Looking for something to do in Alton (IL)? Here are some of the best and most fun things to do in this Midwest city.
From cruising the river on a pontoon boat to visiting the local botanical gardens, there is something for everyone in Alton.
Are you planning an exploration of Alton? Here’s a list of fun things to do in Alton, IL.
Things to Do in Alton, IL
1. Alton Museum of History and Art
The world’s tallest man, Robert Wadlow, is among the many local historical figures featured in the Alton Museum of History and Art.
Along with his graduation hat and gown and some intriguing information about them, they also show some of his shoes, a masonic ring, and other memorabilia.
The tiny museum is jam-packed with well-presented local knowledge.
Directly behind the museum, there are perhaps two or three visitor-reserved parking places.
For history aficionados, the Alton Museum of History and Arts is a wonderful site to view a variety of stunning works of art.
Address: 2809 College Ave, Alton, IL 62002-4743
2. Lincoln-Douglas Square
The final conversation between Stephen A. Douglas and Abraham Lincoln, who was still a congressman at the time, was facilitated by Alton, who is well remembered for this.
When two extraordinary individuals talked about politics and society in public at Lincoln-Douglas Square, it demonstrated the depth of American political history.
Approximately 6,000 people rushed to hear the legislators argue during this final discussion and debate at that time. The area has since been known as Lincoln-Douglas square.
Visitors may learn about the debate between the two leaders at Lincoln-Douglas Square, which is a great spot to add to your list of entertaining things to do in Alton, Illinois.
Address: Broadway & Market St., Alton, IL 62002.
3. National Great Rivers Museum
Contrary to popular belief, history is not merely about documenting spectacular battles and learning about the presence of extraordinary men.
It also involves tracking how natural phenomena, like the development of streams and wild animals, change through time.
If you ever find yourself in Alton, you may learn a lot about this inside the National Great Rivers Museum.
Remarkably, the gallery is still located beside the banks of the enormous Mississippi River, which drives home the importance of ordinary history.
4. Mississippi Mud Pottery
Ken and Brenda Barnett established Mississippi Mud Pottery in Alton in 1983, and the company has grown tremendously since then.
They decided to risk it all after producing some initial progress by selling their homemade lights, plants, and jars wholesale to businesses in the St. Louis area.
They relocated a few times before settling on 310 E. Broadway, where the store is now.
They provided strong pots that you might use at home, assuming you were thinking.
This exhibit is a must-see Alton location where you can browse gorgeous pottery and decide which one is ideal for your home.
Address: 310 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002.
5. Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden
The Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden is located at the Gordon Moore Community Park in Alton, which is a great place to explore.
As soon as you reach the recreation area, the nursery will be visible among the ochre-coloured battlefield fields.
Come over between late May and early June if you want to see these beauties in full bloom.
The nursery’s splendour has made it an unforgettable location for weddings, reunions, and other noteworthy events.
The top things to do in Alton, Illinois, include visiting the Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden.
Address: 4550 College Avenue, Alton, IL 62002.
6. Piasa Bird Markers
The Illini Indians in the Alton area feared the “Piasa,” a man-eating bird before the white pilgrims arrived.
They said that the bird initially consumed deer but then turned to human tissue after tasting battle dead.
When the bird spots you, it will grab you in its beak and drag you back to a nearby cave where it will feed you.
A few organizations have taken a particular interest in the amazing Piasa across Alton.
They would draw a likeness of it on a limestone cliff that still stood by the Great River Road.
Numerous others would paint the bird over again once these images were destroyed. Piasa’s most recent artwork can be found today on limestone that is identical to that.
Address: along Hwy 100, Alton, IL.
7. Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument
If you’re interested in US history, a fascinating thing to do in Alton, Illinois, is to visit the Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument.
The author is commended by the historical site for using her right to free speech tenaciously to pursue equity.
You should visit the Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument if you’re seeking for entertaining things to do in Alton, Illinois, to find out more about his initiatives.
Address: 1299 E 5th St., Alton, IL 62002.
8. Great Rivers Scenic Routes
For people in or near Alton, Illinois, The Great River’s Scenic Routes is the go-to resource because it lays out the enjoyment from start to finish.
The Piasa Bird Markets and many other interesting locations may be seen by travellers as they travel the route.
The 10-mile circuit is a beautiful walking and bike trail that follows the river. It’s the ideal setting for photos.
Parents need not worry about their children because there are guard rails and lots of space between the pedestrian walkway and the road.
Address: Alton, Illinois, United States.
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9. Alton Hauntings Tours
Are you looking for the real reason Alton, Illinois, is regarded as probably the spookiest small town in America?
Attend one of the prestigious Alton Hauntings Tours in light of Troy Taylor’s book.
