Alton, a picturesque riverside community in Illinois perched on
the banks of the mighty Mississippi River directly opposite St.
Louis, Missouri, has undergone a remarkable evolution from its
origins as a gritty, blue-collar industrial center focused on
heavy manufacturing to a vibrant tourism hotspot and one of the
Midwest's premier destinations for weddings, receptions, and
special events.
Situated along the 33-mile Meeting of the
Great Rivers National Scenic Byway—a breathtaking route
designated as one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois, winding
through historic towns, limestone bluffs, and the confluence of
the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers—the Greater Alton
region is brimming with diverse attractions and activities.
Founded in 1837, the area boasts a rich historical tapestry,
including ties to the Lewis and Clark expedition (with sites
like the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site in nearby Hartford
and Camp DuBois), the abolitionist movement (highlighted by the
Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument), Native American legends such as the
Piasa Bird (a massive petroglyph replica on a bluff in Grafton),
and even the site of Abraham Lincoln's only duel. It's also home
to notable figures like jazz icon Miles Davis, honored with a
bronze statue, and Robert Wadlow, the world's tallest man at
2.71 meters, whose legacy is preserved through exhibits.
Visitors can explore more than five wineries, including the
award-winning Grafton Winery & Brewhaus, Aerie's Resort with its
river views, and Bella Vista Winery, offering tastings, tours,
and live music amid scenic vineyards. Antique enthusiasts will
delight in over 40 shops along "Antique Row" in historic
downtown Alton, featuring treasures from spots like the Alton
Antique Center, Alton Exchange Mall (spanning 16,000 square
feet), and Tinner's Anvil, with everything from vintage
collectibles to handmade crafts. For accommodations, there are
around 15 bed and breakfasts and guest houses, such as the
luxurious Beall Mansion on "Millionaire's Row" (an elegant inn
with river views and award-winning service), the Green Tree Inn,
and the Alton Cracker Factory, providing cozy, historic stays
with modern amenities.
Golfers have access to at least
nine courses in the vicinity, including the challenging 18-hole
Spencer T. Olin Community Golf Course in a 750-acre park, the
family-owned Cloverleaf Golf Course (the oldest in the country
under continuous family operation), Rock Springs Golf Course,
The Woodlands Golf Club, and Rolling Hills Golf Club in nearby
Godfrey. Water lovers can dock at the Alton Marina for boating
excursions, or try parasailing for adrenaline-pumping aerial
views of the river. Shopping options include the Alton Square
Mall, with major retailers and local boutiques, while outdoor
adventures abound with hiking and biking trails in Pere
Marquette State Park (Illinois' largest at over 3,230 hectares,
featuring fishing docks, horseback riding, and picnic areas),
birdwatching at the Audubon Center at Riverlands (spot bald
eagles and trumpeter swans), zip lining at Aerie's in Grafton,
and riverboat cruises on vessels like the Spirit of Peoria for
sunset vistas.
Dining is equally impressive, with over 60
restaurants offering fine cuisine, craft brews, and eclectic
options—from riverside eateries in Grafton to lively spots like
Fast Eddie’s Bon Air, a historic bar turned premier live music
venue. The area also hosts year-round events, open-air markets,
artisan farmers' markets, and an eclectic music scene, adding to
its charm. Known as "America’s Most Haunted Small Town," Alton
offers guided haunted tours exploring ghostly tales from its
Civil War-era prison ruins and beyond. With additional
highlights like the National Great Rivers Museum at Melvin Price
Locks and Dam (providing eight-story views of river traffic),
the quaint village of Elsah (a National Historic Place with
19th-century stone homes), and family-friendly outings amid the
palisades and confluences, Alton seamlessly blends natural
beauty, cultural depth, and modern recreation for an
unforgettable Midwest escape.
Alton, Illinois, serves as an exceptional destination for bird
enthusiasts, drawing visitors from afar to witness its remarkable winter
wildlife spectacle. Annually, from late December through the end of
February, the area along the Mississippi River becomes home to the
largest congregation of American bald eagles in the continental United
States, rivaled only by those in Alaska. This phenomenon occurs because
the unfrozen waters near the locks and dams create prime feeding grounds
for the eagles, who feast on fish in the turbulent currents below. Peak
viewing typically happens in January and February, with early morning or
late afternoon being the best times to spot them perched in trees or
soaring overhead. A variety of guided options enhance the experience,
including shuttle tours (often on trolleys or motor coaches for groups),
luxurious limousine excursions lasting around three hours, and
self-guided routes for independent explorers. Seasonal events like the
Alton Eagle Ice Festival, featuring ice sculptures and live eagle
presentations, and Eagle Meet & Greets provide educational close-up
encounters with rehabilitated birds.
Next, history buffs will
appreciate the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site, located at #1 Lewis
and Clark Trail in nearby Hartford, just a short drive from Alton. This
marks the official starting point of the famed Corps of Discovery
expedition in 1804, where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark prepared
their team for the journey into uncharted western territories. The
museum offers immersive exhibits across five rooms, including a
15-minute film "At Journey's Edge," interactive displays on the
expedition's planning and challenges, and a full-scale 55-foot cutaway
replica of a keelboat used during the voyage. Visitors can also explore
a reconstructed settler cabin to glimpse early 19th-century frontier
life. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during fall
and winter (closed Mondays and Tuesdays), admission is free, making it
an accessible dive into America's exploratory past.
Another key
historical gem is Lincoln-Douglas Square, situated at the corner of
Broadway Street and Landmarks Boulevard in downtown Alton. This site
memorializes the seventh and final debate between Abraham Lincoln and
Stephen A. Douglas on October 15, 1858, during their U.S. Senate
campaign, which attracted over 5,000 spectators and spotlighted national
divisions over slavery. Lincoln famously reiterated themes from his
"House Divided" speech here, warning that the nation could not remain
half-slave and half-free. The square, built in 1995 on the former Alton
City Hall grounds (destroyed by fire in 1924), features two
larger-than-life bronze statues of the debaters, sculpted by Jerry
McKenna, along with engraved brick walkways funded by community
donations. It's part of the Lincoln Legacy Trail and offers a poignant
reflection on pre-Civil War politics.
