La Harpe IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near La Harpe, Illinois.
1. La Harpe Historic District
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN AREA
The La Harpe Historic District encompasses the downtown area with many historic commercial buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore the well-preserved architecture that reflects the city's rich history dating back to its settlement in 1830. The district includes City Hall and other significant structures that showcase the heritage of this small Illinois community.
2. La Harpe Carnegie Public Library
HISTORIC LITERARY LANDMARK
The La Harpe Carnegie Public Library serves as both a community resource center and a historic landmark in the city. This Carnegie library stands as a testament to the early 20th century movement to expand public access to knowledge and literature. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural features and the local historical collections housed within the building.
3. Lamoine Valley Golf Club
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Lamoine Valley Golf Club offers golfers of all skill levels a pleasant and challenging course in the La Harpe area. The well-maintained greens and fairways are complemented by scenic views of the surrounding Illinois countryside. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a full day of recreation at this local favorite that's part of the La Harpe Park District.
4. La Harpe Community Swimming Pool
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AQUATIC CENTER
The La Harpe Community Swimming Pool provides a refreshing summer destination for families and swimmers of all ages. This public facility offers a clean, well-maintained environment for cooling off during hot Illinois summers. Visitors can enjoy casual swimming, lap sessions, and community events throughout the swimming season.
5. Carthage Courthouse Square Historic District
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE SITE
The Carthage Courthouse Square Historic District features an impressive collection of 19th and early 20th century architecture centered around the historic courthouse. This well-preserved district hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular scavenger hunt that attracts visitors to explore its historical significance. Located about 15 miles from La Harpe in Hancock County, the district offers a glimpse into the region's rich past.
6. The Corinthian Event Center
ELEGANT HISTORIC VENUE
The Corinthian Event Center stands as an elegant historical venue that hosts a variety of community and private events near La Harpe. Its distinctive architecture and carefully preserved details make it an attraction even when not attending a scheduled function. Visitors to Hancock County often admire this building for its historical significance and beautiful design elements.
7. Kibbe Life Science Station
NATURAL HISTORY RESEARCH CENTER
The Kibbe Life Science Station serves as a biological field station managed by Western Illinois University in Hancock County. This educational facility sits on 222 acres of diverse habitats along the Mississippi River, offering opportunities to explore local ecosystems and wildlife. Nature enthusiasts can arrange visits to learn about ongoing research and conservation efforts in this unique natural setting.
8. Nauvoo State Park
RIVERSIDE NATURAL RETREAT
Nauvoo State Park offers 148 acres of natural beauty along the Mississippi River, just a short drive from La Harpe. The park features camping facilities, hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas for day visitors to enjoy. Its location provides spectacular views of the Mississippi River and access to both recreational activities and historical sites in the surrounding area.
9. Historic Nauvoo
MORMON PIONEER VILLAGE
Historic Nauvoo preserves dozens of restored buildings from the 1840s when the area was a thriving Mormon settlement. Visitors can tour historic homes, shops, and religious buildings while costumed interpreters demonstrate period crafts and share stories of pioneer life. Located about 25 miles from La Harpe, this living history site provides insight into an important chapter of Illinois and Mormon history.
10. Nauvoo Temple
RESTORED RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The Nauvoo Temple stands as an impressive reconstruction of the original 1840s Mormon temple that once dominated the landscape of this historic town. Its striking limestone exterior and careful architectural details make it a visual landmark visible from miles away. While the temple interior is reserved for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, visitors can explore the grounds and visitor center to learn about its historical and spiritual significance.
11. Lake Argyle State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Lake Argyle State Park encompasses a 93-acre lake surrounded by 1,700 acres of recreational land near La Harpe. The park offers excellent fishing, boating, hiking, and camping facilities that draw outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Visitors can spot diverse wildlife while enjoying the peaceful natural setting that serves as one of the region's premier outdoor destinations.
12. Carthage Jail Historic Site
MORMON HISTORY LANDMARK
The Carthage Jail Historic Site preserves the location where Mormon leader Joseph Smith was killed in 1844, an event of significant historical importance. The restored jail building now serves as a museum with period furnishings and exhibits detailing this pivotal moment in American religious history. Located in Carthage, about 15 miles from La Harpe, the site offers guided tours that provide context about the tensions and events surrounding this historical episode.
13. Hancock County Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Hancock County Historical Society Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling the region's rich history. Exhibits showcase everything from Native American artifacts to pioneer tools and memorabilia from prominent local figures. Visitors from La Harpe and beyond can explore the carefully curated displays that bring to life the stories of Hancock County's development and its notable residents.
14. Ferris Historic District
PRESERVED RURAL COMMUNITY
The Ferris Historic District preserves a collection of 19th-century structures that represent small-town life in rural Hancock County. Visitors can stroll through this quiet community and view well-preserved examples of period architecture and town planning. This lesser-known historic area offers an authentic glimpse into the past without the crowds found at more popular tourist destinations.
15. Dallas City Riverfront
MISSISSIPPI RIVER VIEWS
The Dallas City Riverfront provides stunning views of the mighty Mississippi River from the western edge of Hancock County near La Harpe. Visitors can watch river traffic, enjoy fishing spots, or simply relax while taking in the natural beauty of America's most famous river. The area offers excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunset when the water reflects the colorful evening sky.