11 Old-Fashioned Attractions In Illinois That Will Remind You Of The Good Ol' Days
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
If you’re looking for a vintage experience that will give you a blast from the past, these 11 old-fashioned attractions throughout Illinois are just what you need. You’ll want to add these antique wonders to your bucket list.
From vintage getaways to antique stores, this list has a little taste of everything that will make you feel nostalgic. Check it out:
In business since 2018, this stunning hotel is a mansion from the 1880s. There are two grand, luxurious suites to choose from and each is more magnificent than the last. Guests enjoy modern amenities alongside vintage decor and a fabulous breakfast you'll never forget. Learn more about this little-known inn here.
Though it has only been around since 2010, this gigantic arcade is one of the best old-fashioned attractions if you're a child of the 1980s. Home to nearly 650 games, this unique place just charges a flat rate to get in the door and then games are set on free play. If there's a game you're looking for, you'll likely find it here. This place is a treasure trove of antique arcade games. Learn more about it here.
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This fun place will take you way back in time. Mainly for young kids, this unique amusement park is open May through October and represents the Wild West of the early 1800s. It has been in operation since 1974 and includes a wealth of themed activities like mining, pony rides, and canoes. Click here to learn more.
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This vintage ice cream parlor has been around since 1976, and it is a cute and quirky place to get some delicious frozen dairy treats. Open year round, this joint comes out with seasonal flavors like pumpkin around this time. Hot food can also be found at this restaurant, and you can learn more about it here.
Hop aboard a 1912 steam locomotive for a 3.4-mile trip through some of Illinois' most beautiful countryside. This authentic, vintage experience includes shoveling coal and riding with the conductor. In October, it hosts a scary Halloween ride. Learn more from previous coverage here.
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This incredible place was originally part of the World's Fair in St. Louis. Like any good general store, it is full of old-fashioned goodies like fudge, suckers, and artisan candy bars as well as lovely decor. Learn more about this unique old spot here.
Tucked away in Midwest farm country, this 6,000-square-foot barn is home to 25 vendors who bring unique vintage goods from all over. This massive store is filled with everything from clothing and accessories to hand-crafted soaps and other beauty products. The holidays are the best time to stop by as seasonal goods will be all around. Get more details about this northern Illinois shop here. Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, Roadhouse Antiques is permanently closed.
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One of the most gorgeous getaways in the state, this vintage cottage has been hosting guests since 1949. It is situated on the bluffs of the Mississippi River and is the perfect place to stay for a vintage experience. By way of old-fashioned attractions, this is the most immersive. Free breakfast, immaculate gardens, and antique decor make this a truly unforgettable hotel. Learn more about it here.
Featuring museums, antiques, and an old-fashioned restaurant, this unique place is a little-known attraction that deserves more attention. It spans 30 acres and is a great place to visit if you love old cars. Learn more about this historic place here.
Take a step back to the 1840s with this 70-passenger, mule-pulled boat ride. Guests learn all about the care involved with keeping mules as well as some history about the Illinois River and Abraham Lincoln. This unique experience lasts just one hour, and you can learn more about it here.
Located in a small town outside Chicago, this 1950s-themed restaurant is all about the baby boom era. The amazing decor draws locals in time and again. If you love Elvis and classic cars, you'll want to visit this drive in. Learn more about it here.
As a bonus, check out these six vintage tea rooms in Illinois for a piece of the past.
What other old-fashioned attractions do you love to visit in Illinois? Share your favorites with us below in the comments.
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