For a broader look at local
heritage, the Alton Museum of History and Art at 2809 College Avenue
provides an in-depth exploration of the region's past, though it is
currently temporarily closed—check for updates before planning a visit.
Housed in the historic Loomis Hall, the oldest continuously used
educational building in Illinois, the museum covers topics from Native
American settlements and French colonization in 1783 to Alton's roles in
westward expansion, the industrial revolution as a rail and river hub,
the Underground Railroad, Civil War events (including a Confederate
cemetery and prison), and connections to figures like Abraham Lincoln,
Elijah P. Lovejoy (the abolitionist killed in 1837), and jazz legend
Miles Davis. When open, hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to
4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with tours available by calling
+1 618-462-2763. A highlight is the extensive exhibit on Robert Wadlow,
featuring photos and artifacts.
Directly across from the museum
stands the Robert Wadlow Statue at 2810 College Avenue, a life-size
bronze tribute to Alton's native son, famously known as the "Gentle
Giant" and the tallest person in recorded history. Born in 1918 with a
pituitary gland disorder that caused unchecked growth, Wadlow reached an
astonishing height of 8 feet 11.1 inches and weighed 439 pounds by the
time of his untimely death at age 22 in 1940, resulting from a septic
blister infection on his ankle. Despite his extraordinary size, he led a
relatively normal life, graduating high school at 17 (already 8 feet 3
inches tall), participating in Boy Scouts, collecting stamps, and even
touring with the Ringling Brothers Circus and as a spokesperson for a
shoe company, visiting over 800 towns. The statue invites visitors to
stand beside it for perspective, and a nearby bronze replica of his
custom chair offers a spot to sit and reflect on his story of resilience
and kindness.
Finally, delve into the ecological and cultural
significance of the region's waterways at the National Great Rivers
Museum, found at #2 Locks and Dam Way in East Alton. Open daily from 9
a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving and
Christmas), this 12,000-square-foot facility, operated by the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers since its construction in 1998, chronicles the
Mississippi River's profound influence on America from prehistoric eras
to modern times through 20 interactive, computer-animated exhibits.
Highlights include displays on the river's natural forces, the
engineering of the locks and dams system (with hands-on simulators for
steering barges and operating locks), human water usage, and
environmental stewardship. Admission is free, and complimentary guided
tours of the adjacent Melvin Price Locks and Dam—spanning the river and
handling massive barge traffic—run three times daily at 10 a.m., 1 p.m.,
and 3 p.m., lasting 45 minutes to an hour with a half-mile walk
involved. Watch vessels rise or fall up to 80 feet as they navigate the
waterway, offering a fascinating glimpse into river commerce. The museum
also features a theater, classroom, gift shop, and pavilion, making it
ideal for families or groups (call +1 618-462-6979 or 800-258-6645 for
reservations).
Beall Mansion Historic Home Tour
Nestled at 407 E. 12th St. in
Alton, Illinois, the Beall Mansion offers captivating historic tours.
Reach out at ☏ +1 618 474-9100 or toll-free +1-866-THE-BEALL (843-2325)
to book. This grand, over 10,000-square-foot, three-story mansion was
constructed in 1903 by railroad baron and entrepreneur Z.B. Job as a
lavish wedding present for his son and daughter-in-law, Mary Drummond,
an heiress from the prominent Drummond Tobacco family. In 1909, it was
acquired by Edmond Beall, a key local figure who served as an Alton
alderman, four-time mayor, state senator, industrialist, and financier.
Designed by renowned architect Lucas Pfeiffenberger, the home
exemplifies early 20th-century opulence, boasting one-of-a-kind
antiques, hand-sewn Oriental rugs, marble and bronze statuary, and
intricate architectural details.
Visitors can immerse themselves in
30- to 60-minute narrated tours that explore the mansion's fascinating
history, elegant architecture, and period furnishings. The economy
30-minute option focuses on the first floor, while the premium one-hour
version often includes access to second- and third-floor bedrooms (if
not occupied by bed-and-breakfast guests), time for Q&A, viewing
restoration photo albums, and—weather permitting—an exploration of the
one-acre grounds and gardens. Highlights include tales of Z.B. Job's
connection to outlaw Jesse James, Edmond Beall's ties to figures like
George Washington, Mary Todd Lincoln, and Julia Dent Grant (wife of
Ulysses S. Grant), his efforts in preserving the Cahokia Mounds, and his
nickname as the "stork mayor" for promoting public improvements.
Situated in Alton's Middletown Historic District, which is listed on the
National Register of Historic Places and known as "Millionaire's Row,"
the mansion is just 12 blocks from the Mississippi River and about 23
miles from St. Louis' Gateway Arch.
All tours require advance
appointments due to limited availability. Pricing for the economy tour:
Adults $12, Seniors (62+) $11, Children (2-12) $6, Infants (under 2)
free. For the premium tour: Adults $20, Seniors $18, Children $10,
Infants free. Discounts apply for groups of four or more adults ($2 off
each), and groups of 12+ can inquire about special rates; overnight
guests receive complimentary tours.
Haunted Alton Tours
Operated by the History and Hauntings Book Co. at 515 East Third Street
in Alton, these chilling experiences can be arranged toll-free at
+1-888-446-7859 or by emailing ghosts@altonhauntings.com. Tours
generally kick off at 7 PM, with full schedules available on their
website (altonhauntings.com). Acclaimed ghost hunter, author, and
historian Troy Taylor, who famously labels Alton as "one of the most
haunted small towns in America," guides participants through the shadowy
secrets of this river town. Drawing from his best-selling book Haunted
Alton (recently revised and expanded with double the historical and
supernatural content), the tours uncover eerie true stories of ghosts,
true crime, and paranormal activity in the old downtown area, including
visits to undisclosed haunted locations.
A variety of tour options
cater to different interests: award-winning 3-hour walking tours run
from April to November, delving into haunted hotspots on foot; extended
late-night versions at sites like the Mineral Springs Hotel; 3-hour bus
tours during the Halloween season that venture behind the scenes at
multiple eerie spots across Alton; haunted pub crawls through downtown
that blend spirits (both ghostly and alcoholic) with history; and
year-round "Dinner and Spirits" events featuring meals alongside Troy
Taylor's storytelling. Private tours are also available for groups.
