Effingham is a popular and famous tourist destination in the county of Effingham in Illinois. It is very well known as the “Crossroads of Opportunity”, as it is located at the intersection of the I-57 and I-70 highways. The city is well connected to other places in the country and therefore it is not surprising that there are more attractions and things to do here as compared to other places.
This post is a travel guide to the city of Effingham and will let you know about all the best things to do and see while you are here. Keep reading to discover the history, culture, and attractions of Effingham all in once place. The city is not that big but it does pack a punch. You will be surprised to know about just how much stuff there is explore in Effingham.
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Things to do in Effingham
There are many restaurants, museums, and attractions here in the city. One of the most famous attractions in Effingham is the 60 meter steel cross which is the second largest of its kind in all of the United States.
Many more attractions await you at the city of Effingham. Keep reading this article and find the best that the city of Effingham has to offer you. Let’s begin.
The Cross at the Crossroads
This is one of the most famous attractions in Effingham. The cross is a 60 meter steel structure that is visible from a mile away! If you find yourself traveling along the highways 57 and 70, you will find it difficult to miss this structure. This cross not only is a favorite attraction of people traveling to Effingham but is also one of the most iconic of all Illinois landmarks.
There are monuments surrounding this huge structure that commemorate the Ten Commandments. Enjoy spending a couple of hours at this great location, where you can press a button to deliver quotes with inspirational messages. The area surrounding the Cross also has a visitor’s center. Here you can learn all there is to know about the structure and also take away a souvenir. There is also a media room, an area for refreshments and relaxation and a chapel along with a welcome center. This attraction also holds holy events and it might be cool if you are able to catch one during your visit to Effingham. Take a lot of pictures and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds this Effingham attraction.
The Cross at the Crossroads is located at 2603 S Raney Street in Effingham.
My Garage Museum
The My Garage Museum in Effingham is one of the best places to visit in the city. You will be able to see your fill of old cars at this museum. From antiquated vehicles to racing cars, the My Garage Museum is a dream come true for the car enthusiast. There are a lot of famous automobile collections here as well as a huge collection of car related memorabilia. Many of the exhibits that exist here showcase cars and vehicles that aren’t present anywhere else in the world.
Examples of cars showcased here include the Last C4 Corvette as well as a 3000 mile original 1954. There are many concept vehicles and prototypes here at the My Garage Museum as well.
The My Garage Museum is located at 454 Big Block Drive Suite B in Effingham. Find out more about them by visiting their official website.
Effingham Performance Center
If you are here at Effingham, then why not catch a show at the famous Effingham Performance Center. The Effingham Performance Center always has something or the other playing and many locals and tourists flock to it catch its great shows. Enjoy performances spanning across many genres such as music, comedy, plays and more while you attend a show at the Effingham Performance Center. Many famous personalities grace the stage here at the Effingham Performance Center.
An evening at the Effingham Performance Center would be an evening well spent and well deserved after a day of sightseeing in the city of Effingham. Catch some family shows as well great productions of plays and concerts and more here at the Effingham Performance Center.
The Effingham Performance Center is located at 1325 Outer Belt W in Effingham. Check out their schedule and see if you like sometime by visiting this website here.
Effingham County Cultural Center and Museum
Learn all there is to know about the history and culture of the Effingham region by planning a visit to the Effingham County Cultural Center and Museum. This museum has been created to preserve the local history of the county of Effingham. Learn all about the local stories that have been lived in Effingham in the years by coming to this museum. Also, there is a huge collection of memorabilia such as photographs and remnants of wars and early days.
This museum gives you a look of how the Effingham County used to be when it was first settled and explores many landmark events that happened in the region over the years. This museum preserves the Historic Register and is known to collect artifacts that highlight local as well as national history.
Visiting the Effingham County Cultural Center and Museum can be a really great way to spend a couple of hours in Effingham. Especially great for people who are into history and culture, even groups with families and kids can have a fun day here.
Find the Effingham County Cultural Center and Museum at 100 E Jefferson Avenue. Visit their official website to know more.
Effingham Park District
The Effingham Park District offers a great opportunity for travelers and locals to spend a day of relaxation in the city. There are many locations within the park that offer various different activities. The Effingham Park district instills a sense of community in the city by offering recreational programs that bring together the people of the town.
A great location within the Effingham Park District is the Hendelmeyer Park. It is a 20 acre park that offers many activities appealing to sportspersons. There are many amenities here such as basketball and tennis courts as well as playgrounds and skateparks.
Another place that is worthy of note is the Evergreen Hollow Park. This is a 42 acre location and has many amenities for people into sports as well as people seeking rest and relaxation. There is a huge pool here that you may use to cool off after a day of sightseeing.
