The Cozy Small Town In Illinois That Comes Alive Under A Blanket Of Snow
By Linze Rice|Published January 08, 2024
×
Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
I grew up sledding down the big hill at Russell Woods on a metal saucer, whizzing through the cold air and letting out a frosty cloud with each scream. Living in Illinois, we get freezing, hardy winters most years, so we know how to deal with the briskness while still being able to have fun. A little (or lot) of snow rarely slows us down. So for those seeking a cold-weather getaway, Andalusia is one of the best winter towns in Illinois. With a renowned ski resort, parks, and proximity to the Quad Cities, there’s plenty of winter fun to be had.
Along the Mississippi River border between Illinois and Iowa is the village of Andalusia. With a population of less than 1,200 residents, this small river town is ordinary in many ways throughout most of the year. But once the snow falls, it truly comes alive.
The winter season kicks off with an annual tree lighting in town, which locals are encouraged to attend. With twinkling lights and community spirit in full effect, there's a sense of winter magic in the air.
A popular place to visit is the Andalusia Slough Recreation Area — an approximately 7-acre roadside natural area with picnic shelters, fishing, boating, and hunting.
Once ice and snow blanket the area, it turns into a stunning winter landscape. Bring your camera or simply soak in the frosty scene, one cold, deep breath at a time. Peaceful and chilly, it's a great place to get some exercise and appreciate the picturesque environment.
If you want more heart-pumping action, head on over to Snowstar — a winter wonderland ski resort with a lodge and 15 trails across 28 acres. Visitors can ski, go tube sledding, snowboard, ride the ski lift, and much more. If it's your first time hitting the slopes, the resort also offers lessons.
It's one of the biggest draws to the area in the winter and offers a fun, quintessential way to play in the powder. Just make sure to check their website and social media first, since warm weather can sometimes interrupt the season.
When you're ready for some warmth and replenishment, head on over to one of several local restaurants — like Luebbe’s Bar & Grill, 101 6th Ave W on the town's main strip.
A local favorite for breakfast, you can't go wrong with a classic diner skillet or plate of morning staples like eggs, meats, and bread. Plus, nothing warms you up quicker than a fresh cup of coffee.
Or, try a plate of fresh hand-breaded catfish that locals rave about. As someone who grew up with regular fish fries, I can say that a plate full of breaded fish and all the right sides is an ideal way to cap off a day in the snow.
At the end of the day, take the 9-minute drive east to Rock Island, where you'll find chain hotel options that make a perfect home base for your adventures. At Bally's Quad Cities, your room also comes with access to the casino, sports bar, and pool, keeping the fun and relaxation going as long as you'd like.
