International Travel During Covid
Do not travel internationally until you are fully vaccinated. If you are not fully vaccinated and must travel, follow CDCs international travel recommendations for people who are not fully vaccinated.
Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19. However, international travel poses additional risks, and even fully vaccinated travelers might be at increased risk for getting and possibly spreading some COVID-19 variants.
The COVID-19 situation, including the spread of new or concerning variants, differs from country to country. All travelers need to pay close attention to the conditions at their destination before traveling.
CDC will update these recommendations as more people get vaccinated, as rates of COVID-19 change, and as additional scientific evidence becomes available.
Taste A Bit Of Tuscany At A Family
Posted by Tuscan Hills Winery on Monday, June 28, 2021
Dont know what to do in Effingham, IL, on your next romantic outing? Nestled in the heart of Effingham, Tuscan Hills Winery offers tastefully crafted wines. Since its opening in 2011, the winery has served as a community gathering place, where friends can lounge on the covered porch sipping sangria and families can munch on pizza. Stop by for a casual tasting session, or plan ahead and indulge in live music and revelry. The calendar at Tuscan Hills is always bursting with themed parties and other community gatherings. Along with unique vintages, craft beers, and cocktails, Italian treats can also be found on the bistro menu. Both Italian and Midwestern hospitality converge at Tuscan Hills Winery, as the friendly team fulfills their motto of âcome as our guest, leave as our friend.â
Tuscan Hills Winery
While some of the roadside attractions in America veer towards the wacky and absurd, the Cross at the Crossroads was built as a token of faith. This architectural marvel stands nearly 200 feet tall and greets the approximately 19 million travelers who pass through Effingham on Interstates 57 and 70 each year. View this Effingham tourist attraction from afar or travel to its base for a display of the Ten Commandments, a welcome center, refreshment area, media room, and chapel.
The Cross at the Crossroads
Address: 1900 Pike Ave, Effingham, IL 62401
Effingham Convention And Visitors Bureau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Located in Central Illinois, the City of Effingham has something for everyone. The Funfest Amphitheater, MY Garage Museum, The Effingham Performance Center, Cross at the Crossroads are just a few of our attractions. Effingham hosts several annual events including the Corvette Funfest and Funfest for Air-Cooled VW hosted by Mid America Motorworks in the fall, and EffingHAM Music Fests.
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Mid America Motorworks My Garage Museum
4.5 based on 66 reviews
Reviewed By Ruffian72 – Highland, United States
I have been here numerous times for Corvette FunFest, SwapFest, and just to check out MY Garage . The owner has always been very accommodating, friendly, and his passion for what he does is contagious. I have never missed a FunFest, thousands of beautiful Corvettes, followed by a great concert on Saturday night.
Find Food Nirvana At Effing Brew

“I had called ahead to ask if they had growlers to-go . The bartender that helped me with my to-go order was very helpful. I ordered a handful of things to take back to my hotel room . Anyway, beer selection is great. Burgers were made perfect to desired temperature . The white cheddar cheese curds were awesome and crispy and the pretzel with beer cheese was crispy on the outside but soft and chewy on the inside, as a pretzel should be. If this place was within distance to where I lived, it would become my local watering hole for sure. You should just go here.”
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A Weekend Getaway To City Of Effingham
Your weekend getaway is a short drive away.
Effingham Convention And Visitors Bureau Director Of Tourism Jodi Thoele shares must see places to visit. The community is easy to find, right off of I57 or I70. Visitors will discover plenty of great things to enjoy. Effingham has 17 hotels, more than 65 restaurants and a lot of great attractions.
Its a perfect get-away for Valentines Day, girls weekend or any time you need to get away! If you have the winter blues take the drive to Effingham.
Firefly Grill is what Effingham is probably most known for: Its an award winning eco-friendly roadhouse on the shores of Lake Kristie. Chef Niall and his wife Kristie own and operate this oasis of farm and table cuisine. They grow ingredients on site, source locally as possible and is truly a culinary destination.
Tuscan Hills Winery is a beautiful winery with an old world Tuscan feel. You can enjoy wine tasting or indulge in an excellent variety of other beverages. They have entertainment on Fridays and are the perfect spot to relax and enjoy.