Beyond the tours, visitors can explore the American Oddities Museum
(open Fridays to Sundays from 12-5 PM), which houses exhibits on Alton's
haunted past, supernatural artifacts, sideshow relics, serial killers,
funeral items, and more, plus an in-person bookstore for Taylor's works.
Pricing starts at around $20 per person (verify current rates on the
website, as they may vary by tour type).
By Car
Alton, Illinois, is conveniently accessible by road,
located just a short drive from major interstates. The city is reachable
within 15 minutes or less from both I-270 and I-255, making it an easy
connection point for travelers coming from the greater St. Louis area or
beyond. Key state routes passing directly through Alton include Illinois
Route 3 (which follows the scenic Great River Road along the Mississippi
River), Illinois Route 140, and Illinois Route 143. From downtown St.
Louis, Missouri, the drive to Alton covers approximately 21-22 miles and
typically takes about 30 minutes via routes like US-67 (Lewis and Clark
Boulevard) or MO-367, depending on traffic. This proximity makes Alton a
quick getaway for those in the Metro-East region, with ample parking
available throughout the city and connections to local Madison County
Transit buses for further exploration.
By Plane
For air
travel, Alton benefits from its close proximity to two airports serving
the St. Louis metropolitan area. The primary option is St. Louis Lambert
International Airport (STL IATA), located at 10701 Lambert International
Boulevard, about 21 miles southwest of Alton—a drive that usually takes
around 30 minutes. As Missouri's busiest airport, STL handles nearly 16
million passengers annually and is served by 12 major airlines, with
Southwest offering the most daily flights. It provides extensive
domestic and international connections, including direct service to
Frankfurt, Germany, along with ground transportation options like taxis,
rideshares (Uber/Lyft), car rentals, and shuttles. Contact: +1 314
426-8000.
Closer to home is St. Louis Regional Airport (ALN IATA),
situated at 8 Terminal Drive in East Alton, just 4 miles east of Alton
(about a 10-minute drive). This FAA-designated reliever airport focuses
primarily on general aviation, private jets, charters, air taxis, and
minimal commercial service (less than 1% of operations). It's home to
West Star Aviation for aircraft maintenance, repairs, and refurbishing,
and supports activities like medical transport and air cargo. With long
runways capable of handling large aircraft, it's ideal for business or
private flyers, though it lacks major scheduled commercial flights.
Amenities include fueling, hangars, and community events like fly-ins.
Contact: +1 618 259-2531 or toll-free +1-888-562-9950.
By Train
Alton enjoys frequent rail service through Amtrak, making it a key stop
on routes connecting the Midwest. The city is served multiple times
daily (up to 10 trains on average) by the Lincoln Service, which runs
between Chicago and St. Louis, offering a convenient option for regional
travel. In addition, the long-distance Texas Eagle route stops here,
traveling from Chicago to San Antonio with through cars extending to Los
Angeles, providing connections to the Southwest and West Coast. Trains
operate five times a day from Alton to St. Louis alone, with fares
starting as low as $13 for short trips. The Alton Regional Multimodal
Transportation Center, located at 1 Golf Road, features a modern
facility with a spacious waiting room, ticket office, baggage assistance
(when available), restrooms, and accessibility for wheelchairs. It's
integrated with Madison County Transit bus routes 7, 8, and 10 for local
connections, and offers bicycle facilities. Parking is available but
incurs a fee of $8 after a two-hour grace period, with no free long-term
options. For schedules and bookings, visit Amtrak.com or call
1-800-USA-RAIL.
By Boat
Boaters can access Alton via the
Mississippi River, with the Alton Marina serving as the primary docking
point at Mile Marker 203. Located at 1 Henry Street, this 5-star
facility offers a range of services for transient and long-term
visitors, including a fuel dock (open daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM),
pump-out stations (free for 6- or 12-month slip holders), and slip
rentals with discounts like $0.15 per gallon off fuel. Transient dockage
specials, such as buy-one-get-one deals during events, make it welcoming
for day trips or weekends. The marina is staffed by dedicated
harbormasters and operates Monday–Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with
Sundays until 3:00 PM. It's the last fuel stop before Kimmswick when
heading south, and provides resources for checking river conditions
(current water level around 419.48 ft. as of early December 2025).
Contact: +1 618 462-9860 or fax +1 618 462-9873.
Champagne Limousines is a family-owned luxury transportation company based at 3406 West Delmar Avenue in Godfrey, Illinois, offering premium limousine and vintage car services across the entire St. Louis Metro-East region since 1984. With over 40 years of experience, they specialize in making special occasions unforgettable, including weddings, proms, homecomings, anniversaries, engagements, concerts, sporting events, and airport transfers, all while prioritizing safety, dependability, and professionalism. Their diverse fleet features a range of vehicles to suit various group sizes and preferences, such as Lincoln Town Car limousines designed for 10, 12, or 14 passengers; stretched Lincoln Navigators; Hummer H2 stretches accommodating 16 to 18 guests; the iconic classic Rolls Royce Silver Cloud; and modern sedans and vans perfect for efficient airport shuttles. Additionally, they offer unique vintage options like multiple Rolls Royce Silver Cloud II models, a vintage Bentley, an Excursion SUV Limo in Black Diamond Edition for larger parties, and a 16-18 passenger limo bus, as well as even bigger 32-passenger limousines for grand events. As a licensed and insured provider with authority from Lambert St. Louis Airport, USDOT, and ICC, they ensure reliable service for everything from romantic getaways to group outings. Contact them at +1 314-567-5466 for Missouri inquiries, +1 618-466-7001 for Illinois, or toll-free at +1-800-500-2526 to book or learn more.
