Centralia, IL Travel Guide: Balloon Fest, History & Bell Tower
Situated in southern Illinois, Centralia is a small town packed with big attractions. Known for its annual Balloon Fest, deep railroad roots, and the impressive Centralia Carillon, this friendly community offers a great blend of history, family-friendly events, and outdoor activities. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or just passing through on a Midwest road trip, Centralia delivers a memorable small-town experience with charm and character.
Why Visit Centralia, Illinois?
- 🎈 Celebrate at one of the Midwest’s best hot air balloon festivals
- 🚂 Learn about the town’s railroad legacy
- 🔔 Visit one of the largest carillon bell towers in the world
- 🚶 Enjoy walkable parks and vibrant downtown spots
Centralia is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy local culture, scenic parks, and unique events.
Experience the Centralia Balloon Fest
Held every August, the Centralia Balloon Fest draws thousands of visitors each year. This colorful event lights up the skies with dozens of hot air balloons and packs the weekend with fun-filled activities for all ages.
Balloon Fest Highlights:
- Mass Balloon Launches – Watch over 40 balloons take to the skies
- Balloon Glows – See the balloons illuminate the night sky
- Live Music & Food Vendors – Enjoy local cuisine and performances throughout the weekend
- Carnival & Craft Booths – Fun games, rides, and artisan shopping
- Car Show & Kids’ Area – Plenty to keep the whole family entertained
Whether you’re snapping photos or taking a tethered balloon ride, Balloon Fest is Centralia’s most iconic and lively event.
Discover the Centralia Carillon
One of only a few grand carillons in the world, the Centralia Carillon features 65 bells and stands at 160 feet tall. It ranks among the top 10 largest bell towers globally and is the tallest in the Midwest.
Visitor Experience:
- Live Performances – Regularly scheduled recitals featuring classical, pop, and patriotic music
- Bell Tower Tours – Climb or ride to the observation deck for panoramic views of Centralia
- Events & Weddings – The tower hosts community events and is a scenic venue for ceremonies
Located in Foundation Park, the Carillon is both a musical marvel and a peaceful destination for reflection and recreation.
Centralia’s Railroad Heritage
Founded as a key stop for the Illinois Central Railroad, Centralia boasts a rich railroad history that is still visible today.
Historical Railroad Sites:
- Illinois Central Railroad Depot – A restored depot that now serves as a museum and community event space
- Locomotive Park – Features historic engines, plaques, and interpretive displays
- Train Watching – Centralia remains a busy rail hub, attracting train enthusiasts from around the region
The town’s name even comes from its railroad roots—derived from the Illinois Central Railroad Company.
Parks & Outdoor Recreation
Centralia is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with well-maintained parks, lakes, and trails.
Top Spots for Outdoor Fun:
- Foundation Park – 300+ acres featuring wooded trails, ponds, the Carillon, and seasonal events
- Fairview Park – Sports courts, skate park, and family picnic areas
- Lake Centralia – Fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation
The town’s commitment to green spaces makes it easy to balance history and heritage with fresh air and activity.
Festivals & Community Events
Beyond Balloon Fest, Centralia hosts a range of annual events that bring the community together and welcome visitors.
Don’t Miss:
- Halloween Parade – One of the longest-running parades in the state
- Christmas in the Park – Light displays, carriage rides, and visits with Santa
- Art in the Park – Local artisans and crafters show off their work in Foundation Park each spring
These events offer something special for every season and showcase the town’s welcoming spirit.
Dining & Local Favorites
From classic American diners to sweet shops and BBQ joints, Centralia has no shortage of satisfying eats.
Where to Eat:
- Jerry’s Grill – Local favorite for comfort food and classic American meals
- The Rail Coffee Room – Cozy café and coffee shop with pastries and light lunch options
- Burger Shack – Great burgers, shakes, and fries in a casual atmosphere
Don’t forget to stop at a local bakery or ice cream stand for a treat while exploring the town.
Nearby Attractions
Make Centralia your base and explore nearby destinations:
- Carlyle Lake – The largest lake in Illinois, just 30 minutes away, offering camping, sailing, and birdwatching
- Salem, IL – Nearby historic town with the William Jennings Bryan home and museum
- Rend Lake – State recreation area about 45 minutes south, known for outdoor sports and scenic beauty
Final Thoughts
Centralia, IL may be a small town, but it packs in culture, history, and fun. Whether you're marveling at the Carillon, reliving history at the train depot, or cheering during Balloon Fest, you’ll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Southern Illinois treasure.
For more charming Illinois destinations, check out our guides to Dixon, IL and Arcola, IL.
Looking for more small-town festivals and heritage stops? Follow our Midwest road trip series for your next unforgettable getaway!
