29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Collinsville, IL
Are you a resident or tourist seeking adventure and exploration in Collinsville, Illinois? You’re in for an unforgettable experience! This comprehensive guide unveils the top 29 thrilling and captivating activities to indulge in while visiting Collinsville, IL, ensuring you savor every moment in this vibrant city.
Collinsville is nestled in Madison County, Illinois, and is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks. One of the city’s most notable claims to fame is its status as the “Horseradish Capital of the World,” owing to its significant contribution to horseradish production and distribution.
As a prominent city in the Metro-East region, Collinsville boasts a myriad of captivating attractions, both natural and man-made, that promise to enchant visitors of all ages.
From the towering majesty of the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site to the exhilarating thrills of Gateway Fun Park, and from the fascinating exhibits at the Collinsville Historical Museum to the delightful flavors at the Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, Collinsville offers a diverse array of experiences to delight and engage every traveler.
29 Best and Fun Things To Do In Collinsville, IL (2024)
1. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Kick off your Collinsville trip with a visit to the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, a breathtaking beehive located across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, Missouri, offering a plethora of educational things to do in Collinsville, IL, for history enthusiasts.
Spanning 2,200 acres, this remarkable site features over 80 artificial mounds that acted as ceremonial platforms, burial sites, and public buildings from 700 to 1400 AD. It also houses the Monk Mound, which is the biggest ancient mound in America.
Additionally, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site offers picturesque views of the entire landscape, with a revamped fortification wall, and the Woodhenge, a wooden structure that gives realizations into the lives of the Cahokian people.
An exploration of this attraction allows you to take a journey back in time, uncovering the secrets of civilization, and a glance into the past for educational and inspirational purposes.
Address: Collinsville, IL, United States.
2. Old Herald Brewery & Distillery
Are you desiring a taste of history and a gulp of handmade beverages? Look no more than Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, a fixed historic newspaper building with a current production brewery and distillery, presenting fun things to do in Collinsville, IL, for wine enthusiasts.
The attraction boasts a captivating mix of old and new beers and spirits, including the famous Proofreader Pale Ale, Printer’s Ink, gins, rums, and Vodka in a calm ambiance, with clinking glasses and a vibrant buzz of happy customers.
Old Herald Brewery & Distillery also provides a careful selection of dining menus with each meal option catering to and complementing their wines and spirits.
Visitors to this destination are allowed to enjoy a taste of locally-made beers and spirits, relish the historic atmosphere of the building, enjoy a delightful meal, and unwind with friends and family.
Address:Â 115 E Clay Street, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
3. Gateway Convention Center
Exploring Gateway Convention Center, a central hub for events and gatherings irrespective of audience sizes, presents an inviting space for conferences, trade shows, weddings, and other unique things to do in Collinsville, IL, for everyone.
Located just a few minutes away from downtown St. Louis, the convention center prides itself in 50,000 square feet of ample event space, in-house catering, audio/visual amenities, fast Wi-Fi connection, and a free parking space.
Regardless of whether you’re attending a conference or any other social gathering, Gateway Convention Center gives you a cozy and fully facilitated environment and other important amenities to ensure you get the best experiences.
Address:Â 1 Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
4. The Gateway Arch
Nestled in Saint Louis, Missouri, about a 30-minute drive from Collinsville, catching a glimpse of The Gateway Arch, a real icon of the American Midwest, is among the unique things to do near Collinsville, IL, for visitors and locals.
The magnificent monument, soaring over 630 feet into the sky, is the tallest artificial monument in the Western Region and the tallest available structure in Missouri.
Beyond its unique heights, The Gateway Arch presents a thrilling ride to the top with stunning views of the Mississippi river, the vibrant city of St. Louis, and the surrounding areas. A museum is also available to expose you to the history of St. Louis, the Louisiana Purchase, and the western development of the United States.
Address:Â St. Louis, MO 63102, United States.
5. FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing
Experience a lot of special and family-friendly things to do in Collinsville, IL, for everyone when you visit FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing, a beehive offering dual fun under a single roof.
