ATTRACTIONS
Coles County and the surrounding area boasts a wide variety of attractions, offering something for everyone. From the thrilling experience of axe throwing to seasonal favorites like Arthur's Great Pumpkin Patch, visitors will find numerous destinations to explore and enjoy .
ADVENTURE AWAITS
Mattoon, IL
Chris Suerdieck, curator of the Local History Center at the Mattoon Public Library, shares his journey of uncovering historical archives and transforming them into an engaging experience for the public. From his passion for preserving local history to creating immersive exhibits, Suerdieck brings the past to life, making history accessible and enjoyable for the community.
Charleston
Speedway
Charleston, IL
The Charleston Speedway offers thrilling, family-friendly dirt racing with divisions like DIRTcar Modified and Pro Late Model. With national oversight from DIRTcar Racing, fans can enjoy action-packed, wheel-to-wheel excitement every week!
Lincoln Log
Cabin
Lerna, IL
Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, part of the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area, preserves the 19th-century home of Thomas Lincoln and Sarah Bush Lincoln, father and step-mother of our 16th president.
Small Town,
Big Things
Casey, IL
Casey is only 2.6 square miles, but is currently home to 12 official World's Largest items according to the Guiness Book of World Records.
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Okaw Valley
Apple
Orchard
Sullivan, IL
The 4 generation, family-run business has over 1500 fruit trees and grow 27 different variations of apples, peaches, plums, and pears. Don’t forget to grab your Apple Slushies, fresh herbs, and more!
Bad Axe
On Main​​
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Shelbyville, IL
Check out this local axe throwing venue, perfect for participants aged 8 and up looking to experience the thrill of hitting the target with precision and skill. Bad Axe offers a safe and exciting environment for the unique sport of axe throwing.​
Aikman
Wildlife
Adventure
Arcola, IL
What would you do if God told you to open a zoo? Well, that's exactly what happened to James Aikmain. His perseverance has led to a sanctuary that is host to over 220 animals comprised of over 90 different species native to six different continents.
Museum for Prehistoric Life
Arcola, IL
Travel back in time at our Museum of Prehistoric Life, where guests can interact with one-of-a-kind, life-size dinosaur models. Discover prehistoric creatures that roamed the Earth over 10,000 years ago.
Master of All Toys Museum
Arcola, IL
Step into a world of nostalgia and imagination as you explore our action figure exhibit. With over 25 years of collectible figures and 18 distinct collections, there’s always something new to discover.
Wildlife
Manor
Arcola, IL
Relax among wildlife views and wide-open spaces at the new Elk Ridge Cabin—the first of Wildlife Manor. Discover details and book on Airbnb today for your next peaceful getaway.
Jerry Winter's
Art Gallery
Arcola, IL
Jerry Winter's Art Gallery is a haven brimming with an enchanting collection of artistic creations that exude beauty, humor, and charm. Each piece tells its own unique story, inviting you to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and imagination.
Arcola
Murals ​
Arcola, IL
Immerse yourself in culture and history by taking a journey through the captivating murals of Arcola. Each mural tells a unique story, depicting scenes that reflect the town's rich heritage and community spirit.
The Vault
Art Gallery
Tuscola, IL
Located in what was once a bank, this two-
story art gallery consists of a diverse array
of affordable artwork. Take a tour of the
12,000 square foot space that celebrates
over 50 local artists.
The Great
Pumpkin
Patch
Arthur, IL
Begin your morning with hot cider,
gourds, mums, and mazes at the 200
acre The Great Pumpkin Patch which is
home to around 300 varieties of
pumpkins, squashes, and gourds from
over 20 countries!
Overlook
Adventure
Park
Decatur, IL
Overlook Adventure Park is Decatur's most exciting party place, offering a thrilling combination of mini golf, a high ropes course, and batting cages! ​​​
Children's
Museum of
Illinois
Decatur, IL
This museum is designed for children ages two to ten, featuring hands-on experiences across our expansive two-story, 27,000 square foot facility. With over sixty exhibits and activities, the museum promotes healthy habits and critical thinking skills.
Scovil Zoo
Decatur, IL
Featuring 400 animals spanning six continents, an endangered species carousel, an express train, and summer camps, the zoo enhances the educational and recreational experience for residents and visitors alike across Central Illinois.
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Fairview
Drive-In
Newton, IL
This is a charming small-town gem where nostalgia meets modern entertainment. The Fairview Drive-In offers a unique movie-watching experience under the stars.
Lincoln
Museum ​
Springfield, IL
Experience history like never before. Step inside key moments in Lincoln's life, from triumph to tragedy. Explore immersive displays and shows that drive home the human costs of slavery and war.