26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Alton (IL)

For more than 200 years, the city of Alton, Illinois, has stood out from other cutout vacation destinations in the United States.

Explorers visit from all over the world. They visit Alton because of its peculiar authentic milestones and noteworthy attractions.

Alton has become a tourist hotspot. It became home to the world’s tallest man and the legendary man-eating bird, the Piasa.

During the Civil War, the city became a significant headquarters for the abolitionists since it was simply across Missouri.

Alton is also known for its scare attractions, similar to the scandalous McPike Mansion. It has the most frightening attraction in the whole American Midwest.

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. Lucy Haskell Playhouse

Lucy Haskell Playhouse
Credits: Nyttend / Wiki (public domain)
Lucy Haskell Playhouse

If you love playhouses and it’s always been your dream to live your day-to-day life in it, the Lucy Haskell Playhouse is the perfect place to visit.

The Haskell Playhouse is near a genuine dollhouse you can at any point enter, and your kids are sure to love their stay in this place.

In 1885, the lender and altruist John E. Hayner gifted his granddaughter Lucy Jane Haskell with a playhouse for her fifth birthday celebration.

The house includes just a single room traverses 14 by 16 feet. You can find a porch in front and behind the house. Kids will find many fun things to do in Alton, IL in this attraction.

Maybe Lucy organized her dolls and toys on the wall bureau with glass entryways. Similarly, the house had stained glass windows, and its rooftop even highlighted embellishing ironwork.

Today, the house is a playground for kids committed to the memory of Lucy Haskell. In 1974, the National Register of Historic Places incorporated the Haskell Playhouse into its program.

Address: 1211 Henry St., Alton, IL 62002.

2. Riverview Park

Riverview Park
Credits: Randy Watson / Flickr
Riverview Park

The Riverview Park always leaves its visitors returning for more as there’s so much to see, do, and explore at the park.

The top of the bluff views of the Mississippi River can be quite a treat on a nice day, especially when there is a gray sky.

The peaceful, quiet walk through the park from the small parking lot to the bluff’s edge is quite relaxing.

The Riverview Park is a suitable environment for individuals to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the shoreline.

There are many exciting things to do at Riverview Park as it’s a fun environment for family outings.

At Riverview Park, you’re sure to see many beautiful occasions, such as weddings and birthday celebrations. You can make reservations before a visit.

Address: Park Ave, Alton, IL 62002

3. Alton Little Theater

Alton Little Theater
Credits: BigPixel Photo / Shutterstock

The Alton Little Theater is a great place to go; understandably, this notable auditorium in Alton ought to be on your schedule.

In the first place, you’ll see dynamite creations there, and second, you’ll likewise respect the theater’s set of experiences.

The Alton Little Theater started in 1933 and has become the province of Illinois’s longest-running local area theater.

From the discreet dream of English instructor Dorothy Colonius, this auditorium has enlivened and pleased droves of crowds for quite a long time.

If you want to see a stunning live show, get a ticket at the Alton Little Theater. It has played for 88 straight seasons, as well.

Alton Theater is an excellent place for visitors to find things to do in Alton, IL, as there are various fun things to choose from. You will love it here.

Address: 2450 N, Henry St., Alton, IL 62002.

4. Alton Visitor Center.

Alton Visitor Center is a great place to visit if you’re interested in a detailed tour through the city of Alton, Illinois.

At the Alton Visitor Center, visitors can go on an eagle-watching tour on a small bus and visit several interesting places.

Some places include the Audubon Center, operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

At only five dollars for an hour-long tour, visitors are given a wealth of information about the road.

Visitors that follow through the tour can get to see several bald eagles, learn some local history, and thoroughly enjoy the whole experience.

The staff is excellent, friendly, informative, and fun. It’s one great place to visit in Alton, Illinois.

