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History & Culture

History & Culture

Downstate Illinois Historical Sites

Downstate Illinois was made for road trips! There is no shortage of historic sites in our region, and we know that history buffs are always on the lookout for places that they haven’t explored yet. With the help of our road trip itineraries, you can discover all that our 21 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 

Bryan-Bennett Library

 Salem, IL
Located at 315 South Maple in Salem, Bryan-Bennett Library is a municipal library, providing free services to all r...more!

Centralia Carillon

 Centralia, Illinois
The Centralia Carillon ranks among the top 10 largest in the world, standing at 160 feet with 65 bells cast in Anne...more!

Centralia Historical Society Museum

 Centralia, Illinois
Termed "One of the Hidden Gems of the Midwest", this 3 story former grocery warehouse features a large mo...more!

Ingram's Pioneer Log Cabin Village

 Kinmundy, Illinois
16 pre-Civil War furnished cabins are open for self-guided tours. Open April 15-Nov 15....more!

Jim Beasley Veterans Tribute at Kaskaskia College

 Centralia, Illinois
Jim Beasley Veterans Tribute at Kaskaskia College honors combat and non-combat service men and women from five Down...more!

Kinmundy Log Cabin Village

 Kinmundy, Illinois
Visit the Kinmundy Log Cabin Village to see 19th century pioneer-era log structures and artifacts of a time long pa...more!

Salem Area Historical Museum

 Salem, Illinois
Salem Area Historical Museum educates, preserves and narrates the inspiring story of the greater area of Salem, Ill...more!

William Jennings Bryan Home

 Salem, Illinois
On a visit to Bryan Birthplace Museum, you will see many pictures of Williams Jennings Bryan, newspaper clippings, ...more!

Downstate Illinois Events

Downstate Illinois Events

Explore Our Event Calendar
Whether you’re looking for a festival, marathon or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, Downstate Illinois has something for everyone. The region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you don’t miss a thing.
Travel Ideas

Travel Ideas

Check Out Our Blog
From outdoor recreation and adventure to foodies and family fun, we have the trip ideas to plan the perfect vacation.
Road Trip Itineraries

Road Trip Itineraries

21 Counties made for Road Trips
Downstate Illinois was made for road trips! With the help of our road trip itineraries, you can discover all that our 21 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 
Check out our calendar of events!
Money Shoot

Money Shoot

 February 3, 2025 - August 29, 2025 @ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
North American Outfitters | Highland, IL
DIY Watercolor Class: Cherry Blossoms

DIY Watercolor Class: Cherry Blossoms

 February 6, 2025 @ 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Warren James Winery | Mattoon, IL
John Cariani's Love/Sick

John Cariani's Love/Sick

 February 7, 2025 @ 7:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Charleston Community Theatre | Charleston, IL

View Entire Events Calendar

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