12 Reasons Rural Illinois Is Actually The Best Part Of The State
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
Attractions that survive in rural Illinois are the best of the best. Below are 12 places in the state that residents are willing to take a road trip for, and you will be too.
Illinois’ hidden pockets are where its true treasures are kept. Scroll on for all the best things to do in the middle of nowhere.
This small Amish town general store is the best place in the state for gourmet cheeses and other fresh goods. Find gifts for loved ones, sweet treats, and much more. Click here for more information about this vintage store.
Nothing says middle of nowhere like this secluded overlook in Illinois' largest national forest. It's just a quick .8-mile hike across rock formations to get to this elevated point. Click here to learn more about why people love this peaceful spot.
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Featuring about a dozen themed rooms, this is the best hotel in all of rural Illinois. Pretend you live under the sea, in an arctic wonderland, in the Arabic desert, or any number of other unique places when you stay here. Click here to learn about more luxury amenities and other fun things you can do.
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This one-of-a-kind hotel was once the Mercer County Jail. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it became a B&B in 1998 and features nine unique suites that are themed after different aspects of history. Get more information about this getaway here.
Get whisked away to Tuscany with a visit to this lovely remote vineyard. In addition to delicious wine, it also offers tasty meals and overnight accommodations. Click here for further details about this epic attraction.
Both a vineyard and a restaurant, this is the ultimate place to find yourself if you love worldly cuisine and fine wine. Discover authentic Italian dishes of veal, steak, pasta, pizza, and much more. Click here for more information about this epic eatery.
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What looks like an abandoned building is actually one of Illinois' best country restaurants. It offers sophisticated menu items and marvelous views of the pond on which it sits. Learn more about this popular spot here.
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This is the best little steakhouse in Southern Illinois. In addition to steak, American fare like burgers, tenderloins, kabobs, soups, salads, and a wealth of appetizers are served. The rustic atmosphere and friendly service are what keep locals coming back. Click here for previous coverage of this awesome steakhouse.
Serving the best burgers in Illinois, this little-known, yet well-loved joint seriously sits in the middle of nowhere, but Illinoisans don't mind the drive. In fact, this place gets visitors from around the entire country to try these epic burgers. Click here to learn more about this restaurant that has been around since 1912.
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Known for serving some of the best comfort food in the state, this farm sits along the Fox River and attracts customers from near and far. It began as a dairy farm and was turned into a tavern in 1941. Check out menu items and hours of operation here.
In business since 1974, this amazing eatery is the perfect spot for a date or special family meal. It is best known for its prime rib and seven-layer chocolate cake. Get more information about this wonderful spot here.
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This amazing place is a two-in one. Guests may make reservations to stay the night in on-site cabins that will make you feel just like Abraham Lincoln.
Or you can just stop by for a bite to eat. Enjoy a generous buffet and cozy fireplace when you dine here. Learn more about why you should get acquainted with this lodge here.
Remote attractions like this are quintessentially Illinois. Check out 16 other things that make Illinoisans think of home.
What else do you love about rural Illinois? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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