Vacation to Illinois and experience the splendor of Mt. Vernon and the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts.

While Mt. Vernon is well known for art and nature, the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts has stepped things up a notch for the coming season. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts is a nationally known art museum and outdoor sculpture park that recently completed a multi-million dollar expansion of its facilities. Plan your vacation to Illinois in the spring or summer so you can visit the sculpture park, which takes center stage as you come through the gates. Several old favorites including sculpture made from recycled chrome car bumpers – Gorilla and Kimball the horse, and “dancers” floating on the lake are joined by new pieces that bring the sculpture count over sixty. The recent expansion has made room for a gallery dedicated to the permanent collection that contains works from late 19^th century artists including Mary Cassatt and Thomas Eakins. Exhibitions in three other galleries change every six weeks and include local artist exhibitions, new works by the Department of Cinema and Photography of SIU-C, paintings and other works by contemporary artists, and art competitions. Special events are always on tap and include chamber music, live performances, art classes and demonstrations. One thing extra special about Cedarhurst is their motto of “art for all”, and the younger set is not left out. In fact, a special gallery is devoted to children and their interests with changing exhibits and hands-on activities. Admission to the museum and sculpture park is free. Cedarhurst is located at 2600 Richview Road and is open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Find more information about this gem in southern Illinois at www.cedarhurst.org .

A new venue for night life has opened in the downtown area of Mt. Vernon. Tavern on 10^th is located in an historic building that has seen a lifetime of change. First opened to sell horse-drawn buggies, the building has seen automobile and motorcycle sales as well as antiques and clothing. The latest incarnation of the Fred P. Watson Building is entertainment, good food and fine spirits. Tavern on 10^th features weekend entertainment by area musicians including rock, blues, beautiful ballads, and not to be missed – Brat Pack 80’s music. The Tavern also has 150” television screens featuring sports and UFC action. In addition to the Tavern, downtown also boasts a brand new grill and bar, Tommy T’s, and the beautifully restored Granada Theater featuring classic and children’s movies as well as live performances. Check out the calendar of events for these and more locations at www.mtvernon.com.

Outdoor activities reign supreme at the superb Rend Lake Recreation Area just minutes south of Mt. Vernon. Visitors enjoy world class golf at the Rend Lake Golf Course, boating, fishing, horseback riding, clay shooting, and miles of bicycle and walking trails. Rend Lake consists of 18,900 acres of water with 27 boat ramps and 20,000 acres of public land surrounding the lake. There’s much to see and do at Rend Lake.

Other popular attractions in the area include a variety of events and festivals, wineries, shopping, eateries, and hundreds of rooms for economical lodging options. You will want to see what Southern Illinois has to offer. Because of Mt. Vernon’s convenient location, you are invited to stay here and go everywhere!

Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau

800-252-5464

www.mtvernon.com