Media IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Media, Illinois.
1. Big River State Forest
EXPANSIVE RIVERFRONT WILDERNESS
Big River State Forest offers over 2,900 acres of protected woodland along the Mississippi River, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, hunting, and scenic drives beneath towering pines and hardwoods. The forest is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature lovers in the region.
2. Henderson County Heritage Trail
SCENIC WALKING & BIKING TRAIL
The Henderson County Heritage Trail transforms a former railroad corridor into a multi-use path for walking, biking, and observing local wildlife. The trail meanders through rural landscapes and small towns, offering a peaceful, family-friendly outing. Interpretive signs along the route highlight the region's transportation and agricultural history.
3. Oquawka Keelboat Historical Marker
LEWIS & CLARK ERA HISTORY
The Oquawka Keelboat Historical Marker commemorates the town's ties to river navigation during the Lewis and Clark era. Visitors can learn about the significance of the Mississippi River and the vital role of keelboats in 19th-century trade and exploration. The marker sits in a scenic riverfront park, perfect for a reflective stroll.
4. Gladstone Lake Park
FISHING & PICNICKING DESTINATION
Gladstone Lake Park is a tranquil spot popular for fishing, boating, and lakeside picnics. The park features a boat ramp, shaded picnic areas, and ample opportunities for birdwatching. It's an ideal family getaway for outdoor recreation near the banks of the Mississippi River.
5. Oquawka Zoo
SMALL-TOWN ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Oquawka Zoo presents a charming collection of rescued and exotic animals in an intimate community setting. Families can stroll the shaded grounds, meet various species, and enjoy educational exhibits about animal care. The zoo is beloved for its hands-on approach and accessible learning opportunities.
6. Bishop Hill Historic Site
SWEDISH UTOPIAN SETTLEMENT
Bishop Hill Historic Site preserves the legacy of a 19th-century Swedish communal colony, with museums, restored buildings, and vibrant annual festivals. Visitors can tour original structures, view folk art collections, and explore the cultural traditions that shaped the community. Living history actors and artisans bring the colony's past to life during special events.
7. Henderson County Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
The grand Henderson County Courthouse, constructed in the late 19th century, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its stately architecture and community significance. Visitors can admire the courthouse's impressive facade and ornamental details while learning about local governance history. The square surrounding the courthouse often hosts markets and festivals.
8. Delabar State Park
MISSISSIPPI RIVERSIDE RETREAT
Delabar State Park offers riverside camping, fishing, and hiking on the scenic edge of Oquawka. The park is heavily wooded, providing shade for campers and habitat for a rich variety of migratory birds. Its peaceful trails and picnic spots make it a favorite local escape.
9. Lock and Dam No. 18
MISSISSIPPI RIVER ENGINEERING
Lock and Dam No. 18 is an impressive feat of river engineering that supports navigation and flood control on the Mississippi River. Visitors can watch barges pass through the lock system and see firsthand the technology that keeps river traffic moving. Interpretive signage explains the critical importance of these structures to the region's economy.
10. Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House
PIONEER ARCHITECTURE MUSEUM
The Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House stands as a rare example of mid-19th century pioneer craftsmanship in Henderson County. Visitors can explore the distinctive cobblestone walls, original woodwork, and period furnishings that tell the story of early settlers. Guided tours explain the home's unique construction techniques and historical significance.
11. Henderson County Covered Bridge
HISTORIC RURAL CROSSING
The Henderson County Covered Bridge, a reconstructed wooden span, evokes the romantic era of 19th-century travel in rural Illinois. Visitors can walk or drive across its timbers and learn about the challenges of early transportation. The bridge is a picturesque spot ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
12. Raritan Opera House
COMMUNITY CULTURAL VENUE
The historic Raritan Opera House has served as a gathering place for arts, music, and community events since the late 1800s. Visitors can attend performances, admire period architecture, and enjoy the nostalgic ambiance of a bygone era. Restoration efforts continue to revitalize this small-town treasure.
13. Henderson County Fairgrounds
COUNTY FAIR & EVENTS HUB
Henderson County Fairgrounds hosts the annual county fair, with livestock shows, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits highlighting rural traditions. The grounds feature a grandstand and arenas for rodeos, truck pulls, and community gatherings throughout the year. It's a lively place to experience local culture and family fun.
14. Shokokon Wildlife Area
BIRDWATCHING & NATURE TRAILS
Shokokon Wildlife Area is a haven for birdwatchers and hikers, with miles of trails winding through wetlands and forested habitats. Bird enthusiasts can spot a variety of migratory species, especially during spring and fall. The area offers peaceful scenery ideal for wildlife photography and outdoor escapes.
15. Stronghurst Depot Museum
RAILROAD HERITAGE EXHIBIT
Stronghurst Depot Museum preserves the town's railroad legacy, displaying artifacts, photographs, and vintage equipment in an original depot building. Visitors can learn about the pivotal role of the railroad in local growth and explore exhibits on daily life in early 20th-century Illinois. Volunteers share stories that bring the community's railroad history to life.