Mount Vernon, Illinois: The Best & Most Fun Things To Do (Besides Counting Cornfields)
The comedy is the reason to come here, oddly enough. The Aquatic Zoo runs Comedy Under the Sea, which is a water park hosting stand-up, and Stress Knot Massage runs its Laughter Yoga sessions. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts books stand-up alongside its Picasso and its Warhol collection. The Rare Chop House puts comedians on every Friday and Saturday night as well. Nowhere else is doing this.
Looking for a fun and exciting destination in Illinois? Mount Vernon is the answer. This charming city has a version for everyone, from history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts to anyone who came to eat. Family vacation, romantic getaway or solo adventure, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this delightful town.
Tickling Your Funny Bone in Mount Vernon. If you are after a good laugh, Mount Vernon will not disappoint. Check out the Aquatic Zoo Water Park, where you can slip and slide your way to giggles and grins. Or head to the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, which runs a variety of performances and exhibits that will tickle your funny bone. And do not forget to visit the Riverside Steakhouse, where you can eat well over long river views.
Historical Hilarity in Mount Vernon. For history buffs, Mount Vernon holds a deep supply of fascinating sites and stories. Visit the Jefferson County Historical Village to step back in time and take in life in the 1800s. Or work through the grounds of the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, where you pick up the American Revolution and the role Clark played in it. And check out the Hall of Honor & Military Museum, which shows the sacrifices and bravery of America’s military heroes.
Key Takeaways
- Mount Vernon has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to outdoor enthusiasts.
- Laugh your way through the Aquatic Zoo Water Park or the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts.
- Explore Mount Vernon’s rich history at the Jefferson County Historical Village, George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, and Hall of Honor & Military Museum.
Tickling Your Funny Bone in Mount Vernon
Looking for a good laugh in Mount Vernon? These hilarious attractions are where to start, and they will tickle your funny bone.
Laughing Your Way Around Cedarhurst Center for the Arts
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts is more than a place for art lovers, because it is also a strong spot for comedy enthusiasts. The center hosts a variety of events across the year, stand-up comedy shows that will have you rolling on the floor laughing among them. Keep an eye on their events calendar to see when the next show is happening.
Giggling at the Aquatic Zoo
The Aquatic Zoo is an unusual attraction combining the fun of a water park with the excitement of an aquarium. But did you know they also run hilarious comedy shows? Their Comedy Under the Sea events feature comedians from around the country who will have you laughing so hard you might forget you are underwater.
Chuckles at the Stress Knot Massage
Who says massages have to be serious? At Stress Knot Massage, they take a lighthearted approach to relaxation. Their Laughter Yoga sessions combine the benefits of yoga with the fun of comedy. You will be stretching, breathing and laughing your stress away in no time.
So, a night of stand-up comedy, an unusual underwater comedy show, or a relaxing massage that leaves you in stitches, Mount Vernon has got you covered. Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt.
Historical Hilarity in Mount Vernon
Looking for a good laugh while picking up some history? Mount Vernon, Illinois is the answer. Here are some of the stronger historical sites to visit for a good chuckle:
Snorting at the Mansion
Step back in time and visit the Jefferson County Historical Village, where you can tour the Zadok Casey Mansion. This historic home is filled with period-appropriate furnishings and decor, but keep an eye out for some hilarious surprises. You might spot a portrait of George Washington with a silly hat, or a stuffed animal hiding in a corner. Do not be afraid to let out a snort of laughter, because we will not judge.
Guffawing at the Guided Tour
Take a guided tour of the Jefferson County Historical Village and get ready to laugh out loud. The knowledgeable guides are full of fun facts and jokes that will keep you entertained while you pick up the history of the area. You might even get to hear some silly stories about Zadok Casey himself.
Smirking at the Log Houses
The Jefferson County Historical Village is also home to several historic log houses. While these homes are fascinating in their own right, keep an eye out for some funny details. You might spot a quirky decoration or a silly sign that will make you smirk. And do not forget to snap a photo, because your friends will get a kick out of it.
So if you are after an unusual and hilarious way to pick up some history, head to Mount Vernon and check out these sites. You will be giggling and snorting in no time.