Address: 200 Piasa St, Alton, IL 62002-6271

5. Alton Prison

Alton Prison
Credits: Nyttend / Public Domain
Alton Prison

Nationwide conflict History enthusiasts would appreciate visiting Alton for its different verifiable tourist spots. One is the Alton Prison, which was used from 1833 to 1860.

Significant General Henry Halleck requested the jail return during the Civil War as the Alton Federal Military Prison.

The jail housed more than 11,700 Confederate troopers, backstabbing residents, and hostile government guerrillas throughout the contention.

They filled the jail to the extreme and were frequently inadequately dressed and malnourished. This jail was likewise the main State Penitentiary in Illinois.

A smallpox episode likewise desolated the detainees, killing 1,354. Today, you can visit the jail site and see just a small piece of the first jail wall.

After the conflict, the city destroyed the structure and eliminated even the structure blocks. 

Address: Williams St., Broadway, Alton, IL 62002.

6. Gordon F. Moore Community Park

Gordon F. Moore Community Park
Credits: Stock-Asso / Shutterstock

Have you been wondering what place is best for you and your family to visit and enjoy a family day? Visit the Gordon F. Moore Community Park.

At the Gordon F.Moore Community Park, everyone is free to visit and have a good time surrounded by nature.

You can decide to catch some fresh air at the Park or walk your dog if you have one. There’s so much to do there.

Supposing you’re alone, the Gordon F. Moore Community Park is still the get-go place as you can decide to relax and sit on the grass for a personal picnic.

This park has hosted many events such as a wedding, a graduation party, some soccer games, and baseball games.

The Park is also perfect for good pictures as you can take beautiful photos in the flower gardens at the Gordon F. Moore Community Park.

Address: 4550 College Ave Route 111, Alton, IL 62002-5051

7. See Miles Davis Statue

Miles Davis Statue
Credits: Paul Sableman / Flickr
Miles Davis Statue

Any self-regarding jazz fan ought to drop by Alton to see the Miles Davis statue, as it’s all the fun one could ask for.

This sculpture respects the titan of jazz music and one of the most compelling performers of the whole twentieth century.

On May 16, 1926, Miles Davis entered the world, and the people of Alton keep respecting his inheritance and presence until today.

Miles Davis made about 100 collections throughout his long vocation, including the works of art “Birth of the Cool” and “Sort of Blue.”

In 2006, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame enlisted him into their program.

Today, you can visit the Miles Davis Statue in the core of the Miles Davis Memorial Plaza.

The stone carver Preston Jackson made the sculpture, showing Miles playing the trumpet in his mark. He has additionally won nine Grammy awards.

Address: 117 W Third Street, Alton, IL 62002.

8. Oriental Garden

How about you visit the Gordon Moore Community Park and take a peek at the famous Oriental Garden and explore its beautiful locations.

After meandering the awesome Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden, you should clear your brain by making a beeline for the Oriental Garden straightaway.

Before showing up at the nursery, you’ll have to stroll along a quarter-mile trail, where you’ll find down streaming streams and a colossal 13-section lake.

When you’re there, you can get a scaffold that stands over a lake abounding with Koi fish of every variety.

Take in the delightful tranquility of nature by visiting a cascade and sitting by the Pagoda introduced inside the nursery.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Alton, IL, you should probably visit the Oriental Gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery of nature.

Address: 4550 College Avenue, Alton, IL 62002.

For a fun road trip in Illinois, do not miss exploring the top attractions and fun activities in Evanston, Quincy and Oak Park

9. Robert Wadlow Statue

Robert Wadlow Statue
Credits: Eric Bueneman / Flickr
Robert Wadlow Statue

Nobody in Alton would have anticipated that Robert Wadlow would grow up to become the world’s tallest man.

He seemed to be an average child at his introduction to the world in 1918, but his tall genes began to become noticeable with time.

Notwithstanding, the Guinness Book of World Records gave Wadlow the title when he estimated 8 feet and 11 inches tall before his demise in 1940.

