Effingham

You will most likely arrive by car. Interstates 57 and 70 run concurrent for several miles. There are 3 exits for Effingham. They are 159, 160, and 162. Most of the hotels, restaurants, shops, etc., are at exits 159 and 160.

If you arrive via Greyhound, the bus station is part of the Pilot truck stop (exit 162). If you are Sheldon Cooper, you will arrive via Amtrak.

• 🌍 Cross. Effingham is home to a 60m tall, 180-tonne cross. It cost over $1 million to build and erect. (updated Nov 2015)
• Ballard Nature Center, 5253 US-40, Altamont. Boardwalks through a marsh. +1 618-483-6856.

There is a Wal-Mart and a Kohl's.

Because Effingham is situated at the intersection of two highways, there are a lot of fast food restaurants and some sit down chains as well. For a local restaurant try Niemerg's Steak House which is located at 1410 W. Fayette Road.

• Comfort Inn Effingham Hotel 1304 W. Evergreen Drive. (217) 347-5050. Located at exit #160, close to restaurants.
• Comfort Suites Effingham Hotel 1310 W. Fayette Rd. (217) 342-3151. Comprises three stories with 60 deluxe sleeping rooms, 3 hot tub suites, and 2 Presidential suites with Jacuzzi and fireplace.