12 Most Overlooked Illinois Towns For 2025
With almost 75% of Illinois covered by fertile farmland, it makes sense that this is America’s Prairie State. It is also known for its picturesque shores along Lake Michigan and compelling history tied to the banks of the Mississippi River. That makes Illinois a popular state for tourists.
If you love exploring new towns but hate the tourist scene, Illinois has many less-traveled towns scattered across the pastoral farmland and dotting its scenic waterfronts. Here are the 12 most overlooked Illinois towns for 2025.
Arcola
Arcola is located in Central Illinois and is known as the Gateway to Amish Country. However, the closure of Rockome Gardens, America’s only known Amish theme park, momentarily impacted the town's appeal.
When Aikman Wildlife Adventure took over the site of Rockome Gardens, the drive-thru wildlife park created a new attraction. Visitors have several tour options to explore the menagerie of wild and domestic animals and a display of life-size dinosaur models.
The arrival of 130 artists known as the Walldogs furthered the town’s renaissance. The group of creatives reunites annually to put paint and brush to work transforming communities through art. Arcola now sports 15 historic murals in its walkable outdoor gallery.
On the town’s quirkier side, the world's only Hippie Memorial is a compelling creative work depicting the rise and fall of the hippie era. Created by the late Bob Moomaw, the work tells the story of his life and captures the spirit of the turbulent era when he grew up.
The weekend after Labor Day, Arcola is rarely overlooked. Once known as the "broomcorn capital of the world," the town’s lively Broomcorn Festival celebrates its heritage with food, entertainment, and activities. The world-famous Lawn Rangers are the stars of the parade as they twirl and toss their brooms along the parade route.
Mount Carroll
Located in the Illinois Driftless Area, Mount Carroll is a perfect example of Illinois’ historic architecture. The heritage buildings overlook the town square and the Italianate-style Carroll County Courthouse, where a manicured lawn meets the brick-paved streets.
The downtown might not have as many shops as larger, more popular towns. However, two shops shine in comparison to the typical antique destinations. Ideas N Designs is an eclectic shopping experience in an 1850s-era building. Decorative collectibles, such as “Automobilia” and “Through the Looking Glass” vintage clothing, make for a very shoppable moment. The store also features a Victorian Library, an English Garden, and a Mad Hatter Tea Room for an Alice in Wonderland-inspired experience.
Tina's Ice Cream and Riverview Antiques is another combination made in antiquers’ heaven. Rare antiques on consignment make an intriguing neighbor for the hand-dipped ice cream at Tina’s.
Between Memorial Day and Halloween, the Mount Carroll Farmers Market welcomes a selection of vendors selling their wares. Each Saturday, the square transforms into a shopping hub where residents and visitors shop for fresh produce, home-baked goods, and the work of local creatives.
Molly’s Kitchen & Bar is a town landmark in a restored 1865 building. Sample scratch-made creative cocktails while scanning the small-scale dinner menu focused on quality over quantity. Spend the night in one of the two upstairs suites at The Inn overlooking historic Market Street and wake up to find a kitchen stocked with complimentary fresh fruit, yogurt, and homemade granola.
Galena
Located near the Mississippi River, Galena is a foodie’s dream. Although often overshadowed by nearby Milwaukee and Chicago, Galena is no shrinking violet. The iconic Flatiron Building creates a curious focal point, while unexpected twists, turns, and slight inclines take you along its intriguing streets.
However, the food and drink scene make this town worth visiting. Starting at the Galena Canning Company, a range of inventive sauces, mustards, marinades, spice mixes, dips, and salsas offers an innovative line of flavors to introduce into your humdrum weekly recipe repertoire.
Just inside the floodgates sits Galena River Wine and Cheese in a former 1845 steamboat provisioning warehouse. Taste olive oil and balsamic vinegars and shop their tempting selection of gourmet finds, from wine and beer to cheese and pâtés.
Galena Brewing Co. specializes in grassroots craft beer. Visitors can take a brewery tour, sample beers and seasonal brews, and munch on fried cheese curds dipped in ranch dressing.
Wine connoisseurs can sample the wine offerings at Galena Wine Cellars on Main Street or stop by for a cocktail, taking in the ambience of the character-filled historic building.
Nauvoo
Nauvoo sits on the Mississippi River, where the town’s rich history shares strong ties with the founding fathers of the Latter Day Saints’ movement. As a result, some might view it as a somewhat pious town and opt for other towns in the area. However, it offers a compelling glimpse into the beginnings of this thriving community.
The Joseph Smith Historic Site includes a collection of historic buildings reflecting the community's rapid growth. With far too many historic sites to list, the Pioneer Life tour offers an exceptional opportunity to learn about the establishment of Nauvoo.