This exciting venue features daily live broadcast races, jockeys and horses, 31 TVs showing all the major games, and the chance to place bets legally in a comfy setting, lively atmosphere, with tasty dining options.
Get exhilarating encounters with family and friends by witnessing the heart-pounding action of live horse racing or placing bets on your best teams in the sportsbook.
Address:Â 9301 Collinsville Road, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
6. Willoughby Heritage Farm
As a nature enthusiast, a stop by at Willoughby Heritage Farm to experience the nostalgia and magic of rural life is one of the unique and educational things to do in Collinsville, IL, today.
Sprawling 30 acres of land, the farm attraction reproduces a 1940 farmstead ambiance displaying vintage farm facilities, a vegetable and flower garden, friendly farm animals, a children’s playground, and the Craftsman-style farmhouse.
As you explore Collinsville, learn about traditional farming practices, commune with nature, and allow the kids to do their thing with the animals, ensuring you enjoy a special blend of education and recreation.
Address: 631 Willoughby Lane, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
7. Collinsville Aqua Park
One of the best things to do in Collinsville, IL, in the summer is to beat its heat and create a splash at Collinsville Aqua Park, a picturesque water park with an array of fun things to do in Collinsville, IL, for all ages.
The park features a variety of water slides, swimming pools, a kiddie area with pint-sized slides, water jets, tipping buckets, a concession, a free parking space, and the Aqua Climb Wall, for those searching for a more challenging adventure.
With a visit to Collinsville Aqua Park, you can take a thrilling glide down the serpentine water slides, chill and paddle along the lazy river, or make a splash in the leisure pool to spice up your Collinsville expedition.
Address:Â 10 Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
8. World’s Largest Catsup Bottle
Catching a glimpse of the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, a piece of traditional history standing tall as a homage to the Brooks Catsup Company, is one of the unique things to do in Collinsville, IL, for visitors and locals.
The 170-foot legendary landmark stands majestically on a 100-foot base and boasts the ability of 100,000 gallons, about 640,000 bottles of ketchup. The surrounding area features a picnic area and ample space for a break.
A visit to the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle allows you to take photos in front of the giant bottle, get immersed in learning local history about the Brooks Catsup Company, and add a touch of fun to your trip.
Address:Â 800 S Morrison Avenue, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
9. Collinsville Historical Museum
As an art and history enthusiast, an adventure to the Collinsville Historical Museum, a treasure trove with displays of the city’s rich history, should make your bucket list of educational things to do in Collinsville, IL, for all ages.
This vibrant museum boasts a different array of artifacts originating from 1767 showing captivating stories of the town’s founders, the times of local industries, and the daily hustles and bustles of its residents.
With a visit to the museum, you can gain educational insights about the events, people, and industries that shaped Collinsville and appreciate its roots, making it one of the unique things to do in Collinsville, IL, for everyone.
Address:Â 406 W Main Street, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Collinsville, Illinois? Why not check out some fun things to do in Woodstock, IL, and fun things to do in Madison, IL?
10. Woodland Park
Spending quality time at Woodland Park, a famous destination with a spacious green haven for multiple outdoor recreational activities, is among the fun things to do in Collinsville, IL, this weekend.
The attractive park offers ideal spaces for picnics, frisbee throws, and relaxation, playgrounds embedded with slides, swings, and climbing structures, baseball fields, an 18-hole disc golf course, and pavilions.
Woodland Park guarantees a refreshing getaway for all, whether families, sports enthusiasts, or couples, with well-kept and modern facilities to promote a tranquil ambiance for relaxation and other open-air activities.
Address:Â Pine Lake Road, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
11. Leisure World Health Club
Get active and place your health in order at Leisure World Health Club, an established and well-equipped fitness center offering a plethora of special things to do in Collinsville, IL, for all ages.
The health club features a vast range of facilities, including free weights, weight machines, treadmills, ellipticals, cardio machines, and locker rooms with showers.
A membership at Leisure World Health Club opens you to a world of fitness possibilities as visitors are allowed to design their workouts with different equipment or benefit from group tutorials with added motivation and expert instruction.
