8 Eclectic Small Towns In Illinois

Illinois, located in the heart of the Midwest, may be known for the Windy City of Chicago and the state capital of Springfield, but the state has so much more to offer for those looking for something other than skyscrapers, packed streets, and incessant car horns blaring. A lot of the smaller towns and cities contain attractions and incentives for visiting that you can't find in the big city. If you’re planning on a visit, make sure to venture out of the ordinary to these eight eclectic small towns in Illinois.

Galena

Located deep in a valley in Northwest Illinois, Galena is a quiet town with a bustling entertainment district. And the best part? Everything worth visiting can be toured on foot. With over 125 shops and restaurants on historic Main Street, you can also visit ice cream shops, spas, breweries, and distilleries without even leaving one stretch of road. After a day in town, climb the steps out of the valley to High Street and Prospect Street and stay in one of the cozy, independently run bed and breakfasts. Establishments such as the Ulysses S. Grant Home, Dowling House (Galena’s oldest house), and Belvedere Mansion are all historic establishments located within walking distance of the city's Main Street.

Casey

“Big Things, Small Town,” is Casey’s slogan, and it certainly fits for this town that is one gigantic roadside attraction. Home of multiple Guinness World Record-holding “biggest things” winners, Casey has many oversized items lining the streets of its downtown for visitors to not only observe but interact with. The world’s largest mailbox contains a staircase to climb to the top and overlook the rest of the town. The roadside Big Bird Cage has a swing inside to sit and rock as if you were yourself a bird. In addition, there is also an oversized seesaw, bookworm, swizzle spoon, car key and more.

Woodstock

Woodstock, located just south of the Wisconsin border, is popular for its historic district, with one of its most visited establishments being the Opera House. A performing arts center that host concerts, trivia nights, and live plays. While the downtown area is popular, it’s not what Woodstock is famously known for. The popular movie 1993 "Groundhog Day" was filmed in Woodstock and has visitors coming back every year on the holiday for a multi-day event that includes: visiting film locations, exploring downtown, drinking local craft beers, and of course watching the classic movie.

Cave-In-Rock

Cave-In-Rock is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Cave-In-Rock is named and known for literally just that: a cave within a rock along the Ohio River, which forms part of the state's southern border with Kentucky. The cave was previously used as a hideout for outlaws and river pirates, as well as a drinking den for criminals. Cave-in-Rock State Park and the nearby Shawnee National Forest provide many opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. And the surrounding region provides ample opportunities for dining, relaxing, or exploring.

Metropolis

Calling all DC fans! For anyone that is a superhero or comic book fan, Metropolis should not be missed. Famous for being the name of Superman's home — and usually considered to be somewhere in the northeastern United States, this town of Metropolis in Illinois features what's known as "the world's largest Superman statue"; it's 15-feet high and weighs 3 tons; it's located in the center of downtown. Snap some photos with the statue and then head to the museum which boasts one of the world's largest collections of Superman memorabilia. Superman is the main attraction of the town, but there’s also Fort Massac State Park to enjoy the hiking trails, cast a pole in the lake, or go back in time during the Fort Massac Encampment.

Mattoon

Mattoon might be regarded as just another small town, with typical small-town diners and boutiques. But it is actually known for something a lot more controversial, yet entertaining. Mattoon is the home of the original Burger King. Founded in 1959 the original Burger King has no affiliation with the fast-food franchise, and a court case, won by the restaurant owners, prevents any fast-food Burger Kings from being built or operated within a 20-mile radius. After getting a burger, stop by the Mattoon Golf and Country Club, Douglas-Hart Nature Center or the Warren James Winery for more fun.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a town that gives visitors a rich mix of history and nature. It is famous for being the site of the first of the famed Lincoln-Douglas debates between the two candidates for the US Senate from Illinois, Republican Abraham Lincoln and Democrat Stephen Douglas; the debates took place in 1858. Another piece of history in the town is the John Hossack House. It was one of the stations on the Underground Railroad. Now a private home, visitors can admire it from the outside. Ottawa is also close to Starved Rock State Park along the Illinois River, which includes 13 miles of trails with stops at 18 canyons throughout the park. Starved Rock can be enjoyed in the summer, but also in the winter when the waterfalls have frozen over. Watch your step if you visit in winter!

Long Grove

There was a time when Long Grove was known for its cutesy restaurants and trinket stores, but as of late, the only time you will hear about it is when another car crashes into the historic Robert Parker Coffin Bridge, which features a clearance height of just 8 feet 6 inches. In recent years, motorists have struck the bridge more than 50 times! If the bridge is open and you are able to pass through it into the town, make sure to visit when Long Grove is having one of their famous festivals that include Chocolate Fest, Strawberry Fest and Craft Beer Festival.

Final Thoughts

Before visiting Illinois — or even if you are already here — think outside the box and consider visiting a less popular area than Chicago. Leave the crowds and tall buildings behind and instead opt to explore nature or visit one-of-a-kind restaurants, shops, and attractions. Illinois has so much more to offer than what's typically hyped, and finding those places will leave anyone pleased with their decision to try something new, different, slightly odd, but always enticing. Consider visiting some (or all!) of the eight most eclectic small towns in Illinois.