15 Best & Fun Things To Do In Madison, IL
Are you looking for something fun to do in Madison, Illinois? This guide lists the 15 best and most fun things to do in this ancient city, whether you live there or are just visiting.
Madison is known for its rich industrial past and lively community life. It is just across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, Missouri. Many of this city’s sights show off its unique personality and cultural background.
There is something fun for everyone to do in Madison, from the famous Gateway International Raceway, where exciting racing events happen, to the peaceful Horseshoe Lake State Park, which has beautiful scenery and fun things to do.
15 Best And Fun Things To Do In Madison, IL (2024)
1. Madison Public Library
Start your trip in Madison by going to the Madison Public Library. It’s a general library with lots of useful things for everyone to do in Madison, IL.
You can borrow books, magazines, audiobooks, and other materials from the library. There are also computers with fast internet connections and training programs.
By going to the Madison Public Library, people can read a variety of books, use the computers for free, and take part in fun and exciting events.
Address: 1700 5th Street, Madison, IL 62060, United States.
2. World Wide Technology Raceway
Get ready for thrills at World Wide Technology Raceway, a big races arena. This is one of the fun and exciting things that racing fans and tourists can do in Madison, IL.
NASCAR, IndyCar, and truck races can be held on the 1.25-mile oval track, and club and professional racing can happen on the 2.0-mile road course. The racing hub also has a speed strip and a state-of-the-art karting facility.
When you go to the World Wide Technology Raceway, you can watch professional races, test your driving skills on the go-kart track, or just relax and enjoy the exciting atmosphere.
Address: 700 Raceway Blvd, Madison, IL 62060, United States.
3. Gateway National Golf Links
Book a tee time at Gateway National Golf Links this weekend. It’s one of the best things to do in Madison, IL. The course is very nice, with rolling hills, natural grasses, and quiet wetlands.
The golf course is an 18-hole public links-style course that is 7,178 yards long, has a slope of 138, and a par of 71. It is good for players of all levels, from beginners to pros.
If you play golf at Gateway National Golf Links, you can enjoy a beautiful vacation while still being able to see the city.
Address: 18 Golf Drive, Madison, IL 62060, United States.
4. The Gateway Arch
Seeing The Gateway Arch, a real symbol of the American Midwest, is one of the unique things that people from Madison, IL can do. It’s only an 11-minute drive to St. Louis, MO.
The beautiful monument, which rises more than 630 feet, is the tallest man-made landmark in the Western Region and the tallest building that can be built in Missouri.
You can also visit a museum to learn about the past of St. Louis, the Louisiana Purchase, and the growth of the United States in the west.
Not only is The Gateway Arch tall, but it also has an exciting ride to the top that gives you amazing views of the Mississippi River, St. Louis, and the nearby areas.
Address: St. Louis, MO 63102, United States.
5. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
You can take a 13-minute drive from Masison to Collinsville, IL, to visit Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, a beautiful beehive near Madison, IL, with lots of educational things to do.
This amazing site covers 2,200 acres and has more than 80 man-made mounds that were used for ceremonies, burials, and public buildings from 700 to 1400 AD. The Monk Mound, which is the largest old American mound, is also there.
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site also has the Woodhenge, a wooden building that shows how the Cahokian people lived, and beautiful views of the surrounding area from its remodeled fortification wall.
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.
6. River City Casino Hotel
One of the best things for adults to do near Madison, IL, is to visit the River City Casino Hotel, which is a 22-minute drive from St. Louis, MO and is a AAA Four-Diamond hotel and casino.
This attraction is right on the Mississippi River and has fun things to do like over 1,900 slots, different table games, an Asian gaming bar, fancy rooms and suites, restaurants, a fitness center, and a nightclub.
Adults can have a thrilling time at River City Casino Hotel, which offers high-class gaming, luxurious rooms, and tasty food.
Address: 777 River City Casino Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63125, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Madison, Illinois? Why not check out some fun things to do in Collinsville, IL?
7. Old Chain Of Rocks Bridge
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, also known as the Chains of Rocks Bridge, can be found by taking a 20-minute trip to St. Louis, MO. This is one of the interesting things to do near Madison, IL for history buffs.
The main feature of this attraction, which opened in 1929, is the dramatic bend that had to be built because of a water intake and uneven bedrock.
There is also a well-kept path for pedestrians and cyclists, beautiful scenery, and the ruins of Route 66 signs.
When you visit this site, you can enjoy a unique mix of history, exercise, and beautiful views. You can walk, ride a bike, take in the scenery, or just relax in the comfortable surroundings.
Address: 10820 Riverview Drive, St. Louis, MO 63137, United States.
8. Edison’s Entertainment Complex
You can drive from Madison, IL, to Edwardsville, IL, in just 20 minutes and visit Edison’s Entertainment Complex, a nightlife complex near Madison, IL, with lots of fun things for the whole family to do.
