Take a Day Trip to This Beautiful and Historic Illinois Town

A peaceful trip through the Illinois countryside is an idyllic way to spend a day. What's better than checking out a new diner or seeing a unique roadside attraction? In central Illinois, there's a town that's known for both its rich history and its enchanting culture of art. For an unforgettable journey, this day trip to historic Arcola, Illinois, may be just what you're looking for.

Where is Arcola, IL, you ask? This quaint town is nestled right in the heart of the Prairie State's scenic Amish country. Accessed right off of I-57, the charming small town is less than a three-hour drive from major cities like Chicago, Indianapolis, and St. Louis.

Make sure to stop by one of the Amish furniture stores to see high-quality, handmade pieces that demonstrate true artistry. Arcola's historic downtown strip showcases a number of well-maintained buildings, which offer local shopping and dining, and hosts a number of unique festivals.

At night, the buildings shine brightly against the star-lit sky. A great place to start the day is at the Hen House, located at 547 E. Springfield Rd. The old-fashioned country kitchen opens early at 5:30 a.m. and serves house specialties like chili mac, fish and chips, and hot beef sandwiches until 3 p.m.

Perhaps Arcola's largest claim to fame is that it's the birthplace of Johnny Gruelle, creator of the iconic Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. Visit the A Walk Through Time Museum, 110 E. Main St., to see some of the dolls' incredible historical artifacts — as well as Vietnam War memorabilia in the Local Heroes' section, and displays on the city's deep ties to the Hispanic community and railroad industry.

Arcola is also known for its annual Broom Corn Festival, which occurs the weekend after Labor Day. Known as the "broom corn capital of the world," the town comes alive with broom-inspired events, crafts, entertainment, and activities, celebrating the impact of this major crop. The festival includes a parade, which is the largest in central Illinois. If you go, keep an eye out for the fabulous broom-twirling Lawn Rangers!

While you're in town, take advantage of the free local art. There are 17 colorful murals placed throughout downtown that tell the history of the city. Pick up a mural guide at the Tourist Information Center, 135 N. Oak St., which is housed inside a train depot from 1885. You may be surprised to find that this small community is also home to the only hippie memorial in the nation at 135 N. Oak St. Created by late resident Bob Moomaw in the 1990s, the 62-foot piece of art is a testament to his passions and beliefs.

Between the simplicity of the Amish culture and the offbeat charm of the downtown area, it's easy to see why so many have worked Arcola into their travel plans. It's an enchanting and enriching historic small town that has plenty of quirkiness to pack into a fun-filled day. Have you ever taken a day trip to historic Arcola, Illinois? What would you want to visit first?

If you need some belly fuel for the ride home, make sure to check out Yoder's Kitchen, 1195 E. Columbia St. — just 15 minutes outside Arcola in the beautiful city of Arthur, Illinois. And before you head out for your road trip, be sure to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List!

Of course, Arcola is just one of many, many impressive small towns throughout our great state. For even more places to check out, be sure to look at our list of amazing small towns in Illinois... or use our Travel Planner to discover something brand new!