About
Uptown
The Heart
of the city
Uptown Collinsville is the city’s vibrant center, anchored along Main Street and rooted in a long tradition of commerce and community.
Today, it features locally owned restaurants, a brewery and distillery, neighborhood businesses, and year-round festivals that bring residents and visitors together.
A Rich and Layered History
Incorporated in 1872, Collinsville grew around what is now Uptown. The area’s architecture reflects that history, blending styles from the late 19th century through the 20th century. Historic homes, commercial buildings, and long-standing neighborhoods tell the story of the City’s evolution, shaped by diverse cultures, traditions, and generations of local families. Preserving this historic character remains central to Uptown’s identity as the area continues to grow and adapt.
A Destination for Celebration
Uptown Collinsville has become a regional destination for signature events that celebrate local flavor, history, and community pride. Annual favorites like the International Horseradish Festival and Italian Fest draw visitors from across the region, while live music, seasonal markets, and family-friendly gatherings keep the district active year-round.
Historic venues such as the Miner’s Theatre add depth to these experiences, serving as a reminder of Uptown’s cultural roots and longstanding role as a gathering place. Together, these events and spaces reinforce Uptown’s identity as a place to connect, celebrate, and experience Collinsville at its best.
Our Mission
Guided by a long-term vision, Uptown continues to evolve as a vibrant, authentic place where history, community, and opportunity come together.
Planning for Growth With Purpose
As interest and investment in Uptown have increased, the City recognized the need to balance redevelopment with preservation. Uptown is rich in cultural and historical assets, and growth brings both opportunity and responsibility. The City’s Strategic Plan identifies Uptown as a community destination and focal point, emphasizing quality development that respects character, sustainability, and long-term value.
To support this vision, the City established a comprehensive plan that serves as a roadmap for orderly redevelopment. This approach includes tools such as a zoning overlay district, targeted marketing to the development community, and incentives that encourage thoughtful, high-quality projects rather than piecemeal change.
Revitalization and Renewal
Since the creation of the original Tax Increment Financing district in 1986, the City has pursued multiple initiatives to support Uptown’s vitality. While competition from larger retailers and surrounding markets challenged the area for many years, renewed focus over the past decade has helped reestablish Uptown as Collinsville’s traditional central business district. Expanded incentives and a more intentional planning approach have attracted new investment while supporting small businesses that offer unique goods and services not found elsewhere.
Find Something New
Shop The Community
Support local shops and DISCOVER something unique.
Dine In
Uptown
Enjoy local FLAVORS, casual bites, and hometown favorites.
Explore
The Area
Wander and EXPERIENCE what Uptown has to offer.