8 Things To Know Before Visiting Beardstown, Illinois

Beardstown, Illinois, lies on the banks of the Illinois River about 120 miles north of St. Louis, Missouri. Settled by Europeans in 1819, Beardstown is one of the older cities in Illinois. Former President Abraham Lincoln was stationed as a captain in Beardstown during the Black Hawk war of 1832, and in 1858, he gave his famous speech with the phrase, “a house divided cannot stand.”

For a short time, Beardstown was even home to the famous gangster, Al Capone. In addition, there are plenty of places to eat, shop, and recreate in the Beardstown area. Check out our guide of eight things to know before visiting Beardstown so you can plan a perfect trip to this charming Illinois town.

Beardstown Bridge

Image via Flickr by Rick Galvan

The Beardstown Bridge is a two-lane bridge where U.S. Route 67 crosses the Illinois River. Before the railroads came through Illinois, the only way to get across the river was on a ferry. Ferry service ceased operation once the massive Beardstown Bridge was built. The main part of the bridge is a truss span that rises nearly 70 feet to allow large boats to travel up and down the river.

The main bridge is 1,365 feet long and is divided into two sections that allow traffic to pass through. From one side of the Illinois River to the other is almost a mile, making this span bridge one of the largest in Illinois.

Old Lincoln Courtroom and Museum

Learn more about Abraham Lincoln’s life during the time he lived in Beardstown when you visit The Old Lincoln Courtroom and Museum that’s part of the Lincoln Heritage Trail. Mr. Lincoln defended Duff Armstrong during the Almanac Trial in the courtroom. This courtroom is the only one left in the United States where Mr. Lincoln practiced law. Visit the museum to see historical artifacts and displays showcasing the central Illinois region. You’ll also see works of art and dress from the local Indigenous people that once lived in the area.

Smokin’ Joes BBQ

You won’t go hungry when you eat the mouthwatering food from Smokin’ Joes BBQ food truck. Enjoy smoked baby back ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, pulled pork nachos, smoked brisket, chicken, burnt ends, and more. Grab some extra barbecue sauce and sides like mac ‘n cheese or jalapeno beans to go with your meal. Smokin’ Joes BBQ has outside seating, takeout, or delivery.

Beardstown Antique Mall

Spend time looking for treasures when you visit the Beardstown Antique Mall. Several vendors display antiques and collectibles ranging from old farm equipment to kitchenware. Buy old earthenware pots to make pickles in, stock up on depression-era glassware, and fill your home with vintage furniture. Browse the rare book section to find a special book to give as a present, look for pieces of fine vintage or retro-style jewelry, and even pick up cool old toys. You can find the Beardstown Antique Mall at 2104 Wall St. Extension.

River Port Restaurant & Lounge

Enjoy a home-cooked American meal with a great view of the Illinois River and Beardstown Bridge when you dine at River Port Restaurant & Lounge located above the Beardstown Bowling Alley. Stop by the lunch buffet held every day between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Start your meal with a trip to the salad bar, and then from the sandwich menu order a tasty hamburger, cheeseburger, bacon cheeseburger, or a grilled chicken sandwich. For the main menu, choose hand-breaded or grilled tenderloin, chicken strip basket, a Philly cheesesteak, or tenderloin horseshoes.

One of the chef’s specialties is the breaded pork tenderloin that’s served with curly fries and cheese sauce on the side. Savor comfort food such as fried chicken, meatloaf and gravy served with mashed potatoes and your choice of sides. Come to River Port Restaurant & Lounge on Saturday nights to enjoy catfish, frog legs, or rib-eye steaks. You get tasty sides such as homemade potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, or mac ‘n cheese.

Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Wildlife Area

After a day of antique shopping and eating barbecue, head east about 22 miles to Chandlerville to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise at Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Wildlife Area. The wildlife area encompasses nearly 16,650 acres and is developed for conservation and recreation. Hunters can enjoy looking for deer, wild turkeys, and game birds such as pheasant and quail. Anglers can try their hand at catching largemouth bass, sunfish, shiners, chubs, and northern pike.

There are 26 miles of mountain bike trails, a 3-mile hiking or jogging trail, and 26 miles of equestrian trails to explore on. You can spend the night at the 84-site campground or stay in one of nine rustic cabins. Bring your horses and stay at the 51-site dedicated equestrian campground that comes equipped with electricity and running water.

America’s Best Value Inn

Whether you’re planning on spending a few days or a few weeks in the Beardstown area, you’ll rest in comfort when you stay at America’s Best Value Inn at 9918 Grand Ave. The hotel offers clean, spacious rooms, a free continental breakfast, a heated pool, and free Wi-Fi. In your room, you’ll find a coffee maker, microwave, and mini-fridge for your convenience. There’s plenty of parking, and the hotel is within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

Visit Beardstown in Early Summer or Fall

Illinois can get cold in the winter and hot and humid in the summer, so the best time to schedule a visit to Beardstown is between the months of April and June. To see the changing fall foliage, book your visit in mid- to late October. For winter activities such as ice skating, sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or ice fishing, visit Beardstown between January and early March.

So, there you have all you need to know before you visit Beardstown. What was your favorite part of this charming town? Is there a hidden gem that we missed? If you have a recommendation of other things to know about Beardstown, drop us a line and we’ll add it to our list.