Welcome to Alton, Illinois, where Mississippi River heritage meets modern Midwestern charm in the heart of the Metro-East region. Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River about 18 miles north of St. Louis, this historic city of approximately 25,000 residents offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, rich history, and close-knit community atmosphere—qualities that mirror the reliability you'd expect from a trusted roofing company protecting your home through every season. From its dramatic limestone bluffs to its vibrant downtown district, Alton provides an authentic small-town experience with easy access to big-city amenities.
Alton's riverside location creates opportunities for outdoor recreation year-round. The Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway showcases stunning views where the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers converge. Winter brings hundreds of bald eagles to the area, drawing bird watchers to the Melvin Price Lock & Dam and the National Great Rivers Museum. The Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail stretches along the river, offering cyclists and joggers scenic routes through the bluffs. Gordon F. Moore Community Park and Riverview Park provide spaces for families to gather, play, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Life in Alton reflects a strong sense of community pride and historical awareness. The city played a significant role in pre-Civil War America and hosted the seventh Lincoln-Douglas debate in 1858 at what is now Lincoln Douglas Square. Downtown Alton features locally-owned boutiques, restaurants, and antique shops that give the city its distinctive character. Annual events like the Mississippi Earthtones Festival and the Alton Halloween Parade bring residents and visitors together throughout the year. The city has earned a reputation as one of America's most haunted small towns, offering ghost tours and paranormal experiences for those interested in its darker history.
Experience Alton, where river town heritage meets contemporary Midwestern living, creating an inviting place to call home.
Alton, Illinois, combines its Mississippi River heritage with a welcoming small-town atmosphere that appeals to families, retirees, and professionals seeking an alternative to metropolitan life. The city's downtown core features historic architecture dating back to the 19th century, housing independent shops, art galleries, and dining establishments that reflect the community's commitment to preserving local character while supporting small business owners.
Cultural attractions thrive throughout the city, with institutions like the Jacoby Arts Center and the Alton Museum of History and Art. The arts community remains active through organizations including the Alton Little Theater, which has entertained audiences since 1934, and the Alton Municipal Band, which has performed free concerts since 1891.
The Beall Mansion, a stunning Italianate structure built in 1902, offers tours of one of the region's most impressive historic homes.
Alton takes pride in its natural assets and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Great River Road provides one of America's most scenic drives, with limestone bluffs on one side and river views on the other.
Pere Marquette State Park, located nearby, offers hiking, horseback riding, and stunning overlooks. The city's proximity to major rivers creates opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Each winter, the area becomes a premier destination for viewing American bald eagles.
Alton's neighborhoods offer varied living options at accessible price points. From historic homes in Upper Alton to riverfront properties with Mississippi River views, the city provides housing choices suitable for different budgets and lifestyles.
The community's affordable cost of living, combined with its proximity to St. Louis employment centers, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a small-town atmosphere without sacrificing access to urban opportunities.
Whether drawn by its historic significance, natural beauty, or tight-knit community atmosphere, Alton delivers quality of life that reflects authentic Midwestern values.
Alton, Illinois, consists of several distinct neighborhoods, each offering unique characteristics and community atmosphere. Here's a guide to some of Alton's key areas and their corresponding zip codes:
Downtown Alton (62002)
Downtown Alton serves as the city's historic and cultural center, featuring 19th-century architecture, antique shops, locally-owned restaurants, and art galleries. The area includes Lincoln Douglas Square, where Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas held their final debate in 1858.
Upper Alton (62002):
Upper Alton represents one of the city's oldest residential areas, known for tree-lined streets and historic homes. This neighborhood features a mix of architectural styles including Victorian, Colonial, and early 20th-century bungalows. The area is home to the original location of Shurtleff College and includes the Upper Alton Cemetery, where Robert Wadlow, the world's tallest man, is buried. The neighborhood appeals to those who appreciate historic homes and established community atmosphere.
Middletown (62002):
Middletown sits between downtown and Upper Alton, offering a mix of older homes and more recent developments. This area provides access to local schools, parks, and commercial districts along Homer Adams Parkway. The neighborhood attracts families seeking affordable housing in an area with established infrastructure and community amenities.
Riverfront District (62002):
The Riverfront District runs along the Mississippi River, featuring a mix of historic buildings, newer developments, and commercial properties. This area includes the Alton Marina, Argosy Casino, and scenic parks along the water. The district provides river views and access to recreational opportunities while maintaining proximity to downtown amenities.
North Alton (62002, 62024):
North Alton extends toward Godfrey and includes a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial development. This area offers newer housing options and convenient access to major highways. The neighborhood appeals to commuters working in St. Louis or other parts of the Metro-East region.
East Alton (62024):
While technically a separate village, East Alton is closely connected to Alton and shares many community resources. This area features primarily residential neighborhoods with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. East Alton offers its own school district and provides affordable housing options for families and working professionals.
