Known as the County Seat of Madison County - Edwardsville, Illinois, it is located within the Metro East/Greater St. Louis area. We are located just 20-25 minutes from downtown St. Louis, MO, which heightens the experience of living in Edwardsville. So, when we want to slow down a bit from the fast-paced life the Gateway to the West has to offer, we enjoy our fun family local favorites of our own.

The ever-growing Edwardsville is very proud of its city with ongoing new construction of businesses and economic expansion. It is continuously developing the area to accommodate more great restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues. Did I mention we have two Starbucks?

Whether you're moving to the area or just here for a visit, be sure to check out some of our local favorite things to do around Edwardsville, IL.

Explore Edwardsville/Glen Carbon

1. Edison's Entertainment Complex: 2477 S. State Rt 157... 618-307-9020

Great Fun For Everyone! They offer various entertainment options such as boutique bowling, laser tag, state-of-the-art arcade games, and high-definition projection screens and TVs. Seating for large groups is not a problem. A full-service bar, restaurant, catering, party rooms, and meeting spaces are available.

Whether you have a group of 10 or 500, Edison's will impress you with their delicious menu options. Step out on the patio for live music on Fridays from 5-9 pm. For news, updates, passes, and specials, visit edisonsfun.com

 

2. AMC Showplace: 6633 Center Grove Road...618-659-7479

A 12-screen movie theater of first-run feature films. This stadium seating theater offers IMAX Auditorium as well as Real 3D movies. Bring a valid ID to take advantage of their special pricing for Military, Seniors, and Students.

 

3. Watershed Nature Center: 1591 Tower Ave...618-692-7578

Over 40 acres of prairie, forest, and wetland habitats. The Watershed is dedicated to providing environmental education, passive recreation, preservation of native plant and animal species, and enjoyment. The trails are open 365 days a year, dusk to dawn. It features paved trails, a raised marsh walk, and a welcome center. (Please keep dogs on leashes at all times.)

 

4. The Gardens at SIUE: 6 Arboretum Lane...618-650-3210

This 36 acres of nature includes various options for all to enjoy. Whether you are out for a relaxing day or celebrating an event, you will find student-designed sculptures, paved walking paths, benches, bridges, and gardens throughout the area. A beautiful destination for photographers, picnics, events, and Weddings.

 

5. Children's Museum of Edwardsville: 722 Holyoake Rd...618-692-2094

Programs and Events that stimulate the curiosity interest, and needs in young minds. It offers a multitude of programs for newborns through 12 years of age, including baby sign language, preschool playgroups, storytime, summer camps, Girls Scout workshops, birthday parties, and more. They are always updating the programs and events.

 

6. Liberty Prairie Farm: 7003 State Route 140:...618-781-1468

For the Horse-lovers! Thinking about buying a horse? Check out their Learn & Lease Program before getting into horse ownership. Learn feeding routines, barn maintenance, basic healthcare, riding skills, and more. Or, lease to adoption program, which allows you to choose which horse you would like to build a relationship with, ride, and the trial of a potential sale or adoption through Happy Hooves Equine Rescue.

The main farm is set on 42 acres, with a barn with stalls, a large outdoor arena, a large indoor arena, a round pen area, large & small pastures with shelters, a fully stocked pond, individual lockers, free trailer parking, and trail on 246 acres.

 

7. Madison County Historical Museum: 715 N. Main Street...618-656-7562

The 1836 Wier House is a revitalized historic museum building with professionally designed interpretive galleries that will tell the story of Madison County through artifacts, documents, and books.

 

8. Better Place to Play (3 projects developed with the help of grants, donations & sponsorships)

 

 

a. Leon Corlew Park & Splash Pad  South Main & Swartz Street

Oversized water features for kids of all ages. Features include gentle bubblers, a large dumping bucket, and two tall winding slides. Fitness trail, two pavilions, and a concession area. Open May  through September)

 

b. Plummer Family Park (Located near the I-55 corridor)

State-of-the-art Sports Park for baseball, softball, and soccer. An all-accessible field for those with special needs. Pickleball courts, concessions, and restrooms. A regional destination for team

competition and tournament play.

