Alton Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Alton, Illinois with our comprehensive travel guide, including must-visit attractions, outdoor adventures, food scene, and local culture.
- Introduction to Alton
- List of Places to Visit in Alton
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Alton
- Best Things to Do in Alton: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Alton
- Food and Drink Scene of Alton
- Where to Stay in Alton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Alton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Alton
- Best Time to Visit Alton
- Do’s and Don’ts of Alton
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Alton: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Alton
- Where to Go Next from Alton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Alton
Alton is a charming city located in the St. Louis Metro East region of Illinois. Home to numerous historical landmarks, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures, Alton has plenty to offer to those seeking a fun and educational trip. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
List of Places to Visit in Alton
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Robert Wadlow Statue
Standing at over eight feet tall, Robert Wadlow was once the tallest man in the world. The Robert Wadlow Statue is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Alton. Apart from the statue, visitors can learn more about Wadlow’s life and legacy at the Robert Wadlow Museum.
Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument
A monument to American abolitionist Elijah P. Lovejoy, who was killed for his anti-slavery beliefs in 1837, the Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument is a sobering yet important visit for anyone interested in American history. The monument is located in the Alton City Cemetery and is accessible to visitors all year round.
National Great Rivers Museum
Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, the National Great Rivers Museum offers a unique and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Exhibits showcase the ecological and sociological importance of the Mississippi River and its tributaries. The museum also offers boat tours and other outdoor activities.
Natural Attractions of Alton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Piasa Bird
The Piasa Bird is a legendary creature that is said to have terrorized Native American tribes in the Alton area. Today, visitors can see a mural of the Piasa Bird on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. The painting is a popular hiking destination for locals and tourists alike.
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
Alton was the starting point of the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site celebrates this fact with numerous exhibits and reenactments. Visitors can see a replica of the 1800s boat that the explorers used to navigate the Mississippi River.
Pere Marquette State Park
Pere Marquette State Park is one of the largest state parks in Illinois and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore miles of scenic trails, fish in the Illinois River, or relax at the park’s lodge and restaurant.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Alton
Alton is home to numerous hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy walking paths to challenging mountain bike trails. Some of the most popular routes include the Confluence Trail, the Riverfront Trail, and the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail.
Best Things to Do in Alton: Activities and Tours
Alton Hauntings Ghost Tour
With a history dating back to the 1800s, Alton is rumored to be one of the most haunted cities in Illinois. The Alton Hauntings Ghost Tour takes visitors on a spooky journey through the city’s most haunted locations, complete with ghost stories and paranormal investigations.
Alton Food Tour
Alton’s food scene is a hidden gem, and the Alton Food Tour is the best way to experience it. The tour takes visitors to some of the city’s best restaurants and shops, where they can sample local specialties and learn about the city’s culinary history.
Week-Long Itinerary for Alton
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Robert Wadlow Museum and Statue |
| Day 2 | Take a boat tour of the Mississippi River |
| Day 3 | Explore the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site |
| Day 4 | Hike the Piasa Bird mural trail |
| Day 5 | Sample local cuisine on the Alton Food Tour |
| Day 6 | Visit Pere Marquette State Park |
| Day 7 | Take the Alton Hauntings Ghost Tour |
Food and Drink Scene of Alton
Must-Try Dishes
Gerber Sandwich
A true Alton classic, the Gerber sandwich features a hard salami patty, onions, and cheese on a French bread roll. The sandwich is the perfect lunch option for anyone looking for a quick and delicious bite.
Fried Chicken
Alton is also home to some of the best fried chicken in the region. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, you’re sure to find a fried chicken restaurant that suits your taste.
Local Beverages
Alton Brewer’s Collective
If you’re a beer lover, you won’t want to miss the Alton Brewer’s Collective. This microbrewery features a rotating selection of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers.
Mississippi Mud Pottery
Mississippi Mud Pottery is a local ceramics studio that offers pottery classes and sells handmade pottery items. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of fresh-brewed coffee or tea in the studio’s cozy cafe.
Where to Stay in Alton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Alton has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the most popular choices include the Best Western Plus Parkway Hotel, the Beall Mansion An Elegant Bed & Breakfast Inn, and the Comfort Inn.
What to Buy in Alton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Some of the best souvenirs to bring home from Alton include local ceramics, handmade soaps and candles, and locally-produced wines and craft beers. The Alton Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market is a great place to find these and other local products.
Local Culture and Customs of Alton
Alton is known for its welcoming and friendly locals, who pride themselves on their Midwestern hospitality. Visitors should take care to be respectful of the city’s historical landmarks and follow local customs and etiquette.
Best Time to Visit Alton
The best time to visit Alton is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking. The city can get quite hot and humid during the summer months, and winters can be harsh and cold.
Do’s and Don’ts of Alton
Do:
- Do try the local cuisine and craft beers
- Do explore the city’s historical landmarks and natural wonders
- Do take part in the city’s many outdoor activities and tours
Don’t:
- Don’t litter or damage historical landmarks and natural sites
- Don’t be disrespectful or disruptive to locals or other visitors
- Don’t underestimate the importance of sunscreen and bug spray when partaking in outdoor activities
Safety and Health
Safety in Alton
Alton is generally a safe and friendly city, but visitors should take basic safety precautions to ensure a smooth and peaceful trip. These include locking car doors and windows, avoiding poorly-lit areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings at all times.
Health in Alton
Alton has numerous medical facilities and hospitals, and visitors should have no problem finding high-quality healthcare if needed. In addition, visitors should take basic health precautions such as staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and avoiding contact with wildlife in parks and natural areas.
Getting to Alton: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Alton
The closest airport to Alton is Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, which is located about 25 miles away in St. Louis, Missouri. Visitors can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach Alton from the airport.
Bus Stations Near Alton
Greyhound operates a bus station in Alton, making it a convenient destination for travelers arriving by bus.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach Alton by car or by train. Amtrak offers daily service to Alton from Chicago and St. Louis.
How to Get Around in Alton
Alton is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. In addition, visitors can use the city’s local bus system, Madison County Transit, or taxi services to get around.
Where to Go Next from Alton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Alton is a great starting point for travelers wishing to explore the Midwest region of the United States. Some nearby destinations and excursions include St. Louis, Missouri, Grafton, Illinois, and the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois.
Conclusion
Alton is a hidden gem in the Midwest region of the United States. With its rich history, natural beauty, and friendly locals, it’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking a fun and educational trip. Whether you’re interested in hiking, history, or local cuisine, Alton has something for you.
