School is in session, and you realized you let the whole summer go by without doing much. Now you don’t have days and days to go on vacation. Don’t worry – there are plenty of great trips you can still go on this year in just one day. The weather is nicer, and the crowds will be smaller. Check out these 10 Illinois towns on your next weekend getaway.
1. Metropolis
Comic book fan or not, you have to get down here at some point. This town truly celebrates being the home of Superman. There is, of course, the iconic Superman statue. There are Superman museums and other themed shops. Spot little nods to Superman around town.
2. Galena
This is one of the most charming towns in Illinois. There are loads of great little shops, and nice restaurants to eat at. Take a trolley around downtown to see it all.
3. Nauvoo
This was once the town that Joseph Smith and the Mormons fled to in order to escape religious persecution. The town has done a great job preserving that history. Look for all sorts of historical markers around town. Enjoy free historical reenactments, available daily.
4. St. Charles
This is another beautiful town on the river. There are great restaurants, shopping and B&Bs. Make sure to check out the Arcada Theater Building, and take in a cabaret along with a cocktail.
5. Fulton
This place gives a nod to its Dutch heritage. Check out the large windmill--you can't miss it! It was constructed in the Netherlands. At the windmill, there is a museum with many smaller windmills, too. There is a nice gift shop inside.
6. Naperville
This Chicago suburb has a great downtown area, with everything from independent shops to higher end shopping. On the outskirts of downtown, there is a river walk, a nice trail by the river, complete with covered bridges. The town is massive, with loads of other shopping and amenities outside of the (large) downtown area.
7. Arthur
There aren't many places to see the Amish anymore. This is the largest Amish settlement in Illinois. Shop at great antiques shops and get loads of good Amish food. Make sure you try the shoo-fly pie!
8. Utica
Home to Starved Rock State Park, this one is worth the trip. The park is the most visited in Illinois. It has loads of trails, complete with canyons and waterfalls. The downtown area has some restaurants and even a good cupcake shop.
9. Alton
Alton is an interesting town. It is one of the most haunted in Illinois, with ghost sightings and allegations of paranormal activity around town. It was home to the tallest man. And it was the supposed sight of the Piasa bird, a create that is part bird and part lion. There is a lot to the history of the town, and a lot is commemorated.
10. Peoria
Peoria is out on a great riverfront. See that downtown, or go on Grandview Drive, a 2 mile stretch called the most beautiful drive in America. Check out the great Riverfront Museum, as well as the Wildlife Prairie Park and botanical gardens.
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