Today, you can visit the life-size sculpture worked for Wadlow in Alton.

Go there with companions, and perceive how every one of your stacks up with the world’s tallest man.

You can likewise have a go at sitting in a beautifully structured bronze seat made particularly for Wadlow.

The Robert Waldow statue is one good place to visit and learn about the history of the tallest man in the world, and it’s worth adding to your list of best things to do in Alton, IL.

Address: 2810 College Avenue, Alton, IL 62002.

10. Curiosity Museum

Curiosity Museum
Credits: Curiosity Museum / Facebook
Curiosity Museum

Curiosity Museum is a great place to visit as exhibits and information have been researched and are historically accurate.

The museum curator has visited Torture Museums in Europe, where most of these devices originated.

It’s also fascinating to know that a collection of books on the subject is available to browse while at the Museum.

The Curiosity Museum is always on alert for information and adds new exhibits to its collection when necessary.

They have over fifty exhibits of torture devices from all over the world, ranging from the very simple to the diabolically clever, and some are still in use today.

Curiosity Museum is also expanding the museum to include curiosities, oddities, illusions, and hands-on exhibits. It’s one place you shouldn’t pass visiting.

Address: 301 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002-2402

11. Jacoby Arts Center

Jacoby Arts Center
Credits: guruXOX / Shutterstock

If you’ve had sufficient history illustrations, you can make a beeline for the Jacoby Arts Center and gaze upon show-stoppers.

The Arts Gallery building used to be Jacoby’s Furniture, yet presently it’s one of Alton’s head expressions attractions.

You’ll find exhibitions, a gift shop, and a presentation setting on the primary floor inside the center.

Move down to the lower level, and you’ll see their craft homeroom, a ceramics studio, and more craftsman studios.

The middle celebrates neighborhood Alton artisans through themed shows and permits inhabitants to make artistry.

Jacoby Arts Center is an excellent place for visitors to explore new artworks and broaden their perspective of art.

If you are interested in art, visiting Jacoby Arts Center is one of the top things to do in Alton, IL.

Address: 627 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002.

12. North Alton Confederate Cemetery

North Alton Confederate Cemetery
Credits: Ken Hogshead / Facebook
North Alton Confederate Cemetery

After visiting the Alton Prison, you should go to the North Alton Confederate Cemetery to complete your Civil War visit.

The graveyard includes a transcending 58-foot-tall monolith that recognizes the Confederate troopers who passed on inside the Alton Prison.

Since there were no grave markers for the best fighters, they fabricated a landmark in 1908.

When you stand underneath the pillar, you can peruse the names of the 1,354 dead Confederate warriors who died in jail.

These names additionally incorporate the officers who kicked the bucket at the smallpox burial ground situated at Tow Island.

You’ll have to go to the burial ground’s upper east corner and search for a slope. The monolith remains on top of this slope, and it’s a great place to add to your list of things to do in Alton, IL.

Address: 635 Rozier St., Alton, IL 62002.

13. Alton Museum of History and Art

Alton Museum of History and Art
Credits: Pop Piasa [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Alton Museum of History and Art
The Alton Museum of History and Art contains a lot about the local history, including Robert Wadlow, the world’s tallest person.

They display his graduation cap & gown with some interesting facts about it, along with some of his shoes, masonic ring, and other artifacts.

The little museum is packed with local information that is well displayed. 

About two or three reserved parking spaces directly behind the museum are reserved for visitors.

The Alton Museum of History and Arts is a great place to see various beautiful art pieces for history enthusiasts.

Come by the Alton Museum of History and Arts to see beautiful historical artifacts and learn about the stories surrounding them.

Visiting Alton Museum of History and Art is one of the top things to do in Alton, IL.

Address: 2809 College Ave, Alton, IL 62002-4743

14. Lincoln-Douglas Square

Alton is well known for facilitating the last discussion between Stephen A. Douglas and Abraham Lincoln, who was as yet a congressperson.

