HGTV names a metro-east city one of the 50 ‘most charming small towns in America’
River views, wildlife and a rich history all contributed to making Alton one of HGTV’s top picks for small town America.
The popular real estate and home improvement network recently placed Alton on its list of “50 of the Most Charming Small Towns in America.” It was the only Illinois spot featured.
“Alton, Illinois, the hometown of jazz musician Miles Davis, is located where Route 66 meets the Great River Road. This quaint river town is known for its limestone bluffs, which make it one of the best spots in the U.S. to see bald eagles,” HGTV wrote, in part.
The national bird is one of the most common raptors spotted in the area during the winter season, Bill Rowe, vice president of education with the St. Louis Audubon Society recently told the News-Democrat. Alton spots like Melvin Price Lock and Dam, Great River Road and the nearby Audubon Center at Riverlands in West Alton, Mo., are all top sites for birdwatchers hoping to spot the eagle.
The city, located in Madison County, is home to around 25,000 people, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates from July 2023. The median family income there that year was just more than $53,000.
“Alton Illinois is home to rich history, historic neighborhoods, a thriving art scene, vibrant small businesses, and a local culinary community,” Cory Jobe, president and CEO of Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau, based in Alton, wrote the BND in a recent email. The tourism group collaborated with HGTV and the Illinois Office of Tourism on featuring the city, he noted.
“Alton feels like home to the visitors who discover our community on the Mississippi River for the first time,“ Jobe continued.
Some popular dining spots include State Street Market, Gentelin’s on Broadway and Fast Eddie’s Bon Air.
Among the city’s famed residents is legendary musician Davis, who was born in Alton before moving to nearby East St. Louis.
Those interested in the area’s history may find much to appreciate about the downtown, Alton city clerk Cheryl Ingle told the BND.
“Downtown has several historic buildings and they are just beautiful. Alton is also rich in history from the Robert Wadlow Statue all the way across town to the downtown area to the great scenic byway and up to our beautiful bluffs,” Ingle wrote, in part, in a Jan. 27 email. “... There is so much community spirit and involvement and everyone is always ready to jump in and help.”
Things to do in Alton
If you’re planning a visit, or just a local looking to take in more of the city, here are Trip Advisor’s top five things to do in Alton:
- World’s Tallest Man Statue: A statue of Robert Wadlow, who is from Alton, located at 2810 College Ave.
- Drive the Great Rivers Scenic Route: A national scenic byway running 33 miles along the river.
- National Great Rivers Museum: Offering educational exhibits at 1 Locks and Dam Way.
- Beall Mansion Tour: A circa 1903 historic home that offers tours, accommodations and more at 406 E. 12th St.
- Argosy Casino Alton: A riverboat casino found at 1 Piasa St.
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