Godfrey (62035):
Godfrey borders Alton to the north and, while incorporated separately, functions as part of the greater Alton community. This area includes Lewis and Clark Community College, newer residential developments, and commercial centers along Illinois Route 67. Godfrey attracts families seeking newer homes, quality schools, and suburban atmosphere while maintaining easy access to Alton and St. Louis.
Alton, Illinois, maintains a stable economy with employment opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, education, and service industries. The median household income of approximately $53,000 reflects the community's middle-class character, with a cost of living below the national average making the area affordable for families and individuals.
The city's proximity to St. Louis provides access to additional employment opportunities while allowing residents to enjoy small-town living. Education remains a priority for Alton residents, with about 90% of adults having completed high school and approximately 21% holding bachelor's degrees.
Alton Community Unit School District 11 serves most of the city, operating seven elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and an early childhood center. The district has made significant investments in facilities and programs to support student achievement.
Private school options include several faith-based institutions serving families seeking alternative educational approaches. Marquette Catholic High School, St. Mary School, and Mississippi Valley Christian School provide Catholic and Christian education for students from prekindergarten through high school.
Higher education institutions serve the region through Lewis and Clark Community College in nearby Godfrey, which offers associate degrees, certificate programs, and transfer opportunities to four-year universities. Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, located about 12 miles away, provides comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs.
The St. Louis metropolitan area, accessible within 30 minutes, includes numerous colleges and universities offering specialized programs and advanced degrees.
Alton Community Unit School District 11 serves the majority of students in the city, offering programs from prekindergarten through grade 12. The district includes:
Alton High School:
Alton High School, located at 4200 Humbert Road, serves students in grades 9-12 with a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and athletics. The school moved to its current facility in 2006 and offers modern facilities for academic and extracurricular programs. The school has a rich history and serves as a community focal point.
Alton Middle School:
Alton Middle School serves students in grades 6-8 and is located at the former Alton High School campus. The school consolidated three previous middle schools to provide a unified educational experience. Students benefit from diverse academic programs, exploratory courses, and extracurricular activities designed to prepare them for high school.
Elementary Schools
The district operates seven elementary schools serving students in prekindergarten through grade 5, including Eunice Smith Elementary, East Elementary, Lovejoy Elementary, and others. These schools provide foundational education with emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning. Small class sizes and dedicated teachers support student development.
Early Childhood Center
The district's Early Childhood Center provides programs for young children, including prekindergarten and special education services. The center prepares children for elementary school through age-appropriate curriculum and developmental activities.
East Alton School District 13
East Alton operates its own school district, serving students in East Alton and surrounding areas. The district includes East Alton Middle School, Eastwood Elementary, and Washington Elementary, providing quality education with a neighborhood school atmosphere.
Marquette Catholic High School
Marquette Catholic High School is a college-preparatory Catholic school serving students in grades 9-12. The school emphasizes academic rigor, faith formation, and community service. Marquette offers competitive athletics, fine arts programs, and a supportive community environment rooted in Catholic tradition.
St. Mary School
St. Mary School provides Catholic education for students from prekindergarten through grade 8. Located in downtown Alton, the school combines faith-based instruction with strong academic programs. Small class sizes allow for individualized attention and a close-knit school community.
Mississippi Valley Christian School
Mississippi Valley Christian School offers Christian education for students from prekindergarten through grade 8. The school emphasizes biblical principles integrated throughout the curriculum, providing families with faith-based educational options.
New Vision Christian Academy
New Vision Christian Academy serves students from prekindergarten through grade 8 with Christian-centered education. The school focuses on academic achievement combined with character development based on Christian values.
Lewis and Clark Community College
Lewis and Clark Community College, located in nearby Godfrey, serves as the region's community college. The institution offers associate degrees in arts, science, and applied science, as well as certificate programs in various technical fields. The college provides affordable higher education and serves as a transfer pathway to four-year institutions throughout Illinois.
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville (SIUE)
Located approximately 12 miles from Alton, SIUE offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in arts and sciences, business, education, engineering, nursing, and pharmacy. The university serves as a major educational and cultural resource for the region.
St. Louis Area Universities
Alton's proximity to St. Louis provides access to numerous higher education institutions including Saint Louis University, Washington University in St. Louis, University of Missouri-St. Louis, and others. These institutions offer specialized programs and graduate degrees within commuting distance.
Alton, Illinois, benefits from transportation infrastructure that connects the city to the greater St. Louis metropolitan area and beyond. The combination of regional bus service, rail connections, and highway access provides residents and visitors with multiple transportation options.