Address: 9 Collinsport Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
12. Black Friday Liquidators / Restaurant Equipment
Are you searching for a place to score a deal on your next restaurant venture? Black Friday Liquidators / Restaurant Equipment presents an atmosphere for fun things to do in Collinsville, IL, today.
The restaurant prides itself on a large showroom sprawling over an acre, and diverse restaurant equipment, including commercial refrigerators, freezers, ovens and ranges, prep stations, sinks, cutlery, and dishes.
Several benefits await you on your visit to Black Friday Liquidators / Restaurant Equipment, from getting discounted prices on purchases to browsing a vast selection of items in the showroom, giving you a lovely shopping experience.
Address:Â 800 S Morrison Avenue, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
13. Ballpark Village
Located in Saint Louis, MO, just a 20-minute drive from Collinsville, IL, releasing your inner sports fan at Ballpark Village, the home of the St Louis Cardinals baseball team, is one of the fun things to do near Collinsville, IL, for all ages.
Beyond sports, the park boasts different restaurants with tasty foods, a live music performance at a stylish and modern bar, an entertainment complex with family-friendly games and a cinema, and a space to unwind with scenic views of the city.
The entertainment center allows you to be satisfied with tasty meals and refreshing drinks at the different restaurants and bars, enjoy live music, catch your favorite movies, or dig out other entertainment choices to jazz up your visit.
Ballpark Village is also a perfect destination to have a lively date night, making its visit one of the romantic things to do near Collinsville, IL, for couples.
Address:Â 601 Clark Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States.
14. St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station
Dive into an underwater adventure at St. Louis Aquarium At Union Station, a fascinating treasure nestled in Saint Louis, MO, just a 19-minute drive from Collinsville, IL, presenting a trip through different water bodies and other unique things to do near Collinsville, IL, for everyone.
The aquarium prides itself in over 120,000 square feet of water marvels and exhibits displaying different aquatic habitats, including the majestic Mississippi River, the wonderful coral reefs, and the minor pools filled with aquatic creatures.
The attraction also offers practical displays and educational programs, aimed at offering an ideal blend of fun and informative experiences for all ages.
As a guest of this attraction, you can unravel the marvels embedded under the water, learn about the variety of species and their habitat, and get immersed in the picturesque assortment of marine life.
Address:Â 201 S 18th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States.
15. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Positioned within St. Louis, Missouri, within a 30-minute drive from Collinsville, unearthing Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, a historic feature also known as the Chains of Rocks Bridge, is among the unique things to do near Collinsville, IL, for history enthusiasts,
Established in 1929, the focal point of this attraction is its dramatic bend which was constructed due to the presence of of a water intake and uneven bedrock. Other striking features include a well-kept pedestrian-cyclist walkway, beautiful scenes, and remains of the Route 66 signs.
An expedition to this attraction guarantees a special mix of history, exercise, and panoramic scenes, as you can take a stroll, get a refreshing bike ride, take in the picturesque views, or relax in the comfy environment.
Address:Â 10820 Riverview Drive, St. Louis, MO 63137, United States.
16. Budweiser Brewery Experience
With just a 20-minute drive from Collinsville, IL, to St. Louis, MO, a visit to Budweiser Brewery Experience offers the inner workings of the brewing process of one of America’s most famous beers. bringing to light one of the unique things to do near Collinsville, IL, for visitors and locals alike.
Nestled in the Soulard neighborhood, the brewery offers excursions to cover diverse interests, exposing visitors to the brewing process from the selection to the packaging line.
On your visit to this destination, you can explore the brand’s rich legacy at the Budweiser Museum, or embark on a tour to unearth diverse concealed areas and get a clear view of the finishing tanks.
Address:Â 1200 Lynch Street, St. Louis, MO 63118, United States.
17. The St. Louis Wheel
Discover an array of family-friendly things to do near Collinsville, IL, for all ages when you take an adventure to The St. Louis Wheel, an iconic wheel that presents stunning vistas and exciting rides for everyone.
Nestled in St. Louis, about 22 minutes away from Collinsville, St. Louis Wheel features 42 temperature-regulated gondolas with broad windows giving you an incredible all-round view of the city skylines, the Mississippi River, and the near terrains.
