of Restaurants
Ravanelli's
Famous for our Pressure Fried Chicken! Check out our website for full menus! Read more about Ravanelli's -
Show more in category of Restaurants
Porter's Steakhouse
The story of Porter’s Steakhouse goes back decades, but through the years, the experience itself has evolved. Today, it is known as one of the finest… Read more about Porter's Steakhouse -
Show more in category of Bakeries
Kruta Bakery
Four generations of family baking has helped Kruta Bakery perfect their signature Stollen pastries, breads, danish rolls, and more baked treats. Read more about Kruta Bakery