Belleville is a French word meaning beautiful city. It is the county seat of St. Clair County in Illinois. Additionally, it is the seat of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Belleville. Belleville is the eighth-most populated city in Illinois, with many attractions that local and international tourists can enjoy. You can visit the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows and The Edge. When you think you have run out of things to do in Belleville, you can spend time at St. Clair County Historical Society learning its history. Belleville can be hectic during summer, and you can enjoy the good weather. Plan your vacation in Belleville with the following list of the top attractions in the city.
National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows
The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows is a great place to meditate. It is a big place with a peaceful environment where you can reflect on your life. You can watch a movie in the background and then drive to the stations of the cross, which are extremely quiet and peaceful. The sites are beautiful, so it is recommended to walk as you meditate. Walking through the stations will allow you to see everything on the site. In addition, you can visit the Main Shrine, located at the bottom of a hill with numerous seats. Here, you will know the history of the Shrine and the original snow. The Shrine grounds are well-maintained, and you can pray on them. Across the Main Shrine, you will find the Millennium Spire made from stainless steel with 85 inches. It was constructed to commemorate the Third Millennium. Other sites in the area are The Lourdes Grotto, found near the entrance, the theater with two chapels for adoration, and an area with bells and a pond. It is a perfect spot for a picnic lunch in pleasant weather.
Moreover, there is a kid’s playground and a statue of the lady of Guadalupe. During the Christmas holiday, you can visit the place to enjoy the Way of the Lights following Christ as he went to be crucified. It is recommended for all age groups if the weather is good. You will also find a gift shop with various gift options, including bear animals, at the visitor center. The National Shrine offers Christians an excellent opportunity to start their holiday and beautiful, sacred spaces for prayers.
Labor and Industry Museum
The Labor and Industry Museum is a great gem in the heart of Belleville. It has interesting exhibits where you will learn about the city’s history and German heritage. The displays and documentation on the museum’s walls are very informative. You will enjoy reading historical documents and discovering new things. Additionally, you will come across the great stove collection with information about Mother Jones. The staff are lovely and willing to answer all visitors’ questions and may sometimes share their ghost tales.
Further, they are knowledgeable and enjoy sharing Belleville’s history. Even if you have already visited the place, you should consider revisiting it since the displays are updated periodically. The museum’s outdoor surrounding is beautiful, with memorial stones arranged on the sidewalk.
St Clair County Historical Society
Another fun attraction in Belleville is the St. Clair County Historical Society. Judge Nick Perrin established it in 1905. The archives, offices, and library of the St. Clair County Historical County are found in the Victorian House Museum located in downtown Belleville. You can take a tour of the Victorian Mansion and the Emma Kunz home. It is a perfect opportunity for individuals who wish to learn the local history. The Historical Society has numerous resources that you will find incredible. A friendly tour guide with in-depth knowledge will share the history of St. Clair County.
What’s more, they are deeply interested in preserving the history of St. Clair County. The museum contains old furniture and rooms that will take you back to ancient times. Additionally, you will learn about Abraham Lincoln’s connection to the region and the cool trivia. The facility is clean and contains beautiful old photos and relics. It also has amenities that favor the disabled; therefore, anyone can visit the place and expect a good time.
The Edge
Another popular attraction site in Belleville is The Edge. Here, you will find food plenty of food, drinks, games, and entertainment to make your afternoon. The Edge houses Sports Pub and Eateries that serve mouthwatering American foods and tasty drinks at affordable prices. The most popular food items on the menu are pizzas, wings, and burgers. In addition, the bars specialize in local craft breweries and have 18 tap beers. You will also be amazed by the many television sets in the area, enabling customers to watch games of their choice.
On top of that, The Edge has three grand theatres, high-back comfortable seats, and adequate legroom and stadium seating. Also, it has Bistro theatres with motorized recliners and in-seat food and beverage services. All the theatres in The Edge have digital projectors, big screens, and digital surround sound, and two of them offer three-dimensional views. Furthermore, the place is home to one of the largest laser tag arenas. The multi-level arena can accommodate up to 60 individuals, and it has modernized laser tag systems. Therefore, you can plan your birthday party, the school field trip, or church outing if you wish to find a place with sufficient space for play.
Conclusion
Are you looking for fun attractions in Belleville? Whether you are a local or a visitor on a business trip, on holiday with your family or alone, you can find exciting things to do in the city. You can visit The Edge for a delicious meal and an afternoon of fun play or go to St. Clair County Historical Society for a rich history lesson. Alternatively, you can visit the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows and enjoy the scenic views and the Ways of light or go to the Labor and Industry Museum for another day of interesting history. All in all, you can never miss something to do in Belleville.