Besides taking a 15-minute ride on the 200-foot wheel, you can also explore the variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options to complete your experience.
Address:Â 201 S 18th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States
18. Historic Miner’s Theater & Institute
As a history buff, one of the entertaining things to do in Collinsville, IL, today is to explore the Historic Miner’s Theater & Institute, a cultural treasure built by local coal miners’ unions to serve as a “home away from home” for miners and their families.
Established in 1918, the Theater & Institute prides itself on a beautifully rehabilitated hall with relaxed seating, a great stage, and complex facts that bring to life a bygone era.
The Historic Miner’s Theater & Institute also features an assortment of performances, including concerts, musicals, plays, dances, and educational programs to get you acquainted with the history of the local coal miners.
Address:Â 204 W Main Street, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Collinsville, Illinois? Check out: fun things to do in Naperville, IL
19. The Darkness Haunted House
Placed within St. Louis, an 18-minute drive from Collinsville, bracing yourself for an adrenaline-pumping adventure at The Darkness Haunted House, regarded as America’s Scariest Haunted House, is among the unique things to do near Collinsville, IL, for everyone.
The haunted house attraction features an expansive arena bustling with terror, and numerous scary attractions under a single roof, each designed with frightening themes, special effects, and live actors to get you scared at every turn.
As a thrill-seeker, get prepared to steer through the creepy scenes, experience terrifying creatures, and scream your way through this legendary treasure.
Address:Â 1525 S 8th Street, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States.
20. Kruta Bakery
Get a taste of tradition at Kruta Bakery, an aromatized haven for bread lovers and sweet tooths, giving way to diverse special things to do in Collinsville, IL, for everyone, age notwithstanding.
The bakery features a lovely array of locally-produced baked goods from cakes like red velvet and carrot cake, cookies, pastries, and donuts to traditional European fruits and nut bread to cater to your taste buds.
An adventure to Kruta Bakery promises a variety of freshly baked goodness in the warmth and charming ambiance of the local treasure.
Address:Â 300 St Louis Road, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
21. Gateway Arch Riverboats
Situated in St. Louis, about a 22-minute drive from Collinsville, IL, taking a cruise on the Gateway Arch Riverboats is one of the adventurous things to do near Collinsville, IL, for families.
The attraction offers different sailing experiences to cater to diverse interests and time limitations. The cruises offer beautiful views of the Mississippi River, the surrounding terrain, and a peek into the rich history of the region.
Visitors to this destination are allowed to enjoy picturesque views of the Mississippi River and scenic landscapes, while gaining historical wisdom of the area, thus fostering a relaxing and educational experience.
Address:Â 50 S Leonor K Sullivan Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States.
22. MX Movies & Bar
Catch a view of your favorite movie series perfectly blended with a lovely bar experience at MX Movies & Bar, an entertainment center and welcoming bar offering many unique and romantic things to do near Collinsville, IL, for couples.
Nestled in St. Louis, 18 minutes from Collinsville, MX Movies & Bar offers a perfect mix of convenient In-seat dining settings with a vibrant bar and lounge.
You can scan a QR code and browse their comprehensive menu with movie chows like popcorn and candy or enjoy the vast selection of beers, wines, and cocktails from the best breweries in St. Louis.
Address:Â 618 Washington Avenue 2nd Floor, St. Louis, MO 63101, United States.
23. Citygarden sculpture Park
An adventure at Citygarden Sculpture Park, a free and urban haven in St. Louis, a 20-minute drive from Collinsville, is among the fun and family-friendly things to do near Collinsville, IL, for all ages.
The Beehive features over 24 sculptures spread across its vast grounds, six rain gardens, a 102-fountain spray plaza for children, and a stimulating 180-foot-long pool with a flowing waterfall
Guests to this attraction get a special and free open experience with the sculptures promoting explorations and play, as the serene gardens and soothing water features give a tranquil getaway in the city’s heart.
Address:Â 801 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63101, United States.
