Where is Metropolis, Illinois

Metropolis is a city in southern Illinois and the county seat of Massac County. Located along the Ohio River near the Kentucky border, the city is best known as the home of Superman and its annual Superman Celebration. Metropolis also offers riverfront scenery, historic sites, parks, and easy access to Shawnee National Forest.

Location Map of Metropolis, Massac County, Illinois

About Map: The map shows the location of Metropolis in Massac County, in the U.S. state of Illinois.

Metropolis Map, Illinois

Where is Metropolis Located?

Metropolis is a city located in Massac County, Illinois, the United States. It lies along the Ohio River in southern Illinois, directly across the river from Kentucky and about 15 miles west of Paducah, Kentucky. Metropolis is located at approximately 37.151° North latitude and 88.733° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 5,969 residents, and the city covers about 5.56 square miles (14.40 sq km). Metropolis was settled in the early 19th century and incorporated in 1839. The city's location on the Ohio River helped it develop as a transportation, trading, and agricultural center. River traffic, nearby railroads, and regional highways have all contributed to its economic history. Metropolis serves as the county seat of Massac County and remains an important small regional center in southern Illinois. The Ohio River forms the city's southern boundary and provides scenic views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Metropolis became internationally recognized through its association with Superman, the fictional superhero created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The city has embraced this connection through the Superman Statue, Superman Museum, Superman-themed downtown attractions, and the annual Superman Celebration. A unique feature of Metropolis is the combination of its historic river-town character with its identity as the official "Home of Superman." Nearby attractions include Fort Massac State Park, Shawnee National Forest, the Ohio River waterfront, and the Cache River State Natural Area. Interstate 24 provides a major transportation route through the area, connecting Metropolis with Paducah, Marion, and other communities in southern Illinois and western Kentucky.

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Metropolis City Facts

Distance from Metropolis, IL to Nearby Cities

• Paducah, KY – 15 miles (24 km)
• Vienna, IL – 20 miles (32 km)
• Calvert City, KY – 20 miles (32 km)
• Marion, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
• Harrisburg, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
• Mayfield, KY – 35 miles (56 km)
• Carbondale, IL – 45 miles (72 km)
• West Paducah, KY – 15 miles (24 km)
• Benton, KY – 35 miles (56 km)
• Cape Girardeau, MO – 80 miles (129 km)
• Mount Vernon, IL – 90 miles (145 km)
• Evansville, IN – 90 miles (145 km)
• Clarksville, TN – 120 miles (193 km)
• Nashville, TN – 150 miles (241 km)
• St. Louis, MO – 155 miles (249 km)

Top Attractions in Metropolis

• Superman Statue – A large Superman statue in downtown Metropolis celebrating the city's famous connection to the fictional superhero.
• Super Museum – A museum dedicated to Superman and comic-book history, featuring costumes, collectibles, artwork, and memorabilia.
• Superman Celebration – An annual community event that brings Superman fans to Metropolis for entertainment, exhibits, contests, and special activities.
• Fort Massac State Park – A historic state park on the Ohio River preserving the site of Fort Massac and offering hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and river views.
• Ohio River – The river forms the southern edge of Metropolis and provides boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic recreation.
• Massac Forest Nature Preserve – A nearby natural area protecting forests and native habitats in the Ohio River region.
• Shawnee National Forest – A large forested recreation area west of Metropolis featuring hiking trails, cliffs, lakes, forests, and scenic overlooks.
• Fort Massac State Historic Site – A historically important location connected with French, British, American, and early Illinois history.

Airports Near Metropolis

• Williamson County Regional Airport (MWA) – 45 miles
• Barkley Regional Airport (PAH) – 20 miles
• Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MDH) – 55 miles
• Marion Municipal Airport (JYM) – 40 miles
• Evansville Regional Airport (EVV) – 95 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official Metropolis city website and local government records.

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