Discover St. Clair through surprising contrasts: A mansion whose construction began in 1807 is known for its American Federal style; museums tell stories of different ways of life and the region’s history. There are also trails through parks and landscapes, as well as places for reflection.
Architecture and History from Different Perspectives
Construction of the Jarrot Mansion began in 1807. This makes it one of the oldest surviving masonry buildings in Illinois. Its architectural style also stands out: The house is known for its American Federal style, not the traditional French colonial style found throughout the region. Anyone interested in architectural history can therefore look not only at a building’s age, but also at the difference between two architectural styles.
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site preserves the central area of the largest prehistoric city of Indigenous peoples in North America north of Mexico. The Cahokia Courthouse offers another perspective on regional history: The Fete du Bon Vieux Temps, a colonial Mardi Gras celebration, is held there every year. This places important early history alongside cultural traditions.
The Victorian Home Museum and the Emma Kunz House offer different perspectives for comparing historic living conditions. The Victorian Home Museum depicts the life of a wealthy Belleville family during the Victorian era. The Emma Kunz House is a German Street House and shows what life was like for the working class in 19th-century Belleville. Self-guided tours at the Victorian Home Museum are available on weekdays from noon to 2 p.m.; check visiting hours in advance, as access details may change.
In Belleville’s historic downtown, a Queen Anne house dating to 1909 has been converted into the Daphne Sumner History Discovery Center. The center’s library hosts lectures, workshops, and other educational programs. For visitors, the site connects the history of a particular house with a program focused on history and education.
Trails, Water, and Landscapes
At Frank Holten State Park, the two lakes together cover more than 200 acres of water and have 5 miles of shoreline. One hiking trail is 1 mile long. These figures help convey the park’s different dimensions: Water and shoreline define the area, while the trail offers a way to explore it on foot. At St. Ellen Park, the trail system consists of an upper and a lower section.
Silver Creek Preserve is located on former farmland in the Silver Creek floodplain and also has a hiking trail. Engelmann Farm is the former homestead of Friedrich Engelmann, dating to 1833; one of its hiking trails is lined with benches. Foley Park rounds out the picture with four fishing lakes. Together, these places offer different experiences, from a trail through a river floodplain to an area with fishing opportunities.
The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows encompasses more than 200 acres of landscaped grounds. It has sites for prayer and reflection. A different geographic landmark is the Mississippi River Overlook on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River.
Special Offerings and Practical Information
At Eckert’s Belleville Farm, visitors can pick their own fruit and vegetables; the crops available depend on the season. The Cider Shed serves drinks and light snacks Tuesday through Sunday. As operating details may change, check current information about offerings and operating days before your visit.
Madison County Transit Bus No. 18 stops at the intersection of Black Lane/Fairmont Avenue and Collinsville Road, a short distance from the Cahokia Mounds Interpretive Center. As the route may change, it’s a good idea to check it before traveling.
The Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail offers a broader regional perspective. The 60-mile route is intended to connect historic sites and significant landscapes in St. Clair, Monroe, and Randolph counties. Its exact route may evolve; bear this in mind when planning and check the latest route information.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Dupo, Belleville, Fairmont City, Fairview Heights, O'fallon, Swansea, Shiloh, Cahokia, Caseyville, Mascoutah.
For the main travel overview: Illinois.
