11 Unforgettable Small Towns To Visit In Illinois
Between its world-class cities and sprawling rural farmland, Illinois is a state of contrasts that invites tourists to experience the best of both worlds. Whether you want to witness the world's first skyscraper in Chicago or discover Starved Rock State Park, the state offers an itinerary of unique adventures guaranteed to impress all types of travelers. But with so many options, it takes great planning to get the most out of your trip, especially for those planning to explore the often-overlooked small towns in the state. So, buckle up as we embark on an invigorating tour of unforgettable small towns to visit in Illinois. Enjoy soaking in unprecedented Mississippi River scenery in Savanna and walking down an intact 19th-century Main Street in Galena, and more. These awesome destinations promise to spark your next trip to Illinois.
Savanna
Savanna allows tourists to see the Mississippi River scenery like never before! This Carroll County community invites newcomers to take a sightseeing tour along the Mississippi Palisades Scenic Drive. The route forms a section of the more famous Great River Road and cuts through the Mississippi Palisades State Park, known for its massive limestone cliffs, deep wooded ravines, and dramatic rock formations, such as "Twin Sister," which towers hundreds of feet over the waterway. However, you can get out of the car for a leisurely stroll along riverside trails at Marquette Park. Savanna's oldest park offers direct access to the river, featuring a cool breeze and a peaceful atmosphere, where you can picnic, fish, and spot bald eagles.
The Savanna Museum and Cultural Center brings the community's dynamic heritage and history back to life. Its vast collection of exhibits encompasses a Civil War Soldiers gallery with over 100 mannequins, Wayne King memorabilia, historic model trains, and several hometown heroes. It is the perfect destination for those moved by the stories of sacrifice, bravery, and triumph.
Galena
Galena offers a rare historical journey that allows tourists to explore one of the most intact and well-preserved 19th-century Main Streets in Illinois. The town's historic district is decorated with Victorian architecture on period storefronts and homes, including the Ulysses S Grant Home. This 1865 building preserves the actual home of the former Civil War general and the 18th President of the United States. It sports rustic Italianate architecture and exhibits original furnishings. The corridor is teeming with diners and eateries, a testament to a thriving culinary scene. Foodies can try out exquisite French cuisine at Bread & Vine, where the menu offers dishes like Fois Gras Au Torchon and blue cheese bruschetta, and the ambience is uniquely romantic.
Grant Park is a short walk from Galena's historic downtown district and offers a quiet escape from the bustle. This beautiful, landscaped sanctuary borders the Galena River and features lush picnic areas, including a fountain, gazebo, and pavilion, creating the ideal environment for picnicking.
Lebanon
Lebanon is famously home to Illinois' oldest university, McKendree College, and invites tourists to experience the adventure of higher learning in the state. The college's long-standing presence has helped develop the local art scene, which newcomers can experience at the Looking Glass Playhouse. This downtown gem showcases a blend of creative heritage and community spirit through a lineup of performances by local talent. The Mermaid House Inn is a noteworthy historical landmark, transporting guests back to the 1830s, when it was built by a New England sea captain. Charles Dickens is among the many historical figures who once lodged in the inn, making it an important portal to the past.
Those heading outdoors can find a peaceful spot to relax at Horner Park. This recreation facility covers 58 acres and features a network of mature trees, a 5-acre fishing lake, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and a scenic nature walk. Its location on the outskirts of the city is perfect for a quiet getaway to be one with nature.
Casey
Exploring Casey feels like walking through several chapters of the Guinness Book of World Records, thanks to the series of "World's Biggest" items spread across the town. The town boasts a total of 12 giant sculptures, as listed in the Guinness Book of Records, including the World's Largest Rocking Chair. Earning the title in 2015, the massive installation rises 56 feet high and weighs approximately 46,000 pounds, situated directly off the main thoroughfare. The World's Largest Wind Chime is another spectacle not too far away from its counterpart, measuring 42 feet long and weighing over 7 tons.
Besides its larger-than-life attractions, Casey lures tourists with the promise of rare treasures at Deborah's Attic. This welcoming facility showcases a curated collection of primitives and antiques donated by local senior citizens, featuring items such as barn doors, windows, and hardware.
Princeton
Princeton offers tourists a rare opportunity to see some of the few remaining covered bridges in Illinois and explore rare historical treasures from the Underground Railroad period. The town is home to Captain Swift Covered Bridge, which was originally constructed in 1869 over the Bureau Creek. The bridge offers a unique example of 19th-century architecture, serving as a portal to the community's past. Meanwhile, the Owen Lovejoy House reminds guests of the days of the Underground Railroad. Built in 1838, this former home of a prominent abolitionist served as a hideout for slaves on the run, providing a unique glimpse into the remarkable life of Owen Lovejoy through interactive exhibits.
History aside, Princeton hosts a vibrant live performance scene that unfolds at Festival 56. This premier downtown venue is renowned for staging Shakespearean drama and Broadway productions, among other special events. It serves as an artistic incubator where local talent grows and thrives.