Down a completely different path of history, Nauvoo is the site of Illinois's oldest recorded concord grape vineyard. Located in the Nauvoo State Park, it produces fruit for Baxter's Vineyards. Today, you can sample many varietals of wine at the tasting room across from the vineyard, along with an uncomplicated menu of cheese plates, pizza, and traditional bar fare. Explore the picturesque banks of the Mississippi River in 148 acres of serene parkland along a forested trail.
Fulton
Fulton is another Illinois treasure that gets lost amongst the larger towns along the Mississippi. The town’s Dutch heritage makes for some quaint, old-world charm, including a functioning Dutch-style windmill.
Known as the Immigrant Windmill, the mill still produces and sells stone-ground buckwheat, corn, rye, and wheat flours. Although not historic, the mill is authentic; it was built in the Netherlands by native millwrights and reassembled in Fulton. Standing nearly 100 feet tall, the windmill is an unexpected sight on the banks of the Mississippi.
The Windmill Cultural Center across the street offers a collection of 22 European windmill models worldwide. The gift shop sells the mill’s flour, as well as a lovely collection of Dutch Delft pottery.
Wierenga's Heritage Canyon is a little-known 12-acre historic nature walk leading to a cluster of log cabins at the top of a limestone quarry. The structures are the remains of an abandoned 1800s-era village where you can explore the buildings, including a schoolhouse, doctor's office, ironworks, blacksmith shop, and church.
Stroll along the historic district on 4th Street to admire the diverse period architecture. The Fulton Museum is a perfect example of Civil War-era design, with original period features such as lovely stained-glass windows, built-in walnut benches, and an impressive walnut staircase. You will have to veer off the main strip to find it on nearby 10th Avenue.
Grafton
Travelers who prefer to visit the larger town of St. Louis across state lines in Missouri are definitely missing out when they bypass Grafton. Nestled at the foot of the Grafton bluffs, the town also boasts breathtaking scenery, capturing the Illinois River flowing into the Mississippi.
Boasting the best view in the Midwest, the Grafton SkyTour offers a unique way to take in both the river and bluff views from a scenic aerial lift. Whether you choose a charming gondola or the more daring open seat, the trip to the top of the bluff is unforgettable.
Shopping is a popular pastime in Grafton, where the very walkable Main Street houses charming shops in historic buildings. Grafton Limestone’s old-timey general store vibe features worn wood shelves stacked with an eclectic mix of goods from household and décor to local art and candy. Box Mercantile’s location in a former bank makes perfect sense. The boutique is all about bougie indulgence with a variety of high-end foodie finds, rustic-chic soaps and skincare products, all kinds of décor, jewelry, and more.
Dining options in town pose a conundrum with so many eateries available. To simplify life, choose Grafton Oyster Bar’s floating restaurant. Sitting right on the river, they specialize in award-winning fresh seafood dishes with a creative flair.
Woodstock
Perhaps because it is considered a suburb of Chicago, people assume Woodstock has too much of an urban sprawl feel. However, beautiful Woodstock is anything but suburban. Distinct buildings like the Woodstock Opera House echo with the town’s storied past and continue to play a key role in the town’s appeal.
Built in 1889, the Woodstock Opera House was originally the town hall and has since become one of the Midwest’s most cherished performing arts centers. It is also a supporter of the arts, with a lower-level display of local exhibits. The Opera House overlooks the town's historic square, where shops, cafés, galleries, and eateries offer opportunities for diverse experiences. The mature trees, Victorian-era gate, bandstand, and gazebo create a lovely place to stroll, sit, or sip a coffee from a local café.
The Gardens of Woodstock feature cascading waterfalls, small brooks, a large pond, and beautifully tended gardens. The grounds offer inspiration to visit their nursery and create your own private sanctuary at home.
The Old Courthouse Center is now a vibrant event center and home to the popular eatery, The Squire on the Square. Their epic burgers are irresistible as a tempting lunch reprieve from your Woodstock exploring.
Alton
Alton sits along the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway and is considered part of the St. Louis metropolitan area despite its location in Illinois' Madison County. The stretch of highway with the flowing river on one side and limestone bluffs on the other might goad travelers into continuing their scenic journey. However, Alton is not something you want to miss.
Below towering silos, welcoming visitors to the Alton Riverfront, sits Lincoln-Douglas Square. The historic site of the 1858 Douglas-Lincoln debate features a statue of Stephen A. Douglas in mid-argument while Abraham Lincoln stands thoughtfully to his right.
Alton’s bronze statues honor the town’s most famous characters, including the jazz legend Miles Davis and "The Gentle Giant," Robert Wadlow, who reached almost nine feet before his untimely death at the age of 22.
The town’s historic district is known for Antique Row, where over 40 antique boutiques are within walking distance of each other. Classic diner GB Grill serves up classic American and Greek dishes, where you want to grab a stool at the lunch bar or slide into a cozy booth to soak up the ambience and enjoy some darn scrumptious eats.
Geneva
Perhaps because Geneva is part of the Tri-City area, it gets lumped in with its counterparts. However, it is a lovely little town that deserves a little more credit for its originality.
