There's A Little-Known Attraction In Illinois You'll Want To Visit This Fall
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published October 10, 2017
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
History lovers will go wild for this lesser-known fall attraction hiding in Illinois. Whether you love learning or just want to remember a simpler time, this amazing museum will give you an intriguing experience.
Don’t miss out on one of the most beautiful places to catch some autumn leaves. Keep scrolling for more on this unique attraction:
When you're in the mood for something that's both educational and entertaining, it's time for a visit to the Funk Prairie Home Museum. This unique place gives tours that take you back to simpler times.
Though things were slower then, you'll find that time flies with all the fun here. You could spend an entire afternoon roaming the beautiful walking grounds.
The museum showcases the Funk family's exciting history as well as their agricultural and political accomplishments. This unique fall attraction is a serious blast from the past.
Guests may schedule tours for three different parts of the museum. First is the 1864 Victorian home filled with elegant rooms and old-fashioned decor. There are also picturesque gardens.
There is also a tour of the 1860s machinery and barn. It is the largest wood-peg barn still in McLean County. It is filled with photos of how life on the farm used to be as well as vintage machinery that was horse-drawn. Guests learn all about old farming methods.
Perhaps most unique at this museum is the huge gem and mineral collection amassed by LaFayette Funk II himself. It features stones from all corners of earth and moon.
The best part about this place is that admission is free, but you must make reservations ahead of time. Come enjoy the beauty of autumn at this incredible place.
Funk Prairie Home and Gem and Mineral Museum is located at 10875 Prairie Home Lane in Shirley, and you can get more information about tours on its Facebook page or website.