16 Things To Do In Carlinville, Illinois

Kanika 
Updated

Carlinville is a picturesque and historic area located in the heart of Illinois. It is not only rich in architectural splendour and has an elegant city square, but it also boasts a wide range of recreational facilities. It doesn’t matter what form of recreation you enjoy, the city has plenty to offer its tourists. When you are done exploring its many wonders, you can enjoy delicious food from the many dining options available, including fast food, local delicacies, and scrumptious desserts. Thanks to its popularity amongst tourists, it is also easy to find comfortable accommodations that are just a short distance from the best attractions. Known as one of the best small towns in America, Carlinville has an Old World charm that makes one feel welcome. So, if you are planning to travel here soon, check out these things to do in Carlinville, Illinois.

1. Play your favourite sport at Loveless Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Loveless Park is a volunteer effort that has been recognized by the prestigious Governor’s Hometown Award​ twice. This multi-sports facility is located in Southwest Carlinville and is also the newest park in the city. So, if you are a sports lover, you will enjoy its many offerings like soccer fields, baseball and basketball courts, and batting cages, among others. The park is well designed to support night games and also hosts several regional tournaments throughout the year.

Loveless Park

Address: 1018 Loveless Pkwy, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

2. Try your luck at Goldmine Gaming

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Machines are hitting. Customers are happy

Posted by Gold Mine Gaming on Sunday, April 15, 2018

Goldmine Gaming is a gaming parlour that opened in 2017, in the heart of Carlinville’s Central Square. You will love the clean environment, the feel-good atmosphere, and the video slots on-site. When you step inside, you will be greeted by their friendly staff and immediately be drawn to their multiple gaming stations. Each and every visitor gets a visual experience and personalized service. Order a drink and try your luck on the tables!

Goldmine Gaming

Address: 180 Carlinville Plaza, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 7am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 7am - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 12am

3. Explore the collection of Blackburn Visual Arts Gallery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Blackburn Art Department on Monday, December 9, 2019

Blackburn Visual Arts Gallery is located inside Blackburn Campus. This stunning art installation showcases the various artworks created by the students. This glass-enclosed gallery gives students the ultimate space to display their work to the public. So, if you are an art lover, then you must definitely schedule a visit to this art gallery to check out the local talent.

Blackburn Visual Arts Center Gallery

Address: 700 College Ave, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

4. Indulge in a game of golf at Carlinville Country Club

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Carlinville Country Club was built in 1960 and is home to one of the best golf courses in the city that also features a country club. If you are looking to indulge in a round of golf while you’re on your holiday, then this is the perfect place for you. The 9-hole golf course not only offers you terrific views but also slopes for golfers of all skill levels.

Carlinville Country Club

Address: Highway 4 South, Carlinville, Illinois 62626, Macoupin County

5. Learn more about the feminist movement at Carlinville Chapter House

Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Boscophotos used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Carlinville Chapter House was built in the early 1900s by a magazine publisher named Edward Lewis. This historic building located in the city center was supposed to be a meeting place for a local chapter of the American Woman’s League, a feminist organization created to promote the suffrage movement. This unique building is designed in the Prairie School style and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. For people who are keen to know more about Carlinville’s history, then this building is a good starting point!

Carlinville Chapter House

Address: 111 S Charles St, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

6. Go camping amidst nature at Beaver Dam State Park

Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user RoxylovesHistory used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Located at a short distance from Carlinville, this 750-acre (303-hectare) state park offers a beautiful camping site with activities like fishing and hiking in its vicinity. Locals call it a hidden gem in Macoupin County, and outdoor enthusiasts swear by the camping quality at this excellent park. If you are someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, then this is an idyllic activity for you and your family. Do note that the campgrounds are on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Beaver Dam State Park

Address: Beaver Dam Ln, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Opening hours: 5:30am - 10pm (daily)

7. Spend time fishing and camping at Carlinville Lake

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you are an outdoor lover and want to spend a relaxing weekend fishing in the lake and camping, then Carlinville Lake is the perfect spot for you. Enjoy swimming and spending time in nature. The campsite is spacious and the lake is beautiful, giving you a great opportunity to unplug and unwind. Other activities include kayaking, boating, wildlife viewing, and canoeing. The campgrounds offer RV and tent camping options. There are also restrooms, shower houses, and picnic sites available.

Carlinville Lake

Address: 15927 Carlinville Lake Rd. Carlinville IL 62626

8. Take home memorable presents from Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs - General Store on Tuesday, August 11, 2020

No travel is complete unless you bring home souvenirs and gifts for your friends back home. If you are holidaying in Carlinville, then be sure to stop by Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs. This store is a tourist favourite for its collection of items, and it offers a full range of cute and unique gifts that you can take home for your loved ones.

Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs

Address: 236 E Side Sq, Carlinville, IL 62626-1747

Website: Cherry Tree Gifts & Souvenirs

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 2pm (closed on Sun)

9. Invite your kids to play some basketball at Tom Thumbs Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The best way to spend some quality time with your kids in Carlinville is to take them to Tom Thumbs Park. With plenty of recreational opportunities such as playground equipment and basketball courts, you can rest assured that your kids will have a fun time frolicking in the park. You can also set up a picnic table at the designated picnic area and make a day out of it!