The downtown reflects the architectural styles of the New England settlers who built their lives here in the 1830s. If you love exploring historic homes, the streets of Geneva offer classic examples ranging from the stone facades of its earliest homes to the wood-clad homes built post-sawmill.
However, it is worth venturing further afield. For example, eatery Craft Urban is tucked away at the back of a parking lot. The changing seasonal menu supports local producers and elevates every dish, including classics like burgers. Three-time Guinness World Record holder and guest chef on shows like Martha Stewart, Chef Alain Roby’s All Chocolate Kitchen is a Geneva delight. A show-stopping, first-class afternoon tea takes you to a quieter time and place, while his exquisite desserts, truffles, and Italian-style Gelato transport you to the streets of Belgium and Rome.
Plan a Sunday road trip to Geneva when the town’s Geneva French Market showcases the fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, fine textiles, and unique gifts of local farmers and artisans. The European-style open-air market makes it feel très exclusive.
Sitting on the banks of the Fox River, Geneva is the perfect spot to spend the day biking along the riverside trails. Lovely gardens, picturesque bridges, and encounters with wildlife greet you along the easy paths, which are also ideal for walks.
Princeton
Princeton is located in the rural area of Bureau County, tucked well out of the way of big cities like Chicago. As a result, it might seem like too much of a hike for a day trip. However, the town’s pastoral surroundings and slower pace of life make it so appealing.
This sweet little spot has all the iconic landmarks you expect to find in a small rural town, including a vintage theater on Main Street, The Apollo. Still sporting its retro neon lights, the Apollo is filled with nostalgic character despite its recent upgrades.
The town also boasts two charming covered bridges, an unusual sight in the Illinois countryside. The weather-worn Captain Swift Covered Bridge sits to the east, and the charming historic Red Covered Bridge sits to the north.
The historic Owen Lovejoy Homestead, built in 1838, was critical to the Underground Railroad. The abolitionist minister's home features circa 1849 furniture, and the area where he hid enslaved runaways above the stairs.
Get a taste of authentic St. Louis-style BBQ at seven-time BBQ champion Niel & Shorty’s BBQ. It is impossible to miss the smoky aromas wafting from this homey spot on Main Street, where you can enjoy pulled pork, chicken, or brisket piled high on buns, or your choice of smoked delicacies with a slew of classic sides and sauces.
Monticello
Most people find Monticello too far from Chicago and St. Louis. However, its idyllic location surrounded by peaceful farmland, combined with its quaint historic downtown, makes it a welcoming spot for a weekend jaunt or day trip. In fact, one might say its farmland is one of Monticello’s most enticing factors.
Graceful Acres is a beautiful example of Monticello’s rural appeal. The tranquil setting is a popular wedding venue but also welcomes visitors to its fresh-cut floral shop, farm tours, and floral arrangement workshops.
In town, the Monticello Railway Museum is an operational railroad mainline yard where visitors can take weekend train rides from May through October. Trips are often themed, including foodie experiences like the Donut Train Breakfast ride in a vintage dining car. The museum also has a collection of exhibits and artifacts to explore.
Monticello Mercantile, known as “The Merc” by locals, is a community-inspired shop where local makers contribute to the hand-curated collection of apparel, home décor, and gift items. With a constantly evolving selection, you never know what you might find.
Monticello Red Wheel Restaurant is the classic mom-and-pop dining experience with generous portions of homemade comfort food.
Lebanon
The town of Lebanon is the home of Illinois’ oldest Methodist College, McKendree University, and a short drive from St. Louis. In fact, its main street is named after the city of Missouri. However, it lacks the big city budget to advertise its charm, so it is not on most people’s radars.
The town’s trademark historic red brick road running through the downtown has earned the nickname “The Brick Road.” One of the town’s most intriguing moments in history includes a visit by classic English novelist Charles Dickens, who walked those very bricks. He stayed at the historic Mermaid House Inn in 1842 when heading east from St. Louis. The restored hotel is available for tours.
The former site of The Arcade Theater in downtown Lebanon is now The Looking Glass Theater, known for Broadway-worthy productions put on by a local theater group of the same name. Consider buying tickets to support the local performances.
Just outside of town is Lebanon's Horner Park, where peaceful woods and green space surround a charming fishing lake. Stroll the path to take in the scenic views, which are especially pleasing as the colors change in fall.
Framed by one of The Brick Road’s historic storefronts, The Gasthaus serves up delightful old-fashioned American fare, including comfort foods like Biscuits & Gravy and Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp.
Illinois offers the ideal reprieve from overcrowded tourist traps as long as you know where to find them. These 12 overlooked Illinois towns offer foodie delights, compelling history, and beautiful natural landscapes filled with adventures worth exploring. Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend getaway, a traffic-free road trip, or a day’s adventure far from the crowds, you can map out these Illinois destinations for 2025.