Alton, Illinois, a small river town nestled along the Mississippi
River, has earned a reputation as one of the most haunted places in
America. Its dark history is rooted in a confluence of tragedies: Civil
War battles, Underground Railroad activities, devastating floods,
epidemics like smallpox, and numerous murders and untimely deaths. Mark
Twain once described it as a "dismal little river town," a moniker that
seems fitting given the layers of sorrow embedded in its past. This
history has given rise to countless haunted legends, with reports of
apparitions, unexplained sounds, and psychic phenomena persisting to
this day. The town has been featured on shows like Ghost Hunters and
draws paranormal enthusiasts for tours and investigations. While many of
Alton's abandoned sites overlap with its haunted lore—often due to decay
amplifying eerie atmospheres—some stand out purely for their forsaken
state, like old quarries and derelict buildings.
McPike Mansion:
A Victorian Relic of Restless Spirits
One of Alton's crown jewels of
hauntings is the McPike Mansion, an Italianate-Victorian structure built
in 1869 by Henry Guest McPike, a prominent businessman, horticulturist,
and former mayor. The 16-room mansion sat on a sprawling 15-acre estate
known as Mount Lookout, complete with vineyards, orchards, and rare
plants—McPike even developed his own grape variety. After the McPike
family's tenure ended around the 1930s, the property changed hands,
notably to Paul A. Laichinger, who owned it until his death. Abandoned
since the 1950s, the mansion fell into severe disrepair from vandalism,
theft, and weather damage, earning a spot on lists of endangered
historic sites. Current owners Sharyn and George Luedke purchased it in
1994 and have been restoring it, hoping to turn it into a bed and
breakfast, but its ghostly reputation persists.
Legends abound of
multiple spirits lingering here. Visitors report seeing the apparition
of Paul Laichinger, dressed in a striped shirt and tie, peering from
windows—matching old photographs. Another entity, believed to be Sarah
Wells, a domestic servant, manifests as gentle hugs or the scent of
lilacs on the third floor. Paranormal investigations have captured
unexplained footsteps in the wine cellar, doors opening on their own,
orbs of light, shadowy figures, and even balls of energy in photos. Some
speculate Native American spirits or echoes from the Underground
Railroad haunt the grounds, while others mention a woman's mysterious
death in a bathtub or the McPikes themselves wandering the halls. The
cellar is a hotspot for activity, with recordings of disembodied voices.
As an abandoned icon, its crumbling facade and overgrown grounds amplify
the sense of isolation and otherworldliness, making it a magnet for
trespassers and ghost hunters alike.
Mineral Springs Hotel:
Echoes of Drownings and Perfumed Phantoms
The Mineral Springs Hotel,
opened in the early 1900s to capitalize on the town's mineral-rich
waters, was once a luxurious spa and hotel. It featured a swimming pool,
bottling plant for curative water, and grand ballrooms. Over time, it
hosted a mix of guests but also witnessed grim events, transforming into
a hub of tragedy. Now partially repurposed with shops, a museum called
Soul Asylum (displaying torture devices and oddities), and serving as a
starting point for haunted tours, the building retains its abandoned
aura in unused sections.
Haunted legends center on several spirits.
One is Clarence Blair, a sheet metal worker who drowned in the pool
during swimming lessons in the 1920s; his ghost is said to linger,
perhaps seeking acknowledgment, with reports of splashing sounds or cold
spots near the former pool area. The "Jasmine Lady" is another enigma—a
woman's apparition accompanied by the strong scent of jasmine perfume,
often seen on stairwells or in hallways. Rumors suggest she was
murdered, though no records confirm this; historian Troy Taylor claims
to have unraveled part of her story. Other accounts include suicides,
natural deaths, and accidental fatalities, contributing to disembodied
voices, moving objects, and feelings of being watched. The hotel's
history of floods, epidemics, and Civil War ties adds layers to its
spectral energy, making it a focal point for Alton's broader haunted
narrative.
First Unitarian Church: A Sanctuary of Suicidal
Specters
The First Unitarian Church, originally built in 1830 as St.
Matthew's Catholic Church and rebuilt after fires in 1850 and 1901,
stands as a testament to Alton's turbulent religious history. It's most
infamous for the 1934 suicide of Reverend Phillip Mercer, who fell ill
during a wave of personal and community hardships and was found hanging
in the minister's study doorway. The church's basement, once tied to
Underground Railroad activities, adds to its mystique.
Hauntings
revolve around Mercer's restless spirit: parishioners and visitors
report hearing his voice whispering, seeing shadowy figures in the
basement, or witnessing the piano playing eerie tunes without a player.
Doors slam shut or open inexplicably, and cold drafts accompany
sensations of despair. Some attribute additional ghosts to the site's
Civil War connections or earlier fires. Though not fully abandoned, its
quiet, historic interior feels forsaken during off-hours, enhancing the
chill of its legends.
Milton School: Whispers from Empty Hallways
Built in 1904 as a modest brick schoolhouse and expanded into a full
elementary school, Milton School operated until 1986 before briefly
serving as a factory. Now housing businesses like Maeva's Coffee and
residential apartments, parts remain unused, blending abandonment with
revival. A popular but debunked legend claims a girl named Mary was
murdered in the locker room by a janitor who then killed himself—pure
fiction with no historical basis.
Real hauntings stem from subtler
energies: children's laughter or voices echo when no kids are present,
items vanish and reappear, and people feel watched. A 1920s janitor died
of a heart attack in the boiler room, possibly contributing to EMF
fluctuations and apparitions reported during investigations. Paranormal
tools like EVPs have captured humming tunes in the gymnasium, and apps
have yielded contextually relevant words. The school's 80+ years of
youthful energy—tears, joys, and fears—likely imprint residual
hauntings, making it a site where the past replays without malice.
Alton State Hospital: A Legacy of Madness and Misery
Opened in
1917 as Alton State Mental Hospital (now Alton Mental Health Center),
this facility was designed to alleviate overcrowding in other asylums.
It featured a non-restraint policy under Dr. George Zeller, with
patients working on a self-sustaining farm. However, by the 1940s and
1950s, it devolved into overcrowding (peaking at 1,775 patients against
a 1,084 capacity), leading to abuse, neglect, hydrotherapy "treatments,"
electroshock, and lobotomies. An on-site cemetery holds unclaimed dead.
While still operational for forensic patients, many original buildings
are abandoned or in disrepair.
