Nestled on the banks of Spoon River, Bernadotte is a favorite stop on the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Fall Festival, attracting large numbers of vendors and visitors. A dam, is visible from the Bernadotte Public Park near the café, was built as part of the water system for WWII era Camp Ellis, whose construction leveled the original town. The pools and riffles below the dam make this a popular fishing spot. A public park offers a pavilion and playground equipment. In 2008, Bernadotte’s Iron Bridge was designated one of the state’s most endangered historic dam and bridge by the Bernadotte Historical Society. Travel services in Bernadotte consist only of the café.