12 Most Charming Small Towns In Illinois

Adored by famous people and everyday tourists, seen in movies and read about in books worldwide, one must travel through the Midwest state of Illinois to soak up the all-American spirit. These towns ooze with history and beckon with authentic Midwestern charm without putting a show on to their visitors. 

Fulton

With an idyllic vibe, the historic Dutch town of Fulton is set on the Mississippi River, with many fishing and boating opportunities in the area. The town's prominent landmark is a windmill delivered straight from the Netherlands in 2000 that grinds grains on the spot to take back home as a little souvenir. The Heritage Canyon houses a one-room schoolhouse and a covered bridge, among other pioneer-era structures. Many of the town's events also celebrate the Dutch culture, such as the Dutch Days festival every May. There are the Andresen Nature Centre, the historic downtown, two scenic national by-ways, and the Great River Bike Trail for more quaint charm.

Elmhurst

The first impression one will get from the charming town of Elmhurst is the sense of community, celebrated through numerous events and parades each year, such as the annual Memorial Parade happening annually for over a century now. Having been home to Keebler cookies before Kellogg bought them out, the town is also known for its sweets with charming names, such as the Sunshine Biscuits and the Famous Amos cookies. Founded in the 19th century, the town has been attracting artists ever since, with the Chicago poet Carl Sandburg, a resident, and the Elmhurst College of a progressive liberal arts school reputation.

Elsah

Nicknamed as the "village where time stood still", with a population of 600-some residents, Elsah is a truly unique town that would be enjoyed particularly by history buffs. With the entire town listed on the National Register of Historic Places, one will feel as if they have been transported back in time to the early 19th century, with the beautiful stone and wooden houses. The Native Americans came upon the area likely for its stand-out location amid the flat Midwestern plain. Set along the Mississippi River, Elsah is tucked away in a ravine, surrounded by thick woods and bluffs that offer views down to the Mississippi River and bald eagles soaring overhead.

Arthur And Arcola

Set a few miles apart along Highway 133 in the state's Amish country, Arcola is known for having invented the first Raggedy Ann doll at the turn of the 20th century, celebrated through annual festivals. It also contains the public folk art installation, the "World's One and Only Hippie Memorial," dedicated to the '60 trend. Arthur, also known as The Great Pumpkin Patch, grows over 300 varieties of squash and gourds, with llamas and exotic chickens, among other animals on the farm. The villages are both known for the best intriguing shopping finds.

Woodstock

The nostalgic, buzzing, and all-American town of Woodstock was featured in various big-time movies, including Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Groundhog Day. With Orson Welles as a famous resident and the White House naming it the "Preserve America Community," it is no wonder that the town is on the National Register of Historic Places. A simple walk through its laid-back atmosphere induces relaxation, while the great shopping options include hand-crafted pottery, leather goods, handmade jewelry, fine art, and antiques. There are many eclectic restaurants, an opera house, and a ton of live music options. Woodstock's Victorian Christmas celebration is a memorable event with horse-drawn carriages and period-dressed carollers.

Galena

As a former mining community, Galena is now a bustling hotspot for activities, with wineries, galleries, ghost tours, and snowboarding that would suit honeymooners, foodies, and city dwellers alike. The Apple River Canyon State Park offers camping and fishing in the surroundings of limestone cliffs, and the Great Galena Balloon Race takes place every June. The town has a famous past, with Ulysses S. Grant calling it home, Lincoln and Douglas giving speeches on the balcony of the DeSoto House Hotel, and being adored by Oprah.

Greenville

One of the state's oldest communities, the college town of Greenville has a rich history commemorated in its charmingly old-fashioned downtown area. For instance, the very spot where Stephen Douglas and Abraham Lincoln made their speeches when running for president in 1858 is marked with a large stone memorial. A unique portion of the restoration efforts was imparted by the local artists, painting murals around the town. Along with other notable museums, the American Farm Heritage Museum and Hills Fort preserve agricultural history, while the Greenville Public Library from 1905 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stores every issue of Greenville Advocate since 1858.

Lebanon

Lebanon is a tried and true college town to its roots, with its McKendree College being the oldest in the state. The streets lined with historic buildings of many styles, including Southern Colonial, Greek Revival, and Gothic, are worthy of strolling by to admire. As a former Native American village with effigy mounds, the town's past is commemorated in the preserved remains known as the Emerald Mound. The Mermaid House is another fascinating stop, having been paid visit by Charles Dickens, and written about in his American Notes. The town's community playhouse, the quaint shops, and the Homer Park of 58 beautiful acres to explore, can be appreciated by just about anyone. 

Galesburg

Set amid the rolling prairies, Galesburg is another charming town straight from the past, emanating nostalgia of the beauty found in simple living where one needs no more than a favorite job or pastime to indulge in. Also, a railway center for Illinois throughout history, the Galesburg Railroad Museum, and the Discovery Depot Children's Museum tell how the railway shaped the town and is relevant today. The scenic Lake Storey Recreational Area is excellent for land and water summertime activities, while the wintertime brings the joys of ice skating and cross country skiing. A favorite show for tourists and residents alike is the re-enactment of the Civil War during Heritage Days in August.

Nauvoo

Nauvoo was a refuge to the Mormon Church in the 1840s where they wanted to live on their own plotted land, undisturbed by the United States government, as well as the setting where their founder, Joseph Smith, was killed by an angry mob upon which, the Church relocated to Utah. The population has also dropped significantly since that time of 12,000 residents, but left a prominent historic footprint on the town. Home to the Nauvoo House, the Red Brick Store, and the Smith Family Cemetery, one can watch candle-making, bread-making, and a variety of other pioneer demonstrations in the historic downtown area, filled with 60 other restored historic buildings.

Quincy

The small, charming town of Quincy is chock-full of a variety of sights to see and things to do, from admiring the collection of mid-century modern homes to scavenging for the public art installations throughout the town. With pubs and curb-side food trucks at every corner, the town's laid-back atmosphere can be enjoyed throughout the day and well into the night. Even nature is attracted to this locale, with bald eagles choosing the area as their wintertime escape and can be spotted from numerous viewpoints in the vicinity. Many fans of Mark Twain also make a pit-stop in Quincy, just half an hour across the river border to the treasure cove of the great author in Hannibal.

Wheaton

Not to take lightly, the conservative town of Wheaton is charming in a traditional college town way that can be felt in the atmosphere and seen in the proud demonstration of traditions and community covenant to every visitor. Despite its strict facade, the town is a known cultural mecca with free outdoor concerts, summer vintage car shows, and the Wine and Cultural Arts Festival. The annual Prairie Path Clean-up is an event where every resident gathers to sweep clean all 61-miles of the highway through town to show a true community spirit. The Wheaton French Market is equally adored by residents and tourists alike for its exceptionally European feel.

Home to famous people, written about in books and featured in movies, these small towns of Illinois have colluded traditional values and cultural diversity into their open hearts to showcase all the various charming sides of classical Midwestern living.