The facility boasts beautiful bowling lanes, a laser tag arena, a large arcade with assorted games, a full-service bar and restaurant, and private party rooms.
Experience a fun-filled day with options for all ages, from bowling and laser tag to classic arcade games and tasty meals at Edison’s Entertainment Complex.
Address: 2477 S State Rte 157 Suite A, Edwardsville, IL 62025, United States
9. Willoughby Heritage Farm
As a nature lover, one of the interesting and fun things to do near Madison, IL, today is to take an 18-minute drive to Willoughby Heritage Farm in Collinsville, IL, to feel the magic and memories of country life.
The farm attraction covers 30 acres and recreates the feel of a 1940s farmstead with old farm buildings, a veggie and flower garden, friendly farm animals, a playground for kids, and a Craftsman-style farmhouse.
As you travel around Collinsville, you can learn about traditional farming methods, connect with nature, and let the kids play with the animals. This will give you a unique mix of learning and fun.
Address: 631 Willoughby Lane, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Madison, Illinois? Why not check out some fun things to do in Normal, IL, and fun things to do in Bloomington, IL?
After a 23-minute drive from Madison, IL to Belleville, IL, you can see your favorite movie at Skyview Drive-In, a classic movie theater near Madison, IL, that has lots of fun things to do at night.
The theater has been around since 1949 and shows first-run Hollywood hits. It’s like watching movies under the stars from the comfort of your own car.
A Journey to Skyview Drive-In offers a chance to watch a movie under the stars, see a piece of Americana, and take part in special events while snacking.
Address: 5700 N Belt W, Belleville, IL 62226, United States
11. The Axe Company
It takes 25 minutes to get from Madison, IL to Glen Carbon, IL, where you can find The Axe Company and other places with fun things for people to do close to Madison, IL.
The business has lanes for throwing axes, coaching, and games like big Jenga, shuffleboard, and darts. People can bring their own food and drinks that aren’t alcoholic.
You can learn how to throw an axe, enjoy friendly competition with other people, and unwind in a warm environment at Exploring Axe Company.
Address: 20 B Kettle River Drive, Glen Carbon, IL 62034, United States.
12. Edwardsville Children’s Museum
The Edwardsville Children’s Museum is an interactive learning center with fun things to do near Madison, IL, for kids. It’s a 29-minute drive from Madison to Edwardsville, IL.
The museum is proud of its hands-on displays that encourage exploration and learning. It also has events and programs for families, tourists, and locals.
The Edwardsville Children’s Museum encourages kids’ imagination and their love of learning through play, while also being a lot of fun.
READ ALSO 31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Normal, IL
Address: 722 Holyoake Road, Edwardsville, IL 62025, United States
13. Grafton Harbor
Grafton, IL is only 47 minutes by car from Madison. It is home to Grafton Harbor, a full-service harbor that sits between the Mississippi River and the Illinois River.
This weekend, the marina is advertising exciting things to do near Madison, IL. It has a swimming pool, restaurants, a comfort store, covered and open slips for different types of boats, and jet ski ports.
Grafton Harbor has resort-style facilities for relaxing, and it’s easy to get into the rivers for a cruise, exploring, or fishing trip.
Address: 215 West Water Street, Grafton, IL 62037, United States
Exploring other attractions near Madison, Illinois? Why not check out some fun things to do in Woodstock, IL?
14. Madison Meat Market
The Madison Meat Market is one of the best things to do this weekend in Madison, IL. It is a butcher shop that sells fresh meat cuts like chicken, seafood, cooked meats, and deli items.
You can buy high-quality meat at the Market and talk to butchers about how to choose cuts or recipes.
Address: 308 Madison Avenue, Madison, IL 62060, United States.
15. National Great Rivers Museum
The National Great Rivers Museum is in Alton, which is about a 24-minute drive from Madison, IL. It is a free place where people of all ages can learn about the Mississippi River’s past, wildlife, and other topics that affect our lives.
The museum has useful displays, a theater, a gift shop, and a free tour of the Melvin Price Locks and Dam. The displays and tours help tourists understand how important the river is.
Address: 1 Locks and Dam Way, Alton, IL 62002, United States.
16. Horseshoe Lake State Park
Horseshoe Lake State Park is in Granite City, which is about an 11-minute drive from Madison. It is a big park with the second-largest natural lake in the state and lots of fun things for the whole family to do close to Madison, IL.
On its 2,960 acres, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, boating, fishing, shooting, and fishing.
By exploring the Park, you’ll have the chance to get close to nature, enjoy a variety of fun activities, and see wildlife while camping.
Address: 3321 IL-111, Granite City, IL 62040, United States