Collinsville, IL
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities
Collinsville, located near St. Louis, is a city rich in history, from ancient Native American earthworks to quirky roadside attractions.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Collinsville (English)
- Administrative Role: Collinsville is a city and a principal suburb of the St. Louis metropolitan area. It is not a state capital or a county seat. It functions as a commercial and residential hub within the region .
- Country and Region: The city is located in the United States, within the state of Illinois. It primarily lies in Madison County, with a small portion extending into St. Clair County. This area is known as the "Metro East," the collection of communities on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River opposite St. Louis, Missouri .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Nicknames: Collinsville is famously known as the "Horseradish Capital of the World" because the surrounding region is said to produce a significant portion of the world's horseradish . Another unique nickname is "Home of the World's Largest Catsup Bottle" .
- Historical Names: The village was originally named Unionville when it was first laid out in 1837, but it was soon renamed to honor the Collins family, early pioneers in the area .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding: The first settlement by the Cook family and German-American settlers dates back to 1812. The community was officially laid out as a town in 1837 and was incorporated as a village in 1850 and as a city in 1872 .
- Age: Founded in 1812, the city is over 210 years old. If considering its official incorporation, it is over 150 years old .
- Founder: The first settlers were the Cook family, followed by German immigrants from Pennsylvania. The Collins family, after whom the city is named, purchased the original claim in 1818 .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 38°40′28″N 89°59′43″W (38.674398, -89.995402) .
- Location: Collinsville is situated in southwestern Illinois, approximately 12 miles (19 km) by air or 14 miles (23 km) by road east-northeast of downtown St. Louis, Missouri. It is located on the bluffs above the Mississippi River floodplain .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 170 meters (about 555-560 feet) above sea level .
- Setting: Collinsville is a suburban city located on a plain, serving as part of the St. Louis metropolitan area's eastern expanse .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Historically a coal mining center, Collinsville's economy has evolved. Today, it is primarily a residential suburb and a regional retail and service hub. Key economic sectors include government services, retail, and healthcare. It is also a center for horseradish production. The nearby Fairmount Park Racetrack and the Cahokia Mounds UNESCO World Heritage Site contribute to the local economy through tourism and entertainment .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, Collinsville has a population of 24,366 people .
- City Class: Based on its population, Collinsville is classified as a small city.
City's "Business Card" (Briefly)
Collinsville offers a unique blend of ancient history and roadside Americana. It is the gateway to the prehistoric Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the home of the iconic World's Largest Catsup Bottle. Just minutes from St. Louis, it provides a small-town base for exploring the region's rich heritage.
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
Collinsville is located in the relatively flat American Bottom, a floodplain area. There are no mountains within the city limits, and significant hills are not a prominent geographical feature of the immediate area.
Water Bodies
- Mississippi River: The dominant hydrological feature of the region. Collinsville is located just a few miles east of the Mississippi River, which forms the border between Illinois and Missouri. The river has historically been vital for trade and transportation in the area .
- Canteen Creek and Schoolhouse Branch: These small streams drain the city, with Schoolhouse Branch flowing northwest and Canteen Creek flowing south. Both are tributaries that ultimately lead to the Mississippi River valley .
- Horseshoe Lake: Located just west of the city, this lake is part of the Horseshoe Lake State Park, a recreational area offering fishing, boating, and picnicking .
National and Natural Parks
- Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site: This is the most significant natural and cultural site, located within Collinsville's city limits. It preserves the remains of the pre-Columbian Mississippian culture city of Cahokia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site features Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas, and numerous other mounds .
- Horseshoe Lake State Park: Situated near Collinsville, this park encompasses a large, shallow lake and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Collinsville has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, wet winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
The tables below show the average maximum (daytime) and minimum (nighttime) temperatures in degrees Celsius .
| Month | Avg. Max Temp (°C) | Avg. Min Temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 4 | -6 |
| February | 7 | -4 |
| March | 13 | 2 |
| April | 20 | 7 |
| May | 24 | 14 |
| June | 29 | 19 |
| July | 32 | 21 |
| August | 31 | 19 |
| September | 28 | 16 |
| October | 21 | 8 |
| November | 13 | 2 |
| December | 7 | -2 |
- Hottest Month: July, with an average maximum temperature of 32°C (approx. 90°F) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average minimum temperature of -6°C (approx. 21°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: Approximately 1,443 mm (about 57 inches), which is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, though spring months tend to be the wettest .
- Wettest Month: April, averaging around 179 mm of precipitation .
- Driest Month: January, averaging around 87 mm of precipitation .
- Snowfall: Snow is common in winter, with January and February seeing the highest amounts. On average, snow makes up about 24% of January's and 27% of February's total precipitation .
- Humidity: Summers in Collinsville are notably humid, with July being the most humid month. This can make the heat feel more intense .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Collinsville for pleasant outdoor activities is from late spring to early fall .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up considerably, but this is also the wettest time of the year. April is the windiest month. This is a great time to see the landscape turn green .
- Summer (June-August): This is the hottest and most humid period. July is the warmest month. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. The weather is ideal for visiting attractions with air conditioning or enjoying water-based recreation at nearby parks .
