10 Of The Most Underrated Towns In Illinois

Most trips to Illinois revolve around the vibrant culture in its biggest city, Chicago. With almost half of the state's visitors heading to the Windy City, it leaves plenty of room for anyone seeking to discover the unknown side of Illinois, one defined by rolling prairies, riverfront charm, and small-town pride. Away from the bustling streets and towering skyline, you’ll come across places with a comfortable pace of life, undisturbed natural surroundings, and genuine Midwestern flair.

From the banks of the Mississippi River to the west to the shores of Lake Michigan to the northeast, these discreet destinations expose a side of the Prairie State that only a few get to experience. Whether exploring Fulton's rich Dutch heritage or embarking on outdoor adventures in Ottawa, this 2025 list of underrated towns in Illinois promises a range of novel and memorable experiences for tourists.

Princeton

Princeton is a historic town in Bureau County known for its iconic covered bridges and bustling downtown district. History enthusiasts love visiting Captain Swift Covered Bridge for a rare glimpse of Victorian architecture and engineering. This photogenic structure, constructed entirely of wood, serves as a significant portal to the past. A broader view of the region's history beckons at the Bureau County Historical Society, presented through fascinating memorabilia housed in a well-preserved historic home.

Meanwhile, the Festival 56 is a local theater hub in Princeton, always bustling with fans looking to catch its entertaining series of live performances, including dramas, concerts, musicals, and plays. Guests can take advantage of the town's lush backcountry by playing golf at the lush, 9-hole Wyaton Hills Golf Course.

Fulton

Fulton was founded by Dutch immigrants who established a settlement along the banks of the Mississippi River in the 1830s. Today, the community continues in the ways of its pioneers through an array of traditions, such as the annual Fulton Dutch Days. This two-day festival features cultural performances, a parade, a fashion show, and other family-friendly activities. The Martin House Museum boasts a vast library of resources that preserve and interpret Fulton's fascinating history, dating back to the arrival of immigrants.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy gathering at the Fulton Marina, which offers a serene space with access to the Mississippi River. It has two boat ramps and tour agencies for those interested in a cruise on the water. Finally, the downtown area has a couple of charming establishments where you can savor sweet local flavors, such as baked goods at Krumpets Restaurant & Bakery.

Geneseo

This relaxed town in Henry County enchants visitors with its Victorian downtown and lush natural spaces. Documents inside the Geneseo Historical Museum indicate that the community was established in the 1830s, and a walk through the town square reveals a selection of old buildings with period architectural styles. You can pass by C & S Antique Mall to peruse a broad range of collectibles and primitives worth spending on, or head to Geneseo Art League for a feel of local arts. This cultural venue inspires guests through classes, workshops, and exhibitions of beautiful works by dozens of talented homegrown artists.

Meanwhile, Anderson Memorial Park offers a quiet escape from the crowds. It is a serene green area with walking paths and peaceful picnic spots surrounded by lovely landscaping.

Casey

Casey's playful vibe makes it one of the most underrated towns in Illinois, promising an unforgettable adventure for first-timers. Its motto, "Big Things in a Small Town," alludes to the wealth of whimsical, larger-than-life installations throughout the town that have been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. Guests can embark on a scavenger hunt of sorts while visiting these unmissable landmarks, from the World's Largest Wooden Shoes to the World's Largest Truck Key. The experience is one worth remembering for a lifetime, encouraging tourists to shop for a memento at Deborah's Attic.

Elsewhere, golfers of all ability levels can enjoy a friendly game with friends at the Casey Country Club. This delightful course poses a 9-hole challenge and is famously home to the World's Largest Golf Tee.

Metamora

Metamora is a quintessential Midwestern village in Woodford County, renowned for its small-town charm and lush natural surroundings. The community preserves its modest history at the Metamora Courthouse State Historic Site. This gorgeous building, completed in 1845, displays hundreds of exhibits, including those from the time when President Lincoln practiced law there. Culinary lovers can pop into any of the several downtown diners to grab a bite or drink. Hanover's Pub is one of the popular spots in the area, known for its cheese balls, sandwiches, and craft beer.

