Elizabethtown IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Elizabethtown, Illinois.
1. Iron Furnace Historic Site
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL MONUMENT
The Iron Furnace Historic Site features a thirty-two foot tall structure originally built in 1837 on a limestone foundation with blocks quarried locally from Cave-In-Rock. This impressive furnace is the last remaining of its kind in Illinois and represents an important piece of the region's industrial history. Visitors can explore this wonderful historical stop not far off the road and learn about the first blast furnace in Illinois.
2. Hardin County Court House
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Hardin County Court House stands as one of the notable landmarks in Elizabethtown, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's governmental history. The courthouse features classic architectural elements that reflect the historical importance of this building to the community. Visitors exploring Elizabethtown often make this courthouse a stop on their historical tour of the town.
3. Cave-In-Rock
NATURAL RIVER CAVERN
Cave-In-Rock is a 55-foot wide limestone cavern dramatically situated along the banks of the Ohio River in its namesake state park. Once a notorious hideout for murderers, river pirates, and even a brothel, this natural wonder is now considered a crown jewel of the Illinois State Park system. The short 0.75-mile hike with 110 feet of elevation gain leads visitors to this impressive cave with its fascinating blend of natural beauty and dark history.
4. Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
DRAMATIC SANDSTONE FORMATIONS
Garden of the Gods Recreation Area showcases spectacular sandstone formations and cliffs that were created by geological upheavals millions of years ago. The area features a popular observation trail that winds among the towering rock formations, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Shawnee National Forest. Visitors can explore this natural wonder through numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, making it accessible for most outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Joy Falls
HIDDEN NATURAL CASCADE
Joy Falls, also known as Mandy Falls, is a beautiful cascade and shelf waterfall dropping about 10 feet located a few miles from Mantle Rock Nature Preserve. The falls are surrounded by glades and barrens that provide habitat for rare wildlife and countless wildflowers in spring and summer. Visitors can spend anywhere from five minutes to an hour enjoying this natural treasure just across the Ohio River from Elizabethtown.
6. Mantle Rock Nature Preserve
HISTORIC NATURAL LANDMARK
Mantle Rock Nature Preserve features a magnificent 188-foot natural sandstone arch that stands as the largest natural arch in the eastern United States. The preserve has deep historical significance as it served as a shelter for Cherokee Indians during the harsh winter of 1838-39 during the tragic Trail of Tears. Today, visitors can hike a 2.75-mile loop trail through the preserve to view the impressive arch and explore the surrounding old-growth forest ecosystem.
7. National Corvette Museum
AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY SHOWCASE
The National Corvette Museum houses over 80 Corvette models in periodic settings, including classics, prototypes, and one-of-a-kind concept cars that represent America's sports car through the decades. Located near the only Corvette production facility in the world, the museum allows visitors to witness the evolution of this iconic American sports car through interactive exhibits and displays. The museum offers experiences ranging from one to two hours for visitors, with admission starting from $20.
8. Ohio River Scenic Byway
HISTORIC RIVER ROUTE
The Ohio River Scenic Byway follows the course of the Ohio River through Elizabethtown, offering spectacular views of the river and surrounding landscapes. This historic route traces paths used by Native Americans, early explorers, and settlers who depended on the river for transportation and commerce. Travelers can enjoy numerous scenic overlooks, historic sites, and charming river towns along this picturesque drive.
9. Rim Rock Recreation Area
ANCIENT FOREST PATHWAY
Rim Rock Recreation Area features a unique trail that leads through a lush forest along the top of a sandstone escarpment with dramatic cliff faces. The path includes a set of prehistoric stone steps that descend into a rock shelter known as Ox-Lot Cave, where early settlers once corralled their livestock. The circular trail is approximately one mile long and offers spectacular views of the surrounding Shawnee National Forest landscape.
10. Tower Rock Recreation Area
RIVER ISLAND LANDMARK
Tower Rock Recreation Area features a massive rock formation that rises 60 feet above the Ohio River, serving as a landmark for river travelers for centuries. The site includes picnic facilities and a boat launch, making it a popular destination for both land and water-based recreation. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Ohio River and watch barges and pleasure craft navigate this historic waterway.
11. Cave-In-Rock Ferry
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Cave-In-Rock Ferry provides a vital transportation link across the Ohio River between Illinois and Kentucky, operating near the famous cave that gives the town its name. This free ferry service has been in continuous operation since the early 1800s, making it one of the oldest ferry services in the United States. Travelers can drive their vehicles aboard and experience a brief but scenic journey across the historic Ohio River.
12. Pounds Hollow Recreation Area
SCENIC LAKE RETREAT
Pounds Hollow Recreation Area centers around a peaceful 25-acre lake surrounded by forested hills and dramatic rock formations within the Shawnee National Forest. The area offers a sandy beach for swimming, boat ramps for non-motorized watercraft, and excellent fishing opportunities for bass, bluegill, and catfish. Visitors can also explore several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forest and connect to the nearby Rim Rock path.
13. Rose Hotel State Historic Site
RIVERSIDE HISTORICAL LODGING
The Rose Hotel State Historic Site is Illinois' oldest still-standing hotel, originally built in 1812 by James McFarland and later purchased by Sarah Rose who gave it its current name. The historic riverside inn once welcomed travelers journeying on the Ohio River and now serves as a museum preserving the heritage of river travel and commerce. Visitors can tour the carefully preserved rooms and learn about the hotel's fascinating history, including its connections to early Illinois politics and river trade.
14. Shawnee National Forest
DIVERSE NATURAL WONDERLAND
Shawnee National Forest encompasses over 280,000 acres of protected land between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers in southern Illinois, featuring diverse ecosystems from hardwood forests to cypress swamps. The forest offers over 403 miles of equestrian and hiking trails, including the famous River-to-River Trail that spans the entire width of southern Illinois. Visitors can enjoy camping, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing while exploring this natural treasure that surrounds Elizabethtown and nearby communities.
15. Dixon Springs State Park
HISTORIC MINERAL SPRINGS
Dixon Springs State Park was once famous for the medicinal qualities of its seven mineral springs, attracting visitors seeking healing waters since the early 19th century. The park features beautiful rock formations, lush forests, and remnants of the resort that once thrived around the healing waters. Today, visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming in the park's pool, and hiking along trails that showcase the natural beauty of this historic site.