Ferris IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ferris, Illinois.
1. Ferris City Market
ANTIQUES AND GIFT SHOPPING
Ferris City Market is a charming spot in Ferris, Illinois, offering visitors a delightful selection of antiques and unique gift items. Guests can browse through a vast assortment of products sourced from regional artisans and collectors. The market's welcoming atmosphere makes it a pleasant stop for both treasure hunters and casual shoppers.
2. Lake Hill Winery
PICTURESQUE WINERY & VINEYARD
Lake Hill Winery, nestled outside Ferris in Carthage, features scenic vineyards and an inviting tasting room for guests to sample a variety of locally produced wines. The winery often hosts live music and events, making it a hub for relaxation and entertainment. With beautiful lake views, it's a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
3. Carthage Jail
HISTORIC LANDMARK SITE
Carthage Jail is a significant historical site where Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter-day Saint movement, was imprisoned and martyred in 1844. Guided tours provide visitors with in-depth historical context and the impact of this event on American religious history. The restored building and its grounds offer a reflective experience for history enthusiasts.
4. Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY DISPLAYS
The Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum preserves and showcases artifacts from Hancock County, detailing everything from Native American history to local heritage. Visitors can explore period rooms, antique medical equipment, and rotating exhibitions highlighting the area's past. Its educational displays appeal to families, school groups, and history buffs.
5. Baxter's Vineyards
FAMILY-OWNED WINERY
Baxter's Vineyards is the oldest winery in Illinois, operated by the same family since 1857. Guests can sample award-winning wines in a friendly tasting room and enjoy the peaceful outdoor spaces surrounded by grapevines. The vineyard also offers tours and local products to complete the visitor experience.
6. Lock and Dam No. 19
RIVERSIDE ENGINEERING MARVEL
Lock and Dam No. 19 is a striking feature on the Mississippi River, essential for navigation and flood control. Visitors can observe massive river barges passing through the lock and enjoy panoramic river views from nearby parks. Interpretive signs explain the dam's history and its importance to regional commerce.
7. George M. Verity Riverboat Museum
FLOATING MARITIME EXHIBIT
Moored on the Upper Mississippi, the George M. Verity Riverboat Museum allows visitors to explore a historic steam-powered towboat. Its decks and cabins showcase the life and labor of riverboat workers, complete with original artifacts and hands-on exhibits. The museum appeals to history lovers and families interested in America's river heritage.
8. Lost Canvas
ART AND CHILDREN'S GALLERY
Lost Canvas in Hamilton combines an art gallery with interactive spaces for children, fostering creativity for visitors of all ages. Rotating exhibitions feature the work of local artists, while hands-on activities engage young minds. The venue serves as a cultural hub for the community and traveling families.
9. The Flood Museum
NATURAL HISTORY FOCUS
The Flood Museum offers educational exhibits centered around the impact of floods on the Mississippi River region. Displays include historic photographs, scientific models, and survivor stories, highlighting both the destructive power and resilience of river communities. The museum is a fascinating stop for those interested in nature and history.
10. Nauvoo State Park
HISTORIC AND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Nauvoo State Park blends rich religious history with scenic outdoor opportunities, including hiking trails, fishing, and a picturesque lake. Historic buildings within the park illuminate the early days of the Nauvoo settlement, making it a favorite destination for history lovers. The park's campgrounds and picnic areas attract both locals and tourists seeking natural beauty.
11. Rand Park
RIVERSIDE URBAN PARK
Rand Park in Keokuk provides sweeping views of the Mississippi River and ample green space for recreation and relaxation. Walking paths, gardens, and monuments make it an inviting place for picnics or leisurely strolls. The park regularly hosts community events that draw visitors from the tri-state area.
12. Nauvoo Temple
ICONIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
The Nauvoo Temple stands as a majestic symbol of the Latter-day Saint faith, beautifully reconstructed to its original 1846 design. Its gleaming white façade and well-maintained grounds attract thousands of visitors annually. Guided tours share the temple's spiritual and historical significance with guests from around the world.
13. Sonora Gardens Farmstead Bed and Breakfast
FARMHOUSE ACCOMMODATION EXPERIENCE
Sonora Gardens Farmstead Bed and Breakfast offers guests a restful retreat in a country setting with comfortable rooms and home-cooked breakfasts. The property features lush gardens, serene walking paths, and opportunities to interact with farm animals. Its peaceful ambiance provides an authentic rural experience for travelers.
14. Hotel Nauvoo Historic Inn & Restaurant
HERITAGE LODGING AND DINING
Hotel Nauvoo Historic Inn & Restaurant is renowned for its period architecture and welcoming hospitality. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms and a popular restaurant serving traditional American fare in a historic setting. The inn's convenient location in downtown Nauvoo makes it a central base for exploring the area.
15. The River's Edge Bed and Breakfast Inn
CHARMING RIVERSIDE STAY
The River's Edge Bed and Breakfast Inn offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the Mississippi River. Guests appreciate the inn's attentive service, homemade breakfasts, and tranquil setting. Its proximity to regional attractions makes it a favorite among travelers exploring Hancock County.