To respect the occasion, Alton fabricated a landmark along the Alton riverfront.

The Lincoln-Douglas Square indicated America’s rich political history when incredible men openly discussed legislative issues and society.

This discussion occurred outside the Alton City Hall, at the side of Market Street and Broadway, as a feature of the well-known 1858 discussions among Lincoln and Douglas.

At that time, about 6,000 individuals ran to hear the legislators contend during this last discussion and debate. Since then, the place has been dubbed the Lincoln-Douglas square.

The Lincoln-Douglas Square is one good place to add to your list of fun things to do in Alton, IL, as passers-by can go there to learn about the debate between the two leaders.

Address: Broadway & Market St., Alton, IL 62002.

15. National Great Rivers Museum

National Great Rivers Museum
Credits: Matt Howry / Flickr
National Great Rivers Museum

History isn’t just about retaining extraordinary fights and finding out about the existence of incredible men as many believe it to be.

It’s additionally about following the progression of time in nature, similar to waterways and the advancement of untamed life.

You can have a ton of experience with this inside the National Great Rivers Museum if you’re ever in Alton.

Strikingly, the gallery remains on the banks of the gigantic Mississippi River, which sled home the significance of regular history.

The 20 intuitive and enlivened displays inside the exhibition hall will show how individuals in the district depended on this stream throughout the long term.

Besides verifiable shows, the gallery also offers a brief look at a functioning dam, the Melvin Price Locks and Dam. 

Among the best things to do in Alton, IL is a visit to National Great Rivers Museum.

Address: 1 Locks and Dam Way, Alton, IL 62002.

Planning a road trip in Illinois? explore this list of things to do in Effinghamthings to do in Carbondale and things to do in Moline for a memorable road trip.

16. Mississippi Mud Pottery

Mississippi Mud Pottery
Credits: Marco Ossino / Shutterstock

In 1983, Ken and Brenda Barnett opened Mississippi Mud Pottery in Alton, and the business has thrived beautifully since then.

After making introductory progress wholesaling their self-made lights, grower, and jars to organizations around St. Louis, they chose to put it all on the line.

They moved areas a couple of times until choosing 310 E. Broadway, where the store stands today.

Assuming you were pondering, you could utilize their sturdy pots at home.

You might place them in your dishwasher or your microwave.

Similarly, the proprietors get fish from streams and make molds from them.

They utilize these molds to make ceramic fish, which you can use for a home stylistic theme.

This display is an unmissable Alton spot to check out beautiful pottery and choose which one is perfect for your home.

Address: 310 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002.

17. Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden

Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden
Credits: Ken Donaldson / Shutterstock

The Gordon Moore, Community Park in Alton, is an excellent spot to visit; however, you should go there to see the Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden.

At the point when you enter the recreation area, you’ll see the nursery immediately amid the earthy-colored fields of the battlegrounds.

Dr. Robert W. Elliott laid the vision for the nursery, which opened in 1980, covering a section of land. Today, you’ll track down more than 150 assortments of roses there, containing north of 1,600 hedges.

If you want to see these blossoms in full sprout, you ought to come around from late May to early June.

The nursery’s magnificence has made it a breathtaking setting for weddings, reunions, and other extraordinary occasions.

Consistently, about 70 weddings occur in the nursery. For 25 years, the Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden stays a feature of the local area park.

Visiting Nan Elliott Memorial Rose Garden is among the best things to do in Alton, IL.

Address: 4550 College Avenue, Alton, IL 62002.

18. Piasa Bird Markers

Piasa Bird Markers
Credits: Burfalcy [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Piasa Bird Markers
Before the white pilgrims came, the Illini Indians in the Alton region dreaded the man-eating bird called “Piasa.”

They said the bird ate deer right away however went for human tissue after tasting corpses left from wars.

At the point when the bird sees you, it would get you in its claws and take you back to a close-by cave for supper.

Throughout Alton, a few groups have been keen on the unbelievable Piasa.