 

c. Ice Rink & Teen Center (Located off Governor's Parkway)

The Plan: A 43,000-sq-ft facility to serve the demand for "ice-time" in regard to hockey, figure skating, and recreational skate use. The facility includes Locker rooms, Skate/equipment rental, Office space, meeting rooms, a 175-meter 4-lane indoor track, a Fitness/teen center, restrooms, and concessions.

 

9. We Rock the Spectrum Kid's gym: 1015 Century Drive...618-307-5834

The first of its kind in Illinois. A sensory gym for children - infant on up. An indoor playground specializing in occupational therapy equipment for children of all abilities to play and learn together. Children with special needs and neurotypical children will find safety and fulfillment while playing at the gym with friends and family. The gym also gives help, guidance, and support to families who are affected by autism. Below are a few of the specialized sensory equipment available:

  • Suspended equipment with swings – for balance and vestibular treatment
  • Crash mats and crash pillows – for fun, motor planning, and strength
  • Zipline – for stress release and joint and body relaxation
  • Trampoline – for building leg and core strength
  • Indoor play structure – for climbing and increasing playground skills
  • Sensory-based toys – for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills
  • Fine Motor and Arts and Crafts Area – for improved hand-eye coordination

Gym hours, calendar, and registration are available online. Open play, daily pass, and multiple membership options are available for convenience and gym frequency lovers. Check out their birthday parties and private events for a day your little one will remember.


See Edwardsville Properties For Sale Here


10. Halloween ParadeLoved by the locals and a must-see!

An annual tradition for nearly 100 years, the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce has brought the Halloween parade to the community on Halloween night. Spectators line the downtown streets of Edwardsville in anticipation of the yearly changing-themed parade with marching bands, school groups, organizations, entertainers, and more than 100 floats. The parade starts promptly at 6:30 pm.

I highly suggest you save your spot early; parade goers start setting out their lawn chairs early in the morning on the day of the parade.

The parade route will begin at the Lincoln Middle School parking lot at Schwarz & West Streets, then travel east on St. Louis Street to Vandalia Street, then north on North Main Street, and will disband at High Street.

 

11. Altitude Trampoline Park: 91 Fountain Drive, Glen Carbon, IL 62034...618-744-6959

The trampoline park is 30,000 square feet with 20,000 square feet of interconnected wall-to-wall trampoline attractions, from dodgeball and basketball to foam pits and fitness classes. They offer a special area just for little ones so the whole family can enjoy this high-energy and exciting entertainment. Birthday parties and group events are welcome...so get out and jump!

 

12. Beast Escape Room: 4517 IL-159 #4, Glen Carbon, IL 62034...618530-7341

A fun and unique mind challenge. Feel the excitement and need for urgency after being locked in one of two themed rooms that will require your observation, problem-solving, and communication skills to find and decode the hidden clues before time runs out. A group of at least four is recommended in order to enhance your success rate in these puzzle rooms.

 

13. Relleke Pumpkin Patch / Fall Festival473 Sand Praire Rd, Pontoon Beach, IL 62040...618-797-6858

Farm family fun: start the pumpkin season with good food, live music, and activities such as picking your own pumpkin, finding your way through the corn maze and the 5-acre jungle maze, camel rides, hay rides, face painting, pumpkin painting, petting zoo and so much more! Activities and rides require tickets, and some rides have restrictions.

  • Admission: Free Parking: Free

 

14. Wildey Theatre: 252 North Main Street, Edwardsville, IL 62025...618 307-1750

The 1909 Historic Theatre is open to live venues, classic films, and dueling pianos.

Built as an opera house in 1909 by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, it was extensively renovated and reopened in April 2011 as a center of the performing arts, live entertainment, classic films, and dueling pianos. The theatre seats 325, has state-of-the-art technical capabilities, and has space for special events and business meetings.

 

15. Fox Creek Golf Course:  6555 Fox Creek Drive, Edwardsville, IL 62025...618-692-9400

Fox Creek Golf Course is a semi-private 18-hole course that offers all levels of golfers a real challenge to their playing skills. Rolling terrain, wooded bluffs, winding creeks, and seven lakes make this course scenically beautiful and challenging. Paved golf cart paths carry golfers between the 36 fairways.

