Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE: MORGAN COUNTY Jacksonville: Rich In Historical Treasures, Entertainment And Recreational Activities

Centrally located between St. Louis and Chicago, and near Springfield, IL, Jacksonville is a great place to live, work and visit. A community rich in historical treasures, unparalleled educational institutions, growing businesses and hospitality all its own, Jacksonville meets modern demands with a classic lifestyle.

Jacksonville has many great locally owned shopping options that offer special treasures for any age. Are you a foodie? Jacksonville has a large variety of restaurants that offer unique dining experiences, with flavors to satisfy every palate. If you are looking for familiarity, Jacksonville is also home to several nationally branded restaurants to meet anyone’s needs.

There is no lacking in activities, arts, entertainment, and recreation. Experience sporting and outdoor recreation events, such as fishing at Lake Jacksonville or catching the races on a Friday night at the Jacksonville Speedway. There’s also golfing and camping — Jacksonville has it all.

For the arts, there is a free outdoor concert series, classic car shows and craft beer and art festivals. Be sure to check out the monthly exhibits at the historic Strawn Art Gallery — Jacksonville has something for everyone.

Become an historian in Jacksonville. Follow in the steps of Abraham Lincoln by taking the “Voices of Jacksonville” audio tour — part of the “Looking for Lincoln” experience. Visitors can see the actual places and hear the real stories of Lincoln, as his friends and associates knew him.

Jacksonville was a major hub of the Underground Railroad. Tour the Underground Railroad, including Woodlawn Farm. For a little help in getting your steps in, there are self-guided historic walking tours of Jacksonville homes and Underground Railroad sites.

National brand hotels, as well as locally owned properties, are sure to provide a good night’s sleep. Staying during the week? Book your stay through the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, that offers a wine and cheese reception for free.

A variety of banquet facilities provide space for small to large groups, all moderately priced. Jacksonville has a multiple award-winning bed and breakfast available as well.

Give the Jacksonville Area Convention & visitors Bureau a call and let it be a part of your planning. The visitors Bureau will help visitors make special memories and assist with customizing trips before they

visit like a local. visit jacksonvilleil.org or call the Jacksonville Area

Convention & visitors Bureau at 800-593-5678.

2022 Jacksonville Calendar of Events Due to COVID-19 event dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities, or visit jacksonvilleil.org.

April 30: Maifest. Downtown Jacksonville, Noon to 4 p.m. Taste away the afternoon with regional craft and home brewed beverages. Tickets $25 each and include tasting glass. (Must be 21 years old to participate).

June 3-August 5 (excluding July 1, 8): Free Concert Series. Every Friday. Downtown Jacksonville. Presented by Jacksonville Main Street.

June 11: 26th Annual Downtown Plaza Car Show. Downtown Jacksonville, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

June 11: 8th Annual Summer Cruise Nite. Morton Avenue, 5-9 p.m.

July 4: 4th of July Parade.

July 5-10: Annual Morgan County Fair. Morgan County Fairgrounds. Games, rides and big band entertainment. Check calendar at jacksonvilleil.org, for concert information.

July 28, 29: Kiwanis Youth Memorial Golf Tournament. Free tournament for junior golfers.

September 2-4: Prairieland Chautauqua: Celebrating our Chautauqua. Nichols Park. Free event.

September 10: Juried Artisan Fair. Sponsored by Jacksonville Main Street. Downtown Jacksonville.

September 17: 38th Annual Cruise Nite and Car Show.

September 17: Oktoberfest. Sponsored by the Jacksonville Rotary Club. Morgan County Fairgrounds.

October 22: Jacksonville Main Street’s Pumpkin Festival. Downtown Jacksonville.

December 9, 10: Christkindl Market. Sponsored by Jacksonville Main Street. Downtown Jacksonville.