6 Unpretentious Towns To Visit In Illinois

Beyond the global glam of Chicago, Illinois, the American Midwest is encapsulated in innumerable small towns, the most unpretentious of which offer genuine midwestern spirit, small-town charm, historic vibes, and family-centered attractions. One such example is Fulton, a European delight along the scenic banks of the Mighty.

From viticulture to historic riverfronts and wild banks of the Mississippi River, the better question is, what can't you find in Chicagoland? The Prairie State is full of surprises, such as the first Amish village, where craftsmen live a low-key lifestyle, so unpretentious that it feels like a quirky setup amidst bucolic views.

Arthur

Wrapped in bucolic charm at the heart of Illinois Amish country, Arthur is the antidote to bustling city life, with fresh air and open views. Surrounded by thriving farmland and meadows of the Kaskaskia River basin, the peaceful town has a reputation for tourism and retail, particularly in woodworking and custom furniture, as well as antiquing and thrift stores, so that you can spruce up your home through local retailers. Shady Crest Farm Market is unmissable for fresh local produce, a meal, or a tasty dessert.

The Great Pumpkin Patch, located south of town, is one of the largest in Illinois, offering an annual pumpkin experience during the harvest and Halloween seasons. Open since 1989, it is situated on land that was first homesteaded by the McDonald family of Scotland in 1859. The patch features gardens and activities, including friendly farm animals and tasty treats. You'll feel right at home at Arthur's Country Inn, steps from coffee and Yoder's Kitchen, always popping with clientele after down-home dining, a buffet, and a gift shop selling Amish goods.

Fulton

Fulton, 1.5 hours from a major urban center, feels isolated across the scenic Mississippi banks from Iowa, bearing a mix of retro and nouveau along the Mighty with a completely paved bike path, an intimate marina with a pier for strolls and fishing, plus launches, and the Kiwanis Park with scenic bridge views. In addition to beautiful architecture, such as the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, you can stop by a popular brunch spot, buy freshly milled flour, and unwind at an authentic saloon.

The Dutch arrived in the 1850s, bringing a worldly appeal to the small crossroads town on the Mississippi. Along the towpath, the huge De Immigrant Windmill steals the spotlight. After posing by the riverfront windmill, take a guided tour of its machinery and the adjacent Windmill Cultural Center, which offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient technology through working scale-model windmills. The nearby Cattail Park features a scenic outdoor space with natural areas and trails for walking and relaxation.

Lebanon

Lebanon feels starkly calm and unassuming, just 30 minutes east of St. Louis, Missouri, with authentic experiences and history along its canopied streets. Looking Glass Playhouse is a seasonal community theater in a charming brownstone at the heart of downtown near the 1830 Mermaid House Hotel on East St. Louis Street, built and named by a retired New England sea captain who claims to have seen mermaids at sea, and Charles Dickens mentioned it in his book American Notes after visiting in 1842.

In addition to a storied history, travelers enjoy unique shops, art, and inventive eateries, as well as student-driven attractions. McKendree University (1828), a reputable private college, offers public grounds for strolls along red-bricked structures, past a scenic colonnade to a fountain for photos. Along the green-rimmed pathways, you can't miss “The Hett,” a premier performing center for the arts directly on campus, presenting world-class dance, drama, classical music, and jazz in a 488-seat auditorium.

Nauvoo

Back in 1840, Joseph Smith, the leader of the Mormon movement, named Nauvoo after a Hebrew word meaning "pleasant land" or "beauty," reflecting its picturesque locale along the Mississippi River. The small city of about 1,000 people makes up for it in its vibrant atmosphere, drawing from its rich history and natural beauty with a living historic district and reputable vineyards, plus farm stays and cozy lodgings in the heart of historic Nauvoo. The historic red-brick homes along the street look like something straight from a holiday card under the snow cover.

Whether you take the Trail of Hope, guided horse-drawn wagon rides, or are partial to tasting local wines, Naunoo's blend of curated experiences and excellent hospitality adds to an unforgettable visit. Travelers enjoy Nauvoo State Park, which offers camping, hiking, boating, and fishing right on site. The most iconic landmark is a Greek Revival replica of the Nauvoo Temple, preserving the city's stoic character and Mormon heritage on the spot of the 1841-built original, which was destroyed by arson.

Ottawa

This riverfront city of 19,500 is top in the books of water sport and fishing fans at the picturesque intersection of the mighty Illinois and the charming Fox River, with plenty of ways to soak in the scenic banks. The buzzing Heritage Harbor Marina is open every day to the public, with rentable watercraft from April 15 to October 1, even the 115-horsepower Tritoons. Alternatively, kayaking is a popular way to explore the nearby waters. There's also delicious fare and live music at Luegill Boathouse and Marina Bar.

The local Allen Park sprawls on both the north and south shores of the Illinois River with amenities, boat launches, tennis courts, and more. Rent a SUP for a full-body workout around the marina or venture onto the Illinois in a kayak. Many enjoy the panoramic vistas of Dayton Bluffs Preserve along the traffic-free trails that traverse the Fox River bluffs. Just nine miles west, you can paddle to the iconic Starved Rock State Park, which offers both parking and spots to tie your vessel and explore on foot.

Princeton

Located under 20 minutes north of the Illinois River, this lively town of 10,000 boasts beautiful architecture that makes everyday strolls a delight. Built in 1837 for the abolitionist, the Owen Lovejoy House is a historical place museum with fascinating objects and Underground Railroad history. One of the state's only five remaining historic covered bridges, the Red Covered Bridge is a genuine relic from 1863, carved with a quirky warning about the speed limit for cattle traffic in its heyday and other messages from different eras.

Fall foliage sets the tone for the town's Shadows of the Blue & Gray, a living history reenactment of a Civil War camp that takes place annually in October, featuring appearances by Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant. The historic battle unfolds with the roar of cannons and soldiers marching, allowing spectators to wander through the encampments. Driving west past the Captain Swift Covered Bridge, the Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park offers trails for hiking, cycling, and horse riding along a century-old commercial waterway.

With its take-it-or-leave-it state of mind, Illinois offers a seamless connection to Lake Michigan, but you'll have to cross vast countryside first. Places like Princeton are every traveler's dream, with covered bridges minutes from the Starved Rock State Park, a land of unique sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and 13 miles of hiking trails.

The state, where rivers flow into the Mississippi, takes equal pride in being known for Chicago and agriculture across the vast prairies, as well as the Emiquon Preserve, considered only second in size to Florida's Everglades. Come as you are: these picturesque small towns reveal a great deal about the Land of Lincoln for your memorable way to escape from the buzz.