 

16. Madison County Transit:  A network of more than 85 miles of pedestrian-friendly bike trails that intersect with downtown Edwardsville and uniquely lead to surrounding communities. Enjoy the natural surroundings as you walk, run, rollerblade, skate, etc. The MTC trials are accessible to people using walkers and wheelchairs, including motorized wheelchairs. Check out the MTC website for more details and maps.

 

17. Land of Goshen Community Market:  Spend a Saturday morning downtown Edwardsville browsing the many local vendors' unique items. You can pick up some fresh local produce or handmade crafts until noon during the appointed season. Check out their website for the current season and times.

 

18. Edwardsville Public Library: 112 South Kansas Street, Edwardsville, IL 62025...618-692-7556

Features include an extensive digital collection of films and eBooks that can be checked out. You can request a one-on-one appointment for help with computer or technology questions. They have various items for you to check out that you might not expect at the library. Everything from portable Blu-ray players, universal travel power adapters, and blood pressure cuffs, to kids' Launchpads and preschool kits. Additionally, there is a 3D printer, and you can reserve a Quiet Study Room.

 

Popular Places to Dine

Everyone's taste varies, but we think these 21 places (listed in no particular order) are a good start to get your grub on. Pay a visit to some of the best restaurants in the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon area.

  1. 1818 Chophouse
  2. Bella Milano
  3. Big Daddy's
  4. Chava's Mexican Restaurant
  5. Chicken Salad Chick
  6. Cleveland Heath
  7. Dewey's Pizza
  8. Doc's Smokehouse & Catering
  9. Edley's Bar-B-Que
  10. Ed's Delicatessen
  11. Foundry Public House
  12. Global Brew Tap House
  13. Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill
  14. Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill
  15. Kyoto Sushi Steakhouse
  16. McAlister's Deli
  17. Mike Shannon's Grill
  18. Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
  19. Peel Wood Fired Pizza
  20. Recess Brewing
  21. Stagger Inn
  22. Sugarfire Smoke House
  23. Sugo's Spaghetteria
  24. Texas Roadhouse
  25. Twisted Biscuit Brunch Co.

 

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Discover Local Favorites - Edwardsville, IL

 

Dana Ficker Coldwell Banker Brown Realty®

There are plenty of places to get a fresh-cut Christmas Tree in The Metro East Area. While I may not have listed them all, there is a great selection of Christmas Tree Sales Locations.

 

Where to Buy A Fresh-Cut Christmas Tree

 

Alton

Tangled Tinsel Christmas Tree Farm

The Farms’ season is Thanksgiving Day until Christmas Eve or sold out.

Choose and cut your own tree or pick an already cut from their large tree selection.

  • Free hayrides
  •  Free shaking and baling of your tree
  • As well as wrapping it in netting for ease of transporting.

Stop by the heated Gift Shop for a Free Complimentary cup of Hot Chocolate.

Hours:   Thanksgiving & Black Friday 10 am – 6 pm

Monday – Wednesday 3 pm – 6 pm

Thursday & Friday 3 pm – 6 pm

Saturday 10 am – 6 pm

Sunday 11 am – 6 pm

5 Christmas Tree Lane, Alton,  IL 62002

618-465-7036

Located approximately 5 miles North of Alton, IL, off of Fosterburg Road.

website: Tangled Tinsel

 

Millstadt

Eckert’s

Over 40 acres of evergreen forest to search for the perfect Christmas Tree. Free shaking and bailing of your tree are provided. Pre-cut trees are also available.

Location: 2719 Eckert Orchard Lane

Millstadt, IL 62260

618-233-0513

website: Eckerts’s Millstadt

 

 

Pocahontas

Daniken Tree Farm

Opens Saturday before Thanksgiving, 9 am – 7 pm (Closed Thanksgiving Day)

Many trees are harvested to be displayed and sold in indoor and outdoor displays. Other trees are left in the field to be freshly harvested by individual customers.

