Illinois is known around the world for Chicago. And Chicago’s a great city. There are a lot of great things about living in a city as far as amenities go. But another thing Illinois has going for it are some amazingly charming small towns. We’re counting down ten of the most charming and best small towns in Illinois:

1. Galena
Wesley Fryer/Flickr
Galena, IL 61036, USA
Samuel A. Love/Flickr
Galena is repeatedly described as the best place to visit in the Midwest, whether you want to get away or are on your honeymoon. There is plenty for foodies, including wineries and breweries as well as a culinary school. You can take a hot air balloon ride. You can also hike, bike, or rent a kayak and explore this scenic town. It's one of the most beautiful small towns in Illinois.

Read our previous coverage for more information on Galena.
2. Mount Carroll
Maryland National Guard/Flickr
Mount Carroll, Mt Carroll, IL 61053, USA
Sam/Flickr
Mount Carroll is routinely referred to as the New England of the Midwest and it's easy to see why. It is a beautiful, small town to walk (or bike!) around. Interested in the arts? Check out the community playhouse. Spending the night? There is attractive lodging with character you won't find at major chains. If you're looking for day trips in Illinois, Mount Carroll is the perfect place!

Read our previous coverage for more information on Mount Carroll and why it is simply one of the most beautiful towns in Illinois.
3. Fulton
Dennis Carr/Flickr
Fulton, IL, USA
Dennis Carr/Flickr
Fulton has strong Dutch roots, evidenced by this authentic Dutch windmill. Each May, the town hosts "Dutch Days," a festival celebrating its Dutch heritage. The downtown is quaint, with some excellent shopping and fine dining opportunities if you're looking for things to do in Illinois.

Visit the City of Fulton website for more information.
4. Morris
Teemu008/Flickr
Morris, IL 60450, USA
Phil and Jo Schiffbauer/Flickr
Morris is located just 60 miles from Chicago, but has plenty of its own amenities. Its beautiful and historic downtown district is located on the I&M canal. There, you can find many unique shops and great restaurants. There are also many beautiful parks for you to explore.

Visit the Morris website for more information about this cute town in Illinois.
5. Greenville
KJ Roelke/Flickr
Greenville, IL 62246, USA
Jeff Sharp/Flickr
Greenville is one of Illinois' oldest communities, celebrating its bicentennial this year. It is host to the small Greenville College, with just over 1000 students. The town is also host to some great festivals, including AgapeFest and the Greenville Graffiti Car Show.

Read our previous coverage for more information on Greenville.

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6. Nauvoo
Ken Lund/Flickr
Nauvoo, IL 62354, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
Nauvoo was named by Joseph Smith, and so the Mormon influence here is very prominent. It's a great place to visit if you are a history buff. Go on one of the many tours, including a carriage tour, to explore historic buildings. There are also British and Nauvoo pageants that will truly transport you back to the old days of Nauvoo. It's one of the best day trips in Illinois and fun for the whole family.

Read our previous coverage for more information on Nauvoo.
7. Sycamore
Dennis Carr/Flickr
Sycamore, IL, USA
Teemu008/Flickr
Sycamore has a quaint downtown with tons of offerings. But even more interesting is the Sycamore Historic District, a region of 200 architecturally interesting homes that has made its way into the National Register of Historic Places. Make sure to check out the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival, held annually.

Visit the Discover Sycamore website for more information.
8. Woodstock
Teemu008/Flickr
Woodstock, IL 60098, USA
Louis/Flickr
As one of the most beautiful small towns in Illinois, you might recognize Woodstock from its appearance in movies like Groundhog Day and Planes, Trains and Automobiles. The town was hugely influential to Orson Welles, a famous resident. There is an opera house and also tons of live music to choose from.

Read our previous coverage for more information on Woodstock.
9. Lebanon
Paul Sableman/Flickr
Lebanon, IL 62254, USA
Paul Sableman/Flickr
Lebanon is really appreciated for its historic downtown, with quaint shops such as the ones pictured here. Horner Park is a huge draw, with 58 beautiful acres to explore. Fan of the arts? Check out the community playhouse.

Visit the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce website for more information.
10. Elsah
Al/Flickr
Elsah, IL 62028, USA
Al/Flickr
Elsah is a river town that looks largely like it did back in the day. If you're looking for things to do in Illinois, then this small town is a great place for architecture buffs, who can go on a tour and explore some historic homes. It's also a fantastic place to observe bald eagles.

Visit the Escape to Elsah website for more information.

Nothing is better than exploring the charming small towns in Illinois! You can live for cheap, meet friendly people, and become involved in a strong community. What’s not to love? What are some of your favorite small towns in the Prairie State?

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More to Explore

Charming Small Towns In Illinois

Melissa M. | August 20, 2021

What are some of the most unique things to do in Illinois?

Some of the most unique things to do in Illinois include the following:

 

What are some other beautiful small towns in Illinois?

One list is not enough for all the charm that can be found throughout the small towns of Illinois. Additional beautiful small towns in Illinois to spark your interest include:

  • The remote small town of Pinckneyville is a picturesque place with several bodies of water to enjoy, perfect for a day trip.
  • Head to Arthur for a one-of-a-kind experience. Among the farmland, visitors can discover the oldest Amish community in the state, restaurants, and stores selling locally-made goods. 

 

What are some of the best day trips in Illinois?

If your time is limited, or maybe you just want to see as much as you possibly can during your time in the Prairie State, then check out some of these incredible day trips in Illinois. Some of the best day trips in Illinois include:

  • The Chicago Botanical Garden
  • A drive-thru safari at Aikman Wildlife Adventure
  • Cahokia Mounds

Check out this list of 11 Unique Day Trips In Illinois That Are A Must-Do for more.

 

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