Marine IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marine, Illinois.
1. Mills Apple Farm
LOCAL ORCHARD EXPERIENCE
Mills Apple Farm is a charming agricultural attraction in Marine where visitors can enjoy apple picking and farm activities. The orchard offers a variety of seasonal fruits and provides a perfect family-friendly outing during harvest season. Visitors can also browse homemade goods and treats made from farm-fresh produce.
2. Phyl's Chet & Roses Tavern
HISTORIC LOCAL WATERING HOLE
Phyl's Chet & Roses Tavern serves as a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors in Marine. This traditional tavern offers cold drinks, friendly conversation, and a taste of small-town Illinois charm. Patrons can experience authentic local culture while enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of this community establishment.
3. Marine Village Park
HISTORIC SHADED GATHERING PLACE
Marine Village Park, located in the 300 block of North Duncan, features nearly a hundred shade trees and a historic gazebo built in 1912. The gazebo, formerly called a bandstand, has hosted political events, band concerts, Memorial Day services, and weddings throughout its long history. Other park amenities include a pavilion, playground, basketball court, and a Vietnam era M-60 tank for visitors to appreciate.
4. Marine Heritage Park
NATURAL RECREATION AREA
Marine Heritage Park, dedicated in 2007 and located at N. Verson and Mill Streets, offers a peaceful lakeside retreat with multiple recreational amenities. Visitors can enjoy the walking path, children's playground, pavilions, and fishing opportunities at the picturesque lake built by Operating Engineers Local 520. The park also serves as the Trailhead for the Madison County Transit Bikeway, connecting to over 130 miles of bike and walking trails throughout the region.
5. Madison County Transit Bikeway
EXTENSIVE TRAIL NETWORK
The Madison County Transit Bikeway offers over 130 miles of connected bike and walking trails throughout the region. Accessible from Marine Heritage Park, this extensive trail system provides outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for exercise, nature observation, and scenic leisure rides. Cyclists and hikers can explore various landscapes and communities while enjoying well-maintained paths suitable for different skill levels.
6. Navy Pier
CHICAGO'S WATERFRONT DESTINATION
Navy Pier stands as the top nonprofit tourism destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks along Lake Michigan in Chicago. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this landmark now showcases more than 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, and sightseeing opportunities. With nearly 9 million annual visitors, Navy Pier offers year-round activities that capture Chicago's vibrant spirit and provide diverse entertainment options.
7. Silver Lake Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Silver Lake Park offers beautiful landscapes and multiple outdoor recreation opportunities near Marine. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking trails surrounding the scenic lake. The park provides well-maintained facilities including shelters, playgrounds, and swimming areas for family enjoyment.
8. Chain of Rocks Bridge
HISTORIC MISSISSIPPI CROSSING
The Chain of Rocks Bridge spans the Mississippi River with its distinctive 30-degree bend in the middle, offering spectacular river views. Once part of historic Route 66, the mile-long pedestrian bridge now serves as a unique walking and cycling path connecting Illinois and Missouri. Visitors can observe the namesake rock formations in the river below while learning about the bridge's transportation history through informational displays.
9. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
ANCIENT INDIGENOUS CIVILIZATION
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site preserves the remnants of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features massive earthen structures including Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthen construction in the Americas. Visitors can explore the interpretive center to learn about the ancient Mississippian culture that thrived here from approximately 700 to 1400 CE.
10. The Gardens at SIUE
BOTANICAL EDUCATION CENTER
The Gardens at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville encompass 35 acres of horticultural displays, natural areas, and sculptural elements. Visitors can stroll through themed garden rooms, observe native plantings, and enjoy seasonal blooms in this living laboratory. The gardens serve both recreational and educational purposes, offering a peaceful retreat while demonstrating sustainable landscape practices.
11. WaterWorks Park
FAMILY AQUATIC FUN
WaterWorks Park provides refreshing summer entertainment with multiple pools, water slides, and splash features for all ages. The aquatic center includes a lazy river, diving boards, and dedicated children's play areas with shallow water options. Families can spend a full day enjoying the water attractions, picnic facilities, and concession stands in this popular seasonal recreation destination.
12. Watershed Nature Center
URBAN WILDLIFE REFUGE
The Watershed Nature Center transforms former sewage lagoons into a 46-acre urban wildlife sanctuary with wetlands, forests, and prairie habitats. Visitors can observe diverse bird species, amphibians, and native plants while walking along accessible boardwalks and trails. The center offers educational programming, photography opportunities, and a window into ecological restoration practices.
13. Lewis & Clark State Historic Site
EXPEDITION STARTING POINT
The Lewis & Clark State Historic Site commemorates Camp Dubois, where the Corps of Discovery prepared for their momentous journey west in 1803-1804. The interpretive center features exhibits detailing the expedition's preparations, including replica boats, equipment displays, and interactive learning stations. Visitors can gain insights into this pivotal moment in American exploration history through artifact collections and reconstructed period structures.
14. Edwardsville Children's Museum
INTERACTIVE LEARNING SPACE
Edwardsville Children's Museum offers hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young visitors. Children can explore career-themed play areas including a medical center, grocery store, and construction zone that encourage imaginative role-playing. The museum regularly hosts special programs, art activities, and educational events that make learning enjoyable for families.
15. Gateway Fun Park
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Gateway Fun Park combines multiple attractions including mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages, and arcade games in one entertainment destination. Families and friends can compete in friendly competitions across various activities suitable for different age groups. The park offers birthday party packages, group rates, and seasonal events that make it a popular choice for local recreation near Marine.