9 Off-The-Beaten-Path Towns In Illinois

Out of the approximately 112 million vacationers who visited Illinois in 2023, almost half chose Chicago as their destination, underscoring it as the state's major tourist hub in the state. But there is much to explore beyond the Windy City, especially outside the major highways. These hidden gems, sheltered from the city's choking crowds and constant traffic, are an excellent respite from the well-trodden path.

Besides enjoying a laid-back vacation, travelers have a chance to uncover hidden histories, explore rare cultures, and indulge in unforgettable adventures in the great outdoors for an all-encompassing experience. Whether immersing in the wilderness in Oglesby or discovering unique Mormon Church lore in Nauvoo, here are some of the most off-the-beaten-path towns in Illinois to visit.

Princeton

This laid-back village in Bureau County has a fascinating historical heritage manifested through several landmarks and sites. A trip to the Bureau County Historical Society Museum reveals that the city was founded in the 1830s but incorporated about five decades later in 1884. The museum's collection of over 20,000 artifacts and photographs helps preserve and interpret this rich heritage for tourists. Princeton's longstanding legacy shows in the multiple covered bridges it harbors. Captain Swift Covered Bridge is a notable landmark in the area, stretching across the Big Bureau Creek. It was installed in 2006 and beautifully represents old covered bridge architecture.

Princeton offers newcomers a glimpse of the slavery era at the Owen Lovejoy House. This rustic mansion was built in 1838 for the prominent abolitionist and was a vital stop along the Underground Railroad. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark that stores various memorabilia from the period.

Olney

Olney stands out for its thriving population of white squirrels, who have free rein over the lush nature spaces throughout the town. You can come across the cute mammals playing at Olney City Park. This serene oasis lures outdoor lovers with its quiet picnic areas, relaxed walking paths, and multiple sports fields. Guests can access three lakes in the town for various recreational activities. These include the 45-acre Vernor Lake, popular among boaters, fishermen, kayakers, and boating.

Oenophiles have an opportunity to sample local wines at the modest Fox Creek Vineyards Winery. This family-run establishment crafts sweet-tasting wines in a surreal setting punctuated by the rolling hills of southeastern Illinois.

Fulton

Fulton is separated from Clinton, Iowa, by the mighty Mississippi River and is known for its unique Dutch heritage. It received its first Dutch immigrants in the 1850s and has managed to maintain a strong European identity through its architecture and festivals. Every May, the community celebrates Fulton Dutch Days as a tribute to its roots. This incorporates traditional dances, folk songs, unique games, and other fun activities, bringing the townspeople together. At the Windmill Cultural Center, guests can peruse an extensive collection of European windmills to learn about different craftsmanship cultures.

Meanwhile, the Fulton Marina presents an excellent escape for outdoorsy vacationers. This tranquil space on the banks of the Mississippi River attracts picnickers and sightseers. An onsite boat ramp lets you get on the river and experience the area's beauty from the calm waters.

Chester

Chester lies along the beautiful banks of the Mississippi and fascinates newcomers with its cartoon heritage. The town is famous for being the birthplace of Popeye the Sailor Man and underscores it with attractions like the Popeye Museum. This quirky monument pays tribute to the iconic cartoon character by exhibiting a stockpile of related memorabilia and artifacts. Popeye fans who collect souvenirs should consider visiting Spinach Can Collectibles. It showcases an assortment of Popeye-centric merchandise guests can buy to add to their haul.

The Randolph County State Recreation Area beckons visitors to step outside and engage in adventurous activities. This wilderness area sprawls over 1,000 acres and is a hub for all things recreation, accommodating everyone from fishermen and boaters to campers and hikers.

Makanda

Makanda's location on the edge of the Shawnee National Forest makes it one of the most secluded towns in Illinois. It is surrounded by rugged wilderness landscapes, epitomized by Giant City State Park. The reserve encompasses approximately 4,000 acres, with scenic hiking trails weaving through dramatic sandstone bluffs, sheer cliff faces, and dense forestland. It is popular among hikers, campers, and horseback riders. A great alternative to exploring the town would be to do it from the sky through the Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour. This thrilling aerial experience consists of several ziplines and aerial bridges that allow you to soar above the lush canopy of the Shawnee National Forest.

