Miller Grove Town National Historic Site: A Journey into Illinois's Past
Discover Miller Grove: A historic African American settlement offering a glimpse into 19th-century life and the Underground Railroad in Illinois.
Explore the remnants of Miller Grove, a 19th-century settlement founded by freed African Americans in Illinois's Shawnee National Forest. Discover the stories of resilience, community, and the Underground Railroad in this serene historical landmark.
A brief summary to Miller Grove Town National Historic Site
- Simpson, Illinois, 62985, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven ground.
- Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
- Check the visitor center for information on guided tours or special events.
Getting There
-
Driving
From the center of Simpson, IL, head east on IL-145 N for approximately 5 miles. Continue straight onto Miller Grove Road for another 2 miles until you reach the Miller Grove Town National Historic Site. Parking is available near the site. There is no entrance fee.
-
Walking
If you are already in Simpson, IL, you can walk to Miller Grove Town National Historic Site. Head west on Main Street from the center of Simpson, then turn right onto W 4th Street. Continue until you reach the site. The walk is roughly 15-20 minutes.
Discover more about Miller Grove Town National Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Miller Grove Town National Historic Site
0.0 km
Explore the Miller Grove Town National Historic Site in Simpson, Illinois, where history meets nature in a captivating and tranquil setting.
Four Points, River to River Trail
1.6 km
A key intersection on the River to River Trail, offering access to the scenic Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois.
John Dupont House Historic Site
14.7 km
Step back in time at the John Dupont House Historic Site in New Burnside, Illinois, and explore 19th-century architecture and local history.
Golconda Historic District
19.9 km
Discover the charm of a bygone era in Golconda Historic District, where 19th-century architecture meets the tranquil beauty of the Ohio River.
William Rondeau Hermitage Historic Site
20.3 km
Experience the historical charm of the William Rondeau Hermitage, a serene landmark steeped in Kentucky's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Berry's Ferry John Berry Homesite on Trail of Tears
20.5 km
Explore Berry's Ferry in Smithland, KY, a significant historical site on the Trail of Tears that honors the Cherokee Nation's enduring spirit and legacy.
Carrier Mills Archaeological District
21.0 km
Discover the rich heritage and serene beauty of the Carrier Mills Archaeological District, a hidden gem in Illinois showcasing ancient Native American history.
Tunnel Hill State Trail
23.7 km
Explore Southern Illinois' scenic Tunnel Hill State Trail: a 45-mile journey through history, nature, and charming communities.
Garden of the Gods Outpost
25.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Garden of the Gods Outpost, a perfect blend of nature, dining, and shopping in Illinois.
Shady Rest Historic Site
27.8 km
Explore the intriguing history of Shady Rest Historic Site in Pittsburg, IL, once the infamous haunt of gangster Charlie Birger.
Dam Near Lake of Egypt Cabins by SIVR
29.6 km
Modern micro-cabins near Lake of Egypt & Shawnee National Forest. Perfect for outdoor adventures, wine trails, and relaxing getaways in Southern Illinois.
Ferne Clyffe Lake
30.1 km
Discover a peaceful escape at Ferne Clyffe Lake, surrounded by scenic trails and lush forests in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Round Bluff Nature Preserve
30.1 km
Explore a unique sandstone bluff and rare plant life at Round Bluff Nature Preserve, a hidden gem within Ferne Clyffe State Park.
Martha Furnace (National Historic Site)
30.8 km
Discover Illinois' industrial heritage at Martha Furnace, a preserved 19th-century iron production site nestled in a peaceful, wooded setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bell Smith Springs Natural Bridge Trailhead
2.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Bell Smith Springs Natural Bridge, a premier hiking destination in the heart of the Ozarks, Illinois.
Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area
3.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations of Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area in Ozark, Illinois, a hidden gem for nature lovers.
Devil's Backbone
3.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures at Devil's Backbone, a scenic spot in Illinois perfect for hiking, swimming, and photography.
Redbud Campground
3.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Redbud Campground in Shawnee National Forest, a perfect retreat for camping and outdoor adventures.
Mill Branch Trail - trailhead
3.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Mill Branch Trail in Ozark, Illinois, a perfect destination for hiking and nature lovers looking for tranquility.
Jackson Falls
4.1 km
Experience the stunning waterfalls and scenic trails of Jackson Falls, a hiking paradise in Illinois' Shawnee National Forest.
Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area
5.4 km
Explore the Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area, where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty in Shawnee National Forest, Illinois.
Hogg Hollow Winery
5.4 km
Explore Hogg Hollow Winery in Illinois for a delightful wine tasting experience amidst scenic countryside views and local charm.
Bay Creek Wilderness
6.3 km
Explore the natural wonders and serene landscapes of Bay Creek Wilderness in Stonefort, Illinois, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor adventures.
Indian Kitchen Trailhead
6.9 km
Discover the tranquility of Indian Kitchen Trailhead, a breathtaking hiking area in Eddyville, Illinois, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
Burden Falls Trailhead
7.4 km
Explore the natural beauty and serene landscapes of Burden Falls Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Stonefort, Illinois, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Trigg Observation Tower
8.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and natural beauty at Trigg Observation Tower in Simpson, Illinois, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve
9.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife at Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve in Eddyville, Illinois, a true outdoor paradise.
Cedar Falls
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Cedar Falls in Ozark, Illinois, where nature's beauty awaits amidst lush landscapes and serene waterfalls.
Camp Ondessonk
10.5 km
Unwind in nature at Camp Ondessonk, a summer camp in the Ozarks offering outdoor adventures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable memories.
Essential places to dine
Shotgun Eddys
5.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Shotgun Eddys, Eddyville's favorite grill known for hearty portions and friendly service.
Diver Down
19.8 km
Discover Diver Down in Golconda - A delightful grill offering fresh flavors and Southern Illinois hospitality perfect for every visitor.
Gap Bar
20.5 km
Experience delicious grilling at Gap Bar in Herod, Illinois - where every meal is crafted with care in a friendly atmosphere.
Big Blues Que
21.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern-style barbecue at Big Blues Que in Creal Springs, where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sugar Creek Cafe
22.2 km
Discover the cozy charm and delightful flavors at Sugar Creek Cafe in Creal Springs, Illinois - a must-visit for every traveler.
Clyffe Cafe
22.8 km
Experience delightful flavors at Clyffe Cafe in Vienna, IL – where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
El Ranchito Restaurant
27.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Ranchito Restaurant in Harrisburg – where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Don Luna
28.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Don Luna - where delicious meets affordable in Harrisburg's culinary scene.
steam café
28.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of coffee and fresh pastries at Steam Café in Harrisburg - your go-to spot for breakfast and lunch delights.
Johnson Southern Style Bar-B-Q
28.6 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue flavors at Johnson Southern Style Bar-B-Q in Harrisburg, Illinois - a must-visit for every food lover.
Bar-B-Q Barn
28.7 km
Experience the best barbecue in Harrisburg at Bar-B-Q Barn—where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Cross-Eyed Bear
29.4 km
Discover The Cross-Eyed Bear: A lively bar in Marion offering great drinks, delicious food, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
E'Town River Restaurant
30.0 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine in a unique riverside setting at E'Town River Restaurant in Elizabethtown, Illinois.
Whiffle Boy's Pizza & More
30.1 km
Experience delicious pizza made with love at Whiffle Boy's Pizza & More in Goreville – the perfect stop for hungry travelers.
Goreville Grill
30.1 km
Discover local flavors at Goreville Grill - where hearty meals meet small-town charm in Illinois.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shawnee National Forest
2.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Shawnee National Forest, a hidden gem in Southern Illinois for outdoor adventures.
Friendly Farms
4.1 km
Explore Friendly Farms in Eddyville, Illinois, where home goods meet local charm and unique craftsmanship awaits every visitor.
Blue i Leather and Goods
12.6 km
Explore Blue i Leather and Goods in Ozark, IL for exquisite handcrafted leather products and expert repair services, a true leather lover's paradise.
Chocolate Factory
13.3 km
Experience the magic of handcrafted chocolates at the Chocolate Factory in Golconda, Illinois - a sweet adventure awaits!
