Top things to do in Swansea (Illinois)

Swansea, Illinois Travel Guide

Are you planning a trip to Swansea, Illinois and wondering what attractions you should visit? Look no further! Swansea offers something for everyone, from lush parks to captivating museums and historic castles. In this travel guide, we’ll highlight the top tourist attractions that you won’t want to miss.

Parks

Swansea has a variety of parks to explore, each with its own unique features. Whether you’re looking for a place to have a picnic, take a stroll, or play some sports, these parks have got you covered.

  • Schranz Memorial Park: Located at 360 Honeysuckle Ln, Schranz Memorial Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. With an extensive network of walking trails, sports facilities, and a playground, this park is perfect for a day of fun with the family.
  • Centennial Park: This park, located at 311 N Belt E, is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature. With a spacious green area, playground, and walking paths, it’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch.
  • Long Acre Park: Situated at 5704 Pontiac Dr, Long Acre Park is a hidden gem in Swansea. With a large lake for fishing or boating, a hiking trail, and a playground, it’s a great place to spend a sunny afternoon.

Museums

Swansea boasts a rich history, and there’s no better way to learn about it than by visiting one of its museums. These museums offer a glimpse into Swansea’s past and present, showcasing its culture and heritage.

  • National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows: Located at 442 S Demazenod Dr, the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and religion. With a stunning sanctuary, a museum, and a gift shop, this Catholic shrine is a one-of-a-kind experience. URL: snows.org/
  • Swansea Museum: Learn about Swansea’s local history at the Swansea Museum, located on Victoria Rd. This neoclassical museum features artefacts ranging from an Egyptian mummy to a Welsh kitchen, and is a great way to get a sense of the town’s past. URL: www.swanseamuseum.co.uk/
  • Labor & Industrial Museum: If you’re interested in learning about regional manufacturing history, head to the Labor & Industrial Museum. Located at 123 N Church St, the museum is housed in a restored 19th-century building and features over 1,000 artifacts. URL: www.laborandindustrymuseum....
  • Dylan Thomas Birthplace: Literature enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Dylan Thomas Birthplace on 5 Cwmdonkin Dr. This historic home was where the famous Welsh poet was born and raised, and has been preserved as a museum for visitors to enjoy.

Historic Sites

Swansea has a rich history, and its historic sites are a testament to its past. From a regal castle to a 19th-century brewery district, these sites offer visitors a glimpse into Swansea’s cultural heritage.

  • Oystermouth Castle: Remains of a castle in use from 1106 to around 1650, Oystermouth Castle offers stunning views of the bay and is a real treat for history buffs. Located at Castle Avenue, it’s a great place to explore Swansea’s medieval past. URL: swansea.gov.uk/oystermouthc...
  • Old Brewery District Mural: Located on 801 W Main St, the Old Brewery District Mural is a beautiful piece of public art that pays homage to Swansea’s past as a bustling brewery town. It’s a great spot for a photo op and a chance to learn about the town’s cultural heritage. URL: www.bellevillemuralproject....
  • Belleville In Swing Mural: Another impressive mural in Swansea is the Belleville In Swing Mural, located on 225 E Main St. This colorful mural celebrates the town’s vibrant music scene and is a great way to experience Swansea’s cultural heritage. URL: www.bellevillemuralproject....

Family-Friendly Activities

Looking for some family-friendly activities in Swansea? Look no further than these attractions:

  • Plantasia Tropical Zoo: Located at Parc Tawe Retail Park, Plantasia Tropical Zoo is a huge glass pyramid attraction housing exotic cacti, tropical plants, insects and fish. It’s a unique experience that will delight visitors of all ages. URL: www.plantasiaswansea.co.uk/...
  • Pleasant Ridge Park: With a spacious 95-acre park featuring a log cabin built in 1850, plus a playground & picnic facilities, Pleasant Ridge Park is a great place for families to spend a day in the sun. Located at 401 Pleasant Ridge Rd, it’s a must-visit for any family in Swansea. URL: recfh.com/about-us/#outdoor
  • Scott Field Heritage Air Park: History and aviation enthusiasts alike will enjoy the Scott Field Heritage Air Park, located at 763 Seibert Rd. This park features a collection of military aircraft and artifacts and is a great way to learn about the history of aviation in the U.S. URL: scott-air-park.jany.io/

Conclusion

Swansea, Illinois may be a small town, but it offers a wide range of tourist attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From lush parks and captivating museums to historic sites and family-friendly activities, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Swansea. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and experience all that Swansea has to offer!