St. Augustine IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near St. Augustine, Illinois.
1. Giant Totem Pole
TOWERING NATIVE AMERICAN ART
The Giant Totem Pole stands as an impressive cultural landmark in Saint Augustine, drawing visitors interested in Native American heritage and art. This towering structure features intricate carvings that tell stories of indigenous traditions and history. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship and learn about the significance of totem poles in Native American culture.
2. Carl Sandburg State Historic Site
FAMOUS POET'S BIRTHPLACE
The Carl Sandburg State Historic Site preserves the birthplace of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and Lincoln biographer Carl Sandburg in nearby Galesburg. Visitors can tour the small cottage where Sandburg was born in 1878 and explore exhibits about his life and literary contributions to American culture. The site also features a beautiful garden and the Remembrance Rock where Sandburg's ashes are buried.
3. Old Main, Knox College
HISTORIC LINCOLN-DOUGLAS DEBATE SITE
Old Main at Knox College stands as one of the most historic buildings in the region, famous as the site of the fifth Lincoln-Douglas debate in 1858. This stunning red brick building with its distinctive towers has been designated a National Historic Landmark and continues to serve as an active part of the Knox College campus. Visitors can stand in the exact spot where Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas debated slavery and constitutional issues before Lincoln's presidency.
4. Galesburg Railroad Museum
RICH RAILWAY HISTORY
The Galesburg Railroad Museum showcases the rich railroad heritage of this important Midwest transportation hub. Exhibits include vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and a wealth of railroad memorabilia that tells the story of how railroads shaped the development of the region. Visitors can climb aboard several restored train cars and imagine the golden age of rail travel through well-preserved artifacts and educational displays.
5. Discovery Depot Children's Museum
INTERACTIVE LEARNING ADVENTURE
The Discovery Depot Children's Museum offers hands-on interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and learning in children of all ages. Kids can explore science, art, engineering, and imagination through engaging activities spread throughout two floors of exhibits. The museum features a water play area, construction zone, art studio, and many other educational play spaces that make learning fun.
6. Seminary Street Historic District
CHARMING SHOPPING DESTINATION
Seminary Street Historic District features beautifully restored 19th-century buildings housing unique shops, restaurants, and specialty stores in downtown Galesburg. Visitors can stroll the brick-paved streets while exploring local boutiques, antique stores, and eateries that offer a taste of small-town charm with sophisticated offerings. The district regularly hosts special events, farmers markets, and seasonal celebrations that showcase the community's vibrant spirit.
7. Lake Storey Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Storey Park offers 600 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities centered around a beautiful 132-acre lake just north of Galesburg. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming at the beach, hiking on scenic trails, or relaxing at one of the many picnic areas throughout the park. The park also features sports fields, playgrounds, and a campground, making it a perfect destination for families seeking outdoor adventures throughout the seasons.
8. Galesburg Civic Art Center
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
The Galesburg Civic Art Center showcases the work of regional artists through rotating exhibitions in its historic downtown gallery space. Art lovers can explore changing displays of paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media created by talented artists from throughout the Midwest. The center also offers art classes, workshops, and special events that engage the community in creative expression and appreciation of the visual arts.
9. Bishop Hill State Historic Site
SWEDISH COLONIAL VILLAGE
Bishop Hill State Historic Site preserves a remarkable 19th-century Swedish colony founded in 1846 as a religious utopian community. Visitors can explore multiple historic buildings including the colony church, museum, bakery, and artisan workshops that showcase the Swedish heritage and craftsmanship of the settlers. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into communal living, religious freedom, and immigrant experiences that helped shape the cultural landscape of Illinois.
10. Wildlife Prairie Park
NATIVE ILLINOIS ANIMAL SANCTUARY
Wildlife Prairie Park spans nearly 2,000 acres dedicated to showcasing the native animals and ecosystems of Illinois in a natural setting. Visitors can observe bison, wolves, black bears, elk, cougars and other species that once roamed the Illinois prairie in spacious, naturalistic habitats. The park also features hiking trails, a fishing lake, overnight lodging in unique accommodations, and educational programs that connect people with Illinois' natural heritage.
11. Dickson Mounds Museum
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Dickson Mounds Museum is a nationally recognized archaeological museum situated within the Illinois River Valley, showcasing 12,000 years of Native American heritage and culture. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, archaeological artifacts, and reconstructed environments that tell the story of the indigenous peoples who lived in the region for millennia. The site includes indoor exhibits, outdoor archaeological sites, and natural areas with hiking trails that overlook the Illinois River floodplain.
12. Spoon River Scenic Drive
PICTURESQUE RURAL ROUTE
The Spoon River Scenic Drive winds through the beautiful countryside of Fulton County, passing through historic villages, covered bridges, and natural areas made famous in Edgar Lee Masters' poetry. Each fall, the route transforms into a festival featuring local crafts, food vendors, and demonstrations of pioneer skills across multiple stops along the 100+ mile route. Travelers can enjoy breathtaking vistas, small-town charm, and a glimpse of rural Illinois life while following this picturesque driving tour.
13. Macomb Courthouse Square
HISTORIC TOWN CENTER
Macomb Courthouse Square serves as the historic heart of the community, featuring a magnificent 19th-century courthouse surrounded by shops, restaurants, and businesses in beautifully preserved buildings. Visitors can admire the architectural details of the McDonough County Courthouse with its impressive dome and clock tower that has stood watch over the town since 1872. The square hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, farmers markets, and holiday celebrations.
14. Western Illinois University Art Gallery
FINE ARTS COLLECTION
The Western Illinois University Art Gallery showcases diverse exhibitions of contemporary and historical artwork from regional and national artists. Art enthusiasts can view changing displays featuring paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, and mixed media created by students, faculty, and visiting artists. The gallery serves as a cultural center for the region, offering artist talks, workshops, and educational programming that enhances appreciation of the visual arts.
15. Kibbe Life Science Station
MISSISSIPPI RIVER RESEARCH CENTER
The Kibbe Life Science Station operated by Western Illinois University provides a unique opportunity to explore natural habitats along the Mississippi River. Researchers and visitors can observe diverse ecosystems including forests, prairies, wetlands, and river environments that support a wide variety of plant and animal species. The field station offers educational programs, guided nature walks, and research opportunities focused on understanding and preserving the ecological diversity of the region.