Breese IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Breese, Illinois.
1. Excel Bottling Company
CRAFT BEER AND SODA
Excel Bottling Company is a beloved local brewery in Breese where visitors can discover craft beers and sodas. Tourists can stop in to pick up new craft beer or craft soda offerings each week. The brewery provides an authentic taste of local flavors that represents an essential part of Breese's charm.
2. Hannah's Playground
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Hannah's Playground offers a delightful recreational space for families visiting Breese. The playground provides children with a safe and entertaining environment to play and explore. Visitors consistently rank this attraction among the top things to do in Breese, making it a must-visit for families.
3. Clinton County Showcase
LOCAL ARTS AND CULTURE
Clinton County Showcase is a cultural hub showcasing local talent and artistic expressions in Breese. Visitors can enjoy various performances and exhibitions that highlight the creative spirit of the community. This venue offers a glimpse into the rich cultural landscape of Clinton County through diverse artistic presentations.
4. Lakeside Brewing Supplies
HOMEBREWING AND CRAFT
Lakeside Brewing Supplies offers everything needed for homebrewing enthusiasts in Breese. This specialty shop provides brewing ingredients, equipment, and expert advice for craft beer lovers. Visitors interested in the brewing process will find this store an educational and practical resource for their brewing adventures.
5. V & H Recreation Inc
LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
V & H Recreation Inc provides entertainment options for visitors and locals in Breese. This recreational facility offers various activities suitable for different age groups and interests. Tourists looking for casual fun will find this venue adds variety to their Breese itinerary.
6. Popeye's Chop House
PREMIUM STEAKHOUSE DINING
Popeye's Chop House is a highly-rated restaurant offering American cuisine and steakhouse specialties in Breese. With gluten-free options available, this mid-range dining establishment caters to various dietary preferences. The restaurant has earned a strong reputation among visitors, making it one of the essential culinary experiences in the area.
7. Breese Historical Park & Garden
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Breese Historical Park & Garden preserves and presents the rich history of the local community through carefully maintained grounds and exhibits. Visitors can explore this peaceful setting while learning about the heritage and development of Breese over the years. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes this park a refreshing and educational stop.
8. Carlyle Lake
ILLINOIS' LARGEST MAN-MADE LAKE
Carlyle Lake stands as the largest man-made lake in Illinois, offering extensive recreational opportunities near Breese. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and camping along its expansive shoreline. The lake serves as a central attraction for Clinton County tourism, drawing outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
9. General Dean Suspension Bridge
HISTORIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
The General Dean Suspension Bridge is a historical landmark showcasing remarkable engineering from a bygone era in Clinton County. This pedestrian bridge offers visitors both a practical crossing and a glimpse into the region's transportation history. History enthusiasts will appreciate the preservation efforts that have maintained this significant structure for current generations.
10. Clinton County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Clinton County Historical Museum occupies a late 1800s private home converted into a treasure trove of local artifacts and historical records. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the agricultural and mining heritage that shaped Clinton County. The museum provides an immersive journey through time, making it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the area's development.
11. Cholera Cross
SOLEMN HISTORICAL MONUMENT
The Cholera Cross stands as a somber memorial commemorating victims of the 19th-century cholera epidemic in Clinton County. This historical monument provides visitors with insight into the challenges faced by early settlers in the region. The preservation of this marker demonstrates the community's commitment to honoring its complete history, including difficult periods.
12. Coal Miners' Monument
TRIBUTE TO MINING HERITAGE
The Coal Miners' Monument pays tribute to the significant mining history that helped shape the economy and community of Breese and Clinton County. Visitors can learn about the challenging and dangerous work that coal miners undertook in this region. This monument stands as a reminder of the industrial heritage that remains an important part of the area's identity.
13. Civil War Fort Replica
MILITARY HISTORY RECREATION
The Civil War Fort Replica offers visitors an authentic recreation of a military installation from this pivotal period in American history. History enthusiasts can explore the detailed reconstruction to understand defensive strategies and daily military life during the 1860s. This educational attraction provides a tangible connection to the national conflict that shaped the region.
14. Wally's Drive In
NOSTALGIC AMERICAN DINING
Wally's Drive In offers a classic American fast food experience that captures the nostalgic charm of traditional roadside dining in Breese. This affordable eatery serves up favorite comfort foods in a casual, approachable setting. Both travelers and locals praise this establishment, making it a popular culinary stop for visitors exploring Breese.
15. Clinton County Bike Trails
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Clinton County Bike Trails offer extensive paths for cycling enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the region surrounding Breese. These well-maintained routes wind through varied landscapes, providing both exercise opportunities and scenic views. Outdoor adventurers will appreciate the accessibility of these trails that showcase the rural charm of Clinton County.