Illinois is brimming with fun towns to visit, but a few of them shone through in our articles from 2016. Whether they’re notable for their charming downtown areas or interesting histories, they are all worth the trip! Here’s a list of the places you absolutely must make time to travel to this year:

1. Mount Carroll, The One Illinois Town That’s So Perfectly Midwestern
PeteBobb/Wikimedia
This quaint town is worth visiting for its interesting history and incredible hospitality.
2. Woodstock, one of the Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Illinois
lostinfog/Flickr
Visit this picturesque town for a weekend of fun and lots of live music.
3. Nauvoo, The Small Illinois Town That Has Stood The Test Of Time
Ken Lund/Flickr
With over 30 historical sites, there's lots to learn in this tiny town.
4. Galena, It's Impossible To Drive Through Without Stopping
SD Dirk/Flickr
Galena's picturesque downtown draws you in; it'll be hard not to spend your whole day perusing the shops along the main strip.
5. Carmi, The One Town In Illinois That Turns Into A Winter Wonderland Each Year
Carmi Chamber of Commerce
Festivities abound during the "It's a White County Christmas" celebration.

Related Stories

Enjoy A Picture-Perfect Weekend In The Windy City When You Visit Chicago’s CitizenM Hotel

Enjoy A Picture-Perfect Weekend In The Windy City When You Visit Chicago’s CitizenM Hotel

 This Speakeasy Hidden Below A Restaurant In Illinois Is Perfect For A Date Night

This Speakeasy Hidden Below A Restaurant In Illinois Is Perfect For A Date Night

 7 Waterfront Retreats In Illinois That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures

7 Waterfront Retreats In Illinois That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures
6. Waterloo, one of the 10 Safest And Most Peaceful Places To Live In Illinois
Paul Sableman/Flickr
If you're looking for somewhere to relax while the kids run wild, Waterloo is the perfect place - their low crime rate will give you peace of mind.
7. Batavia, The Charming Illinois Town That's Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip
Mike Procario/Flickr
This charming town situated on the Fox River is just the place to go when you want to be surrounded by beautiful fall foliage.
8. Arthur, one of the 8 Historic Villages In Illinois That Will Transport You Into A Different Time
Tripp/Flickr
Boasting the oldest Amish settlement in the state, visiting Arthur is an incredibly unique experience.
9. Alton, one of the 11 Small Towns In Illinois That May Surprise You
Paul Sableman/Flickr
Alton is jam-packed with haunted attractions, so if being afraid is your thing, you'll definitely want to visit.
10. Naperville, one of the 10 Illinois Towns That Are Perfect For A Weekend Getaway
David Jakes/Flickr
This suburban town makes for a perfect getaway, complete with local shops, amazing restaurants, and a beautiful riverwalk.
11. Fulton, the One Little Town That Is Illinois’ Best Kept Secret
Dennis Carr/Flickr
A town known for its Dutch heritage, Fulton is a charming place to visit. Don't miss the Windmill Cultural Center!

Which towns do you plan to visit this year? Let us know in the comments.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles