Mount Vernon, Illinois: More Than Just a Rest Stop on I-57 (Unless You Need a Really Cool Aquatic Zoo)
Let's face it, Illinois gets a bit of a rough rap. But nestled between cornfields and good manners, there's a little city called Mount Vernon that's packing some unexpected charm. So, if you're cruising down I-57 and that Big Gulp just isn't cutting it anymore, then consider a detour to Mount Vernon. Here's what you might just stumble upon:
A Storied Past (and a Brush with Abraham Lincoln)
History buffs, rejoice! Mount Vernon boasts a rich past. Founded in 1817 (by a guy named Zadok Casey, yes, really), the city was nearly named Mount Pleasant. Thankfully, good taste prevailed, and it was christened after George Washington's digs. Fun Fact: Abraham Lincoln himself argued a tax case here in 1859! Who knows, maybe he even grabbed a hot dog at a local stand (though, hot dogs probably weren't a thing yet).
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From Railcars to Riesling: A Modern Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon's history is intertwined with the railroad industry. Once a major producer of railcars, the city has since diversified. Today, agriculture (corn, anyone?) and distribution are key players, but you'll also find pockets of industry like coal mining, oil production, and even tire manufacturing. And hey, if you're feeling fancy, there's even a local winery producing some tasty Illinois Riesling.
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Culture vultures, take note! The Cedarhurst Center for the Arts is a hidden gem, boasting an art museum, a sculpture park, and even nature trails. So you can get your Monet fix and commune with nature, all in one fell swoop.
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| What is Mt Vernon Illinois Known For |
Aquatic Adventures (Because Why Not?)
Okay, this one's a little weird, but it's undeniably Mount Vernon. The Aquatic Zoo is exactly what it sounds like: an indoor zoo focused on all things aquatic. Turtles, fish, even a grumpy-looking alligator – they've got it all. Look, it's not the San Diego Zoo, but it's a quirky little stop that'll have you saying, "Well, that was different."
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So, what's the verdict? Is Mount Vernon, Illinois, the next big tourist destination? Probably not. But it is a friendly, historic city with a surprising amount to offer the curious traveler. And hey, if you need a break from the monotony of the interstate, you could do a lot worse than getting your culture fix, ogling some aquatic creatures, and maybe even sipping on some local wine.
FAQs:
- How to get to Mount Vernon? Easy! It's right off I-57, so you can't miss it.
- How long does it take to explore Mount Vernon? A day trip would do it nicely, but you could definitely stretch it to two if you're a museum buff.
- How much does it cost to visit the Aquatic Zoo? Prices are super reasonable, so it's a wallet-friendly activity.
- How do I find the best local wineries? The Mount Vernon Convention and Visitors Bureau is a great resource – they'll have all the info you need.
- How much fun can you really have in a small town? Surprisingly a lot! Mount Vernon may not be Las Vegas, but it's got its own charm and friendly vibes.
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