The trees and customers are given a wagon ride back to the tree barn, where all the trees get the dead needles shaken out of them and are prepared for tree stands. Before a staff member loads the trees into the customer’s vehicle, they are baled.

  •  70 Acres of trees to choose from
  • Free hayride to and from fields
  •  All trees shook and baled
  •  Wreaths, garlands & decorations
  •  Indoor display area
  •  Gift Shop
  •  Bonfire every day

Location: 781 IL Rt. 140, Pocahontas, IL 62275

618-664-4067

website: Daniken Tree Farm

 

 Already Cut Trees

 

Garden Center at The Home Depot

Located in: The Home Depot

Hours: Monday – Saturday Opens 6 am | Closes 9 pm & Sunday Opens 8 am | Closes 7 pm

 

Address: 1049 Collinsville Xngs, Collinsville, IL 62234

Phone: 618-344-9022

 

Address: 2500 Troy Road, Edwardsville, IL 62025

Phone: 618-650-8404

 

Walmart Garden Center

Located in: Walmart Supercenter

Address: 379 W Pontoon Rd, Granite City, IL 62040

Hours: Opens Monday – Sunday 6 am | Closes 12 pm

Phone: 618-451-4201

 

Address: 1040 Collinsville Crossing Blvd, Collinsville, IL 62234

Hours: Opens Monday – Sunday | 24 hours

Phone: 618-344-4480

 

Address: 12495 State Route 143, Highland, IL 62249

Hours: Hours: Opens Monday – Sunday | 24 hours

Phone: 618-654-4596

 

Address: 610 Wesley Dr, Wood River, IL 62095

Hours: Opens Monday – Sunday | 24 hours

Phone: 618-259-0290

 

Garden Center at Lowe’s

Located in: Lowe’s

Hours: Monday – Saturday Opens 6 am | Closes 10 pm & Sunday Opens 8 am |Closes 8 pm

 

Address: 1619 Homer Adams Pkwy. Alton, IL

Phone: 618- 474-9900

 

Address: 159 Whistle Stop Dr, Glen Carbon, IL

Phone: 618-656-2140

 

Tree Types

The following Christmas Tree species or types are sold and grown in the United States.

 

Leyland Cypress – Cypress ocyparis leylandii – the foliage is dark green to gray color; has upright branches with a feathery appearance; has a light scent; good for people with allergies to other Christmas tree types. One of the most sought-after Christmas trees in the Southeastern United States.

Balsam Fir – Abies balsamea – ¾” to 1 ½” short, flat, long-lasting needles that are rounded at the tip; nice, dark green color with silvery cast and fragrant. Named for the balsam or resin found in blisters on the bark.

Resin is used to make microscope slides and was sold like chewing gum; used to treat wounds in Civil War. Abies ancient name – rising or tall tree, the name for the European fir, balsamea balsam-producing.

Douglas-Fir – Pseudotsuga menziesii – good fragrance; holds blue to dark green; 1″ to 1 ½” needles; needles have one of the best aromas among Christmas trees when crushed. Named after David Douglas, who studied the tree in the 1800s, good conical shape; can live for a thousand years.

Douglas-fir is considered the second tallest tree in North America, after redwood, and can grow over 300 ft. tall.

Fraser Fir – Abies fraseri – dark green, flattened needles; ½ to 1 inch long; good needle retention; nice scent; pyramid-shaped strong branches which turn upward. Named for a botanist, John Fraser, who explored the southern Appalachians in the late 1700s.

Growing Fraser fir for Christmas trees and wreaths is a multi-million dollar business in the southern Appalachians.

Grand Fir – Adies grandis – shiny, dark green needles about 1″ – 1 1/2 ” long; the needles, when crushed, give off a citrusy smell. On Mt. Hood, Oregon, early settlers tied ropes around grand firs to slow down and control their descent.

Rope-burned trees from this era are still standing. Grand fir’s sweet pitch was once chewed by Native Americans.

Noble Fir – Abies procera – one-inch long, bluish-green needles with a silvery appearance; has short, stiff branches; great for heavier ornaments; keeps well; is used to make wreaths, door swags, and garland.

