Are you thinking about visiting Alton, Illinois? Get ready for a trip filled with fun activities and sights. This charming town by the river has something for everyone. You’ll find everything from beautiful nature spots to cultural gems.
Looking for adventure or a peaceful escape? Or maybe you want to learn about the area’s history? This guide will show you the best things to do in Alton.
Key Takeaways
- Alton, Illinois has 52 activities and attractions waiting for you to explore.
- The town mixes outdoor fun, cultural sights, and tasty food for all kinds of interests.
- Tour prices in Alton range from $3 to $309, so there’s something for every budget.
- Unique tours like haunted ones and interactive exhibits make Alton stand out.
- Alton’s spot where the Mississippi, Illinois, and Missouri rivers meet is perfect for nature lovers.
Uncover the Beauty of Alton's Outdoor Wonders
Alton, Illinois, is a dream spot for nature lovers. It has many beautiful places to explore outdoors. From the peaceful trails of Riverview Park to the birdwatcher’s dream at Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, there’s a lot to see.
Riverview Park and Trails
Riverview Park and Trails offer scenic paths along the beautiful Mississippi River. Put on your hiking boots for a peaceful walk in Alton’s Alton outdoor activities. You’ll see stunning river views and lush greenery. Keep an eye out for native wildlife too.
Explore the Mississippi River at Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary
The Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary is perfect for bird lovers and nature fans. It’s home to almost 300 types of birdwatching Alton. Bring your binoculars to see many birds in their natural Alton nature setting. The sanctuary has different habitats like wetlands and prairies, showing the beauty of Alton’s outdoor activities.
“Alton’s outdoor spaces offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re hiking the trails or spotting rare birds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
| Outdoor Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Riverview Park and Trails | Scenic walking and hiking paths along the Mississippi River |
| Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary | Home to nearly 300 species of birds, offering exceptional birdwatching Alton |
Alton, Illinois: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Alton, Illinois, is a lively place with lots to see and do. You can take the Alton Riverfront Walking Tour or check out the National Great Rivers Museum. There are artisan studios, wineries, and antique shops to explore. Plus, there are outdoor adventures in nearby state parks.
Looking to Explore Alton Illinois and find the best spots? Here are some top places to visit:
- See artists at work at Alton Art Glass Studios. They make beautiful glass pieces.
- Try local foods at The Grafton Winery. It’s a family place with 20 wines and 6 beers.
- Go on an Aerial Adventure at Aerie’s Resort Ziplines. You’ll love the ziplining and views.
- Find unique antiques at The Prairie Peddler Antiques. It’s full of vintage treasures.
- Learn at the National Great Rivers Museum. It teaches about the Mississippi, Illinois, and Missouri rivers.
Alton has outdoor fun, cultural spots, and local tastes for everyone. It’s perfect for those on a Alton vacation or checking off the Alton bucket list. Enjoy the best Alton activities and Alton attractions for a memorable Alton tourism trip.
Unleash Your Creativity at Alton Art Glass Studios
Alton, Illinois, is a place where art lovers can express themselves. It’s home to Alton art glass studios. These studios let you see the beauty of Alton glass art. You’ll find stained glass, Alton glass beads, and unique handcrafted items.
When you enter the studios, you’ll feel the excitement of making art. Alton art classes are for everyone, from beginners to pros. You can learn how to make Alton stained glass or create your own Alton glass beads. These classes let you make special items to remember your trip by.
As you look around, you’ll see amazing Alton glass art. There are beautiful windows, wall hangings, jewelry, and beads. Each piece shows the skill and hard work of the artists.
| Class Offerings | Duration | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|
| Stained Glass Workshop | 4 hours | Beginner to Intermediate |
| Glass Bead Making | 2 hours | All Levels |
| Advanced Glass Fusing | 6 hours | Intermediate to Advanced |
Let your creativity shine at Alton art glass studios. Make your own art or just enjoy the beauty around you. Alton is a top spot for anyone wanting to explore their artistic side.
Sip and Savor at The Grafton Winery
Visit The Grafton Winery, a family-owned spot with over 20 wines and six beers. Enjoy the view of the Mississippi River from the patio. It’s perfect for tasting their wines.
Experience Aerial Adventure at Aerie's Resort Ziplines
At Aerie’s Resort, you can try exciting aerial activities. Ziplines and a “chondola” give you amazing views of Alton outdoor adventures.
Grafton is just an hour from Saint Louis, along the Great River Road. It’s known for its beautiful scenery and the Mississippi River. Bird-watchers come here in winter to see bald eagles.
Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton has many activities and historic cabins from the 1930s. Cyclists will love the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail. It’s a 20-mile path from Pere Marquette State Park to Alton.
If you like Alton wineries, Alton aerial activities, or just beautiful views, Grafton has something for you. It’s a place for an unforgettable visit.
Walk Through History on the Alton Riverfront Walking Tour
Step back in time with the Alton Riverfront Walking Tour in Illinois. This self-guided tour lets you see the city’s mid-19th century history. You’ll see statues, cemeteries, and other landmarks that tell stories of the past.
Start your tour by getting a brochure at the Alton Visitor Center. It has all the info you need for the tour and the stories behind each site. As you walk, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. You’ll learn about Alton’s role in ending slavery and its importance on the Underground Railroad.
On your journey, you’ll see memorials like the statue of Elijah P. Lovejoy. He was a famous editor who fought against slavery. You’ll also visit Ryder Cemetery to honor the city’s first settlers and hear about their impact on Alton.
If you love history or just want to enjoy a historic town, this tour is for you. It’s a chance to explore Alton’s past, hear its stories, and appreciate its lasting legacy.
