Troy, Illinois, took shape early, beginning in 1819 when ten acres of land in southern Illinois were purchased and mapped into a permanent settlement. Renamed by James Riggen, the village quickly established itself with mills, taverns, housing, and essential trades. Location played a decisive role. The addition of a post office in 1833 and the National Road in 1839 positioned the community as a stagecoach stop for travelers moving to and from St. Louis, roughly 18 miles west. By 1857, it was legally recognized as a town, and a railroad stop in the late 1800s accelerated growth. City status followed in 1892. Today, with a population of roughly 11,800 residents, the area reflects steady expansion without losing its community-centered roots.
Daily life here is shaped around food. Fire-N-Smoke Wood Fired Kitchen centers its menu on wood-fired pizzas, smoked meats, and rustic plates built around slow cooking and bold seasoning. Brisket, pulled pork, fire-roasted vegetables, and high-heat specialty pizzas give meals depth and keep tables full beyond the first course. Palenque Troy offers a different rhythm, focusing on traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, and house-made salsas.
Small businesses are the backbone of the community. Realms of Gaming operates as more than a retail store, carrying tabletop games, trading cards, and role-playing supplies while hosting scheduled game nights and tournaments throughout the week. The Red Door Cottage focuses on home décor and gift items, offering seasonal décor, handcrafted pieces, candles, and curated accessories displayed throughout the shop.
Outdoor space anchors much of the community’s activity. Tri-Township Park has open lawns, walking paths, playgrounds, and event areas used consistently throughout the year. Nearby, Troy Skate Park adds an active outlet, providing a dedicated space for skateboarding and youth recreation that stays busy during warmer months.
Creative expression takes many forms. Christina MacMorran Fine Art showcases original artwork and creative pieces that highlight individual craftsmanship and regional influence. Kid’s Fest Craft Fair features rows of vendor booths offering handmade crafts, children’s activities, and locally made items, alongside scheduled craft stations where kids can paint, build, and create take-home projects. The event typically includes face painting, seasonal art projects, and family-oriented vendors set up in a walkable layout that allows parents to move easily between activity areas and craft tables.
For families and group outings, entertainment options are wonderful. The Tri-Township Park Zoo offers a small-scale, hands-on experience with animals that appeals to younger visitors. Dooley’s Entertainment provides indoor recreation with games and activities designed for casual group outings. The Tri-Township Activity Center supports fitness, classes, and organized programs that keep residents engaged throughout the year.
Annual events are a community celebration. The Fourth of July Fireworks Display draws large crowds for an evening centered on public gathering and celebration. The Holiday Hometown Market shifts attention toward local vendors and seasonal shopping, increasing foot traffic and interaction downtown. Jingle Bell Beach adds winter activity through themed décor and interactive elements.
As community events bring more activity into parks, neighborhoods, and public spaces throughout the year, issues around homes and nearby structures can surface as a result of increased movement and use. At Veteran’s Pride Wildlife Control, we help property owners in Troy address wildlife and pest problems through professional removal and exclusion services. Our approach focuses on resolving the issue at its source and preventing repeat entry.
Contact us for more information on how we can help keep your property protected.