Great Rivers & Routes

During fall, a sailboat is seen on the Mississippi River. The Great River Road can be seen behind the river.

Southwest Illinois' tourism generated record economic growth last year

Will Bauer

Along with the rest of the state, southwest Illinois’ tourism industry continues to see a solid bounce back following a pandemic lull, according to the latest figures released for 2022.

The West End Service Station, a filling station along the Route 66 corridor in Edwardsville, has been turned into a museum and interpretive center. It's believed to be one of the last remaining original Route 66 service stations in more than 60 miles.

Culture & History

An Edwardsville service station on historic Route 66 is revived as museum

Marissanne Lewis-Thompson

A piece of restored Edwardsville history is making its debut Friday. The West End Service Station is reopening as a museum and interpretive center for people to learn about its history as a hub along the Route 66 corridor, in anticipation of the road’s 100th anniversary in 2026.

Funds for this project come from a state grant to revamp the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. The tourism bureau estimates the project will be complete by summer 2025.

Economy & Business

Piasa Park in Alton to get up to $6.5 million in renovations and additions

Will Bauer

The project includes a new visitors center for the city and outdoor gathering areas.

The industrial park in Illinois covers 2,300 acres. Developers say it is within 1,500 miles of 90 percent of the people in North America.

Economy & Business

Driven By E-Commerce, Metro East Warehousing Thrived During Pandemic

Eric Schmid

Warehousing in the region saw big gains with changing consumer habits, while hospitality and tourism-related businesses are struggling to increase staffing ahead of a likely busy tourist season.