8 Sacred Native American Sites That Every Illinoisan Needs To Visit At Least Once
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
History buffs, gather ’round for a list of eight sacred Native American sites that will keep you busy this summer. These incredible and little-known landmarks are begging to be visited.
From abandoned villages to burial mounds, Illinois is full of ancient Native American sites. Scroll on for more details about each.
This is likely the state's most well-known Native American state historic site. It is situated across the Mississippi River from St. Louis and spans an area of nearly 3.5 miles. It features an Interpretive Center, trails, excellent views, and woodhenge, which you can learn more about here.
Address: 30 Ramey Street, Collinsville, IL 62234
Address: 30 Ramey Street, Collinsville, IL 62234
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Shawnee Hills National Forest attraction is one of the least known sacred Native American sites in the state. It is part of a short loop trail that takes hikes past rock formations, valleys, ancient ruins, and petroglyphs. Get more details about this unique spot here.
Address: Millstone Bluff, IL, 62985
Address: Millstone Bluff, IL, 62985
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This year-round park sits on a bluff top that overlooks the Mississippi River and contains 26 Native American burial grounds. It is also fitted with a pavilion, play ground, picnic tables, benches, and restrooms. Enjoy incredible views of the river, bridges, and our neighboring state of Iowa here.
Address: Beecher Street, East Dubuque, IL 61025
Address: Beecher Street, East Dubuque, IL 61025
Part outdoor adventure and part museum, this incredible spot is a must visit if you love history. It is home to two cemeteries, ten burial mounds, and a platform mound that were believed to have been in use between 800 and 1250 C.E. Get more details about this place here.
Address: 10956 North Dickson Mounds Road, Lewistown, IL 61542
Address: 10956 North Dickson Mounds Road, Lewistown, IL 61542
Located at the Black Hawk State Historic Site, this museum is home to many exhibits that replicate the Sauk Village. Guests can wander many trails that follow the Rock River as well as explore the lodges.
Address: 1800 46th Avenue, Rock Island, IL 61201
Address: 1800 46th Avenue, Rock Island, IL 61201
This nearly 200-acre area is full of Native American petroglyphs. It was established as a state park in 1972 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. By way of sacred Native American sites, this one offers many unique treasures to seek out.
Address: 4301 South Lake Drive, Chester, IL 62233
Address: 4301 South Lake Drive, Chester, IL 62233
Spanning more than 200 acres, this historical landmark along the Mississippi River is an Indian mound from the Hopewell culture that existed more than two centuries ago. It is a great place for nature walks and learning about the people that lived on this land before us.
Address: 12th Avenue South, Albany, IL 61230
Address: 12th Avenue South, Albany, IL 61230
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It is believed that this demon bird-dragon only eats human flesh and that it was used to ward off intruders. The painting is a replica, and it is found along the limestone bluffs of the Mississippi River.
Address: Piasa Bird, Wise Street, Alton, IL 62002
Address: Piasa Bird, Wise Street, Alton, IL 62002
For more like this, check out these 15 amazing attractions in Illinois you need to add to your travel bucket list.
What other sacred Native American sites do you love to visit? Share your favorites with us below in the comments.
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