Experience Unique Adventures At Effingham Axe Throwing
Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account
In need of a different kind of adventure on your trip to the city? Why not challenge yourself and pay a visit to Effingham Axe Throwing? It sure a unique place to bring the family together or spend a date night at. First-timers are welcome! All guests will be briefed and given a quick safety lesson, as well as a few tips and tricks on how to successfully throw your ax.
Keep in mind that admission to the establishment is only for guests 12 years old and above, so leave the little ones at home for now and let the adults come out and play!
Effingham Axe Throwing
Opening hours: Fri: 5pm – 9pm Sat: 3pm – 10pm
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Why You Should Go
This self-guided walking tour around town is always a great activity for free things to do in Effingham because you can take all the time you want and see tons of new spots in the area.
There are over 30 sculptures scattered in the streets, and most of them are unique things to see in Effingham because theyre the only ones of their kind.
Clear Your Plate At Gabby Goat American Pub & Grill
“Staying at a KOA campground about 35 miles from here. Wanted a great place for a Monday lunch. Arrived in pouring rain and made a run from the parking lot. Got inside and the place was buzzing and busy. Had a table in less than 10 minutes in Shane’s section. Good fortune for us! We each told Shane what kind of beer we were looking for and he said he knew just the thing. A couple minutes later we had 2 great beers. Spot on!Shane then helped us decide what to have for lunch. I had the brisket melt and my DW had the Reuben. Tot’s and onion strings as a side. GREAT lunch!Come on out for lunch. Ask for Shane. Sit back and enjoy!”
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Effingham is known as the âCrossroads of Opportunity.â With fascinating museums, beautiful recreation areas, and unique art attractions, there are plenty of opportunities for a good time in this central Illinois town. Hereâs a list of the best things to do in Effingham, IL.
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Experience Pure Gastronomic Bliss At Gabby Goat American Pub & Grill
“Staying at a KOA campground about 35 miles from here. Wanted a great place for a Monday lunch. Arrived in pouring rain and made a run from the parking lot. Got inside and the place was buzzing and busy. Had a table in less than 10 minutes in Shane’s section. Good fortune for us! We each told Shane what kind of beer we were looking for and he said he knew just the thing. A couple minutes later we had 2 great beers. Spot on!Shane then helped us decide what to have for lunch. I had the brisket melt and my DW had the Reuben. Tot’s and onion strings as a side. GREAT lunch!Come on out for lunch. Ask for Shane. Sit back and enjoy!”
$$ModerateBreweries, Salads, American
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Get Your Hands Messy At Frye Pottery Gallery
Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account
Special Sale for your Holiday shopping#fryepottery#madeinshumway#madeineffingham
Posted by Frye Pottery on Friday, November 22, 2019
A passion for pottery inspired this studio that sits in a beautiful country setting. Follow the instruction of artists Tim and Pam Frye as you get behind the potterâs wheel and mold your own ceramics in one of their workshops. If youâre short on time, you can also tour the gallery and pick up one of the functional stoneware pieces or a stunning ceramic artwork.
Frye Pottery Gallery
Get It While Its Hot At Tuscan Hills Winery

“9/7/2021. While traveling through Illinois, we were able stay overnight with the Harvest Host program. Wonderful Winery !! Easy on/off I-70 and plenty of room to park Big Rigs. There were 5 other visitors the night we stayed. Staff is very friendly, Steve, Erin& Brook. We enjoyed the conversations, the vibe, wine & food. Inside is a “Bistro” setting and it continues to the large area outside as well. We ordered the Loaded cheesy bread… along with our Wine Tasting….. YUM !! Very dog friendly. Highly recommended to stop by….. even without a Coach !! HH stay with our Coach…. Next morning we woke to a stunning sunrise.”
$$ModerateAmerican Food, Seafood, Comfort Food
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From The Local Experts At Effingham Cvb
Spend a few days indulging in our unique city and see what makes our vibrant community tick. With 17 hotels and over 65 restaurants, Effingham provides the very best in service and hospitality. Whether youre enjoying a farm to table meal at Firefly Grill or viewing a sculpture along the avenues of downtown Effingham, youre sure to discover new adventures and hidden gems around every corner. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Many attractions have reopened with limited capacity or different operating hours. Inquire with attractions ahead of time for up-to-date travel policies and health and safety information.
