East Gillespie IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near East Gillespie, Illinois.
1. Illinois Coal Museum At Gillespie
MINING HERITAGE EXHIBITION
The Illinois Coal Museum At Gillespie offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the rich mining heritage that shaped the region. Exhibits showcase the tools, techniques, and human stories behind the coal industry that was once the economic backbone of the community. Visitors can explore the deep connection between Gillespie and coal mining that continues to influence local culture today.
2. Welfare Park
LOCAL RECREATION AREA
Welfare Park serves as a central recreational hub for residents and visitors in Gillespie. The park offers green spaces and facilities for outdoor activities and community gatherings throughout the year. Families particularly enjoy spending time here during the warmer months for picnics and leisure activities.
3. Besserman Superbowl Bowling Center & Pub
RECREATION AND DINING
Besserman Superbowl Bowling Center & Pub combines bowling entertainment with casual dining options in Gillespie. Visitors can enjoy bowling lanes alongside pub fare and beverages in this local entertainment venue. The center serves as a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists looking for indoor recreation.
4. Canna Theatre
HISTORIC MOVIE VENUE
The historic Canna Theatre stands as a nostalgic landmark in downtown Gillespie with its classic movie house charm. This theater has been entertaining generations of locals and visitors with film screenings in a traditional setting. The venue represents an important piece of Gillespie's cultural and entertainment history along Route 66.
5. Coal Miner Silhouette
TRIBUTE TO MINING HISTORY
The Coal Miner Silhouette stands at the northwest corner of E Pine and Macoupin Street as a poignant tribute to Gillespie's mining legacy. This striking silhouette depicts a miner with his pick axe and helmet, representing the workforce that built the community. Adjacent to the monument is a Wayside Exhibit with informational panels that describe the profound relationship between Gillespie and its coal mining history.
6. Route 66 Mural at Michelle's Pharmacy
HISTORIC ROUTE ART
The Route 66 Mural at Michelle's Pharmacy captures the nostalgic spirit of America's most famous highway in vibrant colors and imagery. Located on the southwest corner of W Chestnut and Macoupin Street, this artistic landmark celebrates Gillespie's connection to the historic Mother Road. Visitors can view the mural while also shopping for Route 66 souvenirs available at the adjacent pharmacy.
7. Black Diamond Days Festival
ANNUAL MINING CELEBRATION
Black Diamond Days Festival is a three-day celebration held annually during the first weekend in June that honors Gillespie's coal mining heritage. The festival features a carnival, parades, contests, Mine Rescue Demonstrations, arts and crafts vendors, and various entertainment options. This community event draws visitors from across the region to experience the unique culture and history of Gillespie.
8. Miners Restaurant
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE
Miners Restaurant offers visitors a taste of local cuisine in a setting that pays homage to Gillespie's mining heritage. The restaurant serves hearty meals in a comfortable atmosphere that reflects the community's character and history. Travelers along Route 66 often stop here to enjoy a meal while exploring the town's attractions.
9. Rocco's Italian Pizzeria
TRADITIONAL ITALIAN DINING
Rocco's Italian Pizzeria delights diners with authentic Italian flavors and pizza specialties in downtown Gillespie. The restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where visitors can enjoy traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. Both locals and Route 66 travelers appreciate this establishment for its quality food and connection to the community.
10. The Village Toy Chest
UNIQUE TOY SHOP
The Village Toy Chest enchants visitors with a carefully curated selection of unique toys and gifts in downtown Gillespie. This charming shop offers items that stand apart from typical mass-market toy stores, making it a delightful stop for families. Tourists often find memorable souvenirs and gifts while browsing the distinctive merchandise.
11. Gillespie City Hall & Civic Center
HISTORIC MUNICIPAL BUILDING
Gillespie City Hall & Civic Center serves as both the administrative heart of the community and a visitor information center. Located at 115 North Macoupin Street, this building provides tourists with maps, brochures, and guidance for exploring local attractions. The center represents an excellent first stop for travelers wanting to learn about Gillespie's history and points of interest.
12. Interpretive Coal Mining Exhibit
EDUCATIONAL MINING DISPLAY
The Interpretive Coal Mining Exhibit educates visitors about the technical and human aspects of coal extraction that defined Gillespie's development. This informative display features photographs, equipment, and explanatory panels that bring mining history to life. Tourists gain insight into the dangerous and difficult work that built the community and sustained generations of local families.
13. Gillespie Downtown Historic District
ROUTE 66 ARCHITECTURE
Gillespie's Downtown Historic District showcases well-preserved red-brick buildings that reflect the architectural character of a classic Route 66 town. Visitors can stroll along Macoupin Street to admire structures like the former Gillespie National Bank with its distinctive white stone portico. The district offers a glimpse into the heyday of America's Main Street, with historic storefronts and period details that transport visitors to earlier eras.
14. Vintage Gas Station
ROUTE 66 LANDMARK
The Vintage Gas Station stands as a reminder of Route 66's golden age of automobile travel across the American heartland. Located across from the Coal Miner Silhouette, this preserved piece of roadside architecture captures the aesthetic of early highway service stations. Photographers and Route 66 enthusiasts particularly appreciate this authentic slice of Americana that helps tell the story of Gillespie's place along the historic highway.
15. Route 66 Byway Interpretive Exhibit
MOTHER ROAD HISTORY
The Route 66 Byway Interpretive Exhibit provides comprehensive information about Gillespie's connection to America's most famous highway. Informational panels detail the history, significance, and cultural impact of Route 66 on the local community. Visitors gain context for appreciating the other Route 66 attractions throughout Gillespie while learning about the broader narrative of this iconic American roadway.