8 Coziest Small Towns in Illinois
Many first think of the vibrant and busy metropolis of Chicago when picturing the state of Illinois, which is only some of what the Land of Lincoln offers. From the beginning, Illinois has had an incredible variety of cultures that united to establish beautifully unique communities. Many parts of Illinois embrace the laid-back and unhurried lifestyle, from lingering and people-watching at a local café to enjoying a lazy picnic on the banks of a slowly trickling river. From an enchanting town that promises "Big Things" to a profoundly artistic hamlet at the crux of three state borders, Illinois has many cute and cozy small towns that are a true delight to visit. Relax and unwind while exploring the authentic and homey experiences these eight Illinois sites offer!
Arcola, Illinois
An adorable town of roughly 2,900 named "Broomcorn Capital of the World," Arcola is a quaint destination with distinctive heritage and stunning public art. This entry to the wonderful Illinois Amish Country is surrounded by sprawling green fields dotted with farms, from modern to those of the Old Order Amish, providing a calming place to take a passive drive.
The one-of-a-kind Broomcorn Festival, which honors the town's heritage of being a producer of broom-making materials, happens the weekend after Labor Day. This event has something for everyone, including a 5k and 10k race for the athletic and a giant parade with the hilarious Lawn Rangers, a "precision lawn mower drill team."
Shopping is a treat in the historic downtown, with abundant Amish furniture and handicrafts. The downtown area also contains fifteen vibrant murals, including a unique one of Raggedy Ann and Andy (a historic pair of doll characters created in 1915 by Johnny Gruelle, born in Arcola). Arcola is fresh air off the beaten path that no one should miss, from fun festivals to unique artwork.
Casey, Illinois
Less than an hour's drive from Arcola, Casey presents an equally charming but very quirky type of cozy. This small town of roughly 2,400 residents may not have a large population, but it does have a large wind chime, a giant mailbox, a huge rocking chair, and many more!
With the tagline "Big Things in a Small Town," Casey delivers more than delivers (mostly courtesy of local Jim Bolin), with over 25 oversized objects for tourists to interact and take pictures with, climb inside the mailbox, or ring the wind chime. Most gigantic attractions are located outside, with no entry fee, making it an excellent option for an inexpensive and fun adventure.
The downtown has lovely places to enjoy a treat, from Casey's Candy Depot to Tetzel Prime for a uniquely flavored soft pretzel (think buffalo chicken or s'mores!). Finding a delicious meal is no problem, with Richard's Farm and Cilantro's Grill and Cantina all providing atmospheric places to indulge in dishes such as one-pound pork chops and giant burritos. Casey is a one-of-a-kind town that offers an experience like none other, and it should be a must-see stop on everyone's list.
Elsah, Illinois
Another excellent spot for photography is Elsah, Illinois. No cozy trip to Illinois would be complete without visiting this idyllic village, voted one of the top-rated scenic spots by Illinois residents. Befittingly for a place described as "traveling back in time," the entire town was the first in 1973 to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Not a reenactment village, Elsah is where residents cherish their village's heritage.
Founded in 1853, quite a few buildings in Elsah still hail from that time, with the Civic Center being given to the city in 1857 by founder James Semple and the unusual Ice House Ruins from 1865 a popular portrait backdrop.
The charming Elsah General Store, housed in a superbly restored 1870s building, gives the rare opportunity to find vintage-style glass-bottle sodas, old-fashioned candies, and various local grocery items. Bring a piece of the past home with you!
One unexpected aspect of Elsah is that it is also a hot spot for bald eagle-watching. So, as if the storybook beauty of the village is not enough of a reason to visit, a scarcely seen bald eagle can be the subject of visitors' photographs!
Galena, Illinois
Galena is another deeply historic town with the bonuses of a unique shopping district and fantastic places to eat. Although the name "Galena" may be Latin for lead sulfide due to this town's mining past, nothing is dull about this welcoming gem of northwestern Illinois.
Established in 1826, Galena still has many historically significant buildings (over 85% of the city's buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places), from the Desoto House hotel where Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas spoke, to the restored Italianate-style Ulysses S. Grant Home. The "Helluva Half Mile' is a half mile of diverse classical buildings, housing more than 125 shops and restaurants, from clothing boutiques to art galleries to even a novelty sock shop!
After shopping, appetites need to be sated, and Galena has more than enough choices. Little Tokyo for sushi, Fritz and Frites for Alsatian cuisine (a comforting blend of French and German cuisines), and Fried Green Tomatoes for steaks and rich Italian fare are all top-rated spots.
Galena tops the "most beautiful towns" list yearly for a reason. It is picturesque and quaint, with endless things to eat, experience, and see!
