Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, Finn Inn has closed its doors.
There’s a little-known gem in Southern Illinois that everyone needs to visit. We call this an aquarium restaurant because you’ll get to dine with the fishes (and turtles and eels), as the eatery includes a giant freshwater tank with viewing access at most tables.
Nautical diners don’t get much better than this. Keep scrolling to see how amazing this place truly is.
Fin Inn is located almost right at the convergence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers along the Great River Road in the popular town of Grafton, which sits north of St. Louis.
Trip Advisor/normanconstable
This family-owned aquarium restaurant opened in 1981 with just five tables but quickly expanded to its current seating capacity of 125 guests. The majority of the place was made from local limestone and creek rock and assembled by its original owner, James L. Seib.
Google/Traci Irvine Seib served in World War II and worked as a fisherman for 40 years before opening Fin Inn.
The most exciting things you’ll witness here are the table-side aquariums that allow you to see into an underwater world while you dine. There are 21 tables that have access to the astounding views.
Google/JR Williams This large turtle is more than 100 years old and weighs the same as his age.
Within, guests will find fish that are native to the Mississippi River, as well as several species of turtles, including Loggerheads.
Google/Laura Piel
This aquarium restaurant features a menu of mostly seafood, including several different types of fish, clams, shrimp, and frog legs. Guests may also try the steak, chicken, burgers, soups like turtle soup, desserts, and much more.
Trip Advisor/Christine G Yes, you can eat some of the same types of critters as those swimming around in the tanks.
Before you leave, check out the on-site gift shop, which sells home decor, candles, stained glass, post cards, canned items, and other country goods. Hours of operation for the dining room and shop are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Trip Advisor/Christine G
Fin Inn is located at 1500 W Main Street in Grafton, and you can get more information on its website here.
Trip Advisor/normanconstable
Google/Traci Irvine
Seib served in World War II and worked as a fisherman for 40 years before opening Fin Inn.
Google/JR Williams
This large turtle is more than 100 years old and weighs the same as his age.
Google/Laura Piel
Trip Advisor/Christine G
Yes, you can eat some of the same types of critters as those swimming around in the tanks.
For more nautical eateries, check out eight lakeside restaurants in Illinois with amazing views.
If you’ve ever been to this aquarium restaurant, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us in the comments below.
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