20 Attractions to Explore Near Catholic Diocese of Belleville

This is a landmark that celebrates art in the local community. The center organizes exhibitions from both international and local artists, aiming to promote a collaborative atmosphere of creativity. Established in 2003, this institution has been a cornerstone for artistic education as well as providing interactive activities for families. The galleries offer free admission, making it easily accessible to anyone who wants to explore the vast array of artwork presented with each new show.

CathedraI of Saint Peter, is a Roman Catholic church and parish community dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen and sailors. Built in 1899, it has been iconic for over a century, and with its twin steeples, commanding brick facade, and historic bow-style stained glass windows it certainly is both beautiful and imposing. This cathedral offers a range of programming including Masses, Baptisms & Confirmations services all year round as well as hosting summer picnics.

St. Clair Square is the regional shopping hub located conveniently off of Interstate 64, this shopping destination has something for everyone! Featuring more than 130 shops and eateries, it provides an ideal location for both retail aficionados and casual shoppers alike. From fashion, beauty, home goods and more, you're sure to find what you need at St. Clair Square. For those looking for a bite to eat after a long day of shopping, there are plenty of dining options.

Horner Park offers residents and visitors alike a wide variety of activities for all ages. The sprawling greenspace serves as the perfect spot for picnics, strolls, hikes, sports games, and fishing. During the summer months, visitors can cool off in the two Olympic sized pools. There are ample opportunities to enjoy nature with trails winding through woodlands that host unique flora and fauna. Year-round guests can take part in organized youth sports leagues, rent boats and kayaks.

The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, is an awe-inspiring experience for Catholics and non-Catholics alike. At the core of this special place lies its spiritual mission to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus, as a symbol of peace and strength. Additionally, it serves to bring people together in prayer and devotion, offering retreats and celebrations throughout the year. The primary feature of the shrine is a replica three-meter tall statue of Mary flanked by white doves.

The World's Largest Catsup Bottle is a roadside attraction that many people flock to when they visit Madison County. Standing at an impressive 170-feet tall and capable of storing up to 100,000 gallons of catsup at once, this iconic structures has become the symbol for the city and serves as a tribute to the area's rich agricultural history. It was originally constructed in 1949 by Edward Lowe, then owner of nearby Brooks Catsup, though it has undergone numerous modifications since then.

The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Saint Louis City is a fascinating archaeological site that dates back to the pre-Columbian era. Covering over 2,200 acres, it contains the remains of a vast city that was once home to an ancient indigenous civilization. With its towering earthen mounds, complex ceremonial structures, and intricate artifacts, the site offers a glimpse into a civilization that flourished between 800 to 1400 CE.

Mounds Mall is a defunct enclosed shopping mall located in the city of Anderson, Indiana, United States. Opened in stages between 1964 and 1965, it was the first enclosed mall developed by Melvin Simon & Associates, now known as Simon Property Group.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in North America. it stands as a testament to the sophisticated civilization that once thrived more than 1,000 years ago. Spanning two and a half square miles, it was the largest pre-Columbian community north of Mexico, boasting an estimated residential population of 20,000 people who engaged in maize cultivation and long distance trade networks.

Monks Mound, is a massive earthwork structure built by the ancient Mississippian culture around 1050-1150CE. It stands almost ten stories tall and covers 14 acres with four terraces consisting of millions of basketloads of soil. Archaeologists have identified the top terrace as a flat platform likely used for ceremonial gatherings due to evidence of postholes and paved walkways. Monks Mound has been well preserved with minimal damage since it was first constructed.

GCS Credit Union Ballpark is a massive venue for recreational activities and entertainment. The capacity of 8,000 makes it the largest minor league baseball park in the country and provides enough room for all members of the community to attend family-friendly events. The ballpark has hosted a number of sporting competitions, concerts, and other events for residents to take part in over the years. It is also home to several retail stores and offers space for dining and leisurely activities.

Woodhenge is an ancient Native American ritual and gathering place in Madison County. The site is believed to have been constructed around 1050 CE and has since become an important landmark associated with Native American culture. Many archaeologists believe that the structure of Woodhenge was used as a type of astronomical calendar, as well as for religious ceremonies. It is composed of four circles, each made up of large stones placed upright into the ground.

The Katherine Dunham Museum is an incredible tribute to one of the most influential African American dancers and choreographers of the 20th century, Katherine Dunham. Located in East St. Louis, the museum houses a priceless collection of rare photographs, music recordings, costumes and memorabilia that allow visitors to get an up close look at Dunham's life and legacy. Additionally, visitors can also enjoy educational programming such as lectures and workshops.

Drost Park, is a one-of-a-kind spot for outdoor adventurers, daytrippers, and even those looking for a peaceful place to relax. Stretching along the southwestern banks of Silver Lake, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in this pristine park. Drost Park has four main trails that offer up incredible views of the lake while providing plenty of opportunities to take a leisurely stroll or an energetic jog. The trails can even be connected to form a unique 2.5 mile long loop around the lake.

The National Building Arts Center is a unique destination that combines education and hands-on workshops with rich local history. Featuring rotating exhibitions and interactive activities for all ages, the Center seeks to promote both traditional building practices as well as innovative technologies in architecture and construction. Established in 2018, this family-friendly stop on the Great Rivers Heritage Trail has already provided educational programming to more than 3,000 visitors.

World Wide Technology Raceway is a premier motor sports complex. Located just 25 miles east of St. Louis, it has long been a favorite destination for racers and spectators alike. The track features a three-quarter-mile tri-oval dirt track for stock car racing and a half mile drag strip for speed events. With 14,000 grandstand seating, the Raceway is capable of hosting numerous fans from all over the Midwest region.

The Spivey Building is an iconic structure on the banks of the Mississippi River. It boasts a beautifully curved facade and an impressive portico with six columns at its entrance. Inside, the building contains various spaces and amenities, including courtrooms and offices for attorneys, judges, staff members and other personnel related to the legal profession. The Spivey Building is also home to many arts organizations such as theaters and galleries affiliated with performing arts.

Jarrot Mansion is a spectacular display of 19th-century architecture. Originally constructed in 1815-1817 by French settler William Jarrot, the mansion has been restored to feel like its original glory days. The exterior boasts ornate classical detailing including gabled dormers and snowball wood trim. Inside, visitors are dazzled with the welcoming atmosphere and grand décor of the Federal-style house; complete with hardwood floors, original artworks, and furnishings from the 19th-century era.

Horseshoe Lake is a 287-acre lake with numerous recreational activities. It is a manmade impoundment created for flood control purposes and is managed by the U.S. Army Corps. Fishing, camping, swimming, and boating are all popular activities enjoyed on or around Horseshoe Lake as it boasts a bounty of bass, bluegill, sunfish, and catfish lurking throughout its waters. While enjoying these activities visitors can also take advantage of trails near the lake providing scenic views.

Malcolm W. Martin Memorial park offers visitors an array of interesting amenities, from scenic walking trails alongside the Mississippi River to interactive educational displays attuned to the region's Native American heritage. Other attractions include the Observation Center situated atop the 300-foot tall Gateway Geyser that offers panoramic views of downtown St. Louis, as well as hockey and ice skating rinks alongside basketball courts and a two-acre golf course.