White Fir or Concolor Fir – Abies concolor – blue-green needles are ½ to 1½ inches long; nice shape and good aroma, a citrus scent; good needle retention. In nature, can live to 350 years.

White Fir is an excellent ornamental tree and is widely planted in the eastern United States.

Scots or Scotch Pine – Pinus sylvestris – most common Christmas tree; stiff branches; stiff, dark green needles one inch long; holds needles for four weeks; needles will stay on even when dry; has an open appearance and more room for ornaments; keeps aroma throughout the season; introduced into the United States by European settlers.

Virginia Pine – Pinus virginiana – dark green needles are 1 ½” – 3″ long in twisted pairs; strong branches enabling it to hold heavy ornaments; strong aromatic pine scent; a popular southern Christmas tree.

The Virginia pine is an aggressive pioneer that produces pulpwood more rapidly than most pines on poor sites. It is also useful for mine land reclamation.

White Pine – Pinus strobus – soft, blue-green needles, 2 to 5 inches long in bundles of five; retains needles throughout the holiday season; very full appearance; little or no fragrance; less allergic reactions as compared to more fragrant trees.

The largest pine in the United States, the state tree of Michigan & Maine, slender branches will support fewer and smaller decorations as compared to Scotch pine. Its wood is used in cabinets, interior finish, and carving.

Native Americans used the inner bark as food. Early colonists used the inner bark to make cough medicine. White pine (also called ship-mast pine) had a pivotal role in the American Revolution and provided lumber for colonial expansion westward.

Blue Spruce – Picea pungens – dark green to powdery blue; very stiff needles, ¾” to 1 ½” long; good form; will drop needles in a warm room; symmetrical; but is best among species for needle retention; branches are stiff and will support many heavy decorations. State tree of Utah & Colorado.

And, can live in nature for 600-800 years.

 

Sources

Virginia Tech: Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation

Oregon State University: Department of Horticulture

National Christmas Tree Association

North Dakota State University

See the full list of Christmas Tree Types at the University of Illinois Extension. Credits to: Ron Wolford, Extension Educator, Horticulture

Cook County Unit|8753 South Greenwood Avenue Suite 100, Chicago, Illinois 60619

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Website: https://www.danaficker.com

 

No matter your personal preferences, the St. Louis Metro East has plenty to offer. From beautiful scenery to rich historical heritage, there are plenty of fun activities and always something happening for families to enjoy. Things to do while visiting the Metro East do differ among visitors.

Below is a sample outline of things you can do in the Metro East at suitable venues. Check out individual Facebook pages for up-to-date events, schedules, and announcements.

Things to do in the Metro East

Of course, if you want to Shop the Metro East Real Estate, you can do that here with Dana Ficker at Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors Edwardsville.

Things to Do with Kids

  1. Bowling, laser tag & arcade games at Edison’s Entertainment Complex
  2. Build happy & curious learners at the Children’s Museum of Edwardsville
  3. A gym where kids can be kids We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s gym
  4. Aerial action- dodge, dunk, laugh & jump Altitude Trampoline Park
  5. Liberty Prairie Farm | Facebook page
  6. Go Horseback riding: Pere Marquette
  7. Glide or go fast around the ice rink at Granite City Ice Rink – Wilson Park, R.P Lumber Center recreational complex – Edwardsville, or East Alton Ice Arena – East Alton
  8. Racing leagues for kids, The Metro St. Louis Quarter Midget Racing Association for youths 5 thru 16 years of age. Tri-City Junior Speedway, Granite City
  9. Eckert’s Family Farm-Apple, peach & berry picking, special activities, hayrides, garden center, and country store
  10. Cool down on a hot day at Leon Corlew Splash Pad – Edwardsville

Things to Do for Free

  1. Take a hike: Pere Marquette
  2. Get out your binoculars and go Bald Eagle Watching
  3. Willoughby Heritage Farm, 1940s farming life, with tractors, barns & live animals.
  4. Enjoy a summer concert at Bobby’s Frozen Custard
  5. Skate Park: Granite City Wilson Park
  6. Spend the morning at the Goshen Farmers Market – in downtown Edwardsville
  7. Discover Monks Mound archaeological site
  8. Take a tour & see towboats and barges push their way through the Melvin Price Lock & Dam 26. One of the giant locks on the Mississippi River – Alton
  9. Grab your blanket and see a movie in the park

