Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Discover Illinois' French colonial past at Fort Kaskaskia, with scenic Mississippi River views, historic earthworks, and a glimpse into frontier life.

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Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Explore the remains of an 18th-century French fort and discover the rich history of the Illinois frontier at Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site. Overlooking the Mississippi River, this site offers scenic views, historical insights, and a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and soldiers.

A brief summary to Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

14372 Park Rd, Ellis Grove, Illinois, 62241, US
+1618-859-3741
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Local tips

Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views over the Mississippi River.
Take advantage of the picnic areas for a scenic lunch amidst history.
Check for any scheduled historical reenactments or special events for an immersive experience.
Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the grounds and enjoy nature trails.

Getting There

Driving

If driving, head towards Ellis Grove, IL. From I-255, take exit 24 for IL-3 S toward Chester. Continue on IL-3 S for about 14 miles. When you reach the intersection with IL-150, turn left onto IL-150 E. After about 2 miles, turn right onto Park Rd. Follow Park Rd for about 0.5 miles, and you will arrive at Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site. Parking is available at the site. There is no entrance fee.
Walking

Walking to Fort Kaskaskia from nearby locations is feasible if you are in Ellis Grove. From the center of Ellis Grove, head south on IL-3 for about 1 mile until you reach Park Rd. Turn right on Park Rd and walk for about 0.5 miles to reach the site. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated. There is no entrance fee.
Public Transport

Public transportation options are limited. You can take a bus to Chester, IL. From Chester, arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to get to Fort Kaskaskia, approximately 8 miles away. A rideshare from Alton to Ellis Grove could cost $50-$70.

Discover more about Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site, near Chester, Illinois, offers a captivating journey into the past. This 200-acre park on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River commemorates the vanished frontier town of Old Kaskaskia and its role in the American Revolution. Founded in 1703, Kaskaskia was a vital center of commerce and served as the first capital of Illinois from 1818 to 1820. Constructed by the French around 1759, the fort was intended to defend the town. Although never fully completed, it was periodically occupied by French and U.S. troops. Today, visitors can explore the time-worn earthen remains of the fort, including the long earthworks and bastions. The site also features Garrison Hill Cemetery, established in 1891 to protect the remains of early settlers from the flooding of Kaskaskia. A monument erected in 1892 commemorates these early settlers. The Mississippi River overlook provides stunning views of the river and Kaskaskia Island. Informational panels describe the history of Kaskaskia village, including its destruction by the Mississippi River in the 1880s and 1890s. Fort Kaskaskia is also part of the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail. In 1803, the Corps of Discovery stopped here to recruit men and gather supplies. A footpath leads to the nearby Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site, offering a glimpse into French Creole architecture. Visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and fishing.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site

0.8 km

Discover the Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site, where Illinois history comes alive through the legacy of its first lieutenant governor set in a serene landscape.

Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial

5.2 km

Home to the 'Liberty Bell of the West,' gifted by King Louis XV, celebrating Kaskaskia's revolutionary history since 1778.

Nine Mile Creek Settlement Town Historic Site

8.8 km

Explore preserved 19th-century life at Nine Mile Creek Settlement, a tranquil historic site in Ellis Grove, Illinois. Discover early American heritage.

Nine Mile Creek Settlement Town Historic Site

Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park

11.8 km

Discover French Colonial history and unique architecture at Missouri's Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, the state's oldest European settlement.

Mary's River Covered Bridge

12.8 km

Discover Southern Illinois' only surviving covered bridge, a historic landmark offering a glimpse into 19th-century transportation and craftsmanship.

Charter Oak Schoolhouse

16.8 km

Discover a unique piece of Illinois history at the Charter Oak Schoolhouse, one of the last octagonal one-room schools in the U.S.

Modoc Rock Shelter National Historic Site

17.2 km

Explore thousands of years of Native American history at the Modoc Rock Shelter, a National Historic Landmark in Prairie du Rocher, Illinois.

Modoc Rock Shelter National Historic Site

Creole House

21.0 km

Explore the Creole House in Prairie du Rocher, IL: A unique glimpse into French colonial architecture and early American frontier life.

French Colonial Historic District

25.5 km

Step back in time and explore the unique blend of French and American history in Prairie Du Rocher's captivating historic district.

