9 Best Downtowns In Illinois

Illinois does downtowns in a way that feels tailor-made for wandering with their brick sidewalks, historic facades, and the kind of local spots where the staff remembers your order by the second visit. Think smoked brisket after a Main Street stroll in Plainfield, an 1800s streetscape in Galena that begs for a cone in hand, and a cocktail-and-whiskey nightcap in Princeton. Add Crystal Lake’s shopping-and-brunch rhythm, and Glen Ellyn’s dining-and-nightlife scene, and you’ve got a lineup of downtowns that turn a simple weekend drive into a full-on adventure.

Plainfield

Plainfield, originally named Walkers' Grove until 1841, is a small town in Will and Kendall counties and is considered the oldest community in Will County. Downtown Plainfield is a lovely place to take a stroll with its historic buildings on either side. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, such as the Krema Coffee House, a local favorite serving delicious coffee and sandwiches, and Station One Smokehouse, serving some of the best barbecue in the state.

Additionally, Plainfield has numerous unique stores to browse through. Find one-of-a-kind pieces at Sunnyside Antiques; games and comic books at the Wandering Dragon; or buy classic vinyl at Left Round Records.

Galena

Galena’s historic downtown offers over 120 fun shops and delicious restaurants to dine in along an 1800s street lined with original buildings. Cool off at the American Old Fashion Ice Cream Parlor; grab a bite at Big Bill's Sandwich Shop and Coffee Bar; find a quirky hat at Celebrity Hats; and visit The Neighborhood Trading Co. for a completely new wardrobe.

Tourists interested in history or a thrilling adventure can go on a ghost tour with the Haunted Galena Tour Company. Guided by experienced historians and talented actors, the tour gives daring visitors a look into Galena’s folklore and history, telling exciting stories of ghosts and paranormal activity.

Princeton

Princeton has that small-town charm that makes visitors feel right at home. Its welcoming community and laid-back lifestyle offer a perfect escape from the busy city lifestyle. While Princeton is a relaxing town, its main street is packed with things to experience and explore.

Shop for trendy clothing at Wild Honey Boutique and stunning accessories at Little Blue Dress; treat yourself to a haircut or massage at Sophisticuts; and grab a meal at Paisanos Ristorante with their famous cheesy breadsticks and Hot Honey pizza. Princeton has a thriving nightlife, with multiple bars and pubs to visit in the downtown area, such as Barrel Society, the premier whiskey establishment in North Central Illinois, known for its wide selection of whiskey and handcrafted cocktails.

Glenview

Glenview is home to Glenview Park District, one of the largest parks in Illinois. In addition to the 861 acres of land, this hidden gem of a town offers many activities, and its downtown has an abundance of things to enjoy. Dine and drink at Grandpa’s Place, famous for its light beer-battered fish; enjoy a delicious donut at Joe Donut; or grab a cup of coffee at Hometown Coffee & Juice.

When it comes to shopping, downtown Glenview does not disappoint. Pop into Raphael Jewelers for stunning pieces; explore different types of wine at R&J Wine & Spirits; or buy dresses, jewelry, accessories, purses, and more, all at Gigi’s Closette.

Downtown Glenview also offers many recreational activities and libraries, including Glenview Public Library, Roosevelt Park Aquatic Center, and Oil Lamp Theatre, a live theatre famous for putting on interesting plays and serving delicious, complimentary cookies.

Crystal Lake

The city of Crystal Lake, named after its glimmering 228-acre lake, is a picturesque town with plenty of attractions. Apart from its gorgeous lake, Crystal Lake is also known for its buzzing downtown, the perfect place to support local businesses. Shop at Wear Did U Get That, a women’s boutique carrying a wide range of sizes; buy a gently used book at The Green Read, a bookstore committed to providing sustainable gifts and high-quality, second-hand books; or buy a unique gift from Out of the Box. After all the shopping, head to breakfast at Carlos Pancake House; grab a bite at Benedict’s La Strata, a favorite amongst locals, serving warm lattes and delectable beignets; and enjoy a tasty cupcake at Cheshire Cakes.

Belleville

Belleville, meaning “beautiful city” in French, is a town rich in history. Its downtown has buildings dating back to the 1800s, and it serves as the cultural, commercial, and social heart of the city. For a trip back in time, visit the Lincoln Theatre, a historic theater that opened in 1921. The theater often hosts special performances and events.

Grab some snacks from Abe’s Gourmet Popcorn Shop or Toot’s Cake & Candy Supplies and head to one of Belleville’s many shops and antique stores, such as Blanquart's Rusty Gem Vintage Market, a family-owned, rustic market selling vintage and repurposed merchandise; Circa Boutique for chic clothing and accessories; and Artisans Off Main, a space to showcase local’s artists work, from woodwork and glass-blowing to jewelery making and ceramics. After shopping, dine at Papa Vito’s Pizza, and drink Belleville’s finest beer at Charlie’s Place.

Rock Island

The city of Rock Island is located on the Mississippi River, and downtown Rock Island is filled to the brim with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Its shops are especially unique. Find an assortment of treasures at Skeleton Key Art and Antiques, cool action figures and comics at Mellow Blue Planet, and iconic vinyl at Ragged Records & Music. For chic outfits and accessories, check out Brick and Motor Boutique. In addition to its numerous shops, downtown Rock Island offers a variety of restaurants and bars. Check out some local favorites, such as QC Coffee and Pancake House, El Patron Mexican Restaurant & Bar, and the popular Icons Martini.

Highland Park

The city of Highland Park is located on Lake Michigan. This town has beautiful beaches and picturesque nature, making it a must-visit when travelling to Illinois. Highland Park is jam-packed with things to see, and its downtown is no exception. Shop at Over the Top Boutique for timeless sweaters and tops; browse for a new work of art for your home at Laughlin Gallery; buy adorable clothing and accessories for kids at Twinkle Twinkle Little One; and find a one-of-a-kind handmade piece from Citywoods.

Downtown Highland Park is known for its diverse cuisine. From Asian and Mexican to American and French, there is a restaurant for everyone. Dine at Potbelly, Indus Progressive Indian, Cafe Dacha, Lou Malnati’s, and La Taquiza.

Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn’s downtown is known for its excitement and for its shops, restaurants, and thriving nightlife. Learn more about folk art at Sign of the Whale Antiques, a store specializing in 19th-century American country furniture, folk art, quilts, and oil paintings; find the perfect gift and aesthetic stationery at Papier Girl; or look around Gather & Collect for vintage items.

Make sure to visit downtown Glen Ellyn on an empty stomach, because this lively area has no shortage of restaurants and bars. Start with an acai bowl or waffles at Bonita Bowls, head for brunch at Marché for charcuterie and sandwiches, dine at Sushi Ukai, and end the night with drinks at Shannon’s Irish Pub or Two Hound Red Brewing Co.

Glen Ellyn has exciting events throughout the year. In February, enjoy the tastiest week in Glen Ellyn with its Restaurant Week, where restaurants offer prix fixe menus and special promotions, or catch the annual Chili Cook-Off.

Don’t Miss Out On Illinois’s Best Downtowns

Wherever travelers go in Illinois, they are guaranteed a fun experience. The small-town charm makes visitors feel right at home, and their downtowns make for lovely getaways. From Belleville and Princeton to Galena and Rock Island, each town’s main street offers a new and unique attraction to explore. Join the locals and share their pride in their cities and downtowns, and plan a trip to Illinois.