Things to Do on the Weekend

  1. Grafton Wineries (Award-winning wines on the bluff with breathtaking views.)
  2. Pere Marquette State Park (Recreational ideas include: biking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and boating.)
  3. Stand next to the World’s Tallest Man Statue (Robert Wadlow – Alton’s Gentle Giant)
  4. Appreciate art from Jacoby Arts Center – Alton
  5. National Great Rivers Museum – Alton
  6. Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
  7. Climb 50, 100, or 150 feet above the Confluence of the Mississippi & Missouri Rivers
  8. Try your luck at Argosy Casino
  9. Learn about local Underground Railroad sites on a shuttle tour – Alton
  10. View Civil War artifacts, 1830s furnishing, and Native Indian collection at the Six-Mile Museum. 158-year-old home located in Granite City.
  11. Find your flea market treasure at The Loading Docket -Grafton

Things to Do for a Thrill

  1. Have an outdoor adventure while Rock climbing: Per Marquette
  2. Hit the Shooting Range
  3. Blow off some steam by testing your Axe throwing skills: Glen Carbon
  4. Soar through the river bluffs for a stunning river view; Grafton Zipline at Aeries’ Resort
  5. Get ready to go fast. Racing excitement at Premier Go-Kart Racing on a custom-built road course inside a NASCAR superspeedway – Gateway Motorsports Park
  6. Discover the Ghost Walks of Alton
  7. Sneak into a sniping position at Bing Field Paintball & Airsoft park

Things to Do on a Date

  1. Check out the Loading Docket for patio dining, live music, a casual atmosphere, and great river views.
  2. Get pulled into the powerful sound and color of AMC Theatre’s big screen – Edwardsville
  3. Ambiance dining at 1818 Chophouse – Edwardsville
  4. Cruise the Mississippi River, and enjoy the scenic beauty during the River Rambler Tour – Grafton
  5. Enjoy a “foot-hi” pie at Blue Springs Cafe – Highland
  6. Test your skills, grit, smarts, and ability at Beast Escape Room
  7. Appreciate a date at Bella Milano
  8. Breathe, taking views from the Grafton Wineries
  9. Eat, Drink, Play, and Watch Sports in Edwardsville at Edison’s Entertainment Complex
  10. Dine at Gentelin’s on Broadway (Fine Dining with a view of the Mississippi River)
  11. Mix, Mingle, and enjoy live music at Fast Eddies Bon-Air
  12. Stroll through Antique Row – Alton, Grafton
  13. Tony’s Restaurant (Steak House) – Alton
  14. Get up high with the best seat in the Midwest at Aeries Sky Tour – Grafton
  15. Wine on the Water while enjoying a beautiful sunset cruise
  16. Relax & smile while enjoying Downtown Outdoor Dining – Edwardsville
  17. Pick up some good vibes at the Alton Amphitheater summer concert season

Things to Do Outdoors

  1. Take a motorcycle ride along the scenic Great River Rd
  2. Head up to Pere Marquette. Hike, Camp, Eat at the Lodge
  3. Grab your pole and go Fishing
  4. Check out the Hunting areas at Horse Lake State Park
  5. Hit your woods, but stay out of them with a round of Golf
  6. Take a walk in the wilderness at Watershed Nature Center
  7. Explore nature at The Gardens at SIUE
  8. See the World of Outlaws at Tri-City Speedway – Granite City
  9. Need for speed fix at Gateway Motorsports Park, INDYCAR, NASCAR,& NHRA Drag Racing
  10. Grab your helmet, a water bottle & map, and jump on the MCT Trails
  11. Take a Haunted Tour on the Alton Trolley
  12. Perfect your swing at Ball Buster’s batting cages in Maryville
  13. Take in Powerful live Thoroughbred racing at Fairmount Park Racetrack
  14. Launch your boat at the Alton Marina
  15. Riverfront Park & Amphitheater (Outdoor summer concerts & festivals with the riverfront as the backdrop.)
  16. Head to Horseshoe Lake State Park: 2,960 acres for Fishing, Hunting, Camping, and Picnicking
  17. Learn the fastest growing sport you’ve never heard of “Pickleball” – Maryville
  18. Cycle the trails along the limestone bluffs & confluence of two mighty rivers
  19. Water surfing and boating at Carlyle Lake
  20. Fishing, camping, and swimming at Vandalia Lake
  21. Boating, fishing, and nature trails at Silver Lake Park-Highland