Red Bud Historic District

27.8 km

Discover Red Bud Historic District: A charming Illinois treasure with 19th-century architecture and rich German heritage.

World Shooting and Recreational Complex

27.9 km

Experience world-class shooting and outdoor recreation at the premier World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Illinois.

Bellefontaine Town State Historic Site

45.1 km

Step back in time at Bellefontaine Town State Historic Site in Waterloo, IL, and discover the captivating stories of Illinois' pioneer past.

Crystal City Underground

48.7 km

Explore a unique subterranean world in Crystal City, Missouri: concerts, sports, boat tours, and more await below the surface!

Jackson County Historical Society

54.9 km

Discover Jackson County's past: Exhibits, archives, and stories preserving local history in Murphysboro, Illinois.

Historic Hull House

54.9 km

Experience Victorian elegance at the Historic Hull House in Murphysboro, a beautifully preserved 1887 Italianate home on the National Register of Historic Places.

Unmissable attractions to see

The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum

11.9 km

Unveil the stories of French colonial America at the Centre for French Colonial Life & Bolduc House Museum, immersing in history and heritage.

The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum

Cave Vineyard

23.5 km

Experience the unique charm of Cave Vineyard, a serene winery in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, where exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes await.

Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve

25.3 km

Discover the natural beauty of Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve, a serene escape in Illinois perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventure.

Fort de Chartres State Historic Site

25.3 km

Explore the rich history and scenic beauty of Fort de Chartres State Historic Site in Prairie Du Rocher, IL, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Fogelpole Cave Nature Preserve

31.9 km

Uncover the wonders of Fogelpole Cave Nature Preserve in Prairie Du Rocher, IL, where nature meets adventure in a breathtaking cave exploration experience.

Hawn State Park

31.9 km

Explore Hawn State Park: a hidden gem in Missouri with scenic trails, rich wildlife, and breathtaking nature for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Illinois Caverns State Natural Area

35.9 km

Discover the captivating beauty and rich geological history of Illinois Caverns State Natural Area, a must-visit gem for adventurous travelers.

Hickory Canyons Natural Area

36.1 km

Explore Hickory Canyons Natural Area, a tranquil nature preserve in Missouri, where lush landscapes and diverse wildlife await adventurers and nature lovers.

Pickle Springs Natural Area

39.1 km

Discover the beauty of Pickle Springs Natural Area, a stunning nature preserve in Missouri offering scenic hikes, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.

Kinkaid Lake Spillway

45.6 km

Explore the natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Kinkaid Lake Spillway in Shawnee National Forest, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Castor River Shut-Ins

49.2 km

Experience the stunning natural beauty of Castor River Shut-Ins, where unique rock formations meet serene waters in a tranquil park setting.

St. Francois State Park

53.6 km

Explore St. Francois State Park, a serene retreat in Missouri, ideal for hiking, fishing, and camping amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Saint Francois State Park

53.6 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Saint Francois State Park in Missouri, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Missouri Mines State Historic Site

54.6 km

Explore the rich mining history and stunning landscapes at Missouri Mines State Historic Site, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Little Grand Canyon

54.6 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and adventurous trails at Little Grand Canyon, a premier hiking destination in Pomona, Illinois.

Essential places to dine

Aces & Eights - Bar, Grill & Gaming

47.2 km

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Aces & Eights Bar & Grill in Pinckneyville - your go-to spot for great food and fun!

Mase's Place

56.5 km

Discover Mase's Place in Pomona for an unforgettable grilling experience filled with flavor and community spirit.

Von Jakob Winery & Brewery

65.5 km

Experience exquisite wines and craft beers at Von Jakob Winery & Brewery in Alto Pass—your destination for relaxation amidst stunning vineyard views.

Longbranch Cafe & Bakery

66.5 km

Discover the delightful vegetarian cuisine at Longbranch Cafe & Bakery in Carbondale - where every bite is a taste of local charm.

Underground Public House

66.7 km

Experience local flavors at Underground Public House in Carbondale - where gastropub meets community spirit.

Walker's Bluff

69.5 km

Explore Walker's Bluff: A premier winery in Carterville offering exquisite wines and exceptional dining experiences.