- Fall (September-November): Temperatures become milder, and humidity drops, making it an excellent time for exploring outdoor sites like Cahokia Mounds. September is often sunny and pleasant .
- Winter (December-February): This is the coldest period, with frequent below-freezing temperatures and regular snowfall. January is the driest and coldest month. Indoor activities are more suitable during this time .
Landmarks
[Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site]
The most significant landmark in Collinsville is the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. It is the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At its peak around 1200 CE, this ancient city had a population of 20,000-30,000 people .
- Location: Collinsville, IL (within the city's western limits) .
- Key Features:
- Monks Mound: The largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas. Its base is larger than that of the Great Pyramid of Giza .
- Woodhenge: A reconstructed circle of wooden posts used by the Mississippian people for complex astronomical observations .
- Interpretive Center: A museum with exhibits on the Mississippian culture and the history of the site .
- Significance: It was one of the first eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites designated in the United States and is a National Historic Landmark .
[Brooks Catsup Bottle Water Tower]
One of America's most beloved pieces of roadside architecture, the Brooks Catsup Bottle Water Tower is an iconic landmark. It is a 170-foot-tall (52 m) water tower built in 1949 in the shape of a ketchup bottle for the Brooks catsup company .
- Location: Standing proudly next to Illinois Route 159 in Collinsville .
- Historical Significance: It was saved from demolition in 1995 by the Catsup Bottle Preservation Group and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in August 2002 . It is billed as the "world's largest catsup bottle" .
- Cultural Impact: The tower is so beloved that the city hosts an annual "World's Largest Catsup Bottle Festival" in July .
[Fairmount Park Racetrack]
Fairmount Park is a horse racing track located in Collinsville. Opened in 1925, it is one of the few racetracks in Illinois and the only one located outside of the Chicago area .
- Features: It features a one-mile oval dirt track and has historically hosted both Thoroughbred flat racing and Standardbred harness racing. The track includes several restaurants for patrons .
- Modern Use: It continues to operate as a venue for live horse racing and simulcast wagering.
Transport
Main Highways and Roads
Collinsville is a significant transportation hub, located at the crossroads of several major interstate highways. This makes it easily accessible by car from St. Louis and other parts of the Midwest .
- Interstates 55 and 70: These two major coast-to-coast highways run concurrently through the north side of Collinsville, with access from Exits 9 through 15 .
- Interstate 255: An interstate loop around the eastern St. Louis metro area, it passes through the west side of the city, with access from Exits 24 and 26 .
- Illinois State Routes:
- Illinois Route 159: Passes through the center of Collinsville as Morrison Avenue and Vandalia Street. It connects the city to Edwardsville to the north and Fairview Heights to the south .
- Illinois Route 157 (Bluff Road): Crosses the west side of the city, leading to Glen Carbon to the north and Caseyville to the south .
- Historic Route 66: The original alignment of the iconic U.S. Route 66 passed through Collinsville, contributing to its historic character .
Public Transit System
Public transportation in Collinsville is provided by Madison County Transit (MCT) .
- Bus Service: MCT operates several bus routes that serve Collinsville, connecting it to other towns in Madison County and providing access to the St. Louis area. Key routes include:
- Route 18 (Collinsville Regional): Connects the Collinsville Station to Fairmount Racetrack, Fairmont City, and the Emerson Park MetroLink Station in East St. Louis .
- Route 19 (Edwardsville-Collinsville): Links Collinsville Station with Maryville and Edwardsville, including Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) .
- Route 21 (West Collinsville Shuttle): A local shuttle connecting Collinsville Station to the Gateway Convention Center, Walmart, and the Collinsville Crossing shopping area .
- Collinsville Station: This is the main transit hub in the city, where several bus routes converge .
- MCT Micro: As of August 2024, MCT launched an on-demand micro-transit service. For a small fee, this service can take passengers anywhere within a predetermined zone in Collinsville .
Main Airports
Collinsville does not have its own commercial airport. However, it is located approximately 20-25 minutes from a major international airport.
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL): Located about 20 miles (32 km) west of Collinsville, across the Mississippi River in Missouri. It is the primary airport serving the entire St. Louis region, with numerous domestic and international flights .
Maritime and River Ports
While Collinsville is not a port city, it is located near the Mississippi River, a major artery for inland waterway transport. The Port of St. Louis, which includes several terminals along the river, is a short distance away and is the second-largest inland port in the United States, handling large volumes of grain, coal, and chemicals . This port system is essential for the regional economy.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Collinsville offers a diverse, if unassuming, dining scene that reflects the broader culinary landscape of the American Midwest, with local favorites ranging from hearty pub fare to authentic family-run Italian and Mexican restaurants.
[Signature Pub Dishes at McDill's]
For a taste of local comfort food, McDill's Irish Pub is a neighborhood staple. While it operates as an Irish pub, it is particularly celebrated for its American-style burgers and sandwiches. The Cowboy Burger is frequently recommended by locals as a must-try item, praised for its hearty and robust flavor . Another signature favorite is their Reuben sandwich. What sets McDill's Reuben apart is the use of quality corned beef, which some say is smoked, all served on a distinctive “Kruta” bun. This local bakery touch adds a unique element that food enthusiasts appreciate . It's an accessible, laid-back spot for those seeking quality, character-filled casual dining.
