Montrose IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Montrose, Illinois.
1. Tuscan Hills Winery
PICTURESQUE LOCAL WINERY
Tuscan Hills Winery offers a charming escape with its Tuscan-inspired atmosphere and locally-produced wines. Guests can enjoy tastings in a rustic setting, relax in the vineyard, and attend live music events or seasonal festivals. The winery is a popular destination for couples and groups seeking a relaxing afternoon or special event.
2. My Garage Museum
AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY EXHIBIT
My Garage Museum is dedicated to automotive enthusiasts, featuring a captivating collection of classic cars, Corvettes, and rare memorabilia. Visitors can explore a variety of displays showcasing both vintage vehicles and historic automotive artifacts. The museum also features a retail store with unique car-themed gifts and collectibles.
3. TREC Calico Trail
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS
TREC Calico Trail provides a peaceful natural retreat for hikers and nature lovers. The well-maintained trails wind through wooded areas and open grasslands, perfect for observing local wildlife and enjoying the outdoors. The trail system is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it a great spot for families.
4. Ballard Nature Center
FAMILY-FRIENDLY NATURE CENTER
Ballard Nature Center is a vibrant 210-acre conservation area with walking trails, wetlands, prairie, and forest habitats. The center features hands-on educational exhibits, wildlife observation areas, and picnic facilities, making it perfect for families. It hosts frequent events and programs to engage visitors of all ages with the region's natural heritage.
5. Fox Ridge State Park
DIVERSE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Fox Ridge State Park boasts over 2,000 acres of rolling hills, oak and hickory forests, and scenic hiking trails. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering camping, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities along the Embarras River. Its picturesque views and picnic areas make it a favorite for day trips and family gatherings.
6. Two Story Outhouse
QUIRKY ROADSIDE RELIC
The Two Story Outhouse in Gays is a whimsical and unusual historical attraction beloved by travelers. Built in the late 19th century, this double-decker outhouse served apartments above a local business, capturing the imagination of visitors ever since. A small interpretive display shares the history and peculiar design of this unique landmark.
7. World's Largest Rocking Chair
GIANT ROADSIDE MARVEL
The World's Largest Rocking Chair in Casey rises 56 feet tall and stands as a symbol of the town's love for oversized roadside attractions. Visitors can admire its enormous scale, take memorable photos, and learn about its construction. The chair is accompanied by other 'big things' in town, creating an entertaining stop for travelers.
8. Big Antlers
UNIQUE OUTDOOR ARTWORK
Big Antlers offers visitors a whimsical experience by displaying enormous antlers preserved in ice, a quirky attraction available seasonally from November to March. These giant antlers are a favorite photo opportunity and are part of Casey's collection of record-breaking objects. The attraction is free and welcoming to all curious explorers.
9. Giant Mousetrap
INTERACTIVE ENGINEERING DISPLAY
The Giant Mousetrap in Casey is a playful, oversized replica of the classic board game contraption. Designed to amuse and dazzle, it invites visitors to interact and snap photos with this engineering marvel. The attraction is part of Casey's signature collection of 'big things' and delights both children and adults.
10. Big Rocking Horse
OVERSIZED FUN LANDMARK
The Big Rocking Horse is an immense and beautifully crafted rocking horse, another of Casey's famed large-scale creations. This attraction is perfect for families seeking whimsical photo opportunities and is within walking distance of other giant objects in town. The horse showcases local artistry and the town's playful spirit.
11. Montrose Beach Dunes
NATURAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Montrose Beach Dunes is an 11-acre preserve located at the eastern end of Montrose Beach, featuring globally-imperiled dune and panne habitats. The site is home to over 150 bird species and rare local plants, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, observation decks, and beautiful lakeside scenery.
12. Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary
BIRDWATCHER'S URBAN OASIS
Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is a renowned stopover for migrating birds along Lake Michigan's shoreline. The sanctuary features winding trails, native wildflowers, and impressive views of downtown Chicago. Bird lovers flock here for the chance to spot rare migrating species and enjoy peaceful nature in the heart of the city.
13. Effingham Performance Center
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Effingham Performance Center hosts a dynamic lineup of concerts, Broadway shows, comedians, and family entertainment throughout the year. The venue's modern facilities and comfortable seating make it a premier spot for arts and culture in central Illinois. Visitors can enjoy nationally-touring acts in an accessible, welcoming environment.
14. Mid America Motorworks
AUTOMOTIVE ENTHUSIAST COMPLEX
Mid America Motorworks is a mecca for car lovers, featuring a museum filled with rare Corvettes and Volkswagen memorabilia. The complex also hosts major automotive events, drawing visitors from across the Midwest. Shoppers will find a wide selection of specialized automotive parts, gifts, and collectibles on site.
15. Effingham County Courthouse Museum
HISTORIC CIVIC LANDMARK
The Effingham County Courthouse Museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 19th-century courthouse in downtown Effingham. Visitors can explore exhibits on local history, architecture, and the legal heritage of the region. The courthouse square is also the site of community events and provides a picturesque backdrop for photos.