After roughly 20 years, they’ll take you into the background of the most haunted places nearby. The book has a reputation for being the “most credible” visit in the area.
Come experience the hauntings of what is currently referred to be “perhaps the scariest community in America” and learn how historical events shaped them.
Address: Alton, Illinois, United States.
10. Argosy Casino
Why not stop by a real riverboat club, the Argosy, on your trip to Alton if you’re a casino kind of person and need a solid casino to try out?
Maybe using a different angle will increase your chances of winning. The gaming club opened its doors as the Alton Belle in 1991 before changing its name to the Alton Belle II.
There are 12 table games and 827 slot machines within the Argosy Casino Alton, all of them are in fine working order and ready for a nice game.
The three dining options offered at the Argosy Casino allow you to unwind while also enjoying a meal.
Address: 1 Piasa St., Alton, IL 62002.
11. Beall Mansion Tour
If your family is interested in seeing the immaculately restored Beal Mansion, it is ready for visitors.
The Beall Mansion is a wonderfully restored mansion where guests are always warmly welcomed by owner Jim.
Jim and Sandy, his wonderful wife, own the Beall Mansion Tour, a business that offers in-depth tours of their mansion.
Booking a trip to the Beall Mansion Tour is a smart option if you want to make sure that your friends and family have a pleasant time.
Address: 407 E 12th St, Alton, IL 62002-7230
12. Lucy Haskell Playhouse
The Lucy Haskell Playhouse is the ideal destination if you adore playhouses and have always imagined living there daily.
Your children will enjoy their stay at the Haskell Playhouse because it is close to a real playhouse that you may enter at any time.
There is only one room in the house, and it is 14 by 16 feet long. Both the front and back of the home have porches. This attraction near Alton, Illinois offers lots of enjoyable activities for children.
The house is now a children’s play area dedicated to Lucy Haskell. The Haskell Playhouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places’ list of properties in 1974.
Address: 1211 Henry St., Alton, IL 62002.
13. Riverview Park
There is so much to see, do, and explore at Riverview Park that visitors often leave wanting more.
The Riverview Park is an ideal setting for people to unwind and take in the breathtaking beauty along the shore.
As a great atmosphere for family outings, Riverview Park offers a variety of fascinating activities.
You may be sure to see a lot of lovely events at Riverview Park, including weddings and birthday parties. Before visiting, bookings can be made.
Address: Park Ave, Alton, IL 62002
14. Alton Little Theater
The Alton Little Theater is a fantastic destination; it makes sense that you should plan to visit this well-known theatre in Alton.
You’ll first see some outstanding works there, and you’ll also admire the theatre’s range of experiences.
Get a ticket to the Alton Little Theater if you want to experience a breathtaking live performance. Additionally, it has played for 88 consecutive seasons.
There are many entertaining options available at Alton Theater, making it a great destination for tourists to discover things to do in Alton, Illinois. You will adore this place.
Address: 2450 N, Henry St., Alton, IL 62002.
15. Alton Visitor Center.
If you’re looking for a thorough tour of Alton, Illinois, the Alton Visitor Center is an excellent location to go.
Visitors can board a small bus at the Alton Visitor Center for an eagle-watching excursion that takes them to several fascinating locations.
Following the tour’s instructions will allow visitors to see many bald eagles, learn about the area’s history, and completely enjoy the entire experience.
The staff is outstanding, welcoming, knowledgeable, and enjoyable. It’s a fantastic location in Alton, Illinois.
Address: 200 Piasa St, Alton, IL 62002-6271
16. Alton Prison
The various verifiable tourist attractions in Alton would appeal to history buffs. The Alton Prison, which was in existence from 1833 to 1860, is one example.
During the American Civil War, the jail was reopened as the Alton Federal Military Prison at General Henry Halleck’s request.
Throughout the conflict, the jail held more than 11,700 Confederate soldiers, shady citizens, and enemy government, guerrillas.
Likewise, a smallpox outbreak devastated the prisoners, leaving 1,354 dead. You can still visit the jail site today and witness a little portion of the original jail wall.
Following the conflict, the city demolished the building and got rid of the blocks as well.
Address: Williams St., Broadway, Alton, IL 62002.
17. Gordon F. Moore Community Park
Have you been considering where you should go with your family to have fun together? The Gordon F. Moore Community Park should be visited.
Everyone is welcome to come to the Gordon F.Moore Community Park and enjoy themselves among the natural surroundings.
Numerous occasions, including a wedding, a graduation celebration, some soccer matches, and baseball games, have taken place in this park.
The Gordon F. Moore Community Park’s flower gardens make for stunning photo locations, which makes the park ideal for good photography.