Hauntings include disembodied voices
asking "Who is that?", sensations of being touched or pushed, slamming
doors, and orbs with agonized faces in photos. Spirits, tied to the
site's history of suffering, reportedly urge investigators to leave. As
an abandoned complex, its decaying wards and tunnels evoke dread,
blending medical horror with ghostly lore.
Other Notable Legends
and Abandoned Sites
Piasa Bird: A dragon-like creature from Native
American lore, said to terrorize and devour locals. Its modern painting
on a bluff overlooks the river, symbolizing ancient hauntings. No direct
apparitions, but the legend fuels Alton's mythical aura.
Confederate
Prison: An abandoned Civil War site where over 1,400 prisoners died from
smallpox. Ghosts of soldiers are reported moaning or appearing in
chains.
Jacoby Arts Center: Its basement, a former mortuary, hosts
unexplained cold spots and whispers.
Ryder Building: Furniture drags
across floors at night, attributed to an unknown entity.
Alton, Illinois, stands out as a true haven for shoppers, boasting
more than 40 antique and specialty stores scattered throughout its
historic downtown district, often called "Antique Row," along with the
convenient Alton Square Mall. This vibrant area offers a treasure trove
of unique finds, from vintage collectibles and glassware to unusual
gifts, decor items, jewelry, and even pieces reflecting the city's rich
history, making it ideal for collectors and casual browsers alike. In
addition to everyday shopping, the community hosts exciting "3rd
Thursdays" events—late-night shopping extravaganzas held on the third
Thursday of each month during fall and winter (and often year-round),
where downtown retailers extend their hours until 8 p.m., provide
special deals, complimentary refreshments, and a free shuttle service
from 5-8 p.m. to make hopping between spots effortless.
Located at
200 Alton Square in Alton, the Alton Square Mall serves as a fully
enclosed hub for retail therapy and entertainment, featuring anchor
stores like JCPenney (which offers everything from clothing and
accessories to home decor and bedding) alongside other popular spots
such as Ross for discounted fashions, Maurices for women's apparel,
Hallmark for cards and gifts, Savvi Formalwear for special occasion
outfits, Slackers for games and collectibles, and even an NCG Cinema for
catching the latest movies. While the mall has evolved over the years
and now focuses on a curated selection of about a dozen key tenants plus
dining options, it remains a go-to destination for supporting local
small businesses. During the holiday season, it amps up the fun with
visits from Santa, extended shopping hours, giveaways like $100 gift
cards, and interactive events such as a hide-and-seek game with a
festive elf. For those craving even more antique variety, don't miss the
nearby Alton Exchange Mall at 2990 Homer M. Adams Parkway, a sprawling
14,000+ square foot space packed with over 100 vendor booths offering
antiques, primitives, Amish foods, floral arrangements, and much
more—new items arrive daily to keep the inventory fresh and exciting.
Bossanova Martini Lounge & Restaurant, located at 112 West 3rd Street
in downtown Alton, Illinois (phone: +1 618 462-1175), offers an upscale
and cozy atmosphere perfect for a date night or a relaxed evening out.
Boasting a vast array of creative, James Bond-themed martinis that are
expertly mixed and delicious, along with over 50 imported beers and an
inspired wine list, the drink selection is a highlight for cocktail
enthusiasts. The menu features world-inspired cuisine with each dish
incorporating unique international flavors, using fresh and thoughtfully
prepared ingredients—think globally influenced appetizers, salads, and
entrees that blend diverse culinary traditions. Guests rave about the
great food at reasonable prices, and the venue often hosts live music on
Saturdays, adding to the fun vibe. Open for dinner Monday through
Thursday from 4pm to 1am (kitchen until 9pm), and Friday-Saturday from
4pm to 1:30am (kitchen until 10pm), it's a spot where you can linger
without feeling rushed.
Gentelin's on Broadway, situated at 122 East
Broadway in Alton, Illinois (phone: +1 618 465-6080), provides an
elegant fine dining experience with stunning views of the Mississippi
River and the iconic Alton bridge, creating a calm and relaxing ambiance
ideal for intimate dinners or special occasions. The menu, crafted by
owner and Executive Chef Ryan Gentelin, showcases a variety of
appetizers like house-made Maryland crab cakes with basil remoulade
($16), blue cheese kabobs ($17), and a luxurious lobster and crab dip
served with grilled crostinis ($17). Standout entrees include the
oven-roasted half duck with savoy cabbage, bacon potato puree, and
asparagus ($41), peppered ribeye with roasted asparagus and loaded baked
potato ($43), filet mignon topped with maître d’ butter ($44), and
seafood options such as panko and sesame-encrusted salmon ($34),
pan-seared sea scallops over butternut squash risotto ($44), and
tempura-fried lobster tail with risotto ($44). Other highlights feature
salads like the wedge with blue cheese and bacon ($14), sandwiches
including the Broadway burger ($14–$16), and desserts such as warm gooey
butter cake ($10) or crème brûlée ($11). Reviews praise the juicy,
tender meats, excellent service, and diverse selections of pasta,
steaks, and seafood that cater to various tastes, with gluten-free and
vegetarian options available.
Fast Eddie's Bon Air, located at 1530 E. 4th Street in Alton,
Illinois (phone: +1 618 462-5532), is a legendary spot that's all about
"beer, burgers, and boogie"—think ice-cold brews, affordable eats, and
lively performances that have turned it into one of the nation's top
beer sellers by volume. This iconic Alton hangout draws crowds with its
dive-bar vibe, featuring tasty, budget-friendly food like juicy burgers
and the fan-favorite Big Elmo sandwich, all served up in a colorful,
energetic atmosphere complete with live music and plenty of seating.
Despite rising prices elsewhere, it remains reasonably priced in 2025,
making it a must-visit experience that's been buzzing since its heyday,
with a well-oiled operation that's newbie-friendly and packed with
entertainment.
