Venice, IL

Venice is a small river town in Madison County, Illinois, sitting along the east bank of the Mississippi directly across from St. Louis. Home to around 1,500 residents, it offers a quiet pace of life within minutes of the broader metro area. Getting around is straightforward thanks to Illinois Route 3 and the McKinley Bridge, which connects Venice directly into north St. Louis and provides an easy crossing for commuters, cyclists, and weekend visitors.

Founded in the 1840s, Venice grew around railroads, river shipping, and even carried historic Route 66 traffic across the water. Today, the town is largely residential and industrial, with simple local amenities like Venice Park alongside the main highway. The restored McKinley Bridge remains a defining landmark, complete with a dedicated walking and biking lane overlooking the river. It is a practical, affordable spot for anyone who wants quick access to Missouri jobs and downtown entertainment while living on the Illinois side.