Sitting on the Mississippi River near St. Louis, Alton, Illinois, is a town of history, scenic bluffs, and community spirit. From Elijah P. Lovejoy’s anti-slavery activism and Abraham Lincoln’s visits to the birthplace of jazz legend Miles Davis and the home of the World’s Tallest Man, Robert Wadlow, Alton blends remarkable stories with stunning river views. It’s also a hotspot for ghost hunters, wintering bald eagles, and fall leaf-peepers. Downtown Alton centers on Broadway and Third Streets, where historic brick buildings house locally owned shops, antique stores, cafés, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy craft beers at Old Bakery Beer Company, sweets at My Just Desserts, or riverside dining while watching the Mississippi flow. Seasonal events include the July 3 Fireworks Spectacular, Alton Eagle Fest, F1 Powerboat races, and riverfront concerts. Outdoor spaces like Riverfront Park, Riverview Park, and Gordon Moore Park offer trails, sports fields, amphitheaters, and sweeping river views. Birdwatchers, anglers, and hikers also find plenty to explore along the river corridor and bluffs. With small businesses, a vibrant arts scene, rich history, and community-focused events, Alton is scenic, historic, and welcoming—a riverfront town where past and present meet. #americasfavoritesmalltowns
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