Makanda has a hippie vibe that shows through its art galleries. If you appreciate artsy creations, Rainmaker Art Studio exhibits unique pieces by Dave Dardis, featuring copper fountains and bronze jewelry.

Golconda

This riverside retreat on the banks of the Ohio River offers tourists a mix of intriguing history and wilderness recreation. It houses the Golconda Historic District, which is listed on the National Register and features several vintage Victorian buildings. Prominent among these is the Pope County Courthouse from the 1870s, ranked among the longest-running Illinois courthouses. The Buel House State Historic Site is another standout in the retro neighborhood and boasts a legacy from the 1840s. The home infamously represents the start of the Trail of Tears in the state.

Stepping into the great outdoors will bring you to Dixon Springs State Park. The entire reserve is perched on a sandstone block in the Shawnee Hills bordering the Ohio River. It has rugged trails for those seeking adventure, perfect for hiking, backpacking, and rock climbing.

Nauvoo

This Hancock County community is famous for its well-preserved architecture and 19th-century buildings, intertwined with a rich legacy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Nauvoo was once a bustling religious community in the 1840s, and the grandiosity of the Nauvoo Illinois Temple best exemplifies its heydays. The building served as the church's headquarters and intrigues first-timers with its blend of Gothic, Grecian, and Roman architecture. Nauvoo has a site-rich historic district with dozens of contributing structures and transports you to the past.

At Brigham and Mary Ann Young Home, guests can get a sense of the lives of Mormon Church followers at the peak of Nauvoo. It exhibits a few rustic artifacts and furnishings from the mid-19th century. But when you've explored enough history in the area, you can head to Nauvoo State Park for a relaxed picnic on the Mississippi River banks.

Oglesby

Oglesby is the ultimate getaway for outdoor adventurers, heralded for its endless recreational opportunities. It is home to Matthiessen State Park, a large forest reserve awash with woodlands, waterfalls, canyons, and river bluffs. Almost five miles of trails run through the park, inviting vacationers to immerse in the open spaces through hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and more.

Just north of the park, Starved Rock State Park provides a more popular alternative for those craving to explore Oglesby's rich natural scenery. Many consider the area Illinois' best state park. It spoils guests with breathtaking views of waterfalls, canyons, and sandstone overhangs, while its secluded hiking trails, campsites, and river access make it a hub for recreation. After a demanding day in the wilderness, you can enjoy a chicken sandwich at Brennan's Bar & Grill before downing a refreshing cocktail.

Bishop Hill

This quaint village on the South Edwards River is steeped in Swedish heritage and was established in the 1840s by immigrants as a utopian community. Its well-maintained Victorian buildings paint a picture of its curious past, which you can start exploring at Bishop Hill State Historic Site. The complex features a series of period buildings showcasing memorabilia donated or purchased during the Colony era. You can dive deeper into Bishop Hill's unique history at the Bishop Hill Heritage Association. It stores assorted archives and documents chronicling the dynamic society during its 19th-century peak.

Meanwhile, remember to pass by Hantverk Galleri for an eye-opening cultural experience. This whimsical gallery holds assorted handmade pieces, from custom pottery and cake stands to jewelry and garden art, which make for the perfect souvenir to take back home.

Final Thought

While Illinois doesn't lack delightful destinations that travelers can visit in the United States, some enjoy more fanfare than others. For those who prefer uncrowded spaces and enjoy alone time, these off-the-beaten-path towns in Illinois are the perfect holiday destination. Besides saving you the chaos and commotion associated with major metro areas, they allow you to explore beautiful outdoor spaces, from the dense woodlands of Makanda to the deserted streets of Bishop Hill. The next time you travel to the Prairie State, consider them for a low-key vacation.