Jacksonville, Illinois: Rich in Historical Treasures

Visit Jacksonville, Illinois and See Why It’s the Perfect Getaway.

Come visit Jacksonville, Illinois, a community rich in historical treasures, with thriving arts, education, and culture, and wrapped in Midwest hospitality. Centrally located between St. Louis and Chicago and near Springfield, Jacksonville offers an excellent place to live, work, and play.

To the first time visitor, Jacksonville is full of the unexpected. From our Civil War and Abraham Lincoln connections, to the modern businesses of today, the area offers something for everyone. There is a small-town friendliness mixed with vibrancy from a richness of natural sites, intellectual institutions, and businesses.

Interested in history? Then Jacksonville is the perfect place to spend some time. The city’s rich heritage includes numerous interesting sites that help make history relevant to new generations. Destination choices include the murals of downtown Jacksonville that depict our history in a unique artistic fashion. Or, visit one of the many Underground Railroad sites, including Woodlawn Farm, or some of the historic homes in Jacksonville’s historic district. Walk in the footsteps of greatness, following the lives of Stephen Douglas, General Benjamin Grierson, or listen to stories about Abraham Lincoln on the Voices of Jacksonville Audio tour. Jacksonville is proud that many important figures have called our city their home.

No need to leave town! Fill all of your shopping and entertainment needs right here in Jacksonville! From one-of-a-kind antiques to locally owned specialty shops, Jacksonville offers something for everyone. That special treasure you’ve been searching for is just waiting for you in one of the shops and stores scattered throughout the city. Looking for culture? A highly-acclaimed community theatre group puts on productions all year long. The Jacksonville Symphony and Chorale and Illinois College’s McGaw Fine Arts Series all present fantastic seasons of concerts each year. Artists and art lovers return again and again to the David Strawn Art Gallery.

Need to stretch your legs? Recreation abounds! Multiple golf courses, lakes-  Lake Jacksonville was named the #1 Fishing spot in the State of Illinois by Field and Stream in 2007!, parks, campgrounds, and athletic opportunities are just moments away. You’ll find lots to do, both night and day.

Stay a while! Jacksonville has a host of lodging options to welcome you to our community. Need a place to stay for a day or a week? There is an abundance of lodging options in the area to suit all tastes and budgets. Sit back, and relax!

Planning a meeting, wedding or reunion? Jacksonville has meeting and banquet facilities to fit any budget and size of party. From beautiful outdoor facilities and locations to elegant banquet facilities, we can accommodate your requests. The Convention & Visitors Bureau has newly renovated meeting space available for up to 100.

More information is available at the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 310 East State Street in downtown Jacksonville. You can also call (217) 243-5678, or (800) 593-5678, if you have questions about planning your trip or visit our website jacksonvilleil.org.