Why Jacksonville for Group Tours?
A legendary, frontier past meets a bold, exciting future in Jacksonville, IL, creating one-of-a-kind attractions full of captivating legends, sublime works of art, and mouthwatering meals. Located just minutes from the state capital of Springfield, this vibrant community boasts modern-day amenities at an affordable price point, making it an ideal destination for groups of 10-60 to explore. Plus, a variety of lodging options means your day trip can turn into a weekend excursion.
Group Tours Love Us!
- Easy access from major Midwest markets, including Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.
- Free and convenient bus parking across the city.
- Affordable lodging and dining options.
- One-stop planning through CVB.
- Authentic, locally curated experiences.
- Book an overnight tour Sunday-Thursday receive free wine and cheese reception or cookies and punch
We’re Here to Help!
The Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau can help plan and book your group outing! We work closely with destination partners to check venue availability while packaging amenities for a fun and memorable experience. Plus, stop by our visitors center for guides, maps, and Jacksonville-branded merchandise — we also have a meeting facility available for small groups with the Hamilton’s Center upstairs for larger groups!
We Do the Work for You
The Jacksonville Area CVB provides:
- Full itinerary planning (half day, full day, and overnight) with tours specially designed for African American history and Underground Railroad sites, food and libations, and historical sites.
- Direct coordination with attractions and dining, ensuring your group can enjoy each stop comfortably
- Step-on guides and storytelling experiences that provide more immersive and interactive experiences for your group
- Group dining reservations and pre-set menus highlighting the bold and creative tastes of Jacksonville
- Welcome bags and visitor guides that serve as unique keepsakes from your group’s outing
- On-site assistance when needed
Unique Experiences
Jacksonville is a community full of one-of-a-kind encounters that tell the fascinating story of our community. Not sure where to start? Check out some of our themed tours and get some ideas for your next memorable group outing!
Agriculture & Rural Heritage Tour
Get an up-close and behind-the-scenes look at the farming community and its impact on Central Illinois.
AgriBio Systems
2335 Fox Lane
Cutting-edge agricultural innovations helping farmers grow healthier, more productive crops
Bishop Family Lavender Farm
592 NW 1325 St., Hillview
Fourth-generation family farm with U-pick opportunities and a selection of lavender-based products.
Bland Family Farm
1203 W. Walnut St.
Family-owned regenerative farm offering organic meat, eggs, and produce.
Burrus Seed Farms
200 Capitol Way
Seed company developing high-quality hybrid corn and soybean products.
CCK Automations
500 A Capitol Way
Electronic component manufacturer innovating agricultural technology.
Education & Literacy Legacy Tour
Tour Jacksonville’s long, proud history of providing high-quality education to all ages and abilities.
Bound to Stay Bound Book Bindery
1880 W. Morton Ave.
Tour this family-owned, third-generation pre-binder of kids’ library books.
Illinois College
1101 W. College Ave.
Explore the first college in the state to grant a degree, established in 1829.
Illinois School for the Deaf Alumni Association Museum
125 Webster Ave.
Learn about the extraordinary history of the Illinois School for the Deaf, the state’s oldest school for the hearing impaired.
Independent & Local
Browse neighborhood shops brimming with old classics and contemporary favorites.
Jacksonville Public Library
201 W. College Ave.
Explore a 1902 Carnegie Library and the fantastic selections of works hosted inside.
Turner Scientific
1275 Sandusky Road
See how innovative research in Jacksonville is shaping the future of hearing health and medical science.
History & Heritage Tour
Hear the legendary tales echoing throughout Jacksonville’s history and see how they influence our present and future.
Governor Duncan Mansion
4 Duncan Park
Tour Jacksonville’s frontier beginnings at the home of Gov. Joseph Duncan, the sixth governor of Illinois.
Jacksonville Area Museum
301 E. State St.
Stroll through Jacksonville’s fascinating history as a center for retail, manufacturing, and education.
Woodlawn Farm
1463 Gierke Lane
Hear harrowing tales of those escaping freedom on the Underground Railroad — and the family that aided their quest.
Culinary & Downtown Experience
Explore the locally owned shops, boutiques, and restaurants lining our historic, spacious square! Sample one-of-a-kind flavors under roofs that have stood for years, from wood-fired pizza to delectable, locally sourced burgers. Raise a toast with the finest suds, wines, and spirits Central Illinois has to offer. And kickstart the day with scones, donuts, and other pastries made from scratch every day.
The Corner Deli
700 S. Diamond St.
Elm City Roastery
216 S. Mauvaisterre St.
Kitchen 63
1265 Sandusky Road
Leo’s Pizza
230 S. Main St.
The Little Stove
56 N. Central Park Plaza
Proud Richard’s
600 E. State St.
The Soap Co. Coffee House
207 S. Sandy St.
X’s and O’s Donuts and Bakery
218 W. Morton Ave.
Arts, Shopping, & Hands-on Experiences
Witness the creativity on display inside hallowed, historic halls and adorning city streets — or create your own masterpiece!
Axe Throwing at The Vault
73 E. Central Park Plaza
Take careful aim at The Vault and turn your group’s outing into a friendly competition.
Boutique Shopping
See how local shops foster a creative spirit inside repurposed storefronts.
David Strawn Art Gallery
331 W. College Ave.
Wander through a stately, Second Empire mansion and browse masterful works from local artists.
Mixology Class at The Vault
73 E. Central Park Plaza
Bring some cocktail expertise home courtesy of the resident mixologists at The Vault.
37 South Boutique & Makery
37 S. Central Park Plaza
Create your own scented candle or find other fun ways to unleash your creativity, from paint-and-sip nights to terrarium planting.
Add-on Experiences
Stay & Play Golf Packages
The Links at Nichols Park (18 holes)
319 Holkenbrink Drive
K’s Creek (9 holes)
1265 Sandusky Road
Hotels
Best Western
1709 W. Morton Ave.
Hampton Inn
1275 W. Morton Ave.
The Perfect Destination for Group Tours!
- Motorcoach friendly
- Day trips and overnights
- Accommodating groups of 10–60
Reach Out — We’re Here to Help!
Need more information? Reach out to the Jacksonville Area CVB — we can’t wait to welcome you and your group to town!