20 Attractions to Explore Near Lake Vermilion

Heron County Park features a vast array of activities for everyone to enjoy, such as fishing and canoeing on its large lake, camping in the shady campsites, biking along the trails and playing disc golf in the park. The park also has two picnic pavilions, several playgrounds and a host of nature-based educational programs. For aquatic enthusiasts, the 65-acre lake provides an ideal habitat for the vast array of fish that make their home there.

The Vermilion County War Museum is a fascinating place to visit for history buffs of all ages. Located in two historic buildings within walking distance of each other, the museum is home to hundreds of artifacts from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War I and II. Visitors can experience interactive battle simulations and examine items such as weaponry, ammunition, and uniforms of the eras. Additionally, the museum also explores other conflicts including Vietnam and Desert Storm.

Vermilion County Museum is a unique cultural and educational attraction strives to create an understanding of the local history through exhibitions, educational programs and services. It offers visitors a chance to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the region, with interactive exhibits showcasing the area’s early settlers and abolitionists during the 19th century. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of artisan displays featuring quilts, artifacts like fossils, pottery and baskets.

The Fischer Theatre established in 1921 by its namesake, owner and operator Joseph J. Fischer, it has seen more than a century of grand performances from both local and national talent. The theatre's interior is decorated with classic Art Deco fixtures, including an ornate ceiling, distinctive marquee and murals throughout the theater auditorium. This premium venue continues to provide the people of Vermilion County with extraordinary entertainment experiences.

Lindley Sign Post Forest is a beloved environmental attraction located in Vermilion County, Illinois. The forest, filled with more than five hundred handmade signs, is an incredible sight to behold. Built in the late 1940's by local farmer Carl Lindley, it has been a staple of the community ever since. Today it is maintained by volunteers from the local Lions Club who care for and add new signs to the forest as time and resources allow.

Kennekuk County Park is a nature enthusiast’s paradise. Located along the banks of the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River, this park has something for everyone. Boasting more than 600 acres of prime recreation area, Kennekuk County Park boasts miles of trails for biking, hiking and equestrian activities. Anglers can take advantage of numerous fishing spots or explore over 80 acres reserved for hunting, trapping and other wildlife viewing activities.

Kennekuk Cove County Park is a beautiful park features plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing, biking and camping. Visitors can explore the many trails winding through the 70-acre park or take a peaceful stroll along Honey Creek, admiring wildflowers and wildlife such as deer, foxes and wild turkeys. The centerpiece of this natural oasis is Heron Pond, where guests can gaze out over its scenic beauty while enjoying a picnic lunch.

Lake Mingo is a beautiful man-made lake constructed in 1967 by the Clements family, with assistance from the US Army Corps of Engineers. Today, Lake Mingo is known as one of the best spots for recreational activities in the area and offers boat launches, campsites, picnic sites and scenic walking trails to visitors. The lake also serves as a habitat for numerous species of fish and waterfowl, which can be easily spotted while out on a boat or fishing off the pond banks.

Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a state park in east-central Illinois. The park is located on the Vermilion River, just north of the city of Danville. Kickapoo State Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and canoeing. There are more than 20 miles of trails in the park, and a variety of campsites and picnic areas. The Vermilion River is a popular spot for canoeing and fishing, and there are several boat ramps in the park.

The Portland Arch Nature Preserve in Fountain County, Indiana, is a scenic natural area known for its geological formations and outdoor recreational opportunities. It offers a serene and scenic escape, providing a chance for visitors to immerse themselves in nature, explore unique geological formations, and enjoy outdoor activities in a preserved natural setting.

Homer Lake, is a 155 acre oasis in the heart of Illinois. It is part of the Homer Lake Forest Preserve, which also includes hiking and biking trails, picnic areas as well as a fishing dock with plenty of access points for canoes and kayaks. Home to a variety of fish such as largemouth bass and crappie, Homer Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for both amateur anglers and seasoned veterans alike.

Williamsport Falls is a notable natural attraction located in Williamsport. The falls are likely part of a natural watercourse or river, offering a picturesque view and contributing to the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Williamsport is a town located in Warren County, Indiana, USA.It is situated in the western part of Indiana, within Warren County. It serves as a part of the local community and contributes to the county's cultural and economic landscape.

The W. H. York Round Barn is an architectural gem known for its circular design. Round barns gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to their efficiency in providing ample space for livestock, equipment storage, and other agricultural activities.

Attica's Carnegie Library in Fountain County, Indiana, stands as a significant historical and cultural landmark with a rich legacy.Attica Carnegie Library represents a historical testament to education, cultural enrichment, and community development, reflecting the philanthropic vision of Andrew Carnegie and contributing to the intellectual growth and heritage of Attica.

Bowsher Ford Covered Bridge is a historic and visually striking structure located in Parke County. It stands as a testament to the historical significance of covered bridges in Parke County. Constructed during a specific era, the bridge reflects the engineering techniques and architectural styles of its time.

Mill Creek Covered Bridge is a historic and notable structure in Parke County, Indiana, contributing to the area's rich covered bridge heritage. It holds historical significance, representing a crucial part of Parke County's transportation history. Constructed during a specific era, it stands as an architectural and engineering testament to the past.

The Richland-Plummer Creek Covered Bridge, situated in Greene County, Indiana, is a historic and picturesque structure that stands as a reminder of traditional bridge architecture in the region.Constructed in 1883, this covered bridge is a popular landmark known for its architectural style and historical significance. It spans Plummer Creek and served as a vital transportation link for local communities during its active use.

The Rush Creek Covered Bridge is south of Tangier, Indiana. The single span Burr Arch covered bridge structure was built by William Hendricks in 1904.It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

Marshall Covered Bridge is a historical and iconic structure in Parke County, Indiana, contributing to the area's rich covered bridge heritage. It holds historical significance, representing a chapter in Parke County's transportation history. Constructed during a specific era, it stands as an architectural and engineering testament to the past.