7 Picture-Perfect Towns in Illinois

The Midwest state of Illinois is home to several picture-perfect towns worth visiting. Founded in 1818 and the 21st state to join the Union, it’s little surprise that the best of these small towns come with plenty of history and culture to explore. From the historic streets of Galena to the attractive waterfront of Crystal Lake, each of these towns affords a glimpse into the state's heritage in addition to their own unique histories.

Not only are they rich in history and culture, they’re also remarkably photo-worthy. Wander their downtown cores with a camera in hand, and you’ll end up with no shortage of excellent photos to remember your visit.

Ottawa

Being located 80 miles away from Chicago makes Ottawa an excellent choice for an Illinois day trip or weekend getaway. Its location at the confluence of the Illinois and Fox rivers certainly helps, making an extremely picturesque backdrop for photographers. Founded in 1830, historic landmarks to explore include the site of the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas senatorial debate which focussed on slavery and states' rights. This pivotal event in American history took place in the town’s charming Washington Square Park, where a plaque and boulder now mark the location.

Ottawa also serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, with the Illinois and Fox Rivers providing ample opportunities for water-based activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking. The town's riverfront is also a picturesque spot for leisurely walks and picnics with excellent river views.

Galena

Located in the rolling hills of Jo Daviess County in the northwest corner of the state, Galena’s most photogenetic spots involve the town’s historic architecture. Many of the buildings you see today date back to the town’s early years (it was founded in 1826) and are well-preserved, with the best examples being seen along Galena’s picturesque Main Street.

Highlights include the attractive former home of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States. Now known as the U.S. Grant Home State Historic Site, it can be toured. You should also visit the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum, where you’ll learn more about the man’s life and the broader historical context of the era. Outdoor pursuits are plentiful in the pleasant surrounding countryside, with everything from hiking, golfing, and exploring the nearby wineries being available.

St. Charles

just an hour west of Chicago, St. Charles is set along the banks of the Fox River and is a popular getaway destination. The river flows through the center of the town and is extremely picturesque, especially in summer, and again in fall when the leaves change color. The riverfront is also a hub for activities like fishing, kayaking, and leisurely walks, particularly along the well-maintained paths of the Fox River Trail and green spaces like Mount Saint Mary Park and Pottawatomie Park.

St. Charles is also home to a vibrant arts community, with galleries and live music venues aplenty, including the historic Arcada Theatre built in 1926 and still going strong. Be sure to explore the town's downtown area, an especially fun thing to do when the Scarecrow Weekend is on in October.

Woodstock

Woodstock is a must-visit for those who enjoy exploring picture-perfect towns. Just 60 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, start your exploration of this lovely town at its historic square. The town's focal point since Woodstock was founded in 1844 and surrounded by well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, the square hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. It’s also the scene of Woodstock’s famous Groundhog Day festivities, commemorating the town's role in the famous Bill Murray movie of the same name.

Other highlights include the Woodstock Opera House, an architectural treasure dating back to 1889 that still hosts theatrical performances, classical and contemporary music concerts, and art exhibitions.

Princeton

Princeton in Illinois encapsulates everything good about small-town America. Located two hours west of Chicago, this charming Midwestern town boasts one of the most attractive historic downtowns in the state, with its many beautifully preserved old buildings reflecting styles from various periods in Princeton’s history.

Explore the downtown core to check out landmarks including the Apollo Theater, built in 1930, and the Soldiers and Sailors Park adjacent to the Bureau County Court House. You’ll also want to visit the picturesque Red Covered Bridge. Constructed in 1863, it crosses over Big Bureau Creek and makes for a wonderful self-spot.

Batavia

Fondly known as "Windmill City" for once having been home to the country’s largest manufacturer of those iconic farm water pumps, Batavia is just 40 miles west of Chicago and is a must-visit for its scenic setting on the Fox River. You can learn more about the town and its famous windmills at the Batavia Depot Museum, housed in a fully restored Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Depot dating from 1854.

Other fun things to do in Batavia include visiting the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, an important cultural hub that hosts a variety of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs. Be sure to also explore the city's riverwalk which follows the Fox River.

Crystal Lake

Located in the northeastern part of the state, Crystal Lake is a vibrant community named after the lake it’s built up around. This impressive body of water is the town’s star attraction. Spanning 230 acres, it offers a wide range of water-based activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and ice skating in winter.

The downtown core is fun to explore, too. Many of the buildings here dates from the early 1900s and now house everything from restaurants to boutique shops. It’s here you’ll also find the Raue Center for the Arts, a restored 1920s theater that continues to host a variety of performances, concerts, and cultural events.

The Final Word

While much of Illinois’s urban tourism is overshadowed by the world-class attractions of Chicago, scratch the surface of the state’s many small towns and you’ll find no end of exciting experiences to discover. Learn more and be inspired with our list of the 7 most picture-perfect towns in Illinois.