24. The Mural Mile
The Mural Mile, a bustling outdoor gallery accessible within a 19-minute drive from Collinsville, IL, to St. Louis, MO, offers a plethora of free things to do near Collinsville, IL, for art enthusiasts.
Spanning over two miles, the gallery boasts artistic works of over 250 graffiti and street artists on the Mississippi River floodwall, thus creating an appealing landscape of the city’s culture and artistic endeavors.
On your visit to the Mural Mile, you can go on a free, self-guided walking tour, admiring the different artistic styles, historical references, and powerful messages implanted in the mural collections.
Address:Â Chouteau Avenue & S Leonor K Sullivan Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States.
25. World Wide Technology Raceway
Nestled within Madison, IL, about a 14-minute drive from Collinsville, gearing up for thrills at World Wide Technology Raceway, a large motorsports arena, is one of the fun and exciting things to do near Collinsville, IL, for racing enthusiasts and visitors.
The racing hub features a 1.25-mile oval track for hosting NASCAR, IndyCar, and truck races, a 2.0-mile road path for club racing and pro events, a drag strip, and a cutting-edge karting facility.
As you visit the World Wide Technology Raceway, catch a glimpse of pro races, put your skills to the test on the go-kart track, or casually enjoy the electrifying ambiance of the arena.
Address: 700 Raceway Blvd, Madison, IL 62060, United States.
26. Camelot Bowl
Strike up some fun at Camelot Bowl, a family-friendly entertainment center offering different fun things to do in Collinsville, IL, for families and friends.
The bowling zone boasts 32 bowling lanes, cosmic bowling with black lights and music, year-round leagues for competitive bowlers, party packages, and arcade games for the best experiences.
Are you seeking a perfect night of friendly competition, a casual hangout with friends, or an unforgettable family outing as an advanced or inexperienced bowler? Then Camelot Bowl got you covered.
Address:Â 801 Beltline Road, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
27. Omnidome Virtual Reality
Take a 10-minute drive from Collinsville to Maryville, IL, to get the best of fun and unique things to do near Collinsville, IL, at Omnidome Virtual Reality, a world of advanced 360-degree treadmills and high-tech VR technology.
The entertainment center gives a perfect mix of physical and virtual experience with an all-around treadmill to allow you to walk, run, or even crouch within the Virtual environment.
The game hub allows you to explore unknown landscapes, fight fearsome enemies, or embark on intriguing adventures, spicing up your Collinsville expedition.
Address:Â 46 Executive Plaza Court, Maryville, IL 62062, United States.
28. Altitude Trampoline Parks
Releasing your inner jumper at Altitude Trampoline Parks, a Glen Carbon-situated fun hub a 16-minute drive from Collinsville, is among the fun things to do near Collinsville, IL, for kids.
The trampoline park features a large trampoline space with a web of trampolines for jumping and flipping, dodgeball courts, obstacle courses, slam dunk zones, and foam pits. and tutorials to cater to inexperienced skill levels.
As an ideal destination for a day out with families and friends, Altitude Trampoline Parks gives room to have jumping and flipping fun in a safe environment, irrespective of your skill level.
Address:Â 91 Fountain Drive, Glen Carbon, IL 62034, United States.
29. Collinsville Activity Center
Unearth a blend of fun, entertaining, and educational things to do in Collinsville, IL, for everyone when you visit Collinsville Activity Center, a fully-equipped facility with rental spaces and programs.
The activity center prides itself on numerous rooms for different rooms, an ample auditorium for larger events, smaller rooms for classes, and a kitchen for basic food preparation.
whether you’re a resident or planning an event in Collinsville, the Collinsville Activity Center offers affordable rental space for flexible use in a convenient location.
Address:Â 10 Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
Plan Your Trip To Collinsville, IL
Collinsville, Illinois, is a distinct adventure hub, providing a delightful mix of fun, entertainment, education, and culture.
Whether you’re a local or visiting, every encounter brings you closer to the essence of this lovely town, revealing its deep history, lively events, and tight-knit community.
So, get ready to explore, enjoy the cultural details, taste the local cuisine, and let Collinsville captivate your senses in its special way.
