Gillespie IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gillespie, Illinois.
1. Illinois Coal Museum
MINING HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Illinois Coal Museum in Gillespie features an outstanding collection donated by James Alderson with exhibits covering the natural history of coal, union history, miners' lives, and Gillespie's coal town heritage. Visitors can walk through a reconstructed coal tunnel for an immersive underground experience. The museum is housed in an industrial building that enhances the exhibition with architecture that complements the mining themes.
2. Downtown Gillespie
HISTORIC MAIN STREET
Downtown Gillespie offers visitors a charming small-town experience with tourist-friendly businesses and restaurants along its main streets. The area features historic red-brick buildings including the former Gillespie National Bank with its distinctive white stone portico. Visitors can shop for Route 66 souvenirs and unique items while exploring this quaint Illinois town center.
3. Route 66 Mural
HISTORIC HIGHWAY ART
The Route 66 Mural in Gillespie is located at the corner of W Chestnut and Macoupin Street next to an ancient pharmacy. This artistic landmark celebrates Gillespie's connection to the historic Mother Road that passed through the town from 1926-1930. The colorful mural serves as a reminder of the town's place along America's most famous highway.
4. Welfare Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
Welfare Park serves as a central recreational space for the Gillespie community. The park offers visitors and locals alike a place for relaxation, outdoor activities, and community gatherings. It represents an important green space within this small Illinois coal mining town.
5. Besserman Superbowl Bowling Center & Pub
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Besserman Superbowl Bowling Center & Pub offers a fun entertainment option for visitors to Gillespie. The venue combines bowling lanes for family-friendly recreation with a pub area for refreshments and socializing. It serves as a popular gathering spot for both locals and travelers passing through the area.
6. Canna Theatre
HISTORIC MOVIE HOUSE
The historic Canna Theatre stands as a reminder of Gillespie's cultural past and continues to serve the community today. This classic movie house represents small-town entertainment traditions that have persisted through the decades. Visitors can appreciate the vintage architecture while potentially catching a film in this charming venue.
7. Coal Miner Silhouette
MINING HERITAGE MONUMENT
The Coal Miner Silhouette in Gillespie stands as a tribute to the town's deep mining heritage. This artistic monument honors the countless miners who worked in the region's coal industry throughout its history. The silhouette serves as a powerful visual reminder of the labor that built and sustained the community for generations.
8. Black Diamond Days Festival
ANNUAL MINING CELEBRATION
Black Diamond Days is a three-day festival held annually in Gillespie on the first weekend in June celebrating the town's coal mining heritage. The event features a carnival, parades, contests, Mine Rescue Demonstrations, arts and crafts vendors, and much more for visitors of all ages. This community celebration brings together locals and visitors to honor Gillespie's industrial past while enjoying contemporary entertainment.
9. Gillespie City Hall & Civic Center
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
Gillespie City Hall & Civic Center serves as both the seat of local government and a visitor information center. Located at 115 North Macoupin Street, the building provides tourists with details about local attractions and events. Visitors can begin their exploration of Gillespie by stopping here to gather information about the town's coal mining history and Route 66 connections.
10. Byway Interpretive Coal Mining Exhibit
EDUCATIONAL MINING DISPLAY
The Byway Interpretive Coal Mining Exhibit in Gillespie provides visitors with informative displays about the local mining industry. This educational attraction helps tourists understand the significant role that coal mining played in developing the region. Through visual displays and interpretive information, visitors gain insights into the technical aspects and human stories of this important historical industry.
11. The Village Toy Chest
UNIQUE TOY SHOP
The Village Toy Chest offers shoppers a delightful selection of unique toys and gifts in downtown Gillespie. This charming specialty store provides visitors with a nostalgic shopping experience different from typical chain stores. Families traveling through Gillespie can find memorable souvenirs and gifts while supporting a local business.
12. Carlinville Historic District
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE AREA
The Carlinville Historic District, located near Gillespie in Macoupin County, features numerous well-preserved 19th-century buildings including the impressive Macoupin County Courthouse. Visitors can explore the district's architectural treasures that showcase various styles from Italianate to Queen Anne. This charming area offers a glimpse into the region's prosperous past through its historic homes, commercial buildings, and public structures.
13. Lake Lou Yaeger
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Lou Yaeger is a 1,400-acre recreational lake located near Gillespie in neighboring Litchfield. The lake offers visitors opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping in a scenic natural setting. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing around this popular outdoor destination.
14. Beaver Dam State Park
NATURAL WILDERNESS AREA
Beaver Dam State Park encompasses over 750 acres of natural beauty not far from Gillespie in Macoupin County. The park features a 59-acre lake perfect for fishing, along with hiking trails through forests and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and wildlife observation in this tranquil natural setting throughout the year.
15. Henry's Rabbit Ranch
QUIRKY ROUTE 66 STOP
Henry's Rabbit Ranch is a unique Route 66 attraction located near Gillespie in Staunton, combining a love for Volkswagen Rabbits and actual rabbits. This quirky roadside stop features vintage VW vehicles, rabbit-themed memorabilia, and often live bunnies that delight visitors of all ages. The friendly owner shares stories about Route 66 history and provides a memorable photo opportunity for travelers along the historic highway.