Madison County Transit (MCT)
Madison County Transit operates bus service throughout Madison County, including routes serving Alton. The system connects Alton to other communities in the Metro-East region and provides service to downtown St. Louis. MCT operates several routes serving Alton:
Route 1 (Riverbend): Connects Alton to East Alton, Wood River, Hartford, and Granite City
Route 7 (Alton-Edwardsville): Links Alton to Edwardsville with stops at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Route 9: Provides local service within Alton, connecting Alton Station to Alton Square Mall
MCT buses feature accessibility accommodations, bike racks, and affordable fares. The system offers discounted passes for students, seniors, and disabled riders, with free summer youth passes for riders 18 and under.
Alton Regional Multimodal Transportation Center
Located at 1 Golf Road, the Alton Regional Multimodal Transportation Center serves as a hub for Amtrak rail service and MCT bus connections. The facility features a waiting room, restrooms, ticket office, bicycle facilities, and parking.
Amtrak
Alton Station provides daily Amtrak service on the Lincoln Service line between St. Louis and Chicago. The service offers an alternative to driving for intercity travel, with multiple daily departures. The station's modern facility makes train travel convenient for both commuters and travelers.
MCT Trails
Madison County Transit operates an extensive trail system, including the Confluence Trail, which runs 20.5 miles along the Mississippi River between Venice and Alton. The trail system provides safe routes for bicycling, walking, and running, connecting communities throughout Madison County.
U.S. Route 67 (Homer Adams Parkway)
U.S. Route 67 serves as Alton's primary north-south highway, running from downtown Alton through Godfrey and continuing north toward Jacksonville. The route provides access to commercial districts and residential areas while connecting to other major highways.
Illinois Route 143 (Great River Road)
Illinois Route 143 follows the Mississippi River north from Alton toward Grafton and Pere Marquette State Park. This scenic route offers stunning views of the river and limestone bluffs, making it one of the most picturesque drives in Illinois.
Illinois Route 100 (Great River Road)
Running along the Illinois River, Route 100 connects Alton to Grafton and points west. This two-lane highway hugs the river and bluffs, providing access to small river towns and recreational areas.
Interstate 255
Located east of Alton near Edwardsville, I-255 provides a bypass route around the northern portion of the St. Louis metropolitan area. The interstate connects to other major highways and provides access to St. Louis Lambert International Airport.
Illinois Route 3
Illinois Route 3 runs north-south through the Metro-East region, connecting Alton to communities along the Mississippi River. The route provides an alternative to U.S. 67 for local travel.
Illinois Route 140
Route 140 runs east-west, connecting Alton to Highland and other communities in central Illinois. The highway provides access to Interstate 55 and points east.
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
Located approximately 20 miles from Alton, Lambert International Airport serves as the region's primary commercial airport. The airport offers extensive domestic and international flight options through multiple airlines.
St. Louis Regional Airport
Located in nearby Bethalto, approximately 7 miles from Alton, St. Louis Regional Airport serves general aviation and some commercial charter flights. The facility features an 8,100-foot primary runway.
From historic sites to natural wonders, Alton offers diverse experiences for visitors and residents. Here are five exceptional attractions that showcase the city's unique character.
The National Great Rivers Museum provides free admission to exhibits explaining the Mississippi River's ecology, engineering, and history. Located adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, the museum features interactive displays and educational programs.
The observation deck offers prime viewing of commercial barge traffic navigating the lock system. During winter months, the facility becomes one of the best places to observe American bald eagles feeding on fish below the dam. Weekend programs feature eagle watching guides and presentations about these magnificent birds.
Lincoln-Douglas Square marks the site where Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas held their seventh and final debate on October 15, 1858. Bronze statues of both men commemorate this historic event that drew national attention to the slavery debate.
The surrounding downtown area features 19th-century architecture, antique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. Visitors can walk the same streets Lincoln walked, browse unique shops, and experience an authentic small-town atmosphere.
The Great River Road between Alton and Grafton ranks among America's most beautiful drives. Illinois Routes 100 and 143 hug the Mississippi River, with dramatic limestone bluffs rising on one side and river views on the other.
The route passes the famous Piasa Bird mural, a Native American legend painted on a cliff face. Numerous pullouts allow drivers to stop and photograph the scenery. The drive is particularly stunning during fall when the bluffs display vibrant autumn colors.
Alton's reputation as one of America's most haunted small towns stems from its rich history and numerous reported paranormal experiences. Several tour companies offer evening walking tours through downtown, sharing stories of Civil War prisoners, 19th-century murders, and ghostly encounters.
The McPike Mansion, Mineral Springs Hotel, and First Unitarian Church are among the locations featured. Tours blend history with paranormal lore, appealing to both skeptics and believers.
A life-size bronze statue honors Robert Wadlow, Alton's "Gentle Giant" who became the world's tallest person at 8 feet, 11.1 inches. Located at the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, the statue allows visitors to appreciate Wadlow's remarkable height.
The nearby Alton Museum of History and Art features exhibits on Wadlow's life, the Piasa Bird legend, and local history. The museum occupies a former church building and provides fascinating insights into Alton's past.