20 Attractions to Explore Near Beaver Dam State Park

New Gillespie Lake, is a lovely lake that offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. It spans 240 acres and is full of many species of animals including bluegill, catfish and bass. Boaters can enjoy the pontoon boat access on the lake while anglers can take advantage of the open fishing spots or try their luck at night fishing. There are also plenty of shoreline options for relaxing picnics or those looking to observe wildlife.

Anderson Mansion Museum, features a unique collection of items that have been painstakingly collected and researched over many decades. From furniture and pictures to an expansive collection of antiques, Anderson Mansion Museum provides an enlightening glimpse into times long past. Paired with a stellar archival library and knowledgeable staff, the museum offers what many consider to be one of the best preservations of history in all of northern Illinois.

Otter Lake Park is a stunning recreational area that should not be missed. With over 217 acres of parkland and 4 miles of shoreline along the picturesque Otter Lake, visitors can partake in a vast array of outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore the trails or the lake itself, there's something for everyone! In addition, Otter Lake Park boasts an abundance of wildlife including bald eagles and white-tailed deer. There are also plenty of camping sites for those who want to stay overnight.

The Mother Jones Monument, is a beautiful memorial dedicated to the life and legacy of Mary Harris Jones. Dedicated in 2003, it serves as a testament to the inspiration she provided to working class people from all around the world during her lifetime. The monument features a prominent bronze sculpture of Mother Jones atop of a granite pedestal which contains an inscription about her impact on workers' rights and labor reform.

In operation since 1931 it has been providing much needed service to generations of drivers in the area. Originally owned by cousins John "Jack" Soulsby and Robert Soulsby, it was noted for several firsts in the area including the installation of one of the first gasoline pumps as well as boasting the first electric sign advertising a gas station. Today it still provides fuel and services cars with certified mechanics on staff. With its vintage station charm and welcoming atmosphere.

Henry's Rabbit Ranch offers an enjoyable and unique experience for animal lovers of all ages. The ranch provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about and interact with a variety of animals, including rabbits, chickens, goats, pigs and horses. Visitors can book guided tours that include feeding the animals, exploring the grounds and getting up close with some of the ranch's more exotic residents. The ranch also offers hayrides throughout its 75 acres of land.

The Robert Wadlow Statue is a tribute to the late Robert Pershing Wadlow, who was celebrated as the tallest man in history. Standing 8ft 11inches tall and weighing 491 lbs., he often attracted crowds of people wherever he went. The statue depicts him standing in a suit holding a violin with one hand, as his long stature is featured on a 12-foot pedestal that brings him to a total height of 20 feet. Dedicated by the Alton Regional Convention and Visitor’s Bureau on June 16th, 1985.

McPike Mansion has a story that is as alluring as its beauty. Built in 1869 for Captain Nathaniel McPike by John Warner of St. Louis, it was initially designed to be a three-story home reflecting the contemporary Victorian style of that period. Initially an impressive limestone structure complete with original flooring, solid oak finishes and ornate detailed carvings, the residence has once served as a private family residence and later as an orphanage during the 1930s.

This is a beautiful display of the natural beauty that can be found throughout the region. Home to a variety of plants and animals, the 25-acre nature preserveis provides a place for visitors to explore, walk trails and watch wildlife species in their natural habitat. It also offers educational opportunities like field trips, docent-led hikes, and self-guided exploration. Additionally, it holds special events such as nighttime owl walks, family nights with activities for all ages.

The Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument, stands as a memorial to Elijah P. Lovejoy and his historic legacy of fighting for the abolition of slavery. The monument is an impressive bronze statue depicting Lovejoy standing with a bible in one hand and a printing press in the other — symbols of his faith and courage from his days as a newspaper editor. An engraving on the back reads "Erected by the citizens of Madison County A.D., 1903, to perpetuate the memory of Rev. Elijah Parish Lovejoy.

The Piasa Bird is a legendary dragon-like creature found in stories of the Illiniwek people who lived near modern Madison County. The creature was said to originally inhabit the area near the Mississippi River. According to folklore, it would swoop and attack both man and beast with great ferocity. Later, two Native Americans painted a large image of the Piasa Bird on one of these cliffs with vibrant colors and symbols to commemorate their victory over its evil nature.

The village of Alton, is a vibrant city full of beauty and opportunity. This picturesque city by the river offers stunning views of the Mississippi that can be enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. It's home to Lewis & Clark Community College, the many shops and restaurants of State Street, and numerous historic sites - the Daniel Belle Home being just one example. With its vibrant culture, thriving economy, close proximity to larger cities and incredible history.

Camp Dubois is an amazing historical site, tracing its roots back to 1803. This was the start of the Lewis and Clark expedition's journey west of the Mississippi River. Visiting this site gives visitors a unique glimpse into American History at its most formative. The original Camp Dubois consisted of a 126-acre plot of land and included two cabins, several out-buildings, piles of saltpeter and kegs of gunpowder - all left by Lewis and his men as they headed westward.

Clark Bridge is an iconic landmark located in St. Charles County, Missouri, that spans over the Mississippi River. The bridge, which opened in 1994, is named after William Clark, a famous explorer who led the Lewis and Clark Expedition.The Clark Bridge is of significant importance, as it serves as a major transportation route connecting Missouri and Illinois, and facilitates an average of 42,000 vehicles per day.

This is the premier destination for anyone interested in exploring and understanding rivers from a scientific point of view. Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, visitors learn about the major river systems that define America’s landscape, as well as their various ecosystems and wildlife habitats. The museum boasts an impressive array of artifacts, photographs, maps, and hands-on activities to further engage visitors in the rich discoveries that lie within nature’s waterways.

The Melvin Price Lock and Dam is a powerhouse of activity. Located on the Mississippi River, it serves as a crucial navigation point for boats traveling along the river. It was built in 1938 with the intention of providing better navigation and reducing flooding in the area during flood season. The area surrounding the locks is one of natural beauty as well, featuring two diversely different habitats: bottomland hardwood forest and sand-bottom marshland.

The Audubon Center at Riverlands is a premier destination located in St. Charles County, Missouri, that is perfect for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This center spans over 3,700 acres and features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, prairies, and forests, making it a prime location for birdwatching.The center is a world-class birding destination and has been designated as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society.

The Madison County Archival Library, is a trove of historic documents and artifacts. It contains an extensive collection of materials relevant to the U.S. history and culture ranging from photographs to business records to maps. There are also resources available dedicated to researching the county's family histories. The library is open Monday through Friday and boasts esteemed staff members with extensive expertise in archival research as well as computers with access to digital archives.

The Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House is an important piece of history that draws many visitors every year. Constructed in 1820, it was originally built as a one-and-a-half-story brick dwelling with a limestone foundation. The house has been restored to its original appearance and was added to the United States National Register of Historic Places in 1988. Visitors can tour the interior of the house, which includes such 19th century artifacts as furniture pieces, books, paintings and more.

Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park is a hidden gem located in St. Charles County, Missouri, that is often overlooked by tourists. The park sits at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, offering visitors stunning views and abundant recreational activities.Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the river.