[Long-Standing Local Italian Restaurant]
Collinsville is home to Mungo's, a beloved, family-owned Italian restaurant that has been a part of the community for decades, though at different locations . It comes highly recommended for its authentic, made-from-scratch Italian cuisine, making it a go-to spot for both casual weekday dinners and special occasions. Favorites among customers include the Pasta 3 Way and chicken brochettes, and the salad also receives special mention . The atmosphere is described as welcoming, and the owner, Tony, is lauded for his wonderful hospitality, contributing to its reputation for beautifully prepared food and spectacular service .
[Award-Winning Mexican Cuisine]
For Mexican food, Tres Caminos Mexican Restaurant is a standout local gem. It has won the "Neighborhood Fave" title on Nextdoor for multiple consecutive years (2018-2023), a testament to its consistent quality and popularity in the area . Locals praise its great food, friendly staff, and excellent service. The menu is diverse, with standout dishes including Carnitas and a unique seafood bowl, and their margaritas are also a hit among customers . The atmosphere is described as fun, the food always fresh, and despite being a popular spot that's often packed, customers rarely have to wait. It is considered by many to be the best Mexican restaurant in the area, offering good food at reasonable prices .
Museums
Collinsville Historical Museum
The primary repository of the city's past is the Collinsville Historical Museum. Located in Uptown Collinsville, this museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich tapestry of local history from 1767 through the present . Admission is free, making it an accessible attraction for all ages .
The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, offering a deep dive into the community's development. Visitors can learn about Collinsville's founding fathers, beginning with the first log cabin built in 1810, and explore the history of the city's grand historic homes . A significant portion of the museum is dedicated to Collinsville's 100-year coal mining history and the Mining Institute, which were central to the local economy and identity. Other exhibits highlight the "Trailblazing Women" of the city, the segregation and integration of Collinsville's schools, and the city's role in World War I & II through the eyes of local veterans . The archive collections are particularly noteworthy, containing military documents and journals dating from the Civil War to the present, World War II oral histories, 19th-century photos, and rare handwritten records and maps .
Sport and Sporting Legends
Collinsville has a vibrant local sports culture, centered around its community leagues, high school teams, and well-maintained public athletic facilities.
Athletic Facilities and Local Sports
The Collinsville Parks and Recreation Department manages a variety of athletic facilities across the city, serving as the hub for community sports .
The Collinsville Sports Complex is a major facility, home to 12 dirt baseball/softball diamonds, one football field, and one multi-purpose grass field. It is a key location for local tournaments and leagues .
Woodland Park is another significant sports hub, featuring two baseball fields: Fletcher Field and Jaycee Field. Fletcher Field is the home of the Collinsville Kahoks Varsity Baseball team and includes stadium seating and a press box . The park also offers a disc golf course, two ponds for fishing, and multiple playgrounds .
Glidden Park caters to a variety of sports and recreation, with six new pickleball courts (which can be reserved online), two lit tennis courts, and an outdoor roller rink .
Youth Sports
The city strongly supports youth athletics through programs like the Collinsville Baseball Softball League (CBSL) . This recreational league, run by the Collinsville Parks and Recreation Department, is designed for children from pre-k to 8th grade to learn the fundamentals of the game, emphasizing skill development, sportsmanship, and teamwork over winning .
Sporting Events
The excellent facilities in Collinsville allow it to host tournaments and events. Groups or organizations can rent the diamonds at the Collinsville Sports Complex for tournaments, which have access to 8 tournament-quality fields, seven of which are lighted .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Higher Education Presence
Collinsville hosts a satellite location of Lindenwood University, a larger institution with its main campuses in St. Charles and Belleville. The Collinsville branch is located at 1101 Eastport Plaza Drive . This site allows the university to offer educational services and programs to residents of Collinsville and the surrounding area, expanding access to higher education within the community.
Primary and Secondary Education
Public education in Collinsville is provided by Collinsville Community Unit School District #10. While specific school buildings are not detailed in the search results, the district serves the city and its surrounding areas.
Healthcare Facilities
Gateway Medical Group / Gateway Regional Medical Center
The primary healthcare provider in Collinsville is the Gateway Medical Group, which is also known as Gateway Regional Medical Center Heartland Healthcare of Collinsville . Located at 101 United Drive in Collinsville, this facility provides a comprehensive range of preventive health care and general medical treatment services for the entire family .
Their services are extensive and include:
- Preventive and Primary Care: Well baby care, general physical examinations, chronic disease self-management programs, and nutrition education .
- Women's Health Services: Breast examinations, Pap tests, and pregnancy testing .
- Immunizations: A full suite of vaccination services, including childhood immunizations, flu vaccines, general immunizations, and travel immunizations .
- Specialty Services: Allergy testing, dermatology, and family and community medicine .
The facility accepts a variety of insurance types, including Medicaid and private insurance, and operates weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm . This center serves as a key access point for routine and specialized medical care for Collinsville residents.