Tom Thumbs Park

Address: 851 North Charles Street, Carlinville, IL 62626

10. Catch a movie at Marvel Theatre-Cinema 1 & 2

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Theatre rental update. New times and dates now available through Jan 17 Go here to reserve: https://bestmoviedeal.com/home_v4/mobile-home/marvel-mobile/

Posted by Marvel Theatre of Carlinville on Saturday, December 26, 2020

There is nothing like catching a blockbuster movie in a small town, and if you are in Carlinville, then you must check out Marvel Theatre-Cinema 1 & 2. It is a great place to visit not just to watch some fun movies but also because it’s quite a historic building in Carlinville. What’s more, the ticket prices are reasonable considering the price includes popcorn and a drink. The seats are comfortable, the sound system is great, and the picture quality is amazing. Feel a tinge of nostalgia as you catch a new movie in this classic moviehouse in Illinois.

Marvel Theatre-Cinema 1 & 2

Address: 228 W Main St, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

11. Sample some great food at The Wood Duck Bar and Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

TACO TUESDAY!!!!! Tropic Shrimp Tacos are the highlighted taco of the day!!! Coconut shrimp, slaw, cheese, and a pineapple mango salsa make up this tasty taco!!!!

Posted by Wood Duck Bar and Grill on Tuesday, May 25, 2021

This family-friendly restaurant offers you the best fast food in the city and comes highly recommended by the locals. The food menu is sumptuous and the service is friendly, which only makes the experience of eating here more fun and enjoyable. Don’t forget to try the cheeseburger, the BLT, and the chilli from the menu. Expect to find not only hot food and warm service but also affordable prices at this small, local eatery. The overall ambience is great, and their selection of craft beer is worth checking out.

The Wood Duck Bar and Grill

Address: 546 W Main St, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Website: The Wood Duck Bar and Grill

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm; Sat: 11am - 9pm (closed on Sun)

12. Go bowling with friends at Bowlero Lanes

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Bowlero Lanes on Sunday, October 2, 2016

Established in 1961, Bowlero Lanes was initially built by the Paul family. The centre was later reopened and rebranded in 2007 by Darrell Bellm to provide its patrons with lip-smacking food and a fun bowling place. Over the years, Bowlero Lanes became a great source of entertainment for both tourists and locals. Come and play a round with friends.

Bowlero Lanes

Address: 12470 IL-108, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Website: Bowlero Lanes

13. Shop till you drop at Mother Road Antique Mall

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Mother Road Antique Mall on Monday, January 18, 2021

If you are a collector and lover all things vintage, then you must visit Mother Road Antique Mall located in the historic downtown area of Carlinville. Known to be one of the best outlets for antiques, you will be able to find collectables of all shapes and sizes at this place. The products are sourced from yard sales, auctions, and estate sales that meet the standards of antiques. You can find everything from unique tools to vintage clothing at this mall. If antiquing is a favourite hobby while travelling, add this place to your list.

Mother Road Antique Mall

Address: 106 N Side Square, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Website: Mother Road Antique Mall

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 4:30pm

14. Stop by Carlinville Plaza for shopping and breakfast

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Carlinville Plaza is a sprawling shopping centre that has been around for more than four decades and has served the community since it opened. You can find everything related to your daily needs at this plaza. They are home to several local retailers as well as the popular Carlinville Plaza Cafe, where you can grab a bite to eat before or after running errands. Simply put, this is a one-stop-shop for all your needs.

Carlinville Plaza

Address: 5 Carlinville Plaza, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Website: Carlinville Plaza

Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)

15. Hang out with friends at Willie’s 109 West

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Willie’s 109 West customers!!! We are pleased to announce that we will be open for patio service starting this Friday!...

Posted by Willie's 109 West on Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Located in downtown Carlinville, Willie’s 109 West is a chill place for drinking and having a night out with friends. This corner tavern is the perfect place to have some drinks and is a great place to hang out. You will especially love the friendly staff and cheerful atmosphere. This is the perfect place to spend time in the evening after exploring the city or going through a tiring workday.

Willie's 109 West

Address: 109 N West St, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Website: Willie’s 109 West

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 11am - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 12am

16. Sample the best chilli at Taylor's Mexican Chili Company Inc.

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Eat the best chilli in town at Taylor’s Mexican Chili Company, a local eatery that has been serving the community of Carlinville since 1904. They have been a local favourite for more than 100 years and counting. They use the freshest ingredients available, promising an authentic taste and a great dining experience. Nothing beats the taste of their chilli - it is definitely a must-try on your trip to this city.

Taylor's Mexican Chili Company Inc.

Address: 116 S West St, Carlinville, IL 62626, United States

Website: Taylor’s Mexican Chili Company Inc.

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 2pm ; Fri: 11am - 7pm; Sat: 11am - 3pm (closed on Sun)

Enjoy your travel to Carlinville, Illinois

The small city of Carlinville has worked hard to preserve its past and beauty, with Central Square standing proud at the heart of it all. You will love strolling through its historic buildings, quaint shops and restaurants that are both visually pleasing as well as intriguing. Venture off the beaten path and explore some of these best things to do in Carlinville, Illinois.

Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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My name is Kanika Gupta and I am from New Delhi, India. I am a passionate traveller because I believe in learning as much as I can about this world in my lifetime. I am also a voracious reader. So...Read more

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This historic building located in the city center was supposed to be a meeting place for a local chapter of the American Woman\u2019s League, a feminist organization created to promote the suffrage movement. This unique building is designed in the Prairie School style and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. 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