quaint community of 600 residents was founded in 1853, and the whole village is on the National Register of Historic places.

Visitors come to Elsah to view its beautiful homes, enjoy its bike and hiking trails and to catch a glimpse of its local bald eagle population.

Alton and its surrounding towns are dotted with B&Bs and guesthouses, and locals and tourists alike stroll through charming orchards, wineries and outdoor areas like Pere Marquette State Park. Don’t leave town without seeing the famous Piasa Bird, an ancient bluff mural painted on the cliffs by Native Americans and discovered by Jacques Marquette in 1673. From Alton, the Texas Eagle passes under the Eads Bridge and continues into St. Louis. While in the Gateway City, most head to Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. The national park is home to the Gateway Arch, the Old Courthouse and the Museum of Westward Expansion.

The Courthouse is perhaps best known as home to the Dred Scott case in 1850 and its ties to abolition. The museum features artifacts from Lewis and Clark’s expeditions.

The Arch, the park’s best-known landmark, stands 630 feet above the Mississippi River. Those brave enough to take a tram to the top of the monument are rewarded with stunning views of up to 30 miles.

Other popular St. Louis attractions include Busch Stadium, the St. Louis Zoo, Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis Science Center, Union Station, Fox Theater, Grant’s Farm, and The Muny. While Alton and St. Louis are close enough to drive, riding the rails can be a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the summer as a family without the stress and pollution often associated with driving. While on board, riders can move to the Sightseer Lounge Car to view some of the trip’s scenic highlights like Wood River and the Eads Bridge.

Tickets to Alton from Springfield start at just $7 per person each way, while the St. Louis fare begins at $13 with the trip lasting just over two hours. Passengers can travel with bicycles for an additional fee.