Things to Do When It’s Hot

  1. During the Summer, visit Splash City Family Waterpark – Collinsville
  2. Raging Rivers Water Park (Riverside with pools, flumes, rafting & slides.)
  3. Relax at a Public Pool
  4. Ice cream makes everything better…Get a scope at Bobby’s in Maryville, Annie’s in Glen Carbon and Edwardsville, and Weather Vane in Granite City
  5. Play Bingo at the Firemen’s Hall_Collinsville

Things to Do in the Metro East – Special Events – Fairs & Festivals

  1. Halloween Parade – Edwardsville
  2. Italian Fest – Collinsville
  3. Glen Fest – Glen Carbon
  4. Maryville Homecoming
  5. Party at the Beach, free concert with national acts
  6. Relleke Pumpkin Patch / Fall Festival
  7. Elizabeth Parish Picnic/Carnival – Granite City
  8. Patriots in the Park: 2nd largest fireworks display in the St. Louis area.
  9. Visit Santa at Santa’s Cabin – Granite City
  10. St. Jacob Strawberry Fest
  11. International Horseradish Festival – Collinsville
  12. Alton Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market
  13. Bike Night and Car Cruise – Granite City Elks Lodge
  14. Grafton Market @ The Loading Dock
  15. Check out the Local Arts and Crafts at the Melting Pot Market – Granite City
  16. Cool Hot Rods and Exotic Cars All-Wheel Drive-In Car Show –  Alton
  17. See artists transform the pavement into colorful art on Highlands’ Downtown Square – Street Art Festival and Art Expo is in the fall
  18. Get your groove on at the Alton Jazz & Wine Festival -Liberty Bank Amphitheater – in the fall
  19. Come get your kicks, Annual Route 66 Festival -Edwardsville-in June
  20. Wood River Spring Fest
  21. Make your way to the Great Godfrey Maze. 7 acres of confusion – in the fall
  22. Experience the all-day Mardi Gras festivities downtown Granite City – February
  23. Wordi Gras Celebration and parade in Worden, IL – Redneck take on Mardi Gras”
  24. Code 3 Spices Smokin’ On Main (BBQ Competition) Upton Town Collinsville – in July
  25. Sample some of the most delicious peaches at the Peach Festival at Pere Marquette Lodge | Grafton – August
  26. Get your kicks at the Annual Edwardsville Route 66 Festival with classic cars, great food, and fun.

Special Events for Kids…

(Check out Facebook for current events, dates & times.)

  1. Kids Fishing Derby – Marine -Heritage Lake Park_ Free Event_12 & Under
  2. Kids Fishing Derby – Collinsville – Woodland Park _Free Event_No License Needed
  3. Spring Pony Rides & Carnival_Happy Hooves Equine Rescue_Edwardsville
  4. Mother Son Fun Date – Edwardsville_ Wildey Theatre_ Edwardsville
  5. Spring Arrive and Drive at the MSLQMRA Tri-City Junior Speedway (March or April..weather permitting) _ in Granite City _ Ages 3-13 yrs drive a real race car. (10 laps $10.00)

More Things to Do in the Metro East across the River

  1. St. Louis Gateway Arch
  2. St. Louis Zoo (Free admission)
  3. Six Flags
  4. Live Concerts
  5. Professional Sports Events
  6. Botanical Gardens
  7. Fox Theatre
  8. Shop at the Galleria
  9. Put a ring on it from Tiffany & Co. at St. Louis – Plaza Frontenac
  10. City Museum
  11. Ballpark Village

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Things to Do Around Edwardsville, IL 62025

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