St Clair County Illinois Travel Guide

St. Clair County, Illinois is a beautiful county located in the southern part of the state. It is home to several cities, including Belleville, O’Fallon, and East St. Louis. Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or culture lover, St. Clair County has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

St. Clair County is home to several top attractions that are worth visiting. Some of these include:

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
St. Clair Square Mall
World Shooting and Recreational Complex
Gateway Motorsports Park
Belleville Main Street
Scott Air Force Base

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a must-visit attraction in St. Clair County. It is home to the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the ancient mounds and learn about the history of the Mississippian culture that once inhabited the area.

Hidden Gems

St. Clair County has several hidden gems that are worth discovering. Some of these include:

The Weingarten
The Edge
The Abbey
The Wine Tap
The Weingarten Vineyard
The Weingarten Garden

The Weingarten

The Weingarten is a hidden gem in Belleville that is worth discovering. It is a beautiful outdoor event venue that is perfect for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Guests can enjoy the picturesque gardens and vineyards while sipping on local wines and enjoying delicious food.

Food Scene

St. Clair County has a vibrant food scene that is sure to please all taste buds. Some of the top restaurants and eateries in the area include:

The Wine Tap
17th Street Barbecue
Belleville Fish and Chicken
Peel Wood Fired Pizza
Big Daddy’s 618
BEAST Craft BBQ Co.

17th Street Barbecue

If you are a barbecue lover, then 17th Street Barbecue is a must-visit restaurant in St. Clair County. It has been featured on several food shows and has won numerous awards for its delicious smoked meats. Be sure to try the pulled pork and ribs!

Budget-Friendly Tips

St. Clair County can be a budget-friendly destination if you know where to look. Some tips for saving money on your trip include:

Visit during the off-season
Stay at budget-friendly accommodations
Eat at local eateries
Take advantage of free activities
Use public transportation

Visit During the Off-Season

If you want to save money on your trip to St. Clair County, then consider visiting during the off-season. Prices for accommodations and attractions are often lower during this time, and you can avoid the crowds.

Outdoor Adventures

St. Clair County is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor activities in the area include:

Gateway Arch National Park
Shawnee National Forest
Mississippi River State Fish and Wildlife Area
Horseshoe Lake State Park
Green Mount State Wildlife Preserve

Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest is a beautiful outdoor destination that is located just a short drive from St. Clair County. It is home to several hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Family-Friendly Activities

St. Clair County has several family-friendly activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. Some of these include:

The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum
The Gateway Arch
The City Museum
The St. Louis Zoo
The Missouri Botanical Garden
The Grant’s Farm

The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum

The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum is a great destination for families with young children. It is home to several interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that are both educational and fun. Kids can learn about science, art, and history while having a blast!

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

St. Clair County has several off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth seeking out. Some of these include:

The National Great Rivers Museum
The St. Clair Bowl
The Historic Route 66
The Lincoln Theatre
The O’Fallon Historical Society Museum
The Belleville Philharmonic Society

The National Great Rivers Museum

The National Great Rivers Museum is a hidden gem in East Alton, Illinois that is worth discovering. It is home to several interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the Mississippi River and its importance to the region. Kids will love the hands-on activities and the chance to see live fish and other aquatic creatures.

Natural Wonders

St. Clair County is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. Some of these include:

The Mississippi River
The Shawnee National Forest
The Rend Lake State Wildlife Refuge
The Horseshoe Lake State Park
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

The Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States, and it runs right through St. Clair County. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along the river, take a riverboat tour, or go fishing or boating.

Vibrant Nightlife

St. Clair County has a vibrant nightlife scene that is perfect for those who love to party. Some of the top nightlife destinations in the area include:

The Wine Tap
The Edge
The Abbey
The Silver Creek Saloon and Grill
The Global Brew Tap House
The Bakers and Hale

The Wine Tap

The Wine Tap is a great destination for those who love wine and live music. It is a cozy spot with a great atmosphere and a wide selection of local and international wines. Visitors can enjoy live music on the weekends while sipping on their favorite wines.

Local Markets

St. Clair County is home to several local markets that are worth exploring. Some of these include:

The Belleville Farmers Market
The O’Fallon Farmers Market
The Fairview Heights Farmers Market
The Millstadt Farmers Market
The Mascoutah Farmers Market
The Shiloh Farmers Market

The Belleville Farmers Market

The Belleville Farmers Market is a great destination for those who love fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It is open on Saturdays from May through October and features dozens of vendors selling a wide variety of items.