A peaceful trip through the Illinois countryside is an idyllic way to spend a day. What’s better than checking out a new diner or seeing a unique roadside attraction? In central Illinois, there’s a town that’s known for both its rich history and its enchanting culture of art. For an unforgettable journey, this day trip to historic Arcola, Illinois, may be just what you’re looking for.

Where is Arcola, Illinois, you ask? This quaint town is nestled right in the heart of the Prairie State's scenic Amish country. Accessed right off of I-57, the charming small town is less than a three-hour drive from major cities like Chicago, Indianapolis, and St. Louis.
Arcola Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Make sure to stop by one of the Amish furniture stores to see high-quality, handmade pieces that demonstrate true artistry.
Arcola's historic downtown strip showcases a number of well-maintained buildings, which offer local shopping and dining, and hosts a number of unique festivals.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
At night, the buildings shine brightly against the star-lit sky.
Arcola Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
A great place to start the day is at the Hen House, 547 E. Springfield Rd. The old-fashioned country kitchen opens early at 5:30 a.m. and serves house specialties like chili mac, fish and chips, and hot beef sandwiches until 3 p.m.
Hen House Restaurant & Gift, 547 E Springfield Rd, Arcola, IL 61910, USA
Gary/Google

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Perhaps Arcola's largest claim to fame is that it's the birthplace of Johnny Gruelle, creator of the iconic Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. Visit the A Walk Through Time Museum, 110 E. Main St., to see some of the dolls' incredible historical artifacts — as well as Vietnam War memorabilia in the Local Heroes' section, and displays on the city's deep ties to the Hispanic community and railroad industry.
A Walk Through Time, featuring Raggedy Ann and Andy, 110 E Main St, Arcola, IL 61910, USA
Arcola Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Arcola is also known for its annual Broom Corn Festival, which occurs the weekend after Labor Day. Known as the "broom corn capital of the world," the town comes alive with broom-inspired events, crafts, entertainment, and activities, celebrating the impact of this major crop.
Arcola Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The festival includes a parade, which is the largest in central Illinois. If you go, keep an eye out for the fabulous broom-twirling Lawn Rangers!
While you're in town, take advantage of the free local art. There are 17 colorful murals placed throughout downtown that tell the history of the city.
Arcola Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Pick up a mural guide at the Tourist Information Center, 135 N. Oak St., which is housed inside a train depot from 1885.
You may be surprised to find that this small community is also home to the only hippie memorial in the nation at 135 N. Oak St. Created by late resident Bob Moomaw in the 1990s, the 62-foot piece of art is a testament to his passions and beliefs.
Hippie Memorial, N Oak St, Arcola, IL 61910, USA
Ken Bosma/Flickr

Between the simplicity of the Amish culture and the offbeat charm of the downtown area, it’s easy to see why so many have worked Arcola into their travel plans. It’s an enchanting and enriching historic small town that has plenty of quirkiness to pack into a fun-filled day. Have you ever taken a day trip to historic Arcola, Illinois? What would you want to visit first?

If you need some belly fuel for the ride home, make sure to check out Yoder’s Kitchen, 1195 E. Columbia St. — just 15 minutes outside Arcola in the beautiful city of Arthur, Illinois.

And before you head out for your road trip, be sure to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List!

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 60+ Essentials For Your Next Adventure

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More to Explore

Small Towns In Illinois

Meghan Byers | February 08, 2024

What are the best small towns in Illinois?

Some of the best small towns in Illinois are:

  • Galena: This popular small-town destination is one of the most enchanting small towns in Illinois, with beautiful 19th-century buildings, a great scene for foodies, and lots of outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Mount Carroll: Known as the New England of the midwest, Mount Carroll features a 25-acre park, a performance venue, a thriving downtown, and a historic inn built in 1886, among other historic buildings.
  • Fulton: Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, Fulton has a rich Dutch heritage and historic downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places – plus a towering windmill originally manufactured in the Netherlands before being assembled in Fulton.

What are the best small towns near Chicago?

Some of the best small towns near Chicago are the following:

  • Geneva, Illinois: A scenic small town along the Fox River which has long welcomed travelers looking for respite, featuring a riverfront resort.
  • Ottawa, Illinois: Known as the gateway to Starved Rock State Park, this town is a great destination for nature lovers. Ottawa also has a historic downtown with beautiful architecture and plenty of modern eateries.
  • Long Grove, Illinois: From its quirky sock monkey museum to its cobblestone streets and boutique shops, Long Grove is a unique Illinois destination that’s full of charm.

What is the smallest town population in Illinois?

Valley City, Illinois, a village located in Pike County, has a population of only 14 people as of the 2020 census. This makes it the smallest town population in Illinois.

More towns with the smallest populations in Illinois are:

  • Florence, Illinois: population of 18
  • Bentley, Illinois: population of 28
  • Time, Illinois: population of 26
  • Floraville, Illinois: population of 30

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Arcola, IL 61910, USA