Address: 4550 College Ave Route 111, Alton, IL 62002-5051
18. See Miles Davis Statue
Any arrogant jazz aficionado should visit Alton to see the Miles Davis statue because it is delightful.
This sculpture honours the jazz music legend and is among the most captivating performers of the whole 20th century.
The Miles Davis Statue is located in the centre of the Miles Davis Memorial Plaza today.
The stonemason The sculpture was created by Preston Jackson, and Miles is depicted playing the trumpet. In addition, he has received nine Grammy nominations.
Address: 117 W Third Street, Alton, IL 62002.
19. Oriental Garden
Why don’t you go to the Gordon Moore Community Park, peek inside the well-known Oriental Garden, and tour its lovely settings?
You should immediately head to the Oriental Garden to unwind after meandering around the magnificent Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden.
You can purchase a scaffold there that overlooks a lake teeming with many varieties of Koi fish.
Visit a cascade and sit by the Pagoda that was first seen inside the nursery to enjoy the beautiful quiet of nature.
Visit the Oriental Gardens in Alton, Illinois, if you’re seeking enjoyable things to do, and take in the breathtaking natural surroundings.
Address: 4550 College Avenue, Alton, IL 62002.
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20. Robert Wadlow Statue
Nobody in Alton would have predicted that Robert Wadlow would develop into the tallest man in the world.
When he was born in 1918, he appeared to be an ordinary youngster, but with time, his towering genes started to show.
You may still see the life-size Wadlow sculpture in Alton today. Take some friends and visit the location to see how tall the tallest guy in the world compares to each of you.
Your list of the top things to do in Alton, Illinois should include a visit to the Robert Waldow statue so that you may learn more about the life of the tallest man in the world.
Address: 2810 College Avenue, Alton, IL 62002.
21. Curiosity Museum
The exhibits and information at the Curiosity Museum have all been thoroughly studied and are accurate for the period.
The majority of these devices were developed in Europe, where the museum curator has travelled to torture museums.
The Curiosity Museum is constantly looking for fresh information and expanding its collection as needed.
From the simplest to the most cunningly evil, they have more than fifty exhibits of torture tools from around the globe, some of which are still in use today.
The Curiosity Museum is growing to incorporate more curiosities, anomalies, illusions, and interactive exhibitions. It’s a location you shouldn’t skip.
Address: 301 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002-2402
22. Jacoby Arts Center
If you’ve had your fill of historical illustrations, head straight for the Jacoby Arts Center to take in some show-stopping artwork.
Previously known as Jacoby’s Furniture, the Arts Gallery building is now one of Alton’s head expressions attractions.
On the main floor of the centre, you’ll discover exhibitions, a gift shop, and a presentation space.
Visitors can discover fresh pieces of art and broaden their perspectives on art at the Jacoby Arts Center.
One of the best things to do in Alton, Illinois if you’re interested in art is to visit the Jacoby Arts Center.
Address: 627 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002.
23. North Alton Confederate Cemetery
You should visit the North Alton Confederate Cemetery after seeing the Alton Prison complete your Civil War tour.
A transcendent 58-foot-tall stone honouring the Confederate soldiers who died inside the Alton Prison may be found in the graveyard.
They created a landmark in 1908 because the greatest fighters’ graves lacked markers.
You’ll need to head to the top east corner of the cemetery and look for a slope. It’s a terrific spot to add to your list of things to do in Alton, Illinois, as the monolith still stands on top of this slope.
Address: 635 Rozier St., Alton, IL 62002.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alton Illinois famous for?
Alton Illinois is famous for Legendary jazz musician Miles Davis.
Whats in Alton Illinois?
World’s Tallest Man Statue.
Great Rivers Scenic Route.
National Great Rivers Museum.
Argosy Casino Alton.
Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument.
What is the crime rate in Alton Illinois?
The Alton IL crime rate for 2017 was 633.12 per 100,000 population, a 18.78% increase from 2016.
Is Alton a good place to live?
The town offers a delightful mix of historic buildings jostle with modern shops and arcades.
What river is Alton IL on?
Alton Il is on the Mississippi River.
Is Alton Illinois a town or city?
Alton is a city that is very rich in history and has a lot to offer.
Which city is close to Alton Illinois?
Godfrey, IL, is close to Alton Illinois.
What region is Alton Il in?
Alton is in the Metro-East region.
Is Alton Illinois a good place to live?
People are friendly and there’s always something going on to bring the community together , so yes, it is a good place to live.
Is Alton Illinois in Chicago?
There are 246.31 miles from Chicago to Alton in southwest direction and 458.66 kilometers by car.
Conclusion
Alton has a variety of entertaining attractions appropriate for visitors of all ages, including children.
Start making travel plans for this lovely city, and feel free to save this article as a reference while creating your bucket list of Alton, Illinois, attractions.
