Ewing IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ewing, Illinois.
1. Pheasant Hollow Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE
Pheasant Hollow Winery offers visitors a delightful wine tasting experience in the heart of Southern Illinois. Guests can sample a variety of locally produced wines while enjoying the serene countryside atmosphere. The winery provides a perfect retreat for wine enthusiasts looking to discover unique regional flavors.
2. Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park spans over 3,300 acres of scenic landscape along the shores of Rend Lake. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities including hiking, fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife observation throughout the year. The park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Southern Illinois.
3. Ewing Cultural Center
HISTORIC ESTATE GARDENS
Ewing Cultural Center is located on the beautiful wooded Sunset Hill estate of the late Hazle Buck Ewing, offering visitors a glimpse into Illinois history. The center features stunning gardens that are open daily (weather permitting) and regular tours of the historic Ewing Manor. Visitors can also enjoy performances at the open-air Theatre at Ewing during summer months.
4. Rend Lake
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Rend Lake is one of Southern Illinois' largest bodies of water, offering 18,900 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities. Anglers flock to the lake for its abundant populations of crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. Beyond fishing, visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, waterskiing, and picnicking along its extensive shoreline.
5. Benton City Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Benton City Park provides residents and visitors with a well-maintained recreational space in the heart of Franklin County. The park features playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, and sports facilities for family enjoyment. Throughout the year, the park hosts community events and festivals that showcase local culture.
6. Franklin County Courthouse
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Franklin County Courthouse stands as an impressive architectural landmark in downtown Benton. Built in the early 20th century, the courthouse showcases classical revival design elements and serves as the center of county government. Visitors can admire both the exterior grandeur and interior historical details that reflect the region's heritage.
7. Benton Square
CHARMING DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Benton Square represents the historic heart of the city with its traditional town square layout surrounding the courthouse. Visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, and businesses housed in well-preserved buildings dating back to the early 1900s. The square regularly hosts community events, farmers markets, and seasonal celebrations that showcase local culture.
8. Franklin County Antique Mall
TREASURE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Franklin County Antique Mall houses an extensive collection of vintage items, collectibles, and antiques from dozens of vendors. Treasure hunters can spend hours browsing through furniture, glassware, toys, tools, and other memorabilia from bygone eras. The friendly staff provides insights into the historical significance of various items, enhancing the shopping experience.
9. Theatre at Ewing
OPEN-AIR PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Theatre at Ewing offers an enchanting open-air performance venue set within the grounds of the historic Ewing Cultural Center. During summer months, audiences can enjoy professional theatrical productions under the stars in this unique setting. The intimate atmosphere and natural surroundings create a magical experience for theatergoers of all ages.
10. Ewing Manor
CHANNEL-NORMAN STYLE MANSION
Ewing Manor stands as an impressive architectural treasure featuring distinctive Channel-Norman styling with its hand-cut stone facade. Visitors can tour this historic home built in the 1920s for Hazle Buck Ewing, discovering its period furnishings and learning about its fascinating history. Regular guided tours are available throughout May and June of 2025, offering an intimate look at this remarkable estate.
11. Ten Mile Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area
HUNTING AND FISHING HAVEN
Ten Mile Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area encompasses over 5,800 acres of diverse habitat ideal for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. The area features multiple lakes and ponds stocked with various fish species, providing excellent angling opportunities throughout the year. Nature enthusiasts can also explore hiking trails that wind through woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands teeming with native plants and animals.
12. Hamilton County Memorial Park
PEACEFUL COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Hamilton County Memorial Park offers residents and visitors a tranquil setting for recreation and reflection in the heart of McLeansboro. The well-maintained grounds feature playground equipment, picnic facilities, walking paths, and sports fields for community enjoyment. The park serves as a gathering place for local events and commemorates the county's military veterans with dedicated memorial features.
13. Dale Hollow
SCENIC RURAL COMMUNITY
Dale Hollow represents one of the charming rural communities surrounding Ewing, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic small-town Illinois life. The area's rolling countryside features picturesque farmland, wooded areas, and peaceful country roads ideal for scenic drives. Visitors appreciate the slower pace and genuine hospitality characteristic of this Southern Illinois region.
14. Ewing Demonstration Center
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH FACILITY
The Ewing Demonstration Center serves as an important agricultural research facility operated by the University of Illinois Extension. Visitors can learn about innovative farming techniques, crop varieties, and sustainable agricultural practices being studied and demonstrated on site. The center occasionally hosts field days and educational programs where the public can tour the grounds and speak with agricultural experts.
15. Sesser Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Sesser Opera House stands as a lovingly restored landmark in nearby Sesser, showcasing the cultural heritage of the region. This historic venue hosts a variety of performances including concerts, plays, and community events throughout the year. The charming interior maintains much of its original character while providing modern amenities for audience comfort.