Kell IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kell, Illinois.
1. Rovals LLC
LOCAL BUSINESS HOTSPOT
Rovals LLC is a highly-rated local business in Kell that visitors can explore while in the area. This establishment serves as a gathering point for locals and travelers alike, offering a glimpse into small-town Illinois culture. Visitors appreciate the authentic experience provided at this local hotspot.
2. Nu Bowl Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING FUN
Nu Bowl Lanes offers a classic bowling experience for families and friends visiting Kell. The well-maintained facility provides a nostalgic atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a few games while experiencing small-town charm. Both locals and tourists appreciate this entertainment option as a way to relax and have fun during their visit.
3. Jefferson County Historical Village
STEP INTO THE PAST
Jefferson County Historical Village showcases the rich history of the region through preserved buildings and artifacts from the 1800s and early 1900s. Visitors can walk through numerous historic structures including a one-room schoolhouse, log cabin, and blacksmith shop that have been carefully relocated to this living museum. The village offers a fascinating glimpse into pioneer life and the development of Southern Illinois.
4. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts
CULTURAL ARTS HAVEN
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts is a premier cultural institution featuring both indoor galleries and an impressive 90-acre sculpture park. The center houses the Mitchell Museum with its significant collection of American and European art, while the Goldman-Kuenz Sculpture Park showcases over 60 large-scale outdoor sculptures. Visitors can enjoy changing exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events throughout the year in this artistic oasis near Kell.
5. Hall of Honor
TRIBUTE TO HEROES
The Hall of Honor pays tribute to local veterans and service members who have served the country with distinction. This memorial space features displays of military memorabilia, photographs, and personal stories that connect visitors to the region's military heritage. Visitors often find this to be a moving and educational experience that honors the sacrifices made by area residents.
6. Casey Creek
NATURAL WATERWAY ESCAPE
Casey Creek flows through the center of Kell, offering visitors a chance to enjoy a peaceful natural setting in this small Illinois village. The creek, which serves as a tributary to the Big Muddy River, provides opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and peaceful contemplation. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate this tranquil waterway that defines much of Kell's geography and character.
7. Raccoon Creek
SCENIC WATERSHED TRAIL
Raccoon Creek runs near the northwest part of Kell, providing a serene natural area for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. This tributary of Crooked Creek offers opportunities for hiking along its banks, bird watching, and experiencing the diverse ecosystem of Southern Illinois. Visitors can trace the path of this creek that forms part of the larger Kaskaskia River watershed flowing eventually to the Mississippi.
8. Millennium Park
CHICAGO'S URBAN OASIS
Millennium Park stands as one of Chicago's most iconic public spaces, featuring the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (commonly known as "The Bean") that has become a symbol of the city. This 24.5-acre urban park offers visitors a variety of attractions including the Crown Fountain, Lurie Garden, and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion where free concerts and events are regularly held. Whether admiring the stunning architecture, relaxing in the gardens, or participating in seasonal activities like ice skating, Millennium Park showcases the best of Chicago's vibrant cultural scene.
9. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
INTERACTIVE LEARNING ADVENTURE
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry offers an immersive educational experience with hands-on exhibits covering topics from physics and chemistry to transportation and space exploration. Visitors can explore a full-size coal mine, step aboard a German U-boat, or marvel at the massive model railroad that recreates the journey from Chicago to Seattle. This beloved Chicago institution combines entertainment and education, making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages.
10. Adler Planetarium
GATEWAY TO THE UNIVERSE
The Adler Planetarium, America's first planetarium, invites visitors to explore the wonders of the cosmos through state-of-the-art sky shows and interactive exhibits. Located on Chicago's Museum Campus with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, this astronomical museum houses historic scientific instruments, space exploration artifacts, and three separate full-dome theaters. Guests can stargaze in the Doane Observatory, experience simulated space missions, and gain a deeper understanding of our place in the universe.
11. Rend Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Rend Lake is a 19,000-acre reservoir offering abundant recreational opportunities just a short drive from Kell. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, camping, hiking, and bird watching across its expansive shores and surrounding natural areas. The lake is home to the Rend Lake Golf Course, multiple beaches, and Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Southern Illinois.
12. Carlyle Lake
ILLINOIS' LARGEST MANMADE LAKE
Carlyle Lake spans an impressive 26,000 acres, making it the largest manmade lake in Illinois and a popular recreation destination within driving distance of Kell. The lake offers year-round activities including sailing, fishing for crappie and catfish, hunting, camping, and wildlife observation with particularly good bird watching opportunities. Visitors can enjoy several beaches, marinas, and campgrounds while exploring the numerous recreational areas managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
13. Stephen A. Forbes State Park
TRANQUIL WOODLAND RETREAT
Stephen A. Forbes State Park encompasses 3,100 acres of natural beauty centered around a 585-acre lake, providing a peaceful getaway for outdoor enthusiasts near Kell. The park features extensive opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing throughout its diverse landscape of forests and shorelines. Visitors particularly enjoy the well-maintained trails, excellent crappie and bass fishing, and the chance to spot deer, turkey, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
14. Kaskaskia River State Fish & Wildlife Area
SPORTSMAN'S PARADISE
The Kaskaskia River State Fish & Wildlife Area provides over 20,000 acres of diverse habitat for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation in the region surrounding Kell. This extensive conservation area follows the Kaskaskia River, offering excellent opportunities for waterfowl hunting, deer hunting, and fishing for catfish, bass, and crappie. Visitors can explore bottomland forests, wetlands, and river ecosystems while enjoying activities such as boating, wildlife observation, and hiking through this natural treasure.
15. Salem Reservoir
PEACEFUL FISHING RETREAT
Salem Reservoir offers a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and shoreline relaxation just a short drive from Kell. This scenic body of water is stocked with various fish species including bass, bluegill, and catfish, making it a favorite spot for local anglers. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, picnic facilities, and walking paths that surround this community reservoir.