Metropolis

Metropolis is a little town with big ideas, where riverfront industries gave rise to charming 19th-century architecture and bustling central streets. One of America’s favorite comic book characters, Superman, is a local hero in this town, which shares its name with the town in the fictional franchise. Designated the official Hometown of Superman by DC Comics in 1972, Metropolis is a landmark destination for fans of the series. Check out an enormous collection of Superman memorabilia and get your photograph taken alongside the towering statue of the superhero.

Stroll around Metropolis’ downtown to see its collection of heritage buildings. When it was established in 1839 on the mighty Ohio River, Metropolis’ founders envisioned the town to grow into a humming city. You can see the grandeur in the town’s early industrial boom in its pretty iron-fronted commercial buildings, as well as in its splendid and historical homes.

You won’t be able to miss the Superman Statue standing proudly in front of the historic red-brick courthouse in Superman Square. The 15-foot (4.6-meter) statue of the superhero is dressed in his signature blue-and-red outfit. Visit the Super Museum to explore one of the world’s largest private collections of Superman memorabilia. The museum showcases original costumes, film props, artwork and vintage action figures.

Experience some of the town’s history and scenery at Fort Massac State Park. This reserve was the first state park in Illinois and contains a reconstruction of the early 19th-century fort that dated back to 1757 and was used by French, British and American troops. You can hike and camp in the spacious tree-lined park.

Find excitement any night of the week at Harrah’s Metropolis Casino, where you can check out table games, restaurants and the casino’s entertainment center. The annual Superman Celebration brings plenty of fun events to the town each June.

Metropolis is located on the southernmost tip of Illinois. Reach the town via the interstate highway or fly into Barkley Regional Airport, located across the river in Kentucky’s Paducah. Nashville International Airport is a 3-hour drive away. Add Metropolis to your itinerary to experience its history and comic book charms.