Local traditions and nature unite Altamont
Settled on the edge of woodlands in southern Illinois, Altamont is a city of 2,200. Known for its rustic atmosphere and German heritage, this Effingham community has built a stalwart sense of pride since its founding in the late 1800s. "The roots go pretty deep," says Wes Bell, the city's zoning administrator. "You've got multi-generational families tied to the area – people who intend to stay here." This level of fellowship and a general love for nature has inspired local events and recreation that tie the community together. Across a year, residents can cheer for a demolition derby, taste wine in a 19th-century mansion and try out their polka dance skills with a live band. High school sports, local restaurants and the great outdoors also make for close-knit ties in Altamont. The city's CAP Index Crime Score is a 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Historic homes are near downtown with newer builds on the outskirts
Laid out with neat, shoebox-shaped blocks, lots tend to be around a quarter-acre and lined with mature oak and maple trees. Traditional turn-of-the-20th-century homes are typical near the city center, with colonial, Cape Cod and National Folk appearing. Depending on their condition or level of renovation, these homes are typically priced to sell between $30,000 and $200,000. Midcentury ranch-style and split-level homes are also available. Often kept in better condition, their prices range from around $110,000 to $260,000. New Traditional homes from the 21st century frequently crop up on the city's outskirts. Featuring higher acreage and modern amenities like vaulted ceilings and heated pools, these houses are generally listed from $600,000 to $730,000.
High school sports help define the community spirit
Altamont Grade School teaches kindergarten through eighth grade and has a B from Niche. Altamont High School has a B-minus and is known in the area for its athletics, with a baseball team that finished runner-up during the 2023 state championships and a girls' basketball team that made the playoffs in 2024. "The schools are top-notch — they always have been," says Bell. "The athletics have really come online in the past five years or so. Getting to states with a town of only 2,000 people is just crazy." Altamont Lutheran Interparish School offers a private education for kindergarten through eighth grade. Niche hasn't yet scored it.
Green spaces and public places mix play, history and wildlife
While public spaces like Schmidt and Heritage parks feature standard recreational equipment like playgrounds and walking paths, Gilbert Park sets itself apart with a disc golf course and baseball diamonds. Built in 1889, the Wright Mansion is a preserved Victorian home listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to tours, it offers special events like the annual Wine, Beer and Music Festival. Located on over 200 acres of forests and wetlands, the Ballard Nature Center has a variety of educational and recreational amenities, including interactive nature displays, walking trails, a fishing pond and a play area. Set in a historic 19th-century building, the Altamont Living Museum is home to the Little Ryman Auditorium, which hosts a regular lineup of traveling performers and musicians.
County fair and Schuetzenfest celebrate local pride
Held every summer, the Effingham County Fair brings the surrounding area together for a week of events, including a parade, horse racing, demolition derbies, carnival rides and tractor pulls. Months later, the city celebrates its heritage with a local answer to Oktoberfest: the Altamont Schuetzenfest. "The holiday has a lot of good German flavor," says Bell. "Lederhosen, polka bands, stuff like that." Established in 1965, the autumn festivities include traditional food, dancing and a kickball tournament.
Restaurants range from 1950s diners to family bars
Shopping centers around Main Street and Farina Road, with fast food chains, bars and locally owned businesses like Wolf Creek Antique Mall and Altamont Foods. The Open Door Diner has a classic 1950s ambiance with checkerboard flooring and colorful décor. Try one of their eating challenges for bragging rights and a free meal. Established in 2000, Luke's Bar and Grill offers laid back grub from morning to late night, along with a full bar and a family friendly atmosphere.
Major highways run through the city's southern edge
Interstate 70 and U.S. Route 40 pass through the city's southern half, and are the area's main highways. Saint Louis and Springfield are both around 90 miles away. The nearest hospital with an emergency room is HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham , about 12 miles away.
