20 Attractions to Explore Near John M Olin Nature Preserve (Nature Institute)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

Fort Belle Fontaine is a historic destination served as a pivotal military post in the early years of the United States, established in 1805 by Lieutenant Zebulon Pike.The fort was strategically located near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, making it an ideal location for military operations. The fort served as a base for several prominent military figures, including William Clark and Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

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.

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is a natural haven, covering a massive area of approximately 4,318 acres. The area was initially used for farming and was purchased in 1996 by the Missouri Department of Conservation to preserve and protect the unique natural habitats and diverse wildlife.The conservation area boasts a variety of natural features, including forests, wetlands, and prairies.

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.

Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is a natural wonderland situated in St. Louis County, Missouri, spanning over 4,318 acres of diversified landscape. The area was formerly used for farming and was later purchased by the Missouri Department of Conservation in 1996, with the aim of preserving the unique natural habitats and diverse wildlife.The conservation area is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting a blend of natural features, including forests, wetlands, and prairies.

Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower perched atop the banks of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. It stands roughly 80 feet tall, adorned with interactive features to honor the riveting Lewis & Clark Expedition of 1804-06. Visitors can explore mobile and electronic ranger stations offering information about wildlife and flora along the expedition's path. The Mahogany Observation Deck allows for spectacular views of both rivers as well as a small-scale map.

Lewis and Clark State Memorial Park is located at the county’s southwestern border, visitors to this park can explore approximately 114 acres of pristine natural beauty with majestic oak-hickory woodlands. It is also home to two major attractions – a replica of the portaged birchbark canoe used by Lewis and Clark during their famed expedition to explore the western United States, as well as reenactment programs that recreate life as it was during this period.

The Lewis and Clark historic site, commemorates the starting point of one of America's most iconic expeditions. This is where, in 1804-5, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark began an adventure that would take them to the Pacific Ocean for the first time American-led explorers had attempted such a feat. Camp River Dubois served as the Corps of Discovery's departure point from which they planned their mission and stocked up on supplies.

The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, is a historic landmark and pedestrian bridge that spans across the Mississippi River. Built in 1929, the bridge was designed to accommodate both vehicular and pedestrian traffic and played a critical role in connecting the cities of St. Louis and Madison, Illinois.Today, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is open exclusively to pedestrian and bicycle traffic, offering visitors a unique and breathtaking perspective of the mighty Mississippi River.

General Daniel Bissell House is a historical site located in Missouri. This majestic house was built in the early 19th century and was the former residence of General Daniel Bissell, who served the United States Army during the War of 1812. Today, the house stands as a symbol of America's rich cultural heritage and is a major tourist attraction for visitors.The General Daniel Bissell House is an architectural masterpiece that boasts a remarkable combination of Federal and Greek Revival styles.

Commemorative Air Force Missouri Wing is a fascinating destination located in St. Charles County, Missouri, that offers visitors a unique and immersive experience of aviation history. The Missouri Wing is part of the larger national organization, the Commemorative Air Force, which is dedicated to preserving the legacy of military aviation through the restoration and maintenance of historic aircraft.