Geneva, Illinois
If travelers want a quick escape from the cosmopolitan buzz of Chicago, Geneva is a little over an hour's train ride away. It is a veritable paradise for those who love shopping and dining, with over 160 specialty shops and restaurants to explore. Bike trails, sports teams, and various art venues round out the Geneva experience to create a perfect place for a rejuvenating getaway.
The cuisine scene in Geneva ranges from microbreweries to bakeries to a large variety of upscale cafes and romantic restaurants ready for a night out. Particular standouts are Riganoto Old World Grille for delightful Italian fare, All Chocolate Kitchen for luxurious desserts, and Atwater's for farm-to-table dishes with a fabulous view of the Fox River.
With all the energy gained from decadent dining, visitors can browse shops to their heart's content. Unique clothing boutiques, food and wine purveyors (even a garlic company), and The Little Traveler, a shop focused around an Italianate Victorian residence bursting with exciting treasures.
Outdoor enthusiasts can find inspiration on the numerous biking, hiking, and paddling trails throughout Geneva.
Geneva is perfect for those looking for a fun and well-rounded experience.
Herod, Illinois
On the other end of the state, Herod is a haven for anyone needing to reconnect with nature. Engulfed by the Shawnee National Forest, this hikers' hamlet has everything a rustic getaway needs, including cave systems, scenic roads for driving, and unique sandstone rock formations carved out millions of years ago.
Herod is a shining example of the striking natural landscape of southern Illinois. With bluffs, cliffs, and rocky hills, it is a far cry from the typical highly flat Midwestern scenery. Hiking the Shawnee National Forest can be as simple as hiking a short quarter-mile observation trail to soak in the views of the river valley or as advanced as the challenging 62-mile-long Illinois Prairie Path (which Herod is a stop on).
After touring the Forest, stop at the Garden of the Gods Outpost for cute souvenirs such as pressed pennies, old-fashioned candy, and T-shirts. Ice cream sundaes and shakes are on the menu for hikers seeking a recharge.
Elegant cabins and rustic camping areas provide respite after a long day of outdoor recreation. Rent a sweet cottage and fully immerse yourself in the calm beauty of the Shawnee National Forest.
Mount (Mt.) Morris, Illinois
For the quintessential cozy small-town experience, Mount Morris is an idyllic choice sure to satisfy. With the unique mascot of the bighorn founder (described as a powerfully built sheep) sprinkled throughout the town, it certainly possesses a unique appeal.
Art on Fire is an outdoor exhibition that lets residents express themselves through the unusual medium of a painted fire hydrant. With a yearly contest, there is plenty to see all over Mount Morris.
The remnants of Mount Morris College's campus (the college closed in 1932) contribute "Old Sandstone" and other historic buildings as a stunning backdrop for the middle of the village.
In August every year, an astonishing festival occurs. The US National Straw Sculpting Competition arrives in town, bringing extensive works of art from straw depicting animals like elephants and bears or pop culture icons such as Superman and Mr. Peanut.
Homey eats are available at The Pepper Mill, whose specialties include the mysteriously named Chicken Jockey and succulent prime rib. The Idle Hour has a simple, down-home pub feel with classic favorites like burgers and wings. Mount Morris is an endearing community with quirky surprises.
Utica, Illinois
Nature surrounds Utica, with nearby Starved Rock State Park and Matthiesen State Park among the biggest draws for hikers and romantics alike. Rent a cabin or grab a tent and soak in all that nature offers, from the peaceful nighttime silence to the crisp scent of waterfalls flowing over river rocks.
Starved Rock State Park is one of the most famous state parks in Illinois, and for good reason, with over 13 miles of hiking trails and 18 canyons that change immensely over the seasons. These trails feature waterfalls that flow freely in the spring and freeze in the winter, forming spectacular ice sculptures, trees, and vegetation that light up in blazing colors in the autumn.
Matthiesen State Park is an underrated attraction home to invigorating hiking trails studded with caves to explore. With both parks, checking before the trip for closures is recommended.
In addition to natural beauty, Utica has a thriving culinary scene, from places to buy a gourmet snack, like Starved Rock Popcorn, to August Hill Winery, offering a variety of locally made wines. Utica is a gorgeous gateway to nature that is picture-perfect in all seasons.
Small-town Illinois has so much to offer for those willing to take a chance and try destinations outside of the typical popular tourist spots. Anyone can find a satisfying getaway in Illinois, from nature lovers to couples seeking romance.
Unique experiences and authentic charm are a few reasons to spend time in small-town Illinois. Cozy and cute in all seasons, the less-traveled parts of Illinois are highly recommended for those who desire a change of pace. Explore Illinois and find your cozy!
