Explore the Natural Beauty of The Watershed Nature Center
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity at The Watershed Nature Center, a must-visit park in Edwardsville, Illinois for nature lovers and families.
The Watershed Nature Center in Edwardsville, Illinois, is a serene escape into nature, offering picturesque trails, diverse wildlife, and engaging educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to The Watershed Nature Center
- 1591 Tower Ave, Edwardsville, Illinois, 62025, US
- +1618-692-7578
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chances to see wildlife and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to many fascinating bird species.
- Check the schedule for guided nature walks and educational programs for a more enriching experience.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots throughout the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes as many trails are unpaved and can get muddy after rain.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to The Watershed Nature Center from anywhere in Metro East, start by getting onto I-55 N/I-70 W. Follow the signs to merge onto I-55 N. Take exit 19A for IL-157 N toward Edwardsville. Continue on IL-157 N for about 5 miles. When you reach the intersection with IL-143, turn left onto IL-143 W. After about 1 mile, turn right onto Tower Avenue. The Watershed Nature Center will be on your left at 1591 Tower Ave, Edwardsville, IL 62025. There is free parking available on-site.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take the Madison County Transit (MCT) bus. Look for the MCT Route 4, which connects various parts of Metro East to Edwardsville. Board the bus at your nearest MCT stop. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance as it might not run frequently. You will need to get off at the Edwardsville stop closest to Tower Avenue. From there, it is about a 15-minute walk (0.7 miles) to The Watershed Nature Center. Head north on IL-157 N, turn left onto IL-143 W, and then turn right onto Tower Avenue to reach your destination. Keep in mind that the bus fare is typically around $1.50 per ride.
Discover more about The Watershed Nature Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Louis Street Historic District
0.9 km
Discover architectural gems and rich history in Edwardsville's St. Louis Street Historic District, a charming residential neighborhood dating back to 1809.
LeClaire Historic District
2.7 km
Discover Leclaire Historic District in Edwardsville, IL: A unique 19th-century model village showcasing innovative social and industrial ideals.
Kuhn Station Site
10.5 km
Explore the rich history of Edwardsville at the Kuhn Station Site, a captivating historical landmark that tells the tale of America's railroad legacy.
Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site
11.1 km
Discover the rich history of the Lewis and Clark expedition at the Camp River Dubois State Historic Site in Illinois, where adventure and education meet.
Upper Alton Historic District
17.4 km
Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of Upper Alton Historic District, a must-visit historical landmark in Illinois.
Alton Museum of History & Art, Inc.
17.5 km
Explore Alton's vibrant past at the Alton Museum of History & Art: From river legends to the world's tallest man.
INHS Great Rivers Field Station
19.1 km
Explore the INHS Great Rivers Field Station - a research institute uncovering the ecological treasures of the Great Rivers region in Illinois.
Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau
20.0 km
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General Daniel Bissell house
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Grand Avenue St Louis,MO Water Tower
26.0 km
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Bellefontaine Cemetery
26.5 km
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Clamorgan Alley - Historical landmark
27.5 km
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Moll's Clock
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Mermaid House Inn
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The Security Building
28.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Gardens at SIUE
2.2 km
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1820 Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House
2.3 km
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Edwardsville Children's Museum
2.7 km
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Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower
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Bethalto Arboretum
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Edward "Ted" and Pat Jones-Confluence Point State Park
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Old Six Mile Museum
15.4 km
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Collinsville Aqua Park
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Willoughby Heritage Farm
16.0 km
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Route 66 Sign
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National Great Rivers Museum
16.3 km
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Melvin Price Lock And Dam
16.4 km
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Collinsville Historical Museum
16.6 km
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DD Collins House
16.7 km
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Worlds Largest Catsup Bottle
17.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Colton's Steak House & Grill
15.3 km
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Waffle House
15.9 km
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The Bar & Grill Formerly known as Steffi's
18.5 km
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River Side Grille
19.9 km
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Morrison's Irish Pub
20.2 km
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Crown Candy Kitchen
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Al's Restaurant
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The Old Spaghetti Factory
27.5 km
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Sugarfire Smoke House
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Aubergine
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Sauce on the Side
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Sen Thai Asian Bistro
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
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Chili Mac's Diner
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Carmine's Steak House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Almost Famous Gift Boutique
11.8 km
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KERB Side Excellence LLC
15.3 km
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Nature's Pharmacy Smokeshop
16.5 km
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Stephanie's Spiritual Shop
17.7 km
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Signature Home Styles with Chris Morrison
18.4 km
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Sanchez & Sons Western Wear
18.8 km
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Tienda El Maguey
18.9 km
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The Chirping Frog Antique Mall
19.5 km
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Treasured Gifts-N-More
20.4 km
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Eddie's
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Boutique Erotica
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D&K Mini Mart
24.4 km
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Angelina Supermarket
24.5 km
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C & H
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Retta's Healthy Hangout
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fast Eddie's Bon Air
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Trackside Bar & Grill
18.4 km
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The Old Bakery Beer Company
19.4 km
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L.C.'s Pub
19.5 km
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Olde Bridge Inn
19.9 km
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Jack's Place
20.1 km
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Woody'z Bar & Grill
20.4 km
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Kramdens Bar & Grill
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Perigen Tavern
21.1 km
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On the Rocks by Bobby
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Caseyville Inn
22.1 km
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Koke's
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Buzz's Firehouse Bar
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Iron Rail Pub
22.3 km
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100 MPH Club MC Clubhouse
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ruby's
10.8 km
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Rise at 300
20.2 km
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Bubby & Sissy's
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Pete's Lounge
21.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Pete's Lounge in Godfrey, Illinois, where friendly vibes and great drinks await.
Da City Nightclub
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Club Peek A Boo
24.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Brooklyn at Club Peek A Boo, where electrifying performances and a lively atmosphere await you.
Club Illusion
26.9 km
Discover the electric nightlife experience at Club Illusion in East St. Louis, where music, dancing, and socializing come together in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Sit & Sip
27.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of St. Louis at Sit & Sip, where music, dance, and cocktails blend for an unforgettable evening.
The DEN
28.1 km
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The Boom Boom Room
28.2 km
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The House Of Soul
28.2 km
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Europe Night Club
28.2 km
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PBR St Louis: A Cowboy Bar
28.5 km
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Shark Bar
28.5 km
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Crown Room
28.6 km
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