My Just Desserts, situated at 31 E. Broadway in
Alton, Illinois (phone: +1 618 462-5881), operates from 11 AM to 4 PM
and is renowned for its scratch-made pies, massive half-pound chicken
salad sandwiches, and indulgent Tollhouse brownies, alongside a rotating
selection of soups, salads, and other sandwiches that vary daily for
freshness. Housed in a charming historic building with views of the
Mississippi River, this cozy eatery offers homestyle American comfort
food at wallet-friendly prices, including tender pulled pork sandwiches
and turkey clubs loaded with fresh veggies, plus seasonal cobblers baked
fresh each morning. Reopened in 2024 under new ownership, it continues
to delight with carry-out options for desserts and a menu infused with
love from lead baker Yvonne, earning high praise as one of Alton's top
dining spots.
Alton, Illinois, boasts a diverse array of lodging options, spanning
from cozy and budget-friendly chain motels to distinctive, high-end bed
and breakfasts and guest houses, ensuring something suitable for every
traveler's preferences and financial constraints. With an abundance of
attractions and activities available in Alton itself and throughout the
broader Greater St. Louis region, tourism specialists advise planning an
overnight stay of several nights to maximize your visit and immerse
yourself fully in the area's offerings.
Beall Mansion An Elegant
Bed & Breakfast Inn
Nestled at 407 E. 12th St., this sophisticated
bed and breakfast can be reached at +1 618 474-9100 or toll-free at
+1-866-THE-BEALL (843-23255). Renowned for attracting a prestigious
clientele including political figures, Hollywood personalities,
television stars, and former Miss America titleholders, the inn provides
opulent guest rooms equipped with amenities like triple-sheeted
feather-top beds, high-definition TVs with DVD players, free Wi-Fi,
telephones offering complimentary local calls and voicemail services,
and en-suite bathrooms featuring Italian marble flooring, showers, and
options for clawfoot tubs or dual-occupancy whirlpool baths. Every stay
includes access to a round-the-clock, unlimited chocolate buffet at no
extra charge. Flexible pricing structures cater to vacationers, business
travelers, and those needing longer-term accommodations, while the venue
is also ideal for hosting intimate weddings and receptions for groups of
2 to 100, as well as compact business gatherings and executive retreats.
Positioned just 12 blocks from the majestic Mississippi River along
Millionaire's Row within the historic Middletown District, this
smoke-free, 4-star property—originally constructed in 1904—features
select rooms with fireplaces and whirlpools, adorned with fine antiques
and artwork for an authentic pampering experience. Guests frequently
rave about the impeccable service, stunning Victorian-style decor,
spacious bathrooms with jetted tubs, and overall luxurious comfort,
often describing it as the premier lodging choice in the area with a
fitness center on-site and a total of five elegantly appointed rooms
across three floors.
Comfort Inn
Located at 11 Crossroads Ct.,
contactable via +1 618 465-9999, this hotel provides a complimentary
continental breakfast each morning, alongside an indoor heated swimming
pool, a fitness facility, and a dedicated business center. Standard room
features encompass a microwave and refrigerator combo, ironing
equipment, hairdryers, in-room safes, and high-speed internet
connectivity. As a smoke-free establishment with 62 rooms spread over
three floors—including seven suites—this property emphasizes convenience
with free parking, laundry services, and a 24-hour business hub, making
it a solid choice for both leisure and professional trips near I-255.
Recent guest feedback highlights the exceptionally comfortable beds,
attentive and friendly staff who go above and beyond, ample parking, and
spacious rooms, though some note the building shows signs of age with
occasional maintenance issues like dim hallways or hard water marks in
bathrooms, earning it an average rating around 3.7 out of 5.
Super 8 Motel
Situated at 1800 Homer M. Adams Pkwy., reachable at +1
618 465-8885, this motel offers essential amenities such as a daily
breakfast, high-speed wireless internet, a round-the-clock front desk,
and rooms stocked with microwaves, refrigerators, and hairdryers.
Families appreciate that children under 18 can stay at no additional
cost, with 62 available rooms including smoking options on the third
floor (note: no elevator is present). This budget-oriented, pet-friendly
spot provides free parking, updated guest accommodations with cable TV
and coffee makers, and a convenient downtown location, ideal for
travelers seeking affordability without frills. Reviews commend the
helpful staff, easy access, and value for money, with many guests noting
clean beds and functional bathrooms, though some mention outdated
elements, variable cleanliness like unvacuumed carpets or minor debris,
and basic continental fare, resulting in mixed but generally positive
feedback for short stays.
Tiffany Inn
Found at 410 E. Broadway
St., with inquiries directed to +1 618 462-4145, this enchanting bed and
breakfast is perched above the Alton Stained Glass Works in the vibrant
historic Downtown Alton, right in the midst of the antique district and
mere steps from charming boutiques and eateries. Special packages
combine overnight stays with hands-on stained glass crafting workshops
for a unique experience. This modern brick, two-story property features
themed suites inspired by impressionist art, a private garden, river
views, and shared living areas, making it perfect for couples or small
groups with options like three-bedroom configurations for up to seven
adults. Conveniently located off Route 3, it's near the Clark Bridge,
marina, amphitheater, and other local highlights, with easy access to
I-270. Visitors often describe it as a hidden gem, praising the
accommodating owners, spacious and adorable rooms, attention to detail,
and serene garden spaces, with high recommendations for its
affordability, comfort, and proximity to downtown attractions—earning
near-perfect review scores for its welcoming vibe and thoughtful
amenities.
Prehistoric and Early Settlement Period
The area that would become
Alton, Illinois, has a rich prehistoric legacy, inhabited by Native
Americans for thousands of years. It was primarily occupied by the
Illinois Confederation, a group of Algonquian-speaking tribes, at the
time of European contact. Archaeological evidence, including artifacts
and rock art, points to long-term human presence. One of the most famous
features is the Piasa bird, a legendary mural painted on a bluff
overlooking the Mississippi River. This creature, described as a
dragon-like figure with wings, horns, and scales, was first documented
in 1673 by French missionary Father Jacques Marquette during his
expedition with Louis Joliet down the Mississippi. The original painting
was destroyed in the 19th century due to quarrying, but replicas exist
today as a symbol of the region's indigenous heritage.
