Things To Do
in Edwardsville
Edwardsville, Illinois is a growing Midwest town anchored by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, offering a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere with a lively downtown. The historic Old Town district along Main Street provides a walkable mix of shops, cafes, and cultural venues. The town blends university energy with parks, trails, and easy access to the St. Louis metro area for day trips.
Visitors will find a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and plenty of outdoor escapes just outside the city lights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Edwardsville Historical Museum, where you can immerse yourself in local history and culture. As you stroll through the exhibits, admire artifacts that date back to the early 1800s. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring a local favorite like a hearty pancake stack.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the Historic Edwardsville Square, where charming boutiques and antique shops await. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you explore the local art scene, perhaps stopping to admire a mural or two. Don’t forget to grab lunch at a cozy eatery, sampling some regional dishes.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy farm-to-table cuisine that highlights regional ingredients. After dinner, take a peaceful stroll through City Park, listening to the sounds of nature and reflecting on your day. End your evening with a visit to a local brewery, tasting craft beers and mingling with friendly locals.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike through the scenic trails of the nearby Watershed Nature Center. The morning air is crisp, and the sounds of birds chirping create a serene environment as you traverse the trails. After your hike, reward yourself with a picnic breakfast at one of the park's scenic spots.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Leclaire Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and perhaps engage in some leisurely outdoor activities like frisbee or kite flying. The park features lovely walking paths and a pond, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Pack a light lunch or grab a sandwich from a local deli to enjoy amid nature.
As evening approaches, consider attending a community event or concert at the park, where you can experience local talent and connect with the community. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a local diner, trying out some classic American fare. Cap off your night with a dessert from a nearby bakery, indulging in sweet treats.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🍕Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🍺Beer at local bar | $4-7 |
| 🛒Grocery trip for essentials | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Walkable historic district with charming shops and eateries
- Strong university presence brings cultural events and activities
- Easy day-trips to St. Louis and surrounding natural areas
- Family-friendly parks and outdoor recreation nearby
- Limited public transit compared to larger cities
- Smaller nightlife scene and fewer big-city amenities
- Occasional traffic during peak commuting hours
- Weather can be hot in summer and cold in winter
Places to Visit in Edwardsville
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick sidewalks, vintage storefronts, and a charming street-scene backdrop perfect for daytime strolls and golden-hour shots.
Water features, woodlands, and reflective surfaces offer tranquil nature photography near the university.
Iconic early-20th-century theater architecture ideal for architectural and night-exterior photography.
Scenic park overlook with shoreline views and landscaped surroundings, a great spot for sunset landscape photography.
Food in Edwardsville
Edwardsville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rotating plates featuring locally sourced ingredients from regional farms, common in many Edwardsville eateries.
Must-Try!
Smoky, tender pork served on a bun with slaw, a staple at many local spots.
A Midwest comfort classic served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products, typically spring through fall.
Seasonal lineup of food trucks along Main Street with a mix of quick bites and diverse cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting goes a long way; simple 'hello' and 'thank you' are appreciated in shops and cafes.
Respect lines and wait your turn; avoid blocking aisles in stores and maintain a courteous distance in crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Edwardsville
Ensure a smooth experience
In Edwardsville (U.S.), tip 15-20% for table service at restaurants; cash tips are accepted and card payments are standard. For bars and taxis/rideshares, a 15-20% tip is customary.
Most places accept credit and debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets; cash is also widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; rain is common, so bring a light layer and a compact umbrella for outdoor strolls and park visits.
Warm to hot days with humidity and occasional thunderstorms; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for walking tours, photography, and outdoor dining along Main Street.
Cold with possible snow; indoor cultural venues and cozy eateries become the focus; layering and winter accessories are recommended.
Edwardsville at Night
Hiking in Edwardsville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wooded, well-marked trails around campus lakes suitable for a half-day hike.
Short, scenic trails near Collinsville offering heritage views and verdant landscapes.
Riverside routes with panoramic river views, great for day trips and photography.
Airports
How to reach Edwardsville by plane.
Major airport serving the St. Louis area, about 25-30 miles from Edwardsville; accessible by car or shuttle services.
Smaller regional airport offering domestic flights; typically a 25-40 mile drive from Edwardsville depending on routing.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence due to good schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
SIUE students contribute a youthful, campus-driven vibe and events calendar.
Active retiree communities in suburban neighborhoods with a slower pace.
A growing cohort of professionals commuting to St. Louis or working in town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at schools, community leagues, and local parks; SIUE also features college baseball.
Active in schools and community centers; indoor courts and leagues available year-round.
High school and college football games are community focal points in fall.
Adult and youth leagues, with college soccer matches at SIUE drawing local interest.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edwardsville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for farm-to-table veggie plates, salads, and grain bowls; most menus include a vegetarian option. Try sharing sides like roasted vegetables, beans, and seasonal grain bowls.