They would paint its similarity on a limestone precipice remaining on the side of the road along the Great River Road.

These pictures get annihilated many times, and more individuals would paint the bird over again. Today, you can track down the latest artwork of the Piasa on a similar limestone precipice.

It’s turned into a top side of the road fascination, and you can find individuals halting to check the fearsome bird out. You can also learn about the historical backdrop of the bird and Alton from three markers.

Address: along Hwy 100, Alton, IL.

19. Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument

Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument
Credits: Kazvorpal [CC BY-SA 3.0], Wikimedia Commons
Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument
On the off chance that you’re a US history buff, visit the Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument in Alton, as its a fun thing to do in Alton, Illinois.

The landmark commends the author, who determinedly utilized the right to speak freely of discourse to seek after equity.

Elijah functioned as a minister during his lifetime and composed scorching publications reviling subjection, which ignited the slaveholders’ contempt.

They undermined his life. However, Lovejoy continued to compose his abolitionist subjection pieces for the Alton Observer.

His foes even flung three of Lovejoy’s print machines into the Mississippi River, yet, he persevered. In the end, a favorable subjection horde figured out how to kill Lovejoy in 1837.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Alton, IL, you should get to the Elijah P. Love joy Monument to learn more about his efforts.

Address: 1299 E 5th St., Alton, IL 62002.

20. Great River’s Scenic Routes

Great River’s Scenic Routes
Credits: Kbh3rd [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Great River’s Scenic Routes
The Great River’s Scenic Routes is the go-to place for those in or around Alton, Illinois, as it spells out the fun from the beginning to end.

Visitors can start on the route and get to see places like the Piasa Bird Markets and many other eye-catching locations.

The route is a great walking and biking trail which follows the river for 10 miles and is gorgeous. It’s a perfect place for pictures.

There are guard rails and plenty of space between the pedestrian walkway and the road, so parents need not worry about their kids.

A good portion of the trail is in the shade, and as long as you bring bug spray, it’s a very peaceful walk. If you pass by the Piasa bird and the bluff park, there are places to sit, have a picnic, and dispose of any doggy bags you may have collected along the way.

Address: Alton, Illinois, United States.

21. Alton Hauntings Tours

Alton Hauntings Tours
Credits: Black.Doll / Flickr
Alton Hauntings Tours

Are you searching for the true story of why Alton, Illinois, is known as quite possibly the most spooky unassuming community in America?

Show up on one of the honor-winning Alton Hauntings Tours in view of the book by writer Troy Taylor.

The book has been known as the “most credible” visit in the locale, and after right around 20 years, they’ll take you in the background of the most spooky spots around.

As indicated by legend, writer Mark Twain once considered Alton a “grim little waterway town” because of the dull history that the city had previously persevered.

From those days through the mid-1900s, Alton saw too much passing, infection, viciousness, murder, and, surprisingly, the scars of the Civil War.

Come perceive how past occasions have made the hauntings of what is currently being classified “quite possibly the most spooky community in America.”

Address: Alton, Illinois, United States.

22. Argosy Casino

Argosy Casino
Credits: Eric Bueneman / Flickr
Argosy Casino

If you’re a casino kind of guy and need a good casino to try out, why not drop by a genuine riverboat club, the Argosy, on your visit to Alton?

Maybe taking a shot in another spot will help your wins. In 1991, the gambling club began as the Alton Belle, becoming the more significant Alton Belle II.

The boat went up the waterway until 1999 when Illinois said riverboats could remain docked all the time.

Today, the Argosy Casino stays on the docks.

Inside the Argosy Casino Alton, you’ll find 827 gambling machines and 12 table games in good condition and ready for a good game.

You can likewise enjoy some time off and get something to eat from the three feasting choices accessible at the Argosy Casino.

If you’re in or around Alton and are looking for fun things to do in Alton, IL, you should probably visit the Argosy Casino.

