Mascoutah IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mascoutah, Illinois.
1. Scheve Park
EXPANSIVE COMMUNITY PARK
Scheve Park is Mascoutah's largest and most popular public park, offering a wide range of recreational facilities including athletic fields, lighted tennis courts, and a sand volleyball court. Visitors enjoy two swimming pools, playgrounds, two fishing lakes, and multiple picnic shelters, making it ideal for both family outings and community events. The park's ample green space and walking paths provide a peaceful setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.
2. Maple Park
NEIGHBORHOOD GREEN SPACE
Maple Park provides residents and visitors a welcoming spot for leisure with its beautiful trees and open play areas. The park features playground equipment and benches, making it a favorite choice for families seeking a quiet retreat. Its well-maintained grounds are perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a casual stroll.
3. Prairie Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Prairie Park is another of Mascoutah's inviting city parks, offering wide-open spaces and modern playground structures. The location is suitable for soccer practices, open play, and gatherings beneath shaded picnic shelters. Nature lovers appreciate its simple yet enjoyable amenities for all ages.
4. Mascoutah Heritage Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Mascoutah Heritage Museum preserves the city's past, with exhibits and artifacts highlighting the region's agricultural and cultural history. Visitors can explore displays on old-town Mascoutah, school memorabilia, and local military contributions. The museum offers a glimpse into the area's evolution and community pride.
5. JO-AL Winery and Country Store
FAMILY-OWNED WINERY
JO-AL Winery and Country Store invites guests to sample locally crafted wines in a friendly rural setting on the edge of Mascoutah. The winery's tasting room offers a selection of reds and whites, while the country store features regional goods and gifts. It's a relaxing spot to unwind and experience the flavors of southern Illinois.
6. Silver Creek Nature Preserve
NATURE AND WILDLIFE AREA
Silver Creek Nature Preserve provides a peaceful escape into nature with walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching near Mascoutah. The preserve showcases native plants and wildlife, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers. Its quiet trails are ideal for morning hikes or tranquil reflection.
7. Mascoutah Fall Fest
ANNUAL COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
Mascoutah Fall Fest livens up Main Street each autumn with music, a car show, chili cook-off, and arts and crafts displays. The event attracts both residents and visitors, providing a festive atmosphere with food vendors, games, and family-friendly entertainment. It's a signature celebration reflecting local spirit and tradition.
8. Mascoutah Swimming Pool
PUBLIC AQUATIC CENTER
The Mascoutah Swimming Pool offers a refreshing escape during summer months with its spacious pool complex. It's equipped with water slides, diving boards, and a separate wading area for children. The facility is a popular hub for swim lessons, recreational swimming, and poolside relaxation.
9. Scott Air Force Base
MILITARY INSTALLATION TOUR
Scott Air Force Base, located just west of Mascoutah in Belleville, is a vital U.S. military installation known for its public outreach and air shows. Visitors can sometimes tour select facilities or attend base-sponsored open house events, experiencing aviation history and modern operations. The base plays a significant role in the local community and provides unique insights into Air Force life.
10. MidAmerica St. Louis Airport
REGIONAL AIRPORT GATEWAY
MidAmerica St. Louis Airport serves as a convenient travel hub for southern Illinois with commercial flights and charter services. The airport is also known for its role in cargo transport and occasional public events. Modern amenities and easy access make it a practical choice for regional air travel.
11. The Juicy Peanut Bar & Grill
LOCAL GATHERING SPOT
The Juicy Peanut Bar & Grill is a lively eatery offering classic American fare, cold drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether stopping for lunch, dinner, or weekend entertainment, patrons enjoy friendly service and signature dishes. Its central location makes it a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike.
12. Sure Shot - The Backyard Bar
OUTDOOR BAR VENUE
Sure Shot - The Backyard Bar provides a unique outdoor bar experience with live music, games, and casual drinks. This venue is known for its friendly crowd and laid-back ambiance, perfect for winding down on weekends. It's a favorite local hangout during the warmer months.
13. Holy Childhood of Jesus Church
HISTORIC PARISH CHURCH
Holy Childhood of Jesus Church stands as one of Mascoutah's oldest and most architecturally significant churches, founded in the 19th century. The parish welcomes both parishioners and visitors to admire its beautiful sanctuary and stained glass windows. Regular services and community events continue the church's long-standing legacy in the community.
14. Carlyle Lake
RECREATIONAL RESERVOIR
Carlyle Lake, located about 25 miles east of Mascoutah, is the largest man-made lake in Illinois, offering fishing, camping, boating, and hiking. The expansive reservoir is surrounded by parks, marinas, and beaches, making it a preferred destination for water sports and outdoor recreation. Birdwatchers and nature lovers also flock to the area for its wildlife viewing opportunities.
15. Labor & Industry Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Labor & Industry Museum in Belleville, just west of Mascoutah, showcases the industrial and labor heritage of the region. Visitors will find exhibits detailing the area's coal mining, glassmaking, and railroad industries, along with personal stories from immigrant communities. The museum provides an educational experience for history buffs and families alike.
16. Braeutigam Orchards
FAMILY FRUIT ORCHARD
Braeutigam Orchards, just a short drive from Mascoutah, offers visitors the chance to pick seasonal fruits in a scenic farm setting. The orchard features a farm market, seasonal festivals, and family-friendly activities. It's an idyllic spot to enjoy fresh produce and a taste of the countryside.