Museums That Make You Grin
If you are after a good laugh or a smile, Mount Vernon runs a few museums that will tickle your funny bone. Here are a couple of museums that will make you grin:
Smiling at the Art Collection
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts is a museum that will make you smile from ear to ear. This museum houses an impressive collection of art, paintings, sculptures and photographs among it. You will find works by famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol, along with pieces by local artists.
One of the more interesting pieces in the museum is a sculpture called The Big Chair by artist Jim Dine. This sculpture is a giant chair that visitors can sit in and take photos. It is a fun and interactive piece that will make you smile.
Laughing at the Temporary Art Exhibitions
The Mitchell Museum at Cedarhurst is a small museum hosting temporary art exhibitions. The museum has a sense of humor and often features exhibitions that will make you laugh. For example, they once hosted an exhibition called Art of the Brick that featured sculptures made entirely out of LEGO bricks. It was a hit with kids and adults alike.
The museum also hosts exhibitions by local artists, so you can see what the creative minds of Mount Vernon are up to. You never know what you will find at the Mitchell Museum, but you can be sure it will make you grin.
Art lover or simply after a good laugh, Mount Vernon’s museums have a version for everyone. Do not miss out on these museums that will make you grin.
Shopping That Sparks Joy
On shopping in Mount Vernon, you will find plenty of options that spark joy. Antiques through to unusual gifts, there is a version for everyone. Here are some of the stronger places to shop in Mount Vernon:
Giggling at the Gift Shop
If you are after a gift that will make your loved ones laugh, head over to Giggling at the Gift Shop. This quirky store is filled with hilarious gifts and novelty items that will put a smile on anyone’s face. Funny t-shirts through to gag gifts, they have it all. You might even find something for yourself while you are there.
Antiquing in Mount Vernon
If you are a fan of antiques, you are in luck. Mount Vernon is home to several antique shops where you can find unusual pieces from the past. Check out The Antique Mall for a long selection of antiques and collectibles. Or head over to The Rusty Nail for a more rustic feel. You never know what you might find at these quiet finds.
Whatever you are after, shopping in Mount Vernon is a fun and memorable experience. So go ahead, treat yourself to something special or find the right gift for someone else.
The Jefferson County Historical Village keeps the Zadok Casey Mansion and several historic log houses from the 1800s. The guides there know the history and tell it with jokes threaded through it, which is not the usual arrangement. Cedarhurst holds Picasso, Dali and Warhol, plus a giant chair by Jim Dine that you sit in. The Mitchell Museum once ran a whole show built from LEGO. Nowhere is it serious.
Outdoor Adventures That Amuse
Looking for some outdoor amusement in Mount Vernon, Illinois? You have come to the right page. Here are a couple of places that will have you chuckling and grinning all day long.
Chuckles at the Lavender Farm
Take a stroll through the fields of the Lavender Farm and breathe in the sweet fragrance of lavender. Not only will the scent make you smile, but the colorful blooms will have you feeling like you are walking through a fairy tale. Bring your camera, because you will want to capture the lavender fields.
Grinning at the Green Hills Golf Club
Fore. Get your golf on at the Green Hills Golf Club. With its rolling hills and greenery, this course will put a smile on your face. Pro or beginner, this course suits a day of laughs and friendly competition. And do not forget to grab a cold drink at the clubhouse after your game.
So, settling in and taking in the scenery, or getting your heart pumping with some friendly competition, Mount Vernon has got you covered. Get out there and have some fun.
Dining Delights in Mount Vernon
On dining in Mount Vernon, you are in for a treat. Juicy steak, serious barbecue or some Asian cuisine, you will find it all here.
Belly Laughs at the Rare Chop House
If you are after a dining experience that is both strong and entertaining, the Rare Chop House is the answer. This upscale steakhouse runs a menu full of strong cuts of meat, but what really sets it apart is the hilarious and irreverent comedy show that runs every Friday and Saturday night.
The performers at the Rare Chop House are some of the funniest comedians in the area, and they will have you laughing so hard you forget all about your worries. So sit back, settle in, and enjoy a strong meal and some side-splitting comedy at the Rare Chop House.
Other dining options in Mount Vernon include the Asian Buffet, which runs a long variety of Asian dishes at a strong value, and the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, which serves classic American fare in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. And if you are a craft beer enthusiast, check out the local breweries, which pour a variety of unusual brews.
