Concord IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Concord, Illinois.
1. Charlotte Motor Speedway
HISTORIC RACING VENUE
Charlotte Motor Speedway is a historic race track that offers a festive Christmas village and drive-in movie experience featuring synchronized light shows. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of driving on an iconic drag strip that has hosted numerous famous racing events. The speedway is considered one of the top attractions in Concord with its blend of motorsport history and entertainment options.
2. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
FAMILY AQUATIC ENTERTAINMENT
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park provides an immersive water adventure experience for families visiting Concord. The attraction features not only aquatic activities but also evening entertainment including clock tower shows, story time, and dance parties. Visitors consistently rank this as a top destination for family fun in the area.
3. SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord
INTERACTIVE AQUATIC EXPERIENCE
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord is an aquarium specially designed to cater to children ages 3-12 with viewing experiences that work for all heights. The unique construction ensures that children can enjoy the same viewing experience as adults, making it ideal for family outings. Admission tickets start from $25, offering an affordable educational experience about marine life.
4. Starved Rock State Park
NATURAL SCENIC WONDER
Starved Rock State Park, located just 1.5 hours from Chicago, offers visitors hiking trails through towering trees, scenic overlooks, and beautiful rock formations. During different seasons, visitors can enjoy various activities including canoeing, paddle-boating, or cross-country skiing during winter months. The park is consistently rated as one of Illinois' premier outdoor destinations, providing a perfect escape from urban life.
5. Garden of the Gods
DRAMATIC ROCK FORMATIONS
Garden of the Gods features dramatic rock formations perched atop large rolling hills with spectacular views of the surrounding forest. This natural wonder offers unmatched photo opportunities and is considered an absolute one-of-a-kind Midwest treasure. Hikers can explore the unique geological formations while enjoying panoramic vistas of Southern Illinois' stunning landscapes.
6. Pere Marquette State Park
MISSISSIPPI RIVER ADVENTURE
Pere Marquette State Park, the largest state park in Illinois, is situated on the Mississippi River offering a variety of experiences for southern Illinois adventures. Visitors can hike miles of trails, cycle along river bluffs, go fishing, or horseback ride through the forest. The park's diverse landscape provides opportunities for seasonal outdoor activities throughout the year.
7. The Morton Arboretum
TREE-FILLED NATURAL PARADISE
The Morton Arboretum encompasses 1,700 acres of beautiful tree-filled landscapes that are perfect for exploring in any season. This vibrant hub serves both as a center for nature education and a world-renowned facility for scientific research. Visitors can discover diverse collections of trees and plants while enjoying seasonal exhibits and educational programming.
8. The Whistle Stop
LOCAL CULINARY DESTINATION
The Whistle Stop, established in 2019 as a food truck, has evolved into a permanent culinary destination in the city of Hurst. The restaurant offers visitors a taste of local flavors in a charming small-town setting. What began as a mobile eatery has transformed into a beloved community fixture representing Southern Illinois' food culture.
9. Ray Fosse Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
Ray Fosse Park is maintained by the Marion Park District with facilities available from early spring through late fall. The park offers various recreational activities for visitors of all ages in a well-maintained community setting. Named after baseball legend Ray Fosse, this park serves as both a tribute and a gathering place for local residents and tourists alike.
10. Mandala Gardens
DECADE-LONG CREATIVE VISION
Mandala Gardens, created by Greg Reid and Diana Tigerlily, represents the manifestation of a decade-long creative vision. The gardens offer visitors a serene environment with thoughtfully designed landscapes and artistic elements. This unique destination combines natural beauty with creative expression, providing a peaceful retreat for contemplation and appreciation of environmental art.
11. Herrin Bocce Courts
ITALIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Herrin Bocce Club complex consists of four covered courts, with two each in the Camarato facility. These courts preserve and celebrate the Italian cultural heritage that has long been part of the region's history. Visitors can learn about and participate in this traditional Italian game that continues to bring community members together.
12. Honker Hill Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Honker Hill Winery offers visitors a taste of Southern Illinois viticulture in a picturesque setting. Guests can sample locally produced wines while enjoying the scenic vineyard views that showcase the region's agricultural heritage. The winery provides a relaxing atmosphere for both wine enthusiasts and casual visitors looking to experience the growing wine culture of Illinois.
13. Walker's Bluff Winery
PREMIUM WINE DESTINATION
Walker's Bluff Winery stands as one of Southern Illinois' premium wine destinations, offering visitors an elevated tasting experience. The winery combines vineyards, tasting rooms, and event spaces to create a comprehensive wine tourism destination. Visitors can enjoy locally produced wines while taking in the beautiful surroundings that make this one of the region's most popular attractions.
14. Blue Sky Vineyard
TUSCAN-INSPIRED WINE ESTATE
Blue Sky Vineyard features Tuscan-inspired architecture set against the rolling hills of the Shawnee National Forest region. Visitors can sample award-winning wines while enjoying panoramic views from the estate's terraces and tasting rooms. The vineyard's Mediterranean ambiance combined with Southern Illinois hospitality creates a memorable experience for wine enthusiasts and tourists alike.
15. Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery
WETLANDS WINE EXPERIENCE
Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery offers a unique wine experience near one of Illinois' most important ecological areas. The winery produces distinctive wines influenced by the unique terroir of the Cache River Basin wetlands region. Visitors can enjoy tastings while learning about the connection between the natural environment and the character of locally produced wines.