Things To Do
in Alton
Alton is a picturesque city located in Madison County, Illinois, along the banks of the Mississippi River. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and scenic views. Visitors to Alton can explore historic sites such as the Alton Museum of History and Art or take a leisurely walk along the Great River Road.
The city also offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching in its numerous parks and nature reserves.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the Mississippi River at the Alton Riverfront Park. Enjoy the picturesque views and take photos of the riverboats.
Visit the Piasa Bird mural, an iconic piece of the local history that represents Native American folklore. Afterward, grab lunch at a local cafe and discover charming shops downtown.
Wrap up your day with a visit to the Great River Road Bike Trail. Enjoy a peaceful evening outdoors while watching the sunset over the river.
Begin your day at the Alton Museum of History and Art to learn about the area's rich history. Explore the diverse exhibits showcasing local art and culture.
Head to the nearby National Great Rivers Museum to discover more about the Mississippi River's ecology. Save some time to enjoy a picnic in the park during lunch.
Dinner at a local restaurant is a perfect way to end your day. Sample some local cuisine and unwind with an evening stroll by the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas
- Access to outdoor recreational activities along the Mississippi River
- Rich historical significance and cultural heritage
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Proximity to larger cities like St. Louis
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Potential issues with crime rates in specific areas
- Less vibrant nightlife and cultural scene compared to bigger cities
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Weather extremes, including cold winters and hot summers
Best Activities in Alton
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque bluffs and enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Enjoy trails surrounded by nature and beautiful water features at Rock Spring Park.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic trail, offering views of the river and woodlands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Alton with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Alton
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, popular spot for sunrise and sunset photos
Provides panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding area, great for landscape photography
Scenic beachfront area with opportunities for capturing lakeside and sunset scenes
Food in Alton
Alton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Southern dish consisting of breaded and fried beef steak, usually served with creamy gravy. It can be savored at the notable Johnson's Corner Farm.
Must-Try!
Tender and flavorful ribs slow-cooked to perfection with a smoky aroma. Visit Castelli's Restaurant at 255 to indulge in this local favorite.
A delectable sandwich featuring crispy catfish nestled in a soft bun with zesty remoulade. Head to Bossanova Restaurant for a taste of this iconic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Alton better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering an array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. Visitors can also savor diverse street food options like gourmet tacos and wood-fired pizzas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Alton, it is important to be mindful of personal space and not to stand too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation.
It is customary to offer a friendly greeting, such as a smile and a handshake, when meeting someone for the first time in Alton.
Alton is a diverse community, and it is important to show respect and understanding towards people of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Alton with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Alton
Ensure a smooth experience
In Alton, United States, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, and other service industries. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service. Tipping is also expected for services such as taxi rides, hotel staff, and hairdressers.
Payment methods commonly accepted in Alton, United States include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses and establishments in Alton accept major credit cards, and it's common to use debit or credit cards for transactions. Contactless and mobile payment options are also becoming increasingly popular in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Alton.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Alton for blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
Ideal for outdoor activities, with warm temperatures and numerous events and festivals.
Great for fall foliage and harvest festivals. Cooler temperatures but still enjoyable.
Can be cold, but holiday events and winter sports make it an attractive season for many visitors.
Alton at Night
Hiking in Alton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just a short drive from Alton, Red Rock Canyon offers stunning views, various trails, and opportunities for both seasoned hikers and beginners.
This site features trails that allow visitors to explore ancient Native American mounds while enjoying a hike through the surrounding landscape.
A picturesque trail along the Mississippi River, perfect for a leisurely hike with beautiful water views and access to local wildlife.
This site has hiking trails that provide insights into the historic expedition, coupled with beautiful natural scenery.
Just a little further from Alton, this park offers extensive trails through picturesque woodlands and stunning views of the Illinois River.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Alton through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Alton by plane.
The primary airport serving the Greater St. Louis area, located approximately 25 miles south of Alton, MO.
One of the largest and busiest airports in the U.S., located about 285 miles northeast of Alton, IL.
A major airport serving the Chicago area, located approximately 270 miles northeast of Alton, IL.
The primary airport serving Indianapolis, located about 185 miles east of Alton, IL.
An airport serving the Cincinnati metro area, located about 120 miles southeast of Alton, IL.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white individuals, making up the largest demographic group in Alton.
A significant demographic group representing a substantial portion of the population in Alton.
Includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of Alton.
A smaller demographic group in Alton, encompassing various Asian ethnicities.
Comprises a small percentage of the population, representing the indigenous heritage of the region.
Individuals identifying as multiracial, reflecting a growing trend in the community.
The Soul of Alton
Discover the essence of Alton through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Alton, enjoyed by many youth leagues and adult recreational teams.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local parks, with numerous leagues and tournaments held throughout the year.
Baseball has a strong tradition in Alton, with several teams and a dedicated little league program for children.
Swimming is popular, especially during the summer months, with local pools and the Mississippi River providing venues.
American football is a prominent sport in Alton, with high school teams and a strong following among the community.
Volleyball, including beach and indoor variants, is enjoyed by residents, with leagues available for different skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Alton presents a range of restaurants and cafes that offer delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as veggie burgers, quinoa salads, and plant-based desserts.
Numerous establishments in Alton are conscious of gluten-free diners and provide a variety of offerings, from gluten-free pizzas to decadent desserts sans gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Alton with these cultural adventures.