Whatever your taste buds are craving, you will find something to satisfy them in Mount Vernon. So go ahead, work through some dining delights and make your taste buds dance with joy.
Planning Your Visit for Maximum Fun
You are ready to work through the Festival Arts City of Mt Vernon, Illinois, but where do you start? Here are some tips to help you plan your visit for maximum fun:
Plan Your Visit
Before you head out to explore, check out the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts to see what exhibits and events are happening during your visit. You can also visit the George Washington’s Mount Vernon to learn about the history of the area.
Traveler Favorites
Don’t miss out on some of the top-rated attractions in the area. Lambert Acres Golf Course is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts, while Zion National Park is a must-see for nature lovers.
Parking
Parking can be a hassle in any city, but not in Mt Vernon. You can easily find free parking in the downtown area, and most attractions have their own parking lots.
Northern Virginia
Wait, what? This is Mt Vernon, Illinois, not Northern Virginia. But hey, you never know when you might need to plan a trip to Northern Virginia, so keep in mind that it is a strong place to visit too.
Now that you have some tips for planning your visit, get out there and have some fun in Mt Vernon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to spend a day in Mount Vernon, Illinois?
Well, you can start your day by visiting the Jefferson County Historical Village. This place is the quiet find that will take you back in time. After that, head over to the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts. This place is filled with art and architecture. And if you are feeling adventurous, take a hike on the Mount Vernon Outland Airport Trail. It is a strong way to get some fresh air and exercise.
What are some hidden gem attractions in Mount Vernon?
Mount Vernon runs plenty of quiet finds worth checking out. The Cedarhurst Center for the Arts belongs on any art enthusiast’s list, and the Jefferson County Historical Village is a strong place to pick up the local history. If you are a nature lover, check out the Mount Vernon Outland Airport Trail. It is a hiking trail that suits a day out in nature exactly.
Where can I find the best burger joint in Mount Vernon?
There are plenty of strong burger joints in Mount Vernon, but if you want the standout, head over to The Burger Shack. Their burgers are juicy and you will be back for another. And if you are feeling adventurous, try their signature burger, because it is a game changer.
What are some unique activities to do in Mount Vernon?
Mount Vernon runs plenty of unusual activities you will not find anywhere else. If you are feeling brave, take a ghost tour of the Old Firehouse. It is a haunted building that will give you chills. And if you are after something a bit more relaxing, check out the Mount Vernon Farmers Market. It is a strong place to buy fresh produce and support local farmers.
Are there any haunted places in Mount Vernon?
Yes, there are plenty of haunted places in Mount Vernon. The Old Firehouse is one of the more haunted buildings in the city, and it is worth checking out if ghost tours are your thing. And if you are feeling brave, take a walk through the Oakwood Cemetery at night. It is said to be haunted by the spirits of the people buried there.
What’s the funniest thing that’s happened in Mount Vernon?
There have been plenty of funny moments in Mount Vernon over the years, but one of the funniest has to be the time a cow escaped from a local farm and ended up wandering around the city. It was eventually caught and returned to its owner, but it definitely gave the locals a good laugh.
Frequently asked questions about Mount Vernon, Illinois
Which museum in Mount Vernon holds the art collection?
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts. It holds Picasso, Dali and Warhol alongside the local work, plus Jim Dine’s giant chair that visitors sit right in for photographs. The Mitchell Museum at Cedarhurst rotates its temporary shows, including one that was built entirely out of LEGO bricks. Winter is when the indoor collection really earns its keep around here. Check the events calendar first, because the comedy nights tend to move around.
Which trail in Mount Vernon is worth walking?
The Mount Vernon Outland Airport Trail, in spring or in fall. It is a walking trail rather than a hike, which makes it the easy option in a town without a great deal of elevation to it. Summer heat makes it a good deal less appealing, and that is when the Aquatic Zoo takes over instead. Green Hills Golf Club runs the rolling ground if you would rather play. Lavender blooms regardless.
Which Mount Vernon park suits a summer visit?
The Aquatic Zoo, and summer is really the whole point of the place. It combines a water park with an aquarium, and the Comedy Under the Sea nights run right alongside all of that. Green Hills Golf Club works the same months exactly for anyone who would rather prefer dry land. The Lavender Farm is a summer walk with a camera held in your hand. Indoors waits.
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