European
exploration began in the mid-1600s with Marquette and Joliet's voyage,
seeking new colonial territories for France. The region saw French fur
trading posts established, transitioning to British control after the
1763 French and Indian War, and finally to American ownership following
the 1783 Treaty of Paris. The first recorded European settlement
occurred around 1783 when Frenchman Jean Baptiste Cardinal built a house
at the site known as "Piasa," near the mouth of Piasa Creek. Cardinal
was captured by Native Americans, but he survived and later sold his
lands in 1795. By 1807, a small stone French trading post stood near
present-day Alby and Front Streets. Early 19th-century conflicts
included Native American attacks, such as the 1811 killing of settler
Price and the wounding of Colter, amid broader regional tensions like
the War of 1812.
Founding and Early Growth (1818–1830s)
Alton
was officially founded as a river town in January 1818 by Rufus Easton,
a prominent St. Louis-based lawyer, postmaster, and territorial
delegate. He purchased the land in 1817, laid out the town plat, and
named it after his son, Alton R. Easton. The location was strategically
chosen at the confluence of three major navigable rivers—the
Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois—making it a natural hub for trade
and transportation. Easton established ferry services, including the
Fountain Ferry at Little Piasa Creek and Smeltzer’s Ferry, to connect
with the Missouri shore. Streets were named after his children (e.g.,
Langdon, George, Alby), and early structures included log cabins and a
ferry house for travelers.
Initial growth was slow due to land
disputes, including a 1821 conflict with figures like Ninian Edwards and
Nathaniel Pope, which was resolved through compromise. Settlers from
Ohio and elsewhere arrived around 1818, including James Shields, William
G. Pinckard, William Heath, and Daniel Crume, who built log cabins and
the first substantial house for Easton (later known as Hawley House). By
1820, roads and boat access improved, and in 1829, the site for
Illinois's first state penitentiary was selected on bluffs ceded by
William Russell. Construction began in late 1830 but faced delays. The
1830s marked rapid expansion: immigrants like Samuel Avis and Stephen
Griggs established mercantile houses, and industries emerged, including
a steam sawmill (1829), tannery, and the first steam flouring mill
(1831–1833) by William Manning, later becoming the Alton Manufacturing
Company.
By 1837, Alton had boomed into Illinois's largest city, with
20 wholesale stores, 32 retail outlets, packing houses, hotels, lawyers,
physicians, newspapers (e.g., Alton Spectator, Telegraph, Observer),
schools, churches, and steamboat operations. It was incorporated as a
city on July 31, 1837, with John Marshal Krum as the first mayor. Banks
opened in 1836 and 1837, and an insurance company was chartered. The
city's industrial character took shape with brick factories, grain
silos, and river-based shipping.
Abolitionism, the Lovejoy
Murder, and Pre-Civil War Tensions (1830s–1850s)
As a free state
bordering slave-holding Missouri, Alton became a flashpoint for
abolitionist activity. Escaped slaves crossed the Mississippi River
seeking freedom, aided by Underground Railroad stations with hidden
tunnels and safe houses, including sites like the Enos Apartments and
Rocky Fork area. At least eight documented stops existed in the region.
The city gained national notoriety through Reverend Elijah P. Lovejoy,
an abolitionist printer who relocated from St. Louis in 1836 to publish
the anti-slavery Alton Observer. Facing opposition, his presses were
destroyed three times by pro-slavery mobs. On November 7, 1837, a mob
attacked his warehouse, shooting Lovejoy five times with a shotgun; his
fourth press was thrown into the river. Lovejoy's death made him the
first martyr of the abolition movement and a symbol of free press. He
was buried in an unmarked grave in Alton City Cemetery, later reburied
with a marker. In 1897, a 93-foot monument topped by a winged Victory
figure was erected in Alton National Cemetery, inscribed with messages
on freedom and opposition to slavery.
The 1837 financial panic,
Lovejoy's murder, and railway setbacks stalled growth until 1842. In
1857, Alton became the seat of a Catholic diocese under Bishop Henry
Damian Juncker, growing rapidly before relocating to Springfield in
1923. On October 15, 1858, Alton hosted the seventh and final
Lincoln-Douglas debate at Lincoln-Douglas Square, focusing on slavery;
bronze statues of Lincoln and Douglas were added in 1995. Resident U.S.
Senator Lyman Trumbull, whose home at 1105 Henry Street is a National
Historic Landmark, co-authored the 13th Amendment (ending slavery) and
the Civil Rights Act of 1866.
Civil War Era (1861–1865)
Two
weeks into the Civil War, Alton played a key role in the Camp Jackson
Affair on April 29, 1861, when Union forces under Captain Nathaniel Lyon
evacuated 21,000 guns from the St. Louis Arsenal to Alton to prevent
seizure by pro-Confederate forces.
The original Illinois penitentiary
(built 1833) reopened in 1862 as a military prison, holding up to 11,764
Confederate soldiers under harsh conditions. A smallpox epidemic in
1863–1864 killed 1,500–2,200 prisoners, who were quarantined on Smallpox
Island (now in Missouri). A mass grave at North Alton Confederate
Cemetery holds 1,354 unmarked remains, marked by a 57-foot obelisk
(1909). Alton National Cemetery, established in 1862, contains 151 Union
graves.
Industrial Expansion and Late 19th Century (1860s–1900)
Post-war, Alton solidified as an industrial powerhouse. Railroads
arrived in 1852 with the Chicago and Mississippi (later Chicago and
Alton), built under Benjamin Godfrey, enhancing connections. Industries
included grain storage/shipping (evident in Ardent Mills silos), brick
production, steel (Laclede Steel), glass bottling (Owens-Illinois), and
cardboard (Alton Box Board Company). Wealth from commerce funded ornate
homes in Federal, Italianate, Queen Anne, and Victorian styles on steep
bluffs. Brick-paved streets and structures like stone churches and city
hall reflected prosperity.
Education expanded with public schools
starting in 1845, including Garfield (1851), Irving (1853), and high
school programs. Churches proliferated, such as Presbyterian (1821),
Baptist (1833), Catholic (1840), and others, many rebuilt after fires or
the 1860 tornado.
