Du Quoin combines historic fairgrounds, nature trails and a historic downtown, offering visitors a range of reasons to visit. When planning, it is worth distinguishing between the annual State Fair, seasonal events, the natural areas and Main Street.
Historic Fairgrounds and Motorsports
The Du Quoin State Fairgrounds are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Buildings in the Art Deco style stand in the main area of the grounds, and the racetrack is known as the “Magic Mile.” In the spring of 1923, Du Quoin business leaders came up with the idea of promoting an event that would attract people from across Southern Illinois. The Du Quoin State Fair is still held annually, with a focus on agriculture and events in the state of Illinois.
The Twilight Parade marks the start of the annual Fair and kicks off the event season. It takes place entirely on the fairgrounds; specific route arrangements may change. During the Fair, the Magic Mile hosts motorsports events featuring ARCA and the USAC Silver Crown Series. This makes it easy to explore the Fair program according to different interests: the parade marks the opening, while the races provide a distinct motorsports focus.
Nature Trails and Wetlands
The natural areas of the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds include on-site trails for hiking, jogging and cycling, as well as a wooded nature trail next to a wetland. Ponds and wetlands along the trail provide habitat for insects, frogs, turtles, snakes, waterfowl, songbirds, bats and wading birds. If you want to combine nature watching with exercise, you will find a variety of habitats along the way. Check route and access information before your visit, as it may change.
Main Street and Historic Downtown
Du Quoin preserves its historic downtown as a picturesque, authentic town center. Walking along Main Street, you will pass shops and restaurants. The tree-lined street is also home to a flower-filled mini park with a gazebo. The downtown offers a different focus from the fairgrounds: here, the streetscape, shops and restaurants take center stage, while the fairgrounds bring together history, nature trails and event spaces.
Plan for Seasonal Events
The Du Quoin SUMMER Nights concert series in Keyes Park offers free concerts every Tuesday in July. Check that year’s schedule before your trip. The Holiday Lights Fair is also held on the fairgrounds and is described as a winter wonderland with more than a million sparkling lights. Check the dates and presentation details for this seasonal event in advance as well. This lets you plan your stay around a specific event date without confusing the summer concert dates with the winter lights schedule.
A Historic Stop with a Culinary Connection
In the early 19th century, the St. Nicholas Hotel served as a refuge for travelers passing through Du Quoin. The former hotel building was converted into a pub, an eatery and a gathering place, and is associated with St. Nicholas Brewery. The Brewery serves pizza and craft beer; check its offerings before visiting, as they may change. The building’s history and its present-day food and drink offerings are two distinct points of interest for a stay in Du Quoin.
Discover more destinations: Pinckneyville.
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