Nauvoo
Nauvoo invites vacationers to embark on a historical journey and explore this once-thriving religious town, where a vibrant community of Mormons once called home. It is one of the most unforgettable small towns to visit in Illinois, boasting a restored historic district with an array of old buildings and monuments that vividly depict the heyday, such as the Heber and Vilate Kimball Home. Completed in 1845, the venue showcases the nature of life for the church's staunch followers through a couple of period relics. The gigantic Nauvoo Illinois Temple dominates the village's beautiful skyline. This former church headquarters was constructed in the 1840s before burning down in 1848. It houses a resourceful visitor center narrating the early days of the settlers in Nauvoo.
History aside, outdoor enthusiasts have a chance to hike, picnic, and camp at Nauvoo State Park. Situated along the Mississippi River banks, this 148-acre oasis houses Lake Horton, generously stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish for all your fishing fun. It also offers 150 campsites for those who crave a complete outdoor experience.
Chester
Chester is the home of Popeye's creator, Elzie Segar, and features an array of tributes and monuments dedicated to the famous cartoon character. The Popeye & Friends Character Trail comprises a series of colorful statues depicting the program's characters. Prominent among them is a bronze statue of Popeye at the Chester Welcome Center. The Popeye Museum is one of its kind in the United States. This quirky facility holds a collection of over 2,000 pieces of related memorabilia, comic strips, posters, costumes, and other items accumulated since the early 20th century.
Chester's backcountry beauty can be witnessed at Randolph County State Recreation Area. Spanning 1,000 acres, the reserve is a haven for outdoor recreation, offering a range of activities including picnicking, hiking, boating, camping, and fishing. It also features a 65-acre lake and lush forests teeming with native wildlife and songbirds.
Mendota
Mendota hosts one of the most unforgettable festivals in the state. Held every August, the Mendota Sweet Corn Festival attracts over 40,000 attendees and sees at least 50 tons of sweet corn being consumed over a single weekend. The fair features an array of entertaining activities for the whole family, including a grand parade, a beauty pageant, food booths, and live bands. The community shares its railroading history at the Union Depot Railroad Museum. This Amtrak station in a 19th-century building is lined with numerous railroad artifacts, including vintage cabooses, train cars, and steam locomotives.
Outdoor enthusiasts in Mendota often escape to Mendota Lake Park. This well-maintained space offers a tranquil environment with manicured lawns and scenic views of the lake. The site is ideal for relaxation amidst nature, and guests can enjoy activities such as picnicking, fishing, and frisbee golfing. Those who visit here praise the park for its unparalleled beauty, serene atmosphere, and easy accessibility.
Fulton
Fulton welcomes tourists to witness an authentic Dutch windmill in action against the scenic backdrop of the Mississippi River. The De Immigrant Windmill is a majestic sight in town and an unmissable landmark reflecting the town's rich Dutch heritage. Constructed in the Netherlands by native millwrights in the 1990s and shipped to the United States, it remains fully functional, helping to control floods on the Mississippi River. The Windmill Cultural Center showcases a variety of miniature windmill forms of European heritage. Situated across from the De Immigrant Windmill, the facility stores almost two dozen windmills from different European countries, including Greece, Germany, Denmark, France, and the Netherlands.
The Mississippi River invites water-based fun at the Fulton Marina. This recreational getaway features several boat launches and ample parking spaces, providing guests with opportunities for picnicking, paddling, and fishing, while taking in the picturesque river views.
Metropolis
Metropolis welcomes travelers to the home of Superman, where you can experience everything related to the comic superhero. This Ohio River community is home to the World's Largest Superman Statue. Standing 15 feet tall in the center of the town square and weighing 2 tons, the bronze monument is a symbol of the village's claim to be the hometown of Superman. Just across the gigantic statue lies the Super Museum, which displays more than 70,000 items dedicated to the legacy of the revered superhero. These range from toys and comic books to memorabilia and shirts, providing first-timers with a rare and immersive viewing experience.
Beyond Superman, Metropolis is home to Fort Massac State Park. This historic location dates back to the 18th century and overlooks the Ohio River. It spans approximately 1,500 acres and serves as a playground for fishing, hiking, boating, camping, and picnicking. The site also hosts the annual Fort Massac Encampment Festival in October.
Highland Park
Highland Park offers a taste of the Great Lakes, with opportunities for tourists to enjoy sandy beaches and spectacular panoramas of Lake Michigan. This North Shore gem presents the perfect atmosphere to unwind away from the rowdiness of Chicago, boasting award-winning natural spots like Rosewood Beach. Set against wooded bluffs, the site offers amenities such as sand rinse stations, picnic tables, and a scenic boardwalk. Further inland, the Prairie Wolf Forest Preserve provides solitude for those who enjoy their own company. Covering 20 acres of wet prairie, wetland, and oak woodlands, it boasts a quiet 1.75-mile trail where bikers, hikers, and cross-country skiers come to explore the natural surroundings.
Highland Park has maintained a longstanding tradition of hosting the Ravinia Festival. Founded in the early 1900s, it is among North America's oldest music festivals, entertaining approximately 400,000 annual attendees with a series of concerts and more than 140 different events over a thrilling summer.
Final Thought
Any of the unforgettable small towns to visit in Illinois above allow you to leave the state with memories to keep and stories to share. They are just what you need for a break from the city, whether drawn to the soothing Mississippi River vistas in Fulton or the delightful sandy lakeshore in Highland Park. Together, they are proof that sometimes you need to take a detour off the major visitor hubs to discover the unexplored gems hiding in the overlooked destinations.
