Belleville Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Belleville, Illinois. Explore its cultural and natural attractions, food scene, and local customs with this comprehensive guide.


A Complete Guide to Belleville: What to Do, Where to Stay & More

Introduction to Belleville

Located in the St. Louis Metro East region of Illinois, Belleville is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore. Founded in 1814, Belleville is known for its German heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Belleville

There is no shortage of things to do and see in Belleville. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or art, there are plenty of attractions to suit your interests.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Belleville has a rich history, and visitors who want to learn a little more about the city’s past can visit some of its historical sites and museums.

  • The Belleville Area Museum tells the story of the city from its founding to the present day with a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
  • The Labor & Industry Museum features exhibits related to the city’s industrial history, including tools, machinery, and photos from local factories.
  • The Gustave Koerner House is a historic home that once belonged to a prominent Illinois politician and abolitionist.

Natural Attractions of Belleville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Belleville is home to several parks and natural areas where visitors can enjoy the outdoors and take in some beautiful scenery.

  • The Rock Springs Nature Center features hiking trails, a nature playground, and a variety of educational exhibits and programs.
  • Horseshoe Lake State Park offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities, as well as a beach and picnic areas.
  • The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the remains of a pre-Columbian Native American city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belleville

For visitors who enjoy hiking or biking, Belleville has several scenic trails to explore.

  • The MetroBikeLink Trail is a 14-mile paved trail that connects Belleville to neighboring cities and features picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The newly developed Scott AFB Trail winds through a nature preserve and offers beautiful views of wildlife and wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Belleville: Activities and Tours

In addition to the museums and outdoor attractions mentioned above, there are plenty of other activities and tours for visitors to enjoy in Belleville.

  • Take a stroll through the historic downtown district and admire the beautiful architecture and unique shops and restaurants.
  • Visit the annual Art on the Square festival, one of the top-ranked art shows in the country, featuring artists from around the world.
  • Join a guided tour with Belleville Historical Society to learn more about the city’s rich history and architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Belleville

If you’re planning a longer stay in Belleville, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Belleville Area Museum, Labor & Industry Museum, and Gustave Koerner House
2 Explore Rock Springs Nature Center and go hiking or biking on the MetroBikeLink Trail
3 Relax at Horseshoe Lake State Park and have a picnic
4 Take a guided tour with the Belleville Historical Society
5 Visit the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site and learn about pre-Columbian Native American history
6 Walk through the historic downtown district and enjoy local food and shopping
7 Catch a movie at the historic Lincoln Theatre and attend a concert or event at the newly renovated Belleville Township High School Auditorium

Food and Drink Scene of Belleville

Belleville’s food and drink scene is a mix of German and American cuisine, with plenty of options for visitors to choose from.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Schnitzel, a German dish made with breaded and pan-fried pork or veal
  • Toasted ravioli, a St. Louis specialty featuring breaded and fried ravioli stuffed with cheese
  • Gooey butter cake, a sweet treat made with cake mix and cream cheese

Local Beverages

  • Stag beer, a local favorite brewed in Belleville since 1851
  • Excel Bottling Company’s Ski soda, a citrus-flavored soft drink that has been made in nearby Breese, Illinois since 1956

Where to Stay in Belleville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Belleville offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

  • The recently renovated Hotel Belleville is a historic hotel located in the heart of downtown and features modern amenities and a rooftop bar.
  • The Belleville Hostel is a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to save money on accommodation and meet fellow travelers.
  • The BEALL MANSION is a luxury bed and breakfast located in nearby Alton, Illinois, and offers elegant rooms and gourmet breakfasts.

What to Buy in Belleville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift to bring home, here are some local products to consider:

  • Beer steins and other German-themed items from Eckert’s Country Store and Farms
  • Handcrafted pottery and ceramics from Ginger Creek Pottery
  • Locally made jams, jellies, and honey from The Country Store

Local Culture and Customs of Belleville

Belleville is a diverse community with a strong sense of local pride. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and take the time to learn about the city’s history and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Belleville

Belleville is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences.

  • Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make for a beautiful time to visit local gardens and outdoor attractions.
  • Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures and frequent festivals and events make summer a popular time to visit.
  • Fall (September-November): Fall foliage and harvest festivals make for a picturesque visit, and the weather is still mild.
  • Winter (December-February): While it can be cold, winter is still a fun time to visit Belleville’s holiday markets, performances, and celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belleville

Do:

  • Take the time to learn about Belleville’s German heritage and culture.
  • Visit local farmers’ markets and farm-to-table restaurants to sample fresh, locally grown produce.
  • Attend a local festival or event to experience the city’s vibrant community spirit.

Don’t:

  • Trespass or damage local wildlife and natural areas.
  • Be disrespectful or dismissive of the city’s cultural and historical significance.
  • Litter or leave trash in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Belleville

Belleville is a relatively safe city, but visitors should still take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety.

  • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight in public places.
  • Follow posted safety instructions at natural and recreational areas.
  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas.

Health in Belleville

Belleville has several health care facilities available for visitors.

  • St. Elizabeth’s Hospital is a full-service hospital located in nearby O’Fallon, Illinois.
  • The Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation offers several clinics and specialty services throughout the area.
  • Visitors should always travel with a sufficient supply of any necessary medications and have access to emergency medical care as needed.

Getting to Belleville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Belleville is easily accessible by several modes of transportation.

Airports Near Belleville

  • Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) is the closest major airport, located approximately 30 miles northwest of Belleville.
  • MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is a smaller airport located in Mascoutah, Illinois, approximately 20 minutes from Belleville.

Bus Stations Near Belleville

  • Greyhound Bus Lines has a terminal in St. Louis, Missouri, located approximately 20 miles northwest of Belleville.
  • Amtrak trains also run between St. Louis and other cities across the United States.

Other Options

  • Several major highways pass through the area, including I-64, I-55, and I-70.
  • Belleville is approximately a four-hour drive from Chicago and a two-hour drive from Indianapolis.

How to Get Around in Belleville

While driving is the most convenient way to get around Belleville, visitors who prefer to use public transportation or active transportation can take advantage of the following options:

  • Metro Transit provides bus service between Belleville and other nearby cities.
  • MetroBikeLink Trail system is a network of multi-use trails that connects Belleville to other cities and towns in the region, and is perfect for biking or walking.

Where to Go Next from Belleville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Belleville is located in the heart of the St. Louis Metro East region, which offers a variety of other destinations and excursions to explore.

  • St. Louis, Missouri is only a short drive away and features the Gateway Arch, the St. Louis Zoo, and many other attractions.
  • The Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
  • The Mississippi River Valley Wine Trail features a variety of wineries and vineyards located throughout the region.

Conclusion

Belleville may be a small city, but there is no shortage of things to do and see. From its historical sites and museums to its natural areas and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Combine that with its unique food and drink scene, charming downtown area, and easy access to neighboring destinations, and it’s easy to see why Belleville is a must-visit destination.