20th Century Developments and Challenges
The
early 20th century saw cultural milestones, including native Robert
Pershing Wadlow, the world's tallest man (8 feet 11.1 inches), buried in
Oakwood Cemetery with a memorial statue. In 1937, fishermen caught an
84-pound bull shark in the Mississippi, displayed locally. During World
War II, seven Alton brothers served as decorated veterans.
Alton was
a 1954 finalist for the U.S. Air Force Academy but lost to Colorado
Springs. Civil rights struggles included the Scott Bibb case
(1897–1908), where Bibb sued for desegregated schools, winning a delayed
Illinois Supreme Court ruling. A darker note: funds from a 1967 bank
heist may have financed Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination by James
Earl Ray.
Mid-century industrial decline shifted the economy to
tourism. The Great Flood of 1993 devastated the city, cutting water
supply for weeks and prompting aid from companies like Anheuser-Busch.
The original bridge to West Alton was demolished in the 1990s, replaced
by the award-winning cable-stayed Clark Bridge (1994).
Today, Alton
emphasizes its heritage through historic districts, tours, antique
shopping, and sites like the Lovejoy Monument and Argosy Casino,
preserving its river-town identity amid modern adaptations.
Alton, Illinois, is a city located in southwestern Madison County, in the southwestern part of the state. It sits on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, approximately 18 miles (29 km) north of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, and forms part of the Metro-East region within the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area. The city is positioned in the River Bend area, near the confluence of three major navigable rivers: the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers, which has historically made it a key river port and transportation hub. Its geographic coordinates are 38°54′2″N 90°9′35″W, and it covers a total area of about 16.95 square miles (43.9 km²), including 15.67 square miles (40.6 km²) of land and 1.28 square miles (3.3 km²) of water. The elevation at the city's central point is approximately 535 feet (163 meters) above sea level.
Alton's topography is characterized by a dramatic rise from the Mississippi River floodplain to steep bluffs and uplands. The city is primarily built on limestone bluffs that overlook the broad river valley, creating a layered landscape where the waterfront areas are low-lying and industrial, while residential and commercial zones ascend sharply inland. These bluffs, formed from Mississippian-era limestone (such as the Salem or St. Louis Formations), rise prominently along the river's eastern edge, offering sweeping views of the flat, agricultural Missouri floodplain on the opposite bank. The terrain includes bedrock lowlands, depressions, tributary valleys (like the West Fork Wood River), and eroded ravines, with evidence of mass wasting such as slumps along bluff edges due to unstable slopes. Upland areas are relatively flat but dissected by streams, and the overall relief creates a visually striking contrast between the high cliffs and the river below.
The Mississippi River dominates Alton's geography, serving as its western boundary and a vital economic and ecological feature. The city's riverfront includes barge terminals, casinos, and grain silos, with the river's flow influenced by nearby Lock and Dam No. 26 (also known as the Melvin Price Locks and Dam), the busiest on the Upper Mississippi, located just south of Alton. The confluence with the Missouri River is immediately south, and the Illinois River joins further north, making this a critical junction for navigation and wildlife. Low-lying areas along the river are prone to flooding, with historical marks from events like the Great Flood of 1993 visible on structures near the waterfront. Wetlands and floodplains on the west side support a large bird sanctuary, part of the Mississippi Flyway, a major migratory route. The Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway runs along the riverfront, highlighting these water features.
The surficial geology of the Alton area reflects multiple Quaternary glacial episodes. Dominant deposits include Wisconsin Episode loess (Peoria and Roxana Silts), which forms loose, windblown layers up to 50 feet thick near the bluffs, thinning eastward; these silts are highly erodible on slopes. Underlying glacial tills include the Illinois Episode Fort Russell Member, a gray to gray-green pebbly loam diamicton up to 60 feet thick, containing carbonates, shale clasts, and wood fragments, with a clay content of 16-24%. Older pre-Illinois Episode Omphghent Member till, finer-grained with 25-35% clay, fills bedrock lows and is less than 10 feet thick. Outwash deposits from the Henry Formation reach 90 feet in the Mississippi Valley, transitioning to lacustrine sediments in slackwater zones. Soils feature the Sangamon Geosol (interglacial weathering profile) in upper tills, with modern soils developing in the top 3-4 feet of loess. Karst topography is prominent in western areas, where thin overburden covers limestone bedrock, leading to sinkholes, caverns, and rapid groundwater flow along joint sets (N60°E and N45°W), increasing risks of collapse and contamination. Bedrock includes Mississippian limestones prone to dissolution.
Alton experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa), with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Based on 1991–2020 normals, average high temperatures range from 39.5°F (4.2°C) in January to 87.3°F (30.7°C) in July, while lows span 21.7°F (-5.7°C) in January to 69.3°F (20.7°C) in July. Annual mean temperature is around 55.7°F (13.2°C), with extremes recorded from -16°F (-26.7°C) to 116°F (46.7°C). Precipitation averages 41.87 inches (1,063 mm) per year, peaking at 5.46 inches (139 mm) in May, with about 99 precipitation days annually. The river proximity moderates temperatures slightly but contributes to humidity and occasional fog.
Prominent sites include the prehistoric Piasa Bird painting on a
bluff cliff, documented by early explorers, symbolizing Native American
heritage. The Confluence Tower in nearby Hartford offers panoramic views
of the river junctions. The Audubon Center at Riverlands and National
Great Rivers Museum highlight the area's ecology and hydrology. Alton's
position also places it near transportation infrastructure, including
bridges across the Mississippi and proximity to airports like St. Louis
Lambert (20 minutes away) and St. Louis Regional (7 miles).
Theodore P. Gilman (1841–1930), banker and politician
Barrelhouse
Buck McFarland (1903–1962), blues and boogie-woogie pianist, singer and
songwriter
Robert Wadlow (1918-1940), tallest human in medical
history whose height is unequivocally documented
Mary Beth Hughes
(1919–1995), actress
Miles Davis (1926–1991), jazz trumpeter
James
Earl Ray (1928–1998), assassin of Martin Luther King
Howard Williams
(1929/30–2018), jazz musician
Kash Killion, jazz bassist
Edward
Joseph Weisenburger (born 1960), Roman Catholic minister and Bishop of
Tucson
Ezekiel Elliott (born 1995), football player