Edwardsville is a foodie town and tasty treats are never far from reach!

Have a steak at 1818 Chophouse or 1933 House of Bourbon or savor some sweet Midwest barbecue at Doc’s Smokehouse. Get spicy at Chava’s Mexican Restaurant or warm up with some smoky Mezcal and fajitas at the Oaxaca Margarita Bar.

Blue Violet of Edwardsville is perfect for a chilly date night with small plates and creative dishes and 222 Artisan Bakery & Café can perk up your winter morning with fresh baked bread, oatmeal, and vegan breakfast options. Twisted Biscuit Brunch Co. also serves up delicious brunch options and, if you’re seeking out a hot cup of coffee, Edwardsville has delightful cafes to choose from including Goshen Coffee Cafe, Sacred Grounds, and Teaspoons Café.

Pining for a beer? Check out the latest brews on tap at Global Brew Tap House or have a draft on ice at Oliver’s Main Street Pub.

On those extra cold days, it’s hard to brave the chill- you might have to stay indoors, but that doesn’t mean you have to be bored! Take the kids to the Edwardsville Children’s Museum for a day of learning and crafts or spend the afternoon in a gallery at the Edwardsville Art Center.

Go bowling at SIUE Cougar Lanes, hit the arcade, bowl, and play laser tag at Edison’s Entertainment Complex, rock climb or swim at the Edwardsville YMCA Meyer Center, or see the latest film at the AMC Edwardsville 12 Cinema. You can also enjoy an old-school film at The Wildey Theatre or even catch a live show at the historic venue!

Want to see how Edwardsville residents spent winter in the past? Spend a history-filled day at the 1820 Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House, take a drive through Edwardsville’s historic district down old St. Louis Street and through the Leclaire Neighborhood, or visit the Dr. John Weir House, home of the Madison County Historical Museum.

Can’t stay inside a moment longer? Itching for some fresh air? Edwardsville is located in the center of Madison County and is connected by the MCT Trails network which provides quick access to biking and walking on over 130 miles of paved paths. Those with a paddle can also play pickleball at the Edwardsville YMCA Niebur Center or Plummer Family Park.

Get out in nature at Bohm Woods Nature Preserve to see migrating winter birds and large animals like white-tailed deer or take a walk at Watershed Nature Center for a chance to see a multitude of waterfowl, eastern cotton-tailed rabbit, and a winter lake.

Missing farmer’s market days? You don’t need warm weather to enjoy the Goshen Winter Market! Peruse the stalls monthly at the Goshen Market throughout the cold months for gifts, fresh produce, and more- all provided by local businesses and farms.