Medora IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Medora, Illinois.
1. Wild Pickins Winery
LOCAL WINERY EXPERIENCE
Wild Pickins Winery offers a charming rural escape with a selection of locally crafted wines amidst scenic countryside. Visitors enjoy relaxed tastings, live music, and picturesque outdoor seating perfect for unwinding with friends and family. The winery also hosts seasonal events, making it a lively gathering spot for both locals and travelers.
2. Beaver Dam State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Beaver Dam State Park features more than 750 acres of woodlands, a 59-acre lake, and miles of hiking trails perfect for nature lovers. The park is a favorite spot for fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife observation throughout the year. Amenities include well-kept campgrounds, picnic areas, and tranquil natural scenery perfect for a family outing or solo retreat.
3. Macoupin County Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Macoupin County Courthouse is a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture and is often called the 'Million Dollar Courthouse.' Visitors are drawn to its massive dome, grand staircase, and rich local history displayed throughout the building. Guided tours provide insight into the county's heritage and the intriguing stories behind its construction.
4. Carlinville Historic Square
CHARMING DOWNTOWN HUB
Carlinville Historic Square is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and historic structures that give it a friendly, small-town ambiance. The courthouse square serves as the centerpiece for many community festivals and farmers markets throughout the year. Its preserved architecture and lively local businesses make it a pleasant stop for visitors seeking local flavor.
5. Anderson Mansion Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Anderson Mansion Museum invites guests to step back in time through well-maintained period rooms filled with artifacts from Macoupin County's rich history. Expert guides share fascinating stories about the area's families, industries, and changing lifestyles. The museum hosts various themed exhibits and special events throughout the year.
6. Gillespie Carnegie Library
HISTORIC PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Gillespie Carnegie Library is a community centerpiece housed in a beautiful early-20th-century building funded by Andrew Carnegie. Visitors appreciate the library's peaceful reading spaces, historical displays, and educational programs for all ages. Its architectural charm and ongoing community events make it a lovely spot to explore regional heritage.
7. Shipman City Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARK
Shipman City Park is a welcoming outdoor space offering modern playground equipment, green lawns, and shaded picnic areas. The park is the site of community gatherings, youth sports games, and seasonal celebrations welcoming families from around the region. Its quiet trails and well-kept facilities make it ideal for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
8. Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center
ROUTE 66 ROADSIDE STOP
The Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center celebrates the nostalgia and culture of the iconic Mother Road, featuring memorabilia, vintage cars, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can trace the route's history through artifacts and discover personal stories from travelers and locals alike. The center also provides helpful travel information for anyone exploring Route 66.
9. Henry's Rabbit Ranch
QUIRKY ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
Henry's Rabbit Ranch offers a fun-loving tribute to Route 66 with its collection of Volkswagen Rabbits, historical signage, and, of course, live rabbits. This roadside stop blends humor, history, and hospitality, creating a memorable photo opportunity for road-trippers. The welcoming staff shares stories and souvenirs for Route 66 enthusiasts of all ages.
10. Coliseum Ballroom
HISTORIC MUSIC VENUE
The Coliseum Ballroom is a storied venue that once hosted legendary musicians and big bands, making it a cornerstone of the region's musical heritage. While public dances and concerts are now rare, the building's legacy and architecture continue to intrigue history buffs and music lovers. Tours and private events occasionally allow visitors to step inside this iconic local site.
11. Black Diamond Days Festival
ANNUAL COAL MINING CELEBRATION
Black Diamond Days Festival is Gillespie's signature summer event that honors the area's coal mining legacy with parades, live music, and family-friendly activities. The festival brings together residents and visitors for three days of entertainment, craft vendors, and delicious fair food. It's a vibrant community tradition that highlights the pride of Macoupin County's mining past.
12. Mother Jones Monument
LABOR HISTORY MEMORIAL
The Mother Jones Monument commemorates famed labor leader Mary Harris 'Mother' Jones and stands as an enduring symbol of the labor movement in American history. Erected in Union Miners Cemetery, this impressive memorial attracts visitors interested in social justice and labor rights. Interpretive signage provides insight into Mother Jones' profound impact on working Americans.
13. Prairie Farms Dairy
AWARD-WINNING DAIRY
Prairie Farms Dairy's Carlinville location offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Illinois' most respected dairy cooperatives. Guided tours—when available—highlight the farm-to-table journey, modern dairy processing, and the company's storied presence in the Midwestern food scene. Visitors often leave with a greater appreciation for local agriculture and fresh dairy products.
14. Goshen Trail Marker
PIONEER ROUTE LANDMARK
The Goshen Trail Marker in Bunker Hill commemorates the historic pioneer route that once connected southern Illinois to the northern settlements. This modest monument marks an important piece of state and local transportation history. Informational plaques help visitors imagine the journeys of early American settlers along this route.
15. Gill Township Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Gill Township Park offers a welcome respite for Medora's residents and visitors, with open fields, picnic tables, and playground equipment. It serves as a central gathering place for small-town events and outdoor activities. The park is perfect for family outings, casual strolls, and children's play in a peaceful rural setting.