Alton, Illinois 2025

Alton, Illinois, located in Madison County, is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. As of the 2020 census, the population was 26,146. Alton is situated on the Mississippi River and is known for its stunning limestone bluffs, fossilized trees, and diverse wildlife.

Culture:

Alton boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of German, Irish, and African-American influences. The town celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as the Alton Jazz and Wine Festival, the Alton Limestone Festival, and the Great River Road Fest. The Alton Museum of History and Art showcases the city's history and features exhibits on the city's founding, the Mississippi River, and Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site.

Special Events:

Alton hosts a variety of annual events, including the Alton Fourth of July Celebration, featuring live music, food, and fireworks along the riverfront. Other notable events include the Alton Halloween Parade, which draws visitors from nearby cities, and the Alton Christmas Parade, which features festive holiday floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Local Attractions:

Alton has plenty of attractions to offer tourists. The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, located just east of the city, is the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. It features 120 earthen mounds built between 700 and 1400 CE by Mississippian culture Native Americans. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has an interpretive center and walking trails.

Food:

Alton has a diverse food scene, ranging from traditional Midwestern cuisine to Southern favorites. Some popular local spots include Fast Eddie's Bon Air, known for its burgers and frozen custard, and the Alton Café, which serves up classic diner fare and has been featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Tony's Pizza, an Alton staple since 1966, serves some of the best Saint Louis-style pizza in the area.

People:

Alton has a strong sense of community, with many residents involved in local organizations and community events. The city is home to a diverse range of people, including long-time residents and newcomers drawn by the city's natural beauty and affordable housing.

History:

Alton was established in 1818 and was an important river port and commercial center before the Civil War. It was also a major center for abolitionists and was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Elijah Parish Lovejoy, an influential abolitionist, was murdered in Alton in 1837 while defending his printing press from a pro-slavery mob. Today, the Lovejoy Monument stands in honor of his sacrifice.

In summary, Alton, Illinois, is a vibrant river city boasting natural beauty, rich history, and community spirit. Whether it's enjoying a frozen custard at Fast Eddie's Bon Air or exploring Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Alton offers visitors a unique blend of small-town charm and cultural diversity. For instance, regarding employment, the city of Alton, Illinois, has various industries that contribute to its local economy. According to the city's comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year that ended on April 30, 2019, the primary employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance, retail trade. Additionally, the report lists manufacturing, accommodation, and food services. This shows that Alton has a diverse economy with various job opportunities in healthcare, retail, manufacturing, hospitality, and food services.