Jacksonville Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Illinois, the charming city of Jacksonville offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich heritage and picturesque landscapes, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic American experience.

History buffs will be delighted by the abundance of historical sites and landmarks that define Jacksonville. Take a step back in time as you explore the Illinois College, one of the oldest colleges in the state, founded in 1829. The campus is adorned with stunning architectural masterpieces, including the stately Beecher Hall, a National Historic Landmark. Immerse yourself in the history of the region at the Morgan County Historical Society Museum, where exhibits showcase the city's past through artifacts and interactive displays.

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the beauty of Jacksonville's surrounding landscapes. The city is blessed with an array of parks and nature reserves, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. Be sure to visit Nichols Park, a sprawling green oasis that offers scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and a serene lake. For a more immersive experience, head to Lake Jacksonville, a stunning reservoir where you can indulge in fishing, boating, and camping amidst breathtaking views.

Art and culture thrive in Jacksonville, as evidenced by its vibrant arts scene. The David Strawn Art Gallery showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional artwork, while the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra enthralls audiences with their captivating performances. Don't miss the annual Art in the Park festival, where local artisans display their creations against the backdrop of Nichols Park.

As the sun sets over Jacksonville, the city comes alive with a burgeoning culinary scene. From cozy cafes and classic diners to upscale restaurants, there's something to suit every palate. Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at one of the city's many farm-to-fork eateries, or savor authentic Midwestern flavors at a local steakhouse.

Alternative names: Population: 19.1 thous.Area: 10.65 mi²Elevation: 597 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 39°43'55"N, 90°13'49"W

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IllinoisUnited States

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Jacksonville Top Attractions

Jacksonville Attractions - What to See and Explore

Jacksonville offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Illinois College, Ayers Bank Building, Morgan County Courthouse, Jacksonville Public Library. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Universities and schools
Illinois College
Illinois College is a private liberal arts college in Jacksonville, Illinois. It is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and the Presbyterian Church. It was the second college founded in Illinois, but the first to grant a degree.
39°44'4"N • 90°13'49"W
Ayers Bank Building
The Ayers Bank Building is a historic bank building located at 200 West State Street in Jacksonville, Illinois. This site is believed to have been continuously associated with banking since 1832, longer than any other site in Illinois.
Bars and clubs • Nightlife
Morgan County Courthouse
The Morgan County Courthouse, located at 300 W. State St. in Jacksonville, is the county courthouse of Morgan County, Illinois.

Library
Jacksonville Public Library
The Jacksonville Public Library is a Carnegie library located at 201 West College Avenue in Jacksonville, Illinois. The library was built in 1902 to house the city's library program, which began in 1870.
Greek Revival architecture
Jacksonville Historic District
The Jacksonville Historic District is a historic district encompassing 696 buildings in Jacksonville, Illinois. The buildings in the district were mainly constructed from 1829 to the 1930s and represent nearly every popular architectural style from the period.
39°43'58"N • 90°13'41"W
Jacksonville Labor Temple
The Jacksonville Labor Temple is a historic building located at 228 South Mauvaisterre Street in Jacksonville, Illinois. The Jacksonville Trades and Labor Assembly, an organization of Jacksonville labor union members formed in 1892, constructed the building in 1904 to serve as its meeting house.
Universities and schools
MacMurray College
MacMurray College was a private college in Jacksonville, Illinois. Its enrollment in fall 2015 was 570. Founded in 1846, the college closed its doors in May 2020.

Day trips

Jacksonville – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Jacksonville, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Illinois State Capitol (Springfield), First Presbyterian Church (Springfield), Lincoln Tomb (Springfield).

31 milesE
Domed seat of state government
Illinois State Capitol, Springfield
The Illinois State Capitol, situated in the city of Springfield, stands as a testament to the architectural grandeur of the late 19th century and the political heart of Illinois. This impressive building, which serves as the seat of government for the state, is not...
31 milesE
Church
First Presbyterian Church, Springfield
First Presbyterian Church is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church located in downtown Springfield, Illinois. This is the church that President Abraham Lincoln and his family attended while they lived in Springfield.
31 milesE
Memorial site, Memorial
Lincoln Tomb, Springfield
The Lincoln Tomb is the final resting place of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln; his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln; and three of their four sons, Edward, William, and Thomas. It is located in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois.
31 milesE
Museum, History museum, Library
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, Springfield
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum documents the life of the 16th U.S. president, Abraham Lincoln, and the course of the American Civil War.
31 milesE
Museum, Historical place, Greek Revival architecture
Old State Capitol State Historic Site, Springfield
The Old State Capitol State Historic Site, in Springfield, Illinois, is the fifth capitol building built for the U.S. state of Illinois. It was built in the Greek Revival style in 1837–1840, and served as the state house from 1840 to 1876. It is the site of candidacy announcements by Abraham Lincoln in 1858 and Barack Obama in 2007.