Livin' Large

When it comes to living large, Downstate Illinois is all about it. Our area is home to many of the largest things in the world, as well as some of the largest things in the state. 

For those who are outdoor enthusiasts, Downstate Illinois is home to the largest state recreation area in Illinois. Pyramid State Recreation Area in Perry County contains 19,701 acres,  including 24 separate lakes and bodies of water, which are mostly used for fishing and kayaking. If hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are more your speed, Pyramid State Recreation Area boasts over 16 miles worth of trails. The Illinois DNR manages sections of the park for the hunting of deer, doves, pheasants, wild turkeys and water-fowl as well. 

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Nobody does bigger better than the folks in Clark County. Scattered throughout the county, you'll find a HUGE horseshoe and anvil in Martinsville and the World's Largest Gavel at the Clark County Courthouse in Marshall. The largest collection of BIG things can be found in Casey, which has taken the nickname "Big Things in a Small Town." Here, you'll find over two dozen big attractions, including a functioning wooden top, birdcage, rocking horse, and mouse trap — among others.

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There are also 11 Guinness World Record holders in Casey, like the World's Largest Rocking Chair, the World's Largest Truck Key, and the World's Largest Mailbox. The great thing is, Casey keeps adding to their collection of big things, so you never know what giant attraction will pop up next!

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If you're looking for one of the largest instruments in the world, head to Centralia! The Centralia Carillon is a bell tower comprised of 65 bells — weighing in at over 61 thousand pounds! The Centralia Carillon ranks in the top ten of all carillons worldwide in terms of size. There are frequently musical programs for folks to enjoy depending on the season, so enjoy the sights and sounds of the Centralia Carillon on your next visit! 

Another LARGE attraction in Downstate Illinois lives in St. Clair County. Malcom W. Martin Memorial Park is positioned right next to Casino Queen and is home to the Gateway Geyser, the tallest water fountain in the United States and the third-tallest in the world! The Geyser can reach up to 630 feet in the air, which is the height of the Gateway Arch directly across the river in St. Louis. The Gateway Geyser erupts at noon each day, from the Spring through the Fall. Take in the fountain in all its glory from a covered gazebo, or climb up the 43-foot-tall observation deck near the river for more of a birds-eye view! 

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For more travel and tourism ideas, click here!