Situated on the highlands north of the point where the Illinois River joins the mighty Mississippi, Pike County brims with natural beauty, vivid history and lively events.
“I’m one who loves the rolling hills and trees – that bucolic lifestyle – and that’s what I love about Pike County,” says Jenna Morrow, executive director of Pike-Scott Farm Bureau. She treasures the beauty of the county’s bluff area, high above the plains that run along the eastern banks of the Mississippi River.
The scenic Great River Road (State Road 96) cuts a path through the county’s western side. But drives through Pike County – named after famed 19th-century explorer Zebulon Pike – only hint at what the county offers visitors.
Newcomers should make their first stop the Pike County Visitors Center, located in the county seat of Pittsfield, with its 24-hour foyer offering information on local activities, attractions and events.
Read on for a look at some of Pike County’s most popular destinations.
1. Lincoln’s Talking Houses Tour
In the years before he became the nation’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln practiced law, working on nearly 30 cases in Pittsfield. Home to 11 houses with historical connections to Lincoln, visitors can enjoy a Talking Houses tour using a brochure from the visitors center or an audio guide on their car’s AM radio.
2. A Glowing & Octagonal Courthouse
Every Sept. 22, a fascinating phenomenon takes place in Pittsfield. Weather permitting, on the first day of fall – the autumnal equinox – the setting sun hits the Pike County Courthouse just right, causing the interior of the building to glow a warm orange hue. The glow is fleeting, lasting less than 10 minutes, so don’t be late.
Even on days when it’s not glowing, the historic Pike County Courthouse still draws visitors with its breathtaking Gothic Revival architecture based upon an octagonal – 24-sided actually – floor plan. Built in 1894, the courthouse – Pike County’s fifth – became part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
3. Heartland Hunting
Hunting is a popular pastime in Pike County, where outdoors enthusiasts will find whitetail deer, wild quail, pheasant, waterfowl and more. One of the most popular destinations for lodging and outfitting, Harpole’s Heartland Lodge offers relaxation, luxury and sporting opportunities in equal measure. The bed-and-breakfast resort not only features hunting and a sporting clays course, but also horseback riding trails, guided river cruises, hayrides, bonfires and much more.
See more: Visit the Past and Present in Petersburg
4. Lake Pittsfield
Located just northeast of the county seat, a few miles west of the Illinois River, you’ll find Lake Pittsfield. A 200-acre freshwater lake surrounded by a 480-acre recreational park, the lake offers opportunities for boating, camping, fishing, hiking, and a wide array of sports and outdoor recreational activities.
5. Historic New Philadelphia
In 1836, New Philadelphia became the first town in the U.S. founded by an African American. Frank McWorter, a formerly enslaved man, established the town, which was a stop on the famed Underground Railroad. At its height, New Philadelphia had a population of 160 people, with 144 lots and 22 named streets. A protected archaeological area, the site became a national park in 2022.
See more: New Philadelphia National Historic Site Honors a Frontier of Freedom
6. Fall Festival
Every Labor Day weekend, downtown Pittsfield hosts its annual Fall Festival. The popular and lively event features a carnival, kiddie rides, pageants, food and craft vendors, and a Saturday morning parade. On Sunday morning, an outdoor church service takes place on the Pike County Courthouse lawn.
7. All Wars Museum
Honoring all the men and women who served in our nation’s wars, the Pike County All Wars Museum places a special emphasis on those from the area. The museum honors local veterans and tells their stories through its collection of artifacts and recently added displays. The museum offers both public and private tours.
8. Historic Museum
One of three museums operated by the Pike County Historical Society, the Old East School in Pittsfield serves as the society’s headquarters and home to its Historic Museum. Housing the county’s historical collection, the beautiful edifice, built in 1860, is one of the few remaining designs by John Van Osdel of Chicago, known as the father of Illinois architecture.
9. Fall Pickin’ Days
Every season in Pike County has its charms. While spring brings bountiful blooms of wildflowers, fall is extra special in the county. As the leaves vividly turn red, yellow and orange, Pittsfield’s downtown square hosts Pike County Fall Pickin’ Days. Held in mid-October, the event features live music, food and a variety of vendors, making it one of the region’s most well attended family-friendly events.
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