Illinois is often associated with the bustling city of Chicago, but the state has so much more to offer, especially during the summer.
Scattered across Illinois are numerous charming small towns, each with welcoming communities and a range of activities from water parks and lakes to hometown festivals and parades. Here are seven adorable small towns in Illinois worth visiting this summer.
Galena
Galena, nestled on the Mississippi River, is a charming town that draws visitors from all over, especially during summer. The town features a vibrant downtown, world-class restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and historic sites.
One highlight is the former home of the 18th U.S. President, Ulysses S. Grant, along with many other sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
For indoor activities, check out the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design or the Galena and U.S. Grant Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Buehler Preserve, an 18-acre prairie with trails for hiking, biking, and dog walking. Don’t miss the Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery for wine sampling and gourmet bites.
Woodstock
Woodstock is a quaint town rich in history and summer activities. It has been recognized as a Distinctive Destination by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and named a Preserve America Community. The historic Woodstock Opera House, built in 1889, hosts live music, dance concerts, visual arts events, and lectures year-round.
Enjoy parks like Bates Park and the Brookdale Conservation Area, which features a 1-mile trail, an 11-acre pond, and picnic areas. If visiting in early August, be sure to check out the Annual McHenry County Fair with its carnival rides, livestock shows, rodeos, and live entertainment.
Princeton
Princeton, conveniently located at the intersection of Interstate 80 and the Amtrak Train system, is a perfect summer getaway. The town comes alive with events like the Main Street Concert Series and live shows by the Princeton Theatre Group. Hornbaker Gardens, with its botanical gardens and children’s garden, is a must-visit.
Stroll down Princeton’s 2.5-mile main street filled with specialty boutiques, cafes, and antique malls. For nature lovers, Zearing Park, City County Park, and Soldiers and Sailors Park offer peaceful retreats.
Geneva
Nestled in the Fox River Valley, Geneva is an ideal Midwest summer vacation spot. Known for its historic charm, Geneva offers outdoor recreational opportunities along the scenic Fox River. For local brews and wines, visit Penrose Brewing Company, Art History Brewing, or the Geneva Winery and Tasting Room.
Downtown Geneva boasts boutiques, antique stores, cafes, and gourmet eateries. In June, don’t miss the Swedish Days Festival with live music, carnival rides, parades, and a craft beer tent. Rent a bike and explore the Illinois Prairie Path, which runs through Geneva.
Fulton
Located on the Mississippi River, Fulton is a quintessential small Midwestern community. Start your visit at the De Immigrant Windmill, a Dutch windmill assembled by local craftsmen. The Andresen Nature Center offers displays on local wildlife and the Upper Mississippi River watershed, with activities for kids.
The Martin House Museum, home to the Fulton Historical Society, is another must-see. Fulton offers a mix of historic sites, outdoor attractions, and dining options, making it ideal for summer vacations.
Ottawa
Ottawa, known as the gateway to four major state parks—Starved Rock, Matthiessen, Buffalo Rock, and Illini State Park—is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is situated at the confluence of the Fox and Illinois Rivers, making it an ideal spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Starved Rock State Park, famous for its steep sandstone canyons and scenic overlooks, is a must-visit. Dayton Bluffs Preserve, with its woodlands and Native American burial mounds, offers more opportunities for nature exploration.
Lebanon
Just 30 minutes from St. Louis, Lebanon has a rich history in education and the arts. Its historic downtown is lined with brick streets and features local eateries, cozy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. The Looking Glass Playhouse and the Russel E. and Fern M. Hettenhausen Center for the Arts are popular spots for live shows.
Spend a summer day at the 58-acre Horner Park, which includes sports fields, a fishing lake, pavilions, and the Trillium Trail Walking Path. For a unique stay, consider the charming Mermaid House Hotel, built in 1830 and visited by Charles Dickens.
Conclusion
Beyond the Windy City, Illinois is filled with inviting small towns perfect for summer vacations. Whether you seek natural waterfalls and lakes, historic theaters and museums, or charming downtowns, you’ll find it all in this scenic Midwestern state. Explore these seven towns for a delightful summer experience.