Attractions and Places To See around Alton - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see around Alton, Illinois, are situated along the Mississippi River, a region known for its historical significance and diverse natural landscape. The area features striking limestone bluffs and the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Alton offers a blend of historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and scenic natural features for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Alton
- The most popular attractions is Confluence Tower and the Lewis & Clark Monument, a man-made…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Confluence Tower and the Lewis & Clark Monument
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Confluence Trail
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Melvin Price Locks and Dam
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Fort Belle Fontaine Park
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Clark Bridge
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Popular around Alton
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The Melvin Price Lock and dam is located on the MCT Confluence Trail near East Alton, Illinois. There is a Great Rivers Museum here and the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center. All of this is accessible directly off the trail with out having to cross any highways. They do have tours of the lock and dam. Check on line for availability. www.mtrf.org
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This monument is located just adjacent to the MCT Confluence Trail near the Poag Road Intersection. The monument is completely accessible from the Trail without crossing any roads.
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This trail runs atop the main Levee which protects much of the area from the Mississippi River when it floods. The surface is paved and the path is completely separate from the road way. Sites along this trail include the Confluence Tower Monument, Melvin Price Lock and Dam, The City of Alton and of course gorgeous views of the Mississippi River. This trail is safe for children although some road crossings require you to stop before crossing. Be careful when crossing these roads as the visibility is limited. There are restroom facilities at the Confluence Tower facility and the Great Rivers Museum located at the Melvin Price Lock and Dam. This is a great spring or fall ride. This trail runs atop a levee so there is no tree shade. This can be a consideration in the summertime when it gets quite hot.
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This is a monument to two famous American explorers, Lewis and Clark. They were credited with mapping the Missouri River and also finding a passage to the west coast of North America. It was from this point they launched their famous journey. This Monument is located on the Madison County Transit ( MCT ) Confluence trail which also carry's the Mississippi River Trail.
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Fort Belle Fontaine Park in St. Louis is a historic park that encompasses the site of the first United States military installation west of the Mississippi River. It has scenic views over the Missouri River and a circular footpath that takes you around the entire park.
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The bridge features a bike path that is not super well protected (no barrier between the bike lane and traffic), but works well enough. The path is generally wide enough for comfortable riding and tends to be quiet, making it a viable option for crossing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in Alton?
Alton is rich in history. You can visit Confluence Tower and the Lewis & Clark Monument, which commemorates the starting point of their expedition. Another significant site is Fort Belle Fontaine Park, the location of the first U.S. military installation west of the Mississippi River. Don't miss the Lincoln Douglas Square, commemorating a pivotal debate, or the Elijah Lovejoy Monument, the tallest monument in Illinois.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling near Alton?
Yes, Alton offers several options for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the Confluence Trail, which is paved and offers scenic views of the Mississippi River. For more routes, check out the easy hikes around Alton or the road cycling routes around Alton, which include trails like the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail.
What natural attractions are there around Alton?
The region is known for its striking limestone bluffs along the Mississippi River. You can also visit Gordon Moore Park, a large park with a native prairie grassland area and a lake, or the Olin Nature Preserve for trails. Across the river, the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a significant site for birdwatching, especially for eagles in winter.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Alton?
Many attractions in Alton are suitable for families. The Confluence Tower and the Lewis & Clark Monument, Confluence Trail, Melvin Price Locks and Dam, and Fort Belle Fontaine Park are all categorized as family-friendly. The National Great Rivers Museum at the Melvin Price Locks & Dam also offers interactive exhibits.
Where can I learn about Robert Wadlow, the 'World's Tallest Man'?
Alton is the hometown of Robert Wadlow. You can see a life-size bronze statue of him in the city. The Alton Museum of History and Art also features a dedicated room with artifacts from his life, providing insight into his unique story.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Alton?
Yes, the Confluence Tower and the Lewis & Clark Monument is completely accessible from the Madison County Transit (MCT) Confluence trail. The Confluence Trail itself is paved and separate from roadways, making it accessible.
When is the best time to visit Alton for outdoor activities?
Spring and fall are ideal for outdoor activities in Alton. The Confluence Trail is particularly enjoyable during these seasons. Summers can be quite hot, and the trail has no tree shade, so plan accordingly if visiting then. Fall also brings stunning foliage to areas like Pere Marquette State Park.
Where can I see the legendary Piasa Bird?
A large mural depicting the legendary Piasa Bird, a Native American dragon-like creature, can be found on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. It's a 20th-century reproduction of a much older original.
What are some unique or quirky attractions in Alton?
Alton is known as 'One of the Most Haunted Small Towns in America,' offering various ghost tours and reportedly haunted locations. For something truly unique, visit the American Oddities Museum, which features bizarre objects like a taxidermy 'mermaid' and vampire-killing kits.
Where can I go birdwatching near Alton?
The Melvin Price Locks & Dam is a prime spot for birdwatching. Additionally, the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, located across the river, is a significant refuge for nature lovers and a major site for birdwatching, especially for eagles during the winter months.
What cultural sites are available in Alton?
Alton offers several cultural institutions. The Alton Museum of History and Art, located in Loomis Hall, preserves and interprets the city's history. The National Great Rivers Museum, situated at the Melvin Price Locks & Dam, features interactive exhibits about the Mississippi River. You can also visit the Jacoby Arts Center for exhibits and performances.
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