2013 Travel Guide
Enjoy Illinois App
Showing 97-192 of 294 items
Mug Shots Bar
Located across the street from the Law and Justice Center. This is a great place to visit after work or party late into the night.
CITY: Bloomington
26 - 30
State Farm Holiday Classic
Witness America's largest co-ed high school basketball tournament at four venues across Bloomington-Normal: Illinois Wesleyan University’s Shirk Center, the U.S. Cellular Coliseum, Normal Community High School and Normal West High School.
CITY: Bloomington
Dielman's Asparagus Patch
Pick up fresh asparagus at this roadside spot from mid-April through the end of May.
CITY: Monticello
3
Antique Automobile Exhibit
This outdoor exhibit of vintage automobiles showcases the early history of the car in America and features everything from Model Ts to SmartCars. Held on the grounds of the historic David Davis Mansion in Bloomington.
CITY: Bloomington
Comlara County Park Campgrounds
The scenic Comlara County Park campground offers 144 campsites including: 94 electrified sites (Both 50 amp & 30 amp), 23 non-electric sites, 11 primitive / walk-in sites in the Main Recreation Area (MRA), and 16 primitive / walk-in sites in the White Oak Area (WOA). Water is conveniently located throughout the MRA modern campground. Hot showers and a sanitary dump station are also provided in modern areas. Firewood, ice, and fishing worms are only available during the regular business hours of the Visitor Center and MRA Campground Station. The campground is open year-round.
CITY: Hudson
J.T. and E.J. Crumbaugh Museum
This museum is located in the lower level of the Crumbaugh Library in Le Roy.The major displays include an 1890s re-creation of a child's room and a communications exhibit.
CITY: Le Roy
Ecology Action Center
This walk-in information and environmental education center offers workshops on recycling, composting and energy saving.
CITY: Normal
WildCountry
WildCountry opened its doors over 36 years ago. We are family owned and operated. We take pride in the gear we stock, and the services we offer. At WildCountry, our motto is: "If we don't have it, we'll do everything we can to get it." Stop by and you'll find a great selection from many of our key vendors such as The North Face, Mountain Hardwear,Patagonia, Columbia, Keen, Garmont, Merrell, K2, Volkl, Burton, Woolrich, Aqua Lung and Aeris, just to name a few. Our staff is well versed and factory trained in the gear we promote.
CITY: Normal
Prairie Aviation Museum
Highlights the History of Aviation from the Wright Brothers to Illinois Astronauts. View or take a ride in the restored DC-3, The National Historic Registry's only Flying Exhibit!
CITY: Bloomington
Downtown Bloomington
The McLean County Courthouse, capped by a stately dome, serves as a landmark to identify the historic core of the city. Turn-of-the century buildings, many with interesting historical pasts, flank the courthouse square. A visitor can find museums, banks, a legal and governmental center, residential living, a large artists' community, plus an assortment of specialty retail businesses and supportive services in Downtown Bloomington. There is an abundance of restaurants and a lively night scene. Discover all that downtown Bloomington has to offer by shopping, dining, working and playing in this great historical district!
CITY: Bloomington
State Farm Insurance
State Farm is Bloomington-Normal's largest employer and the nation's largest insurance company. Tours are offered at the Corporate Building on State Farm Plaza and the historic Fire Building.
CITY: Bloomington
Flood Plain Forge Blacksmith
Blacksmithing, as well as artistic and functional iron work, is performed in this smithy that was erected in 1928.
CITY: Farmer City
Memories Past Antiques
Quality antiques and collectibles at realistic prices: furniture, primitives, advertising, pottery, vintage toys, tools, jewelry, books, glassware and more.
CITY: Clinton
A.L. Van Den Bergen Statue " Abraham Lincoln"
This bronze statue was originally dedicated in 1931 to commemorate Lincoln's "Fool the People" speech.
CITY: Clinton
Lancaster's Restaurant
Lancaster's Restaurant, located in historic Downtown Bloomington, serves a fusion-style cuisine in a casually sophisticated setting.
CITY: Bloomington
Museum of the Grand Prairie
The Museum of the Grand Prairie has an extensive collection interpreting 19th and early 20th century life in east-central Illinois. Two floors of exhibits present architecture, trades and occupations, decorative arts, and childhood and domestic life of the time. The Discovery Rom offers hands-on opportunities for children to interact and learn about the residents of the Grand Prairie. Educational programs are offered for all ages throughout the year.
CITY: Mahomet
Comlara Park
Bike trails, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, nature area, picnic shelters, playground, restrooms, sand volleyball, swimming, beach, sledding and cross-country skiing.
CITY: Hudson
ISU Bowling and Billiards Center
The Bowling and Billiard Center (BBC) is located north of the ISU Quad, next to the Bone Student Center, and Milner Library. The BBC provides entertainment for students, faculty/staff, & the general public including: bowling, billiards, video games, etc.
