Cairo IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cairo, Illinois.
1. Magnolia Manor
VICTORIAN-ERA HISTORIC HOME
Magnolia Manor, built in 1869 by local businessman Charles A. Galigher, is a stunning 14-room red brick mansion notable for its striking double-wall construction designed to keep out the region's dampness. Visitors can tour the beautifully restored rooms filled with 19th-century furnishings and learn about Cairo's affluent past. Operated as a museum by the Cairo Historical Association, it is an impressive example of Victorian architecture in southern Illinois.
2. U.S. Custom House
CIVIL WAR-ERA LANDMARK
The U.S. Custom House in Cairo is an imposing Italianate building erected in 1872, playing a crucial role during the Civil War era as a federal hub for customs and post office operations. Serving steamboat traffic and commerce along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, the structure stands as a testament to Cairo's once-bustling riverport days. Today, visitors can explore exhibits detailing area history and the significance of river trade in the region.
3. Fort Defiance Park
SCENIC RIVER CONFLUENCE POINT
Fort Defiance Park occupies the southernmost tip of Illinois, where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers meet, offering panoramic river views and unique photo opportunities. Once a strategic military post during the Civil War, the park now features interpretive signs recounting its historic role. Guests appreciate the tranquil walking trails, picnic areas, and the chance to witness two of America's greatest rivers converge.
4. Cairo Public Library
ARCHITECTURAL AND LITERARY LANDMARK
The Cairo Public Library, also known as the A. B. Safford Memorial Library, stands as both an architectural treasure and a cultural hub. Boasting rich woodwork and period features, the library is a destination for history enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike. Its collection and occasional exhibits shed light on Cairo's storied past and vibrant community life.
5. St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church
HISTORIC HOUSE OF WORSHIP
St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church is one of Cairo's oldest and most architecturally significant churches, showcasing intricate Gothic Revival design. The church has been a spiritual and social center for local residents over generations. Visitors admire its beautiful stained glass windows and serene interior, which reflect the city's diverse cultural heritage.
6. Gem Theatre
HISTORIC MOVIE HOUSE
The Gem Theatre is a classic movie house that harkens back to the heyday of cinema in small-town America. With its vintage marquee and charming façade, the theater once brought the latest films to Cairo's residents and remains a nostalgic symbol of local entertainment. Though not currently in operation, its striking exterior continues to attract visitors interested in Cairo's social history.
7. The Hewer Sculpture
HISTORIC PUBLIC ART
The Hewer is a striking public sculpture created in 1902 by artist George Gray Barnard, located prominently in Cairo. The statue, depicting a laborer with a mallet, was intended to represent strength and industry at the city's economic zenith. Today, it stands as a notable piece of outdoor art, reflecting Cairo's ambitions during its prosperous years.
8. Riverlore Mansion
RESTORED GILDED AGE MANSION
Riverlore Mansion is a beautifully restored 19th-century home located on Cairo's famed Millionaire's Row, offering guided tours that transport visitors to the region's Gilded Age. The mansion features stunning period décor and elegant gardens, showcasing the opulence of early riverport elites. It is a favorite stop for those interested in architecture and Cairo's vibrant river history.
9. Millionaire's Row
HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL STREET
Millionaire's Row is a stretch of once-grand homes that reflect the immense wealth and architectural tastes of Cairo's most prosperous residents in the late 19th century. The street is lined with a variety of stately mansions, many featuring elaborate details and lush landscaping. Walking tours along Millionaire's Row provide insight into Cairo's rise as a major river trade center.
10. Thebes Historical Courthouse
RIVERSIDE HISTORIC COURTHOUSE
Thebes Historical Courthouse, perched on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, is renowned for its Greek Revival architecture and storied role in regional history. Built in 1848, it once served as a seat of justice for Alexander County and is now a museum open for tours. Visitors are treated to sweeping river views and fascinating displays about the area's legal and civic past.
11. Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site
PREHISTORIC NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site offers a window into the Mississippian culture, featuring ancient earthen mounds and a museum with artifacts unearthed from the prehistoric village. Located just across the river from Cairo, the site highlights the skill and civilization of Native Americans who thrived in this region long before European settlement. The interpretive trails and exhibits make it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
12. Mound City National Cemetery
CIVIL WAR CEMETERY
Mound City National Cemetery is a solemn and beautifully maintained final resting place for thousands of soldiers, many from the Civil War era. Established in 1864, the cemetery features impressive monuments and offers visitors a chance to reflect on the nation's past. Guided tours and annual ceremonies ensure the stories of those buried here are not forgotten.
13. Horseshoe Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
NATURE AND BIRDWATCHING OASIS
Horseshoe Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area is a sprawling nature preserve featuring a massive oxbow lake surrounded by wetlands, forests, and abundant wildlife. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, birdwatching, and hiking along scenic trails. The area is especially popular during spring and fall bird migrations, making it a top spot for nature lovers and photographers.
14. Columbus-Belmont State Park
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD PARK
Columbus-Belmont State Park preserves the site of a significant Civil War battle, offering interpretive trails, a museum, and spectacular views over the Mississippi River. The park features earthwork fortifications and cannons that tell the story of Union and Confederate struggles for river control. It is a family-friendly spot for picnicking, camping, and learning about America's past.
15. River Ridge Winery
LOCAL VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
River Ridge Winery, set amid rolling vineyards near Commerce, Missouri, offers wine tastings, tours, and relaxing views just a short drive from Cairo. The winery specializes in estate-grown grapes and features a charming tasting room where visitors can sample regional favorites. Live music events and a welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect stop for wine lovers exploring the tri-state area.