Edwardsville is home to Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, the campus is one of the largest in the United States. It is the county seat of Madison County and is the third oldest city in the State of Illinois.

Built in 1909 and named after the founder of the International Order of Odd Fellows, the Wildey Theatre offers a full range of events, including movies, musicals, live theatre and concerts- all conveniently located in the diverse downtown historic district.