Rose Clare Craft & Antique
26.8 km
Explore unique crafts and antiques at Rose Clare Craft & Antique in Rosiclare, Illinois - a treasure trove of local culture and history.
Country Cottage
27.5 km
Discover your creative side at Country Cottage, a charming scrapbooking store in Harrisburg, IL, offering supplies and workshops for all skill levels.
The FACTORY
28.0 km
Experience the charm of Harrisburg at The FACTORY, where local goods meet unique gifts in a welcoming atmosphere.
R61 Resale Boutique
29.0 km
Explore the charm of R61 Resale Boutique in Harrisburg, IL, where every thrifted item tells a story and unique treasures await discovery.
Shawnee Hills Antique Mall
29.5 km
Explore the charm of Shawnee Hills Antique Mall, where timeless treasures and unique collectibles await in Harrisburg, Illinois.
Acee's Neighborhood Market & Deli
29.8 km
Explore the heart of Goreville at Acee's Neighborhood Market & Deli, your go-to spot for convenience, local eats, and warm hospitality.
Rusty's Home Center
29.9 km
Explore Rusty's Home Center, the premier hardware store in Goreville, Illinois, offering quality tools and expert advice for every project.
H & H Fuel
30.1 km
Discover H & H Fuel in Goreville, your perfect pit stop for fuel, snacks, and friendly service during your Illinois travels.
Goreville Ministerial Alliance
30.2 km
Explore hidden gems at Goreville Ministerial Alliance Thrift Store, where sustainability meets community spirit in a quaint shopping experience.
Advanced Computer Technology
30.4 km
Discover the finest in computer products and services at Advanced Computer Technology in Goreville, Illinois - your tech paradise awaits.
Countree Peddler Antique Mall
30.7 km
Explore Countree Peddler Antique Mall for unique gifts, collectibles, and antiques in the heart of Goreville, Illinois.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lusk Creek Liquor and Gaming
19.5 km
Discover Lusk Creek Liquor and Gaming: The perfect blend of delicious grill cuisine and exciting gaming in Golconda, Illinois.
The Levee Lounge
20.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Golconda at The Levee Lounge, a premier grill offering a delightful menu in a cozy setting.
Sullys
22.3 km
Discover the charm of Sully’s, a cozy bar in Creal Springs, IL, where great drinks and friendly faces await you.
Sunbar
24.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vienna at Sunbar, where craft cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Ned's Shed
24.3 km
Delicious handcrafted hamburgers await at Ned's Shed, a charming eatery in Vienna, Illinois, perfect for burger lovers seeking an unforgettable meal.
Big Boys Bar & Grill
25.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Big Boys Bar & Grill in Vienna, IL, where delicious flavors and a welcoming atmosphere await.
JoJos Bar
27.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at JoJos Bar, the heart of Harrisburg's social scene, offering great drinks and live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Town Square Pub
28.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Town Square Pub in Harrisburg, where local brews, delicious bites, and community spirit come together for an unforgettable experience.
Triple E BBQ Lake of Egypt
29.4 km
Discover the authentic Southern barbecue experience at Triple E BBQ Lake of Egypt, where savory flavors meet beautiful lakeside views.
Aces
29.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Elizabethtown at Aces, your go-to bar for drinks, live music, and unforgettable local vibes.
E'Town Tap
29.9 km
Experience the local vibe at E'Town Tap, Elizabethtown's favorite bar for craft drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Curve Inn
30.0 km
Discover Curve Inn in Buncombe, Illinois—a local bar where affordable drinks and friendly vibes create an unforgettable experience.
Jacs Place
35.0 km
Discover the charm of Jacs Place, a cozy bar and store nestled in the stunning Shawnee National Forest, perfect for a relaxing retreat.
Southbound Bar & Liquor
35.2 km
Discover the lively spirit of Marion at Southbound Bar & Liquor, a vibrant space perfect for enjoying drinks and local culture.
Log Cabin Tavern
35.9 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and delicious grilled dishes at Log Cabin Tavern in Marion, Illinois, a perfect stop for hungry travelers.