Stacked STL

71.6 km

Experience culinary excellence at Stacked STL with gourmet burgers and a vibrant bar atmosphere in the heart of St. Louis.

Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge

75.1 km

Experience exceptional American cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge in St. Louis' Benton Park.

Big Daddy's Bar in Soulard #1 Patio & Party Spot

75.1 km

Experience vibrant nightlife at Big Daddy's Bar in Soulard—your ultimate destination for delicious grill cuisine and unforgettable fun.

Big Daddy's Bar in Soulard #1 Patio & Party Spot

Peacemaker Lobster & Crab

75.5 km

Discover St. Louis's premier seafood destination at Peacemaker Lobster & Crab—where fresh flavors meet vibrant atmosphere.

Hammerstone's

75.5 km

Experience St. Louis at Hammerstone's: Delicious American cuisine meets live blues in the heart of Soulard.

Sidney Street Cafe

75.6 km

Discover innovative American cuisine at Sidney Street Cafe in St. Louis – where culinary creativity meets exceptional service.

Molly's In Soulard

75.7 km

Discover culinary delights and vibrant nightlife at Molly's In Soulard - a must-visit destination in St. Louis' historic district.

Chava's Mexican Restaurant

75.8 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex at Chava's Mexican Restaurant in Soulard, St. Louis - where every bite tells a story.

John D. McGurk's Irish Pub and Garden

75.8 km

Discover John D. McGurk's Irish Pub & Garden - A vibrant blend of authentic Irish cuisine and lively ambiance in St. Louis' Soulard neighborhood.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Columbia St Mercantile

49.5 km

Discover the sweet charm of Columbia St Mercantile, where ice cream dreams and nostalgic treats come to life in Farmington, Missouri.

Previously Loved Antiques & Gifts

49.6 km

Explore a treasure trove of unique antiques and charming gifts at Previously Loved Antiques & Gifts in Farmington, Missouri.

Silver Moon Golden Sun

49.8 km

Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Silver Moon Golden Sun, a charming gift shop in Farmington, Missouri, perfect for every traveler.

Aesop's Treasury Books and Games

49.8 km

Discover hidden literary treasures and exciting games at Aesop's Treasury, the ultimate destination for book lovers and gamers in Farmington.

Forever Antiques

51.9 km

Explore a treasure trove of unique antiques at Forever Antiques in Farmington, Missouri, where history comes alive with every find.

Queen Anne's Lace

53.1 km

Explore Queen Anne's Lace, a unique clothing boutique in Park Hills, MO, offering stylish apparel and personalized shopping experiences.

The Fancy Crow

57.0 km

Explore The Fancy Crow in Bonne Terre, MO, for unique gifts, local art, and handcrafted treasures that embody the spirit of Missouri.

Mommas Treasures

59.1 km

Explore Momma's Treasures for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of your travels.

Silver Mine Quilts & Antiques

62.1 km

Discover the charm of Silver Mine Quilts & Antiques in Fredericktown, Missouri, where history and craftsmanship come together in a delightful shopping experience.

Fresh Foods

64.4 km

Discover Fresh Foods in Carbondale: A vibrant produce market offering local fruits, vegetables, and artisanal delights for every palate.

Neighborhood Co-op Grocery

64.5 km

Explore local flavors and sustainable goods at the Neighborhood Co-op Grocery, Carbondale's hub for fresh produce and community spirit.

International Grocery

64.6 km

Explore a World of Flavors at International Grocery in Carbondale – Your Gateway to Unique Culinary Ingredients.

TJ's Fine Jewelry & Repair

65.1 km

Explore exquisite jewelry and expert services at TJ's Fine Jewelry & Repair, Carbondale's premier destination for fine jewelry and personalized craftsmanship.

Scooter's Coffee

65.3 km

Discover Scooter's Coffee in Carbondale, IL - where exceptional brews meet a welcoming community vibe for an unforgettable coffee experience.

Donna's Country Cottage

66.2 km

Explore the unique charm of Donna's Country Cottage in Bismarck, Missouri, where local crafts and home goods come together for an unforgettable shopping experience.

Discover Pagliai's of Carbondale, where every pizza is a masterpiece crafted with love and the finest ingredients.

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