The Park District offers a number of activities all year round. You can not only enjoy sports events while you are here but also take part in arts and crafts and yoga.
If you are visiting the city of Effingham with kids, then you might want to take a trip to the Effingham Park district. Children are sure to have a lot of fun here and can play baseball, softball and more.
Enjoy the greenery and peaceful atmosphere of the park while you are here.
Find the Effingham Park District at 1906 South 4th Street. Visit their official website for more information.
Lake Sara
The Lake Sara is one of the most peaceful and scenic locations in the city of Effingham. This 800 acre lake has a shoreline of forests and is a great location for camping and fishing. Enjoy the gorgeous views of the lake from its pristine shoreline and enjoy a number of great activities while you are here. From fishing on the waterfront to swimming in the lake, this gorgeous location has a lot to offer. You can take a paddleboat into the lake as well as canoe or kayak.
Lake Sara is a great location for fishing. Both experts and novices at the art of fishing may try their hand here and have guaranteed fun. There are a number of swimming areas in the lake that are particularly well suited for families and groups. You can also camp while at Lake Sara. Supplies are available at the lake itself.
You can find Lake Sara using Google Maps by following this link.
TREC Calico Trail
This is another one of Effingham’s outdoor attractions. The TREC trail is a system of 30 miles of walking and biking trails. Its aim is to promote a recreational experience for the people in Effingham. The Calico Trail is one of the most heavily forested areas in the TREC system. It is certainly a place that you will enjoy. It is well maintained and has rivers, trees and opportunities for peace and relaxation. You can do a lot of things at the TREC trail system such as biking, hiking, jogging and more. You will definitely enjoy the scenery while you are hiking here.
A trip along the TREC system can be a great way of escaping the bustle of the city. Great for a day trip into nature, you should make sure that you do not miss coming to the TREC Calico Trail while you are in the city of Effingham.
You can locate the TREC system at the Outer Belt W in Effingham. Read more about it by following this link.
Moccasin Creek Festival
If you find yourself in the city of Effingham at the right time, you might just be able to attend the Moccasin Creek Festival. This is an annual festival that celebrates the music and arts of the city and lasts four days. Enjoy a great experience filled with the different genres of American music while you attend this festival. The location of the Moccasin Creek Festival is the beautiful Lake Sara.
Enjoying at the Moccasin Creek Festival can be a really great trip in itself, especially because of its location. You can rent out a campground at Lake Sara while you enjoy the music festival. Shop for local wares made by artists of the the city and take home a lovely souvenir.
Effingham Sculptures
Enjoy a self guided tour through the avenues of Effingham and take in the stories told by the many sculptures lining the avenues. There are over 30 sculptures on the avenues of the city of Effingham. It would make a rather great day trip to check out them all as you walk around the city. These sculptures are the works of local as well as artists from all over the Midwest and are displayed in an annual exhibition.
These sculptures range from abstract shapes to objects rife with colors, with each of them telling a story. Whatever be your taste in art, the Effingham Sculptures will pique your interest. Engage with the sharp cuts of these sculptures and get into the mind of the artist by taking a look.
This self guided tour can be the highlight of your trip to Effingham. You can be sure that this is one of the best things to do in the city and it is an experience that you must have,
Gabby Goat American Pub & Grill
In Effingham, Illinois, Gabby Goat is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. This establishment takes pride in crafting delectable dishes with a touch of American flair. From mouthwatering burgers to gourmet salads, Gabby Goat offers a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes.
Among the restaurants that have captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike, Gabby Goat American Pub & Grill shines as a culinary gem.
The address for Gabby Goat American Pub and Grill is 303 E Fayette Ave.
Niemerg’s Steakhouse
Steak lovers will find a gem in Niemerg’s Steakhouse, a locally owned and operated restaurant in Effingham, Illinois. It has been the go-to Destination for locals and travelers seeking memorable dining experience that showcase the essence of Midwestern hospitality.
Niemerg’s Steakhouse ages USDA Prime steaks for a minimum of 21 days to maximize their flavor. It has been part of the neighborhood for more than 40 years and is renowned for its steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes.
The address for Niemerg’s Steakhouse is 1410 W Fayette Ave.
In Conclusion
We really hope that you enjoyed reading our post on the best things to do in Effingham, Illinois. Effingham is a really great place and even though it is small, it has so much to do and see. Let us know in the comments if you plan to take a trip to Effingham or other places in Illinois. Tell us your thoughts on this article and share it with your fellow travelers. If you have already been to Effingham, then we would really appreciate if you tell us and everyone about your trip and your experiences.
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