Explore Benton, IL
Benton, Illinois is an ideal place for families looking to raise children in a nurturing and educational environment while also providing plentiful entertainment opportunities. This picturesque city, located in Franklin County, offers a safe and family-friendly community with a strong emphasis on education. Benton boasts a highly regarded school district with exceptional public and private schools, providing children with a quality education. The district is known for its dedicated teachers, modern facilities, and a wide range of extracurricular activities that help foster well-rounded development in students. In addition, Benton is home to several excellent pre-schools and daycares, ensuring that even the youngest residents receive the best possible start to their educational journey. Beyond academics, Benton offers various entertainment options that cater to families and children. The area is surrounded by beautiful parks and recreational spaces, including the Benton City Park, where kids can enjoy outdoor activities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The city also hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including festivals, fairs, and parades, providing ample opportunities for family-friendly fun. For those seeking indoor entertainment, Benton is home to a state-of-the-art movie theater, where families can enjoy the latest blockbusters. The city also has a bowling alley, offering a classic and enjoyable pastime for families to bond over. In addition, Benton is conveniently located near several major cities, giving families access to a wide range of cultural and entertainment venues, including museums, zoos, and amusement parks. Overall, Benton, Illinois is a charming and vibrant city that offers a perfect balance of educational opportunities and family-friendly entertainment. It provides an ideal environment for raising children, ensuring they receive a quality education while also enjoying a rich and fulfilling childhood.
Activities in Benton

The US Engineering League is a prominent nationwide establishment that passionately supports STEM-focused education. We believe in the power of experiential learning and thus emphasize hands-on learning through competitive challenges. Since our inception in 2018, we have been the proud USA National Office for the acclaimed World Robot Olympiad, a global robotics competition that has over 35,000 participants from more than 80 countries. In addition to robotics, our educational offerings span across various STEM sectors such as coding, eSports, engineering, science and more. We're delighted to be connected with several of the most prominent STEM competition organizations. Our primary learning center is nestled in the heart of Naperville, IL. However, we understand the importance of accessibility and have therefore expanded our reach. We offer our well-rounded programs at a range of locations including schools, community centers, park districts, libraries, and even religious institutions. We are committed to making our educational opportunities available to as many children as possible, regardless of their location. At the US Engineering League, we're not just about teaching; we're about inspiring. We take immense pride in our ability to inspire the younger generation to master the skills that are vital for long-term success in STEM-based careers. We strongly believe that nurturing these skills from a young age can set the foundation for a successful and rewarding career in the rapidly evolving STEM fields.

In 2010, Dan and Andy bought and invested $1 million in construction and renovation of Camp Manitowa Rend Lake. Since then, the 40-acre property has been hosting sleep-away summer camps, retreats, and festivals. It is the newest, freshest camp in the Benton area of Southern Illinois, and is located only 90 minutes from St. Louis, MO and Paducah, KY. At Camp Manitowa, campers entering grades 2nd through 8th can benefit from a tailored 1 or 2 week residential camp program. This program is designed with younger campers’ needs in mind, and encourages the development of independence, self-esteem, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. Campers also have the opportunity to make lifelong friends in a small, nurturing community. The camp also offers structured free play and choice time, allowing campers to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment to learn. In 2013, Camp Manitowa is offering week long specialty camps that focus on water skiing, magic, rock school, science, and the popular sport of Gaga. With its unique program and offerings, Camp Manitowa Rend Lake is a great place for campers to experience all the fun and adventure of a summer camp.