Beyond the quaint town center, a 450-acre playground beckons vacationers with quality time outdoors at Black Partridge Park. The sprawling nature preserve houses sports fields, picnic pavilions, a hiking trail system, and other facilities for public recreation.

Charleston

This overlooked college town in Coles County impresses tourists with a diverse range of attractions that cater to a wide variety of interests. The community maintains an upbeat vibe thanks to its college sports culture, with fans gathering inside the 5,400-seat Groniger Arena to support the men's and women's basketball teams in a vibrant atmosphere. Elsewhere, the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum presents a unique history lesson on a landmark period in American history, featuring rare exhibits from the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas debates.

Charleston also boasts an active arts culture, and those who appreciate the performing arts can catch a tapestry of entertaining live shows at the Doudna Fine Arts Center. Lastly, ardent outdoorsmen have more than 2,000 acres of rugged wilderness to explore at Fox Ridge State Park, with opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and birding.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a scenic town located at the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers, reputed for its wealth of outdoor opportunities. Vacationers are spoilt for choice whenever they feel like stepping outside, and Allen Park invites them to admire the calm waters of the Illinois River during a peaceful picnic by the waterway. However, those seeking proper adventures in the great outdoors can venture into the untamed wilderness of Buffalo Rock State Park. The reserve spans over 290 acres and promises a wide range of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, and fishing.

A tour of the Reddick Mansion results in a fun trip back in time. This gorgeous Italianate mansion, boasting 22 elegant rooms, was constructed in the 1850s and depicts middle-class life at the time. To wrap your Ottawa itinerary, consider a pint of craft beer in the cool atmosphere at The Lone Buffalo.

Edwardsville

Edwardsville is a vibrant suburb of St. Louis in Madison County with something to interest all visitors. It offers ample space for nature lovers, featuring at least 40 acres of forest, prairie, and wetland habitats at the Watershed Nature Center. The waterfront park serves as the perfect spot for hikers, picnickers, and wildlife viewers. Tourists interested in live entertainment can join a lively audience at the Wildey Theatre for a series of concerts, plays, and dance performances. The venue also screens family-friendly classic and contemporary films.

Meanwhile, history buffs can take a trip back in time by visiting the Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House. This well-preserved Federal-style dwelling, constructed in the 1820s, provides a rare glimpse into the life of a prominent local citizen during the Victorian era.

Pittsfield

Pittsfield is a historic community in Pike County, famous for its rich connections with Abraham Lincoln before his rise to the presidency. It is home to the John Shastid House, which belonged to a close friend of Abraham Lincoln while he was practicing law in the area. The building is also among the oldest in Pittsfield, built in 1838. The Pike County All Wars Museum gives visitors an interesting lesson on American wars throughout. Its vast collection of military artifacts highlights the Civil War and other conflicts after that.

History aside, Pittsfield caters to culinary enthusiasts with a string of restaurants located around the downtown area. Those with a thing for Italian can try authentic dishes like spaghetti and meatballs at Nucci's Pasta House.

Vienna

This relaxed village in Johnson County offers a needed break from the city while impressively balancing between indoor and outdoor attractions. Its modest downtown area offers amazing shopping opportunities, with antique enthusiasts gathering at the Vienna Town Square Mall to browse a selection of vintage treasures. Tourists with an appetite for local dishes can stop by Vienna Diner and enjoy a hearty American meal, featuring favorites like pasta, steak, sandwiches, and pizza.

On the other hand, the outdoor inclined are free to explore the Tunnel Hill State Trail on foot or bike as it winds through a forested backcountry. Alternatively, they can head to Little Black Slough Nature Preserve for birdwatching, hiking, or picnicking across a 1,860-acre nature center.

Hidden Gems In Illinois

From Casey's larger-than-life roadside attractions to Pittsfield's noteworthy historical markers, these underrated towns in Illinois expose tourists to some of the state's best-kept secrets. Exploring their history, culture, and nature offers a refreshing experience that is hard to come by elsewhere. Whether attending age-old festivals, enjoying scenic drives along country roads, or exploring small-town folklore, these overlooked destinations remind travelers that there is no harm in occasionally ditching the city for the backcountry of the United States.