Address: 1 Piasa St., Alton, IL 62002.

23. Beall Mansion Tour

Beall Mansion Tour
Credits: Beall Mansion An Elegant Bed & Breakfast Inn / Facebook
Beall Mansion Tour

The Beal Mansion is well in hand for a family visit if you’re interested in exploring this pristine restored home.

Whenever visitors arrive at the Beall Mansion, they are warmly greeted by owner Jim at this beautifully restored home.

The Beall Mansion Tour is an enterprise owned by Jim and Sandy, his lovely wife, and comprises a detailed tour through their mansion.

There is so much history to the property as Jim and Sandy did the restoration, and there are so many details they could provide.

The staircase is stunning, as are the curved windows in the dining room. The artistry in this home is above and beyond. 

It’s a good idea to book a visit to the Beall Mansion Tour to ensure a smooth experience with your friends and family. Do visit!

Address: 407 E 12th St, Alton, IL 62002-7230

24. Great Rivers Scenic Route

Great Rivers Scenic Route
Credits: Kbh3rd [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Great Rivers Scenic Route
Tourists are drawn to America’s rivers for adventure, air, and days of fun family vacations and calming drives.

Return to a time of unsophistication and American values by exploring the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, where Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois merge all around Alton, Illinois.

The Great River Road, which is more than 2,000 miles long, operates along the Mississippi River past ten states and river towns.

We have established specific portions of the Great River Road as a national scenic byway, including the 33-mile span from Hartford to Grafton, Illinois.

This gorgeous, scenic portion is called the Meeting of the Great River National Scenic Byway.

The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway is a true Midwestern treasure, with stunning stretches of roadway cradled by the moving waters of the Mississippi Rivers and magnificent limestone river bluffs.

As you drive along this byway, you discover the region is a gem of nature, with whistling birds, unique plants, colorful trees, and river bluffs.

A drive along the Great Rivers Scenic Route is one of the best things to do while vacationing in Alton.

Address: Alton, IL, United States

25. Alton Stained Glass

Alton Stained Glass
Credits: kaca kaca / Shutterstock

Another best thing to do in Alton is to learn how to make glass at Alton Stained Glass.

This shop is a full-service stained glass shop that has existed since 1993.

Alton Stained Glass offers classes, and the shop has an extensive inventory of glass supplies and products.

The shop owner, Ulett, produces stained glass work for windows, cabinet fronts, fireplace screens, lampshades, jewelry boxes, picture frames, and other glassworks.

Alton Stained Glass also sells stained glass pieces and offers many classes in mosaic, stained glass, glass fusing, and bead making.

There is also a tearoom where students can enjoy wines, craft beers, and tea before attending art classes.

Ulett offers weekly classes, and we advise you to contact the studio to find the price.

There are also intermediate and advanced classes at the studio for people who are done with the beginner course.

You can visit the Alton Stained Glass Works from 10 am to 6 pm on Wednesday to Saturday.

Address: 410 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002, United States

26. Rock Springs Park

Rock Springs Park
Credits: wellphoto / Shutterstock

If you are looking for a budget-friendly location to golf, head to Rock Springs Park.

Rock Spring Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that was completed in 2008. The course has a length of 2,266 yards with DiscCatcher targets and concrete tees.

The combination of excellent terrain use, imaginative pin location, and an incredible risk and reward tradeoff on the front 9 holes makes this park a must-visit for everyone.

If you visit the city during Christmas, you can go to the park and enjoy the Christmas lights, decorations, and displays.

Address: 2116 College Ave, Alton, IL 62002, United States

Have more time in Illinois, do not miss exploring the top attractions and fun activities in Naperville , Bloomington and Schaumburg.

Plan a Trip to Alton

Alton offers numerous fun attractions suitable for individuals of all ages including kids.

Start planning a trip to this beautiful city; feel free to pin this article as a guide to easily fall back to while making your bucket list of places to visit in Alton, IL.