Sit Down For A Fresh Organic Feast At Firefly Grill
Summer is in the air today!
Posted by Firefly Grill on Monday, 17 July 2017
The atmosphere at Firefly Grill emphasizes its eco-friendly initiative. Set on the peaceful shores of Lake Kristie, the menu is a composite of organic farm-to-table options. Most of the food is grown on-site, and the rest is sourced locally from artisan farmers and foragers. There is an emphasis on sustainability in everything they do here, from the recycled steel frame of the building to the gardenâs composters to the sustainable seafood on the menu. When you sit down at this award-winning restaurant, savor the wholesome and soulful flavors of its wonderful, fresh, cuisine.
Firefly Grill
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Brake For A Break At My Garage Museum
Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account
This 1963 Daytona Blue #Corvette is #98 on our #100DaysofCorvettes list. Did you know – 1963 was the first year that air conditioning was offered? #CorvettePassion #MidAmericaMotorworks
Posted by MY Garage Museum & Retail Store on Thursday, June 28, 2018
For car enthusiasts, a visit to this museum is a detour worth taking. Gawk at rare and unique cars and take a peek at Corvettes that were used for research, experimental concept projects, iconic films and more. Although the exhibits are constantly changing, there are usually between 20-25 cars on display, so visitors can see vehicles like the unusual XP-819 prototype Corvette, the last C4 Corvette, or a custom VW Meyers Manx Dune Buggy. In addition to the cars, a collection of antique automotive memorabilia and collectibles are on display and the museums store is always the best bet for some unique gifts.
My Garage Museum
Unwind With Friends At Effing Brew Company
Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account
Donât want to make dinner tonight? $0.75 wings tonight!!!! Kitchen is open until 10pm come join us!
Posted by Effing Brew Company on Wednesday, February 3, 2021
For a low-key night out with friends or family, one of the best places to go in the city is Effing Brew Company. This brewery on West Jefferson Avenue is owned by a veteran and serves bar classics like burgers and tap brews, along with cocktails and a special dinner menu. For your entertainment, this popular restaurant and hangout spot also hosts live music and offers activities like darts and various arcade games. Occasionally, there would be trivia nights, too!
Effing Brew Company
Opening hours: Tue – Wed: 3pm – 12am Thu – Sat: 11am – 12am Sun: 3pm – 9pm
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Recommendations For People Who Are Not Fully Vaccinated
If you are not fully vaccinated and must travel, take the following steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:
- Before you travel:
- Get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before your trip.
- Make sure you understand and follow all airline and destination requirements related to travel, testing, or quarantine, which may differ from U.S. requirements. If you do not follow your destinations requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.
- Check the COVID-19 situation in your destination.
Feed Your Hunger At Effing Brew
“I had called ahead to ask if they had growlers to-go . The bartender that helped me with my to-go order was very helpful. I ordered a handful of things to take back to my hotel room . Anyway, beer selection is great. Burgers were made perfect to desired temperature . The white cheddar cheese curds were awesome and crispy and the pretzel with beer cheese was crispy on the outside but soft and chewy on the inside, as a pretzel should be. If this place was within distance to where I lived, it would become my local watering hole for sure. You should just go here.”
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Best Things To Do In Effingham Illinois
Have you ever visited a new place and felt wow about it? For many visitors, it happens at Effingham.
Effingham may not be as popular as other cities in United States, but dont let that fool you. Effingham is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.
You can definitely plan a few hours of a side trip here while traveling to Saint Louis. You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Effingham.
If you have plans to visit United States and are not sure if Effingham should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Effingham and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.
Have You Been Fully Vaccinated

People are considered fully vaccinated*:
- 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or
- 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnsons Janssen vaccine
If you dont meet these requirements, you are NOT fully vaccinated. Keep taking all precautions until you are fully vaccinated.
If you have a condition or are taking medication that weakens your immune system, you may NOT be fully protected even if you are fully vaccinated. Talk to your healthcare provider. Even after vaccination, you may need to continue taking all precautions.
- Before you travel
- Make sure you understand and follow all airline and destination requirements related to travel, mask wearing, testing, or quarantine, which may differ from U.S. requirements. If you do not follow your destinations requirements, you may be denied entry and required to return to the United States.
- Check the current COVID-19 situation in your destination.
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