“Alton, Illinois is named the most haunted town in the United States.”
Discover Artisan Treasures at Mississippi Mud Pottery
In the heart of Alton, Illinois, Mississippi Mud Pottery invites you to see its handcrafted stoneware. This shop highlights the talent of local artisans. It offers unique pottery that shows the area’s spirit.
Items like vases, bowls, mugs, and plates are all art. At Mississippi Mud Pottery, you can see how they make pottery. You can even try making something on the pottery wheel yourself.
Explore Interactive Exhibits at the National Great Rivers Museum
The National Great Rivers Museum in Alton is perfect for learning about the region’s history and nature. It has interactive exhibits for hands-on learning. You can steer a barge or control a lock and dam.
At the Alton museums and Alton interactive exhibits, learn about the Mississippi River’s story. You’ll see how it affects the local community.
“Visiting the National Great Rivers Museum was an eye-opening experience. The interactive exhibits really helped me understand the importance of the Mississippi River and the challenges faced by those who work on the waterways.”
Reconnect with Nature at Pere Marquette State Park
Just a short drive from Alton, Pere Marquette State Park is a peaceful escape into nature. It has 12 miles of easy trails that offer beautiful views of the Illinois River and forests. You can also visit the 1930s-era lodge, which serves local dishes like fried chicken and catfish.
Pere Marquette is one of Illinois’ largest state parks, perfect for outdoor lovers. It has a rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. It’s a top spot for Alton outdoor recreation, Alton nature, Alton hiking, and Alton wildlife fans.
The trails take you through different ecosystems, like oak and hickory forests and wetlands full of birds and wildlife. Birdwatchers can see migratory birds like the bald eagle. Hikers will love the park’s bluffs and scenic views.
“Pere Marquette State Park is a true gem for nature lovers, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.“
If you want to reconnect with nature, enjoy a quiet hike, or try local food, Pere Marquette State Park is a great choice. It has a rich history, diverse natural beauty, and great facilities. This park will make a lasting impression on everyone who visits.
| Park Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 8,000 acres |
| Trails | 12 miles of easy hiking trails |
| Amenities | 1930s-era wood and stone lodge, fried chicken and catfish, scenic overlooks |
| Wildlife | Diverse flora and fauna, including bald eagles and other migratory birds |
Unearth Antique Gems at The Prairie Peddler Antiques
If you love vintage and antique items, The Prairie Peddler Antiques in Alton is a place you must see. This shop has a wide selection of antiques from the 18th and 19th centuries. You’ll find everything from large case clocks to small spatterware cups.
Customers love The Prairie Peddler Antiques for its amazing collection and helpful staff. The shop is in Alton, Illinois, a city known for its antique market. Tourists and collectors come here to explore the city’s history and find unique antiques.
When you visit, you’ll spend hours looking at all the different items. The store has antiques from various historical periods and styles. This makes it a great place for collectors looking for something special.
The antique market in Alton is getting bigger, with more shops opening. The Prairie Peddler Antiques is a key part of this growth. It brings in customers from all over, with its popularity going up during tourist seasons and special events.
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Unique antique items offered at The Prairie Peddler Antiques | Wide range of 18th and 19th-century antiques |
| Customer satisfaction rate at The Prairie Peddler Antiques | High satisfaction rate among visitors |
| Number of tourists and collectors attracted to the Alton antique market | Significant number of visitors |
| Average time spent by antique collectors browsing at The Prairie Peddler Antiques | Considerable amount of time |
| Trend in the antique market for unique vintage pieces | Growing interest among consumers |
| Growth in the antique industry in the Alton area | Steady growth with more antique shops opening |
| Contribution of The Prairie Peddler Antiques to the local economy | Attracts customers from near and far, contributing to the local economy |
| Seasonal fluctuations in the popularity of The Prairie Peddler Antiques | Coincides with tourism seasons and special events in the Alton area |
Whether you’re an antique collector or just love unique items, The Prairie Peddler Antiques in Alton is a must-see. You’ll find something special and add a piece of history to your life.
Scenic Adventures Along the Sam Vadalabene Great River Road Trail
Alton’s outdoor scene is more than just river views. The Sam Vadalabene Great River Road Trail is a top spot. It’s a 20-mile paved path with stunning views of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors, offering a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
The trail takes you through different landscapes, like forests and hills. It’s known for being great for biking, with 90% of it suitable for cycling as of September 2016. But, a part of the trail runs close to a busy highway, which might not be safe for all cyclists.
Pay Tribute to the World's Tallest Man at Alton Square Mall
Don’t miss stopping by Alton Square Mall on the trail. It’s where you can honor Robert Wadlow, the “World’s Tallest Man.” A life-size statue of him is there, showing Alton’s interesting history. The mall is a great place to rest and learn about the town’s past, right in the middle of the trail.
The Sam Vadalabene Great River Road Trail is ideal for cyclists, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a scenic adventure. It has a smooth surface, beautiful views, and connects to Alton’s history. This trail promises an unforgettable experience for everyone who visits.
Conclusion
Alton, Illinois, is a place full of life and activities for visitors. It has beautiful outdoor spaces, studios for artisans, and historic sites. There’s also great food to enjoy. It’s perfect for those looking for adventure, culture, or a quiet getaway.
When you visit Alton, don’t miss out on its natural beauty. Check out the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Giant City State Park, and Pere Marquette State Park. For art lovers, visit Alton Art Glass and Mississippi Mud Pottery. And don’t forget to taste the local flavors at The Grafton Winery and Eckert’s Country Store and Farm.
Alton is known for its history, interesting attractions, and friendly people. It’s a place that has something for everyone. So, plan your trip to Alton now and see all the amazing things it has to offer.
