Between Indianapolis and St. Louis, there’s plenty for travelers and residents to experience that you won’t find in a typical city guidebook. There’s Feather Place, Indianapolis’ beautiful historic neighborhood with cobblestone charm. Meanwhile, St. Louis is home to Clayton, an artsy suburb that doubles as its second downtown. But those who are looking to escape big city vibes and enjoy an even more low key vacation can find some true gems in the Midwestern countryside. Situated about 90 minutes from St. Louis and two-hours away from Indianapolis on Interstate 70 is Effingham, Illinois, an enchanting small town where vibrant local culture and outdoor excitement awaits.
Located just a stone’s throw from Lake Sara, Effingham offers waterfront fun for the entire family. Spend the day lounging by the lakeshore and paddling in the waters before heading downtown to explore Effingham’s excellent local eateries. A romantic winery just outside town offers an Italian-style tasting room to sip aromatic varietals, while another vineyard further along the highway offers an afternoon wine tour to compare flavors. Get your fill of culture at Effingham’s intriguing museums, or snap photos with the quirky sculptures decorating the downtown area, part of a local art exhibit called “Sculptures on the Avenues.” New works of art are displayed each year, adding a touch of whimsy to the town’s quiet Midwestern atmosphere.Escape the city on a day trip, or extend your stay to savor the vineyards in the area and spend the weekend in one of Effingham’s cozy accommodation options, whether it’s the Holiday Inn, the Hampton Inn, or the Best Western. If you’re flying in from out of state, the nearest major airport is Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield, about 90 minutes northwest by car. Though many visitors also opt to fly into Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes southwest of Effingham. And if you’re looking for more Illinois adventures, just 30 minutes north by car is Mattoon, a lovely city with tasty restaurants and a relaxing nature park.
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Explore the attractions and cultural sites in Effingham, Illinois
The Cross at the Crossroads in Effingham, Illinois – Eddie J. Rodriquez/Shutterstock
For the sightseeing fiends, Effingham offers plenty of attractions. Don’t miss the My Garage Museum, which houses thousands of vintage car memorabilia and automobile artifacts. From flashy Corvettes to the iconic racing-striped Volkswagen featured in the “Herbie: Fully Loaded” movie and an actual restored gas station dating to 1910, kids and adults alike will enjoy the immersive experience.
Next, make your way to the Effingham County Courthouse Museum. Built in the 1870s and now considered a National Historic Place, the red-brick facade and stately Second Empire architecture is worth a visit for a few fun vacation snaps. Inside, you’ll encounter small exhibits dedicated to the town’s railroad and military history, complete with a gift shop for unique souvenirs. Just outside the museum grounds is the Veteran’s Memorial, which offers a fantastic vantage point for more memorable photos. What’s more, some of the town’s funky sculptures are scattered along this area.Across the street from the memorial, you’ll find the Heart Theatre, which features a nostalgic Art Deco style architecture, complete with neon lights on the marquee. You can also head to the Effingham Public Library and browse its extensive literary collections. For more unforgettable sights, just 2.5 miles southwest of downtown is a colossal cruciform monolith called the Cross at the Crossroads. Rising almost 200 feet, the crucifix is surrounded by walking paths dotted with biblical sculptures. Take a break from sightseeing with a little retail therapy. The downtown area is lined with quaint boutiques and gift shops to pick up everything from antiques, trading cards, clothes, and artisan crafts.
Outdoor adventures, wineries, and eateries in Effingham, Illinois
Lake Sara near Effingham, Illinois – 2Kahns Photo Arts/Shutterstock
Those who prefer outdoorsy activities can head over to Lake Sara, just a 15-minute drive west of Effingham. Head to the small sandy beach to sunbathe against the picturesque lakeshore, or jump in for a refreshing swim. A playground near the beach will keep children occupied while you have a picnic beneath the trees, or rent paddle boards and kayaks to explore the watery landscape. The playground features a pirate ship, climbing ropes, and a swing set, not to mention a fishing dock to cast a line and a 9-hole disc golf course.
Hankering for a glass of red? Just 10 minutes north of downtown Effingham is the Tuscan Hills Winery, a sprawling estate surrounded by grape trellises. Aside from wine, you can also take your pick of craft beers, sangria, and charcuterie boards. Weekly events like musical bingo and live performances add even more excitement to a visit. Next, make your way to Cameo Vineyards, just 30 minutes away on Interstate 70. The rustic tasting room invites you to relax and indulge in a sip of award-winning wines, grown from French-American hybrid grapes. With 14 different varietals from red and white to dry and sweet, there’s sure to be a bottle that strikes your fancy.
Back in Effingham, reviewers recommend Gopher’s Grill for an excellent meal in a great atmosphere. From steak quesadillas to classic burgers, there are plenty of offerings for the entire family. For lighter fare like wraps, pastries, and tasty coffee, head to Joe Sippers Cafe, a cozy local joint. Make sure to try their artisanal brew while you appreciate the friendly atmosphere, sure to be a highlight of your Effingham vacation.
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