7 Most Idyllic Small Towns in Illinois

Illinois is the 5th most populous state in the United States and is best known for major cities like Chicago, the third biggest city by population in the country. When you think of Illinois, also known as "The Prairie State," idyllic landscapes that are perfect for a weekend road trip understandably might not be the first image that comes to mind. However, if you dig a little deeper and take a look into some of the small towns here, you may just find one or several perfect places to stop on your adventure! The following 7 small towns folks ought to consider visiting for an ideal getaway from the city!

Galena

Galena is a small town in northwestern Illinois known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and interesting history to match. Visit for a fun adventure filled with learning. The town's downtown core features a collection of boutiques, antique stores, and restaurants where you can find unique items and delicious local eats. For a truly unique experience dowtown, visit the West Street Sculpture Park, an eclectic collection of outdoor sculptures made from a variety of materials put together by local artists.

Galena has a population of only around 3,000 residents and is renowned for its role in the lives of historical figures like Ulysses S. Grant, the legendary Civil War general and 18th president, who had a home here. The surrounding area offers many scenic views and outdoor activities, including hiking and kayaking along the Galena River. This blend of history and natural beauty makes Galena a popular destination for your next weekend escape.

Nauvoo

Nauvoo, located on the Mississippi River in western Illinois, has a rich religious heritage, at one point being the place where Mormon leader Joseph Smith established a "capital" (one of several the "Mormon Trail") for his followers to settle at a time when Mormons were commonly persecuted for their beliefs.

With a population of about 1,100, the town is best known for its significant role in early Latter-day Saint history, highlighted by the Nauvoo Temple and various historical sites. You can also explore a reconstructed pioneer village and learn about the town's 19th-century roots. The riverfront area is a perfect place to take a peaceful walk, with its picturesque views and recreational activities available to visitors and residents alike. Nauvoo also hosts annual events like the Nauvoo Grape Festival, celebrating the locally picked grapes that are abundant in this mainly agricultural region.

Elsah

Tucked between the Mississippi River and the bluffs of southern Illinois, Elsah is a tiny village of fewer than 700 people. It is truly a place to go for those looking to get away from big city life.

This tiny town is characterized by its many preserved historic homes, several dating back to the 1800s, and unique cobblestone streets, just as another way to transport you back in time. Pick up some old-school sweets from time's past at the Elsah General Store, or learn more about this time capsule of a town at the Village of Elsah Museum.

Elsah's location near the Pere Marquette State Park area provides access for all to hiking trails and other outdoor activities such as camping, making it an attractive destination for those who appreciate both history and nature.

Chester

Chester is a town with a unique claim to fame- that being that it is the birthplace of the iconic comic strip character Popeye. This town celebrates its heritage with statues and murals depicting Popeye and other characters throughout the community. So for fans of the comic and/or cartoon, definitely mark this one down in your itinerary.

Chester's downtown area also provides a good mix of locally owned shops and eateries, and the town's position along the Mississippi River offers top-notch views and other opportunities to explore outside. Get a start at the Chester Welcome Center, where you can learn more about the going-ons in town all year round. You may be directed to some of the several historical landmarks and museums, like the Randolph County Museum-Archive, that can offer you a glimpse into the town's long-standing past. Come to Chester and experience a great example of how America's small towns perfectly exemplify the unique culture of the country as a whole.

North Utica

North Utica, conveniently located near Starved Rock State Park, is ideal for anyone looking for their next outdoor adventure in Illinois. This proximity to one of Illinois's most popular state parks makes Utica a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts from all around the country.

The town itself has a quaint downtown area with stores, wineries, and many great restaurants to match in a delightful countryside setting. Without even having to leave town, you can try some of the local wines at the August Hill Winery Tasting Room, a popular spot for wine enthusiasts both local and abroad. North Utica is also host to a few notable events throughout the year, including the annual Burgoo Festival which takes place on Columbus Day weekend in the month of October.

The above-mentioned natural beauty of this area and this town's unique attractions make North Utica a good place to stop while traveling through the state.

Petersburg

Petersburg, with a population of about 2,200, is located near Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, a reconstructed 1830s village where famed president Abraham Lincoln once lived and worked. This connection to Lincoln's history makes Petersburg a notable location for history enthusiasts and anyone looking to learn more about the United States in general.

Downtown, you can find amenities like local breweries, the ominously named but delicious Hand Of Fate Brewing more particularly, and hotels, providing you with the ability to comfortably stay for several days as you explore the region. If your thirst isn't quenched at the brew house, pay a visit to Hill Prairie Winery for a taste of some more local wine in this ideal grape-growing region too.

Additionally, Petersburg sits along the Sangamon River, where on its banks you can find many opportunities for outdoor adventures with activities like fishing, hiking, and canoeing.

Princeton

Princeton is also a town that values its heritage, evident through its annual Homestead Festival. This event celebrates the town's history with parades, music, many local craft vendors, and other festivities that draw in crowds from the surrounding areas.

Among the town's several popular historical sites is the Lovejoy Homestead, the former home of Elijah Lovejoy, an abolitionist and newspaper editor whose legacy is still honored in Princeton to this day. Learn more about this and the broader history of Princeton at the meticulously curated Bureau County Historical Society Museum and Library, a short walk from the Lovejoy Homestead.

Anyone looking for something to do in the beautiful local outdoor areas will find plenty to do in and around Princeton. This town of around 7,500 residents is near the Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, which contains accessible hiking and biking trails and fishing.

Whether you're drawn to the historic architecture of Galena, the religious heritage of Nauvoo, or the scenic landscapes around Elsah, these small towns in Illinois are a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In these places, you will see the unique history, culture, and outdoor activities outside of Chicago that exemplify the charm of this state, and the Midwest, as a whole. As you explore these idyllic small towns, you'll find the warmth of their communities and the wide variety of experiences they offer.