As leaves begin to change color and the air turns crisp and cool, the minds of St. Mary's Catholic Church parishioners turn to... beer! That's right, on one October weekend each fall, this Alton church holds one of the most authentic Oktoberfest celebrations in Illinois. So, don your dirndl, buckle your lederhosen, head to the River Bend, and hoist a stein of Paulaner. Prost!
St. Mary's Catholic Church, in Alton, has been serving the area's German Catholic community since 1859.
With a population of just over 3,200 residents, you wouldn't think a small town like Galena would be a desirable place to visit, but it is. Despite its diminutive size, Galena, Illinois packs quite the punch in terms of history, things to do, and natural beauty. Not to mention some seriously incredible architecture! Over the years it has become the most charming small town in Illinois, providing a much-needed escape for large-city dwellers who want a respite from their daily grind. There are a lot of reasons why Galena has been named one of the best small towns in Illinois, and you're going to want to explore all of them!
advertisement
Galena's location is just the start of what makes it so special. What started out as a mining town in the early 1800s became a busy shipping port between St. Louis and St. Paul in the 1850s, largely due to its location along the Galena River.
The population grew and so did the town with the addition of the DeSoto House Hotel, churches, mansions, and stores.
Over time, Galena has become a premier weekend getaway destination - and it's easy to see why. Despite its small-town feel, there is enough to see and do to keep you busy, and plenty of options to relax and spend time outdoors.
If you are looking for a place to spend the night in Galena, Goldmoor Inn (pictured here) provides luxury accommodations and stunning views, and is located just minutes from downtown.
The thriving downtown features six blocks along Main Street filled with over 125 businesses from boutiques to restaurants, ice cream and candy shops, spas, and more.
If you are short on time or just want to explore the town in a leisurely manner, take a narrated Galena Trolley tour to learn about the history and architecture. The trolley will take you through the historic district and through the scenic hills and valleys.
Today, nearly 85 percent of its buildings are in the town's national historic district due to the preservation of architectural styles such as French Colonial, Greek Revival, and Late Victorian, as well as other structures of historical significance.
This town is even fit for a president. Did you know that Ulysses S. Grant once lived here? Take a historical tour of the home he lived in from 1865 until he was elected president in 1868.
While the Ulysses S. Grant Home is perhaps the most popular to visit, there are several other historically significant houses and buildings you can tour in town.
With all there is to do downtown, don't forget to explore Galena's natural beauty. Thunder Bay Falls is a popular waterfall to visit. Not only is it absolutely gorgeous, but it's easily accessible from the parking lot.
While you're in Galena, you may as well also check out Horseshoe Mound Preserve. With its unbelievable views of the valley and neighboring states, hiking trails, and the fascinating Council Ring (made of giant stones that align with the summer and winter solstices), you'll be in awe of the beauty here.
Back in town, you must take a distillery tour at Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. where you can learn about the art of distilling spirits and have a tasting of what they make on-site. Then explore the restaurant scene to discover your new favorite eatery.
Galena has quietly become one of the coolest towns in Illinois, and perhaps the entire Midwest. Have you visited this historic small town yet? If not, you should put it on your bucket list and go! And if you have any other favorite spots around this fun little town that could use some love, let us know!
Growing up in a college town area, I always found it interesting how the university students and the local residents blended together. Long-timers in the area show up at the crack of dawn to grab a cup of coffee at The Junction, while students our out until 2 a.m. and just leaving Molly's after a long night of bar hopping. While the town has deep historical roots and longstanding traditions, the student population keeps the area fresh and ever-evolving. So, while there is no shortage of adorable small towns in the Prairie State, I truly believe that DeKalb, Illinois, is the best college town in Illinois.
advertisement
Saying to yourself, “Where is Dekalb Illinois?” DeKalb is a small college town in DeKalb County with a population of just over 40,000 residents. Part-rural small town and part-modern college town, the area is defined by miles of farmland surrounding historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and parks.
It's home to Northern Illinois University, one of the top 10 largest colleges in the state. With an expansive campus that includes castle-like buildings, an idyllic lagoon, access to parks, and lush landscaping, the university is a significant part of the town's history and everyday life.
Living in a college town, the population goes down noticeably in the summer. I always knew when classes at NIU were back in session when droves of families would be at the local Walmart and Target buying dorm necessities. "Must be move-in weekend," we'd say.
Looking for things to do in Dekalb Illinois? The university's East Lagoon is a beloved spot by locals and students who kayak, fish, and reflect at the relaxing pond.
However, beware of the population of sometimes volatile geese.
The lagoon is located just off the historic Lincoln Highway, which cuts through town and serves as a main street lined with places where locals and visitors can dine, see live entertainment, grab a beer, and boutique shop.
A major perk of the area is its walkability — you can get to dozens of restaurants, shops, and businesses by foot, though there is also a university bus line and plenty of parking for drivers.
Downtown DeKalb is also home to a number of historic buildings, including the gorgeous (and supposedly haunted) Egyptian Theatre, which dates back to 1928. Today, the theater shows movies, hosts a variety of live performances, and offers tours to the public.
Another must-visit destination in DeKalb is the stunning Ellwood House Museum — an 1879 mansion with deep roots in the city's history with barbed wire. Today it's an incredibly preserved museum and campus that can be toured.
Fun fact: Barbed wire was invented in DeKalb! It's a huge part of the city's identity.
When it's time for food and drink, one of the most popular places in town for students and locals is Fatty's Pub and Grille, a sports bar known for its bloody Marys, outdoor patio, and delicious food. I recommend any sandwich paired with Fatty's famous potato salad.
However, before you leave DeKalb, make sure you've stopped to grab a bag of beer nuggets — a local snack of fried dough hunks dipped in marinara sauce. These are a staple of the area dating all the way back to the 1960s.
You can get these at nearly any DeKalb restaurant — but Vinny's Pizza, Pizza Villa, and Pizza Pros are three of my go-to's.
In addition to rolling hills of corn and soybeans, there are a number of forest preserves, arboretums, parks, and gardens throughout town. Prairie Park is a small arboretum with walking trails along the Kishwaukee River.
If you need driving directions to Dekalb Illinois, check out the town’s website for the best way there!
advertisement
So, does DeKalb rank as the best college town in Illinois to you? Have another favorite college town? Tell us in the comments! And while you're in the area, why not make it a weekend getaway? This pet-friendly, 4-bedroom/3-bathroom rental home can fit your whole crew and is ideally located for convenient exploration.
