Illinois is known for its big cities, but there are plenty of small towns throughout the state. These are the kinds of towns where not a lot happens, and you can be at peace. Here are 10 quiet towns in Illinois that are always worth visiting when you need a little escape from the hustle and bustle of lift!

1. Galesburg
Galesburg, IL 61401, USA
Peter van den Bossche/Flickr
A trip to Galesburg, Illinois, will bring you back in time. Once upon a time, Galesburg was a hub for industry. It also was an important stop on the underground railroad. Today, the town is quieter but still full of attractions. Great old architecture and a railroad museum are some of the top attractions.
2. Nauvoo
Nauvoo, IL, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
Nauvoo was once the town where Joseph Smith and the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints escaped religious persecution. Now, the population is just over 1,000. A lot of tourism centers around its historic buildings. Historical reenactments showing what life was like here in the 1800s add to the charm.
3. Woodstock
Woodstock, IL 60098, USA
Eden, Janine and Jim/Flickr
Woodstock is a safe, quiet place for families. The high point is the downtown area. There are some nice historic buildings. There is even a quaint walking tour you can do of the downtown where the history of the buildings is explained.
4. Marion
Marion, IL, USA
Carol Norquist/Flickr
Marion is one of the nicest towns in southern Illinois. There is lots to do if you like the outdoors, and everyone heads to the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. You will also enjoy the Marion Carnegie Library--it has a really awesome space for teens.
5. Ottawa
Ottawa, IL 61350, USA
Richie Diesterheft/Flickr
This river town in Illinois offers a great downtown area and places to hike. We recommend going to Buffalo Rock State Park, a park with two resident bison. Downtown has a nice spot called Washington Square, a place to catch up with friends or just read a book.

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6. Dixon
Dixon, IL 61021, USA
David Wilson/Flickr
This rural town in Illinois is known for its petunias and catfish. It also was the boyhood home of Ronald Reagan. Today, there are numerous art galleries and festivals held throughout the year. But it still manages to be a quiet, peaceful town.
7. Pontiac
Pontiac, IL 61764, USA
David Wilson/Flickr
Pontiac, Illinois, was once quite the town off Route 66. Today, the town pays homage to that history. Check out the Illinois Route 66 museum. There is also a nice automobile museum to explore.
8. St. Charles
St. Charles, IL, USA
David Wilson/Flickr
It's all about small shops and relaxation in this charming small town in Illinois. Walk along the river and take it in. There are plenty of opportunities to get outdoors here.
9. Effingham
Effingham, IL 62401, USA
Todd Huffman/Flickr
This small town is famous for its massive cross. People pass through, but it's not a very large town. There are good families living in a strong community. They are all about food in Effingham, with good restaurants and farmers' markets.
10. Metropolis
Metropolis, IL, USA
David Wilson/Flickr
Yes, this town is a tourist attraction. And yes, it's all about Superman. But at its core, Metropolis is a classic small town in Illinois. It's safe and quiet, and you will enjoy living here.

Want to explore more quiet small towns in Illinois? These are the most beautiful, charming small towns in Illinois that will always welcome you with open arms!

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quiet towns in illinois

Sarah M. | September 22, 2022

What are some charming small towns in Illinois?

If you’re looking for the ultimate Midwest small town, consider Woodstock, Illinois. Woodstock offers residents small-town charm and character, and a quality of life that has folks happy to call it home. Woodstock is located in McHenry County, about an hour's drive from Chicago. First established in 1844, the city was originally known as Centerville, referencing its central location and role as county seat. In 1845, Centerville was renamed Woodstock. This small town in Illinois has garnered lots of recognition over the years as a wonderful place to live; the town was named an All America City in 1964, a Certified City in 1987, a National Trust Distinctive Destination in 2007, and most recently, a Preserve America Community! The town square is the heart and soul of this small town, and if Woodstock's City Square looks familiar, it's because you probably saw it – again and again – in the classic 1993 movie Groundhog Day! However, unlike Bill Murray, everyone that visits Woodstock, Illinois, is always happy to be there!

Another charming town in Illinois that is constantly hailed as one of, if not THE, best place to live in the Land of Lincoln is Galena. The town of Galena, Illinois, seems to charm all who visit. As a picturesque place with parks, historical sites, shops, restaurants, beautiful hotels, and more, there is certainly a little something for anyone to enjoy. If you love shopping, eating at fantastic restaurants, and visiting spas and ice cream shops, you'll love strolling along Galena's main drag. Its thriving downtown boasts over 125 shops and restaurants, most of which are housed in 19th-century buildings. Within this delightful downtown, foodies will find numerous top-notch restaurants and legendary establishments, such as Vinny Vanucchis, a longstanding Galena establishment known for having the best lasagna in Illinois!

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