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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. 

Cholera Cross

 Breese, Illinois
The original wooden cross was erected in 1850 by a farmer in thanksgiving for his family being spared during a chol...more!

Civil War Fort

 Bartelso, Illinois
Visit an exact replica of a Civil War Fort complete with a jail, one room home, livery and log cabins. Be sure to s...more!

Clinton County Historical Museum

 Carlyle, Illinois
The museum is housed in the 1866 home of Judge Sidney Breese. Breese was a U.S. Senator and an Illinois Supreme Cou...more!

Coal Miners Monument

 Beckemeyer, Illinois
Joseph Koch, who along with eight other local miners died in a mine explosion in 1947, is depicted here....more!

Excel Bottling & Brewing Co.

 Breese, Illinois
Book a tour of Excel Bottling & Brewing Co. on your upcoming Downstate Illinois adventure in Breese, IL! Excel ...more!

Standin' Proud Veterans Tribute

 Bartelso, Illinois
In the small town of Bartelso, IL, a museum is taking shape. The museum houses veteran tributes such as medals, uni...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

22 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 22 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 
Check out our calendar of events!
Fayette County Fair

Fayette County Fair

 July 10, 2025 - July 15, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Fayette County Fairgrounds | Brownstown, IL
Wabash County 4-H Fair

Wabash County 4-H Fair

 July 11, 2025 - July 18, 2025 @ 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wabash County Fair Grounds | Mount Carmel, IL
Highland Farmer's Market

Highland Farmer's Market

 July 15, 2025 @ 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Highland Square | Highland, IL

View Entire Events Calendar

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