CITY: Normal
Clinton Antique Mall
15,000 square feet with over 100 dealers. Quality antiques, furniture, primitives, glass, china, coins, quilts, trunks, toys, books, granite ware, crocks, crystal, and more. Everything on ground level, no stairs. Open seven days, layaway, gift wrapping, spring shows. Open house in June. Fall festival in September and a Christmas show in November.
CITY: Clinton
21
Third Sunday Market
From May to October, thousands of collectors clear their calendars to shop the 3rd Sunday Market, an event devoted exclusively to the finest in antiques, collectibles, crafts, and garden. A Bloomington tradition since 1988, the indoor/outdoor sale features more than 450 top dealers, representing 17 states. Whether you’re looking for the finest in antique furniture, Americana, folk art, vintage advertising, sport memorabilia, or antique linens & clothing you’re likely to find it here.
CITY: Bloomington
Cisco Farms
Stop by this roadside market for in-season fresh strawberries, tomatoes, beets, broccoli, cucumbers, eggplant and peppers.
CITY: Cisco
Woodlawn Cemetery and Civil War Soldiers Plot
The first burial at Woodlawn Cemetery was that of a Union Soldier in 1861. The plot is the resting place for over 80 Civil War Soldiers. An interpretive sign provides history of the plot and a listing of the soldiers buried there. Also located here are Civil War era cannons. Several others buried outside of the Civil War Soldiers plot were contemporaries of Abraham Lincoln.
CITY: Clinton
12
Illinois Wesleyan University Homecoming
Homecoming includes a variety of activities, sporting events, parades and receptions for alumni of Illinois Wesleyan University.
CITY: Bloomington
Vrooman Mansion Bed & Breakfast
Welcome to the Vrooman Mansion, a Bed & Breakfast Inn located in the heart of Bloomington/Normal, Illinois. The Vrooman Mansion is a historical estate situated in the quiet neighborhood of Dimmitt's Grove and offers the utmost in privacy and luxury. The Vrooman Mansion Bed & Breakfast allows guests to explore the fine restaurants, shops, and attractions of Central Illinois while providing a welcoming and comfortable home base. Guests can choose from a myriad of activities offered by the surrounding community - as long as they can pull themselves away from their luxurious accommodations. Because of its central location just off of I-55, I-74, Route 39 and Historic Route 66, the Vrooman Mansion is a great place for friends and family to meet.
CITY: Bloomington
Weldon Springs State Recreation Area
Weldon Springs State Recreation Area is a 550-acre state park located near Clinton, Illinois. It centers on Salt Creek and the impoundment of a tributary, Weldon Springs, to form Weldon Spring Lake, a reservoir.
CITY: Clinton
Ropp Jersey Cheese Farm
Visit the farm and learn how fine quality cheeses are made. Explore the grounds and pet the purebred, prize-winning Jersey calves. Then take a look through the 600-square-foot Ropp Jersey Cheese retail store, featuring a cheese slicing room with viewing windows.
CITY: Normal
Gantz Market
Pull up to this roadside stand to buy sweet corn or pick your own in season.
CITY: De Land
Illinois Wesleyan University Merwin Galleries
The galleries display rotating exhibits created by Illinois Wesleyan University students throughout the school year.
CITY: Bloomington
5 - 13
Evergreen Cemetery Discovery Walk
The Evergreen Cemetery Discovery Walk brings history to life through costumed actors assuming the intriguing characters of McLean County’s ancestors in the beautiful grounds of Evergreen Memorial Cemetery. Both individuals and families can attend this fascinating, award-winning outdoor history theater program. This event is a collaboration between the McLean County Museum of History, Illinois Voices Theatre and Evergreen Memorial Cemetery. For more information, please call 309-827-0428 or visit www.mchistory.org.
CITY: Bloomington
20
Third Sunday Market
Thousands of collectors clear their calendars to shop the Third Sunday Market, an event devoted exclusively to the finest in antiques, collectibles, crafts, and garden. A Bloomington tradition since 1988, the indoor/outdoor sale features more than 450 top dealers, representing 17 states. Whether you’re looking for the finest in antique furniture, Americana, folk art, vintage advertising, sport memorabilia, or antique linens & clothing you’re likely to find it here.
CITY: Bloomington
Union School House
Built in 1865, Union School served rural Logan County for over 80 years. More than a museum, Union School is a hands-on learning center. Local history is displayed in old photographs and memorabilia. A year-round interpreter is available to enhance the visitor experience.
CITY: Clinton
Days Inn - Farmer City
Make yourself at home at the Farmer City Days Inn. Business or pleasure you will be treated to all the standard Days Inn extra that make your stay more enjoyable, like our free Day Break Breakfast, refreshing SolTerre shower experience, free Wi-Fi in everyroom! Conveniently located between Champaign and Bloomington.
CITY: Farmer City
Vespasian Warner Public Library
Research materials of the DeWitt County Genealogical Society are housed here, as well as revolving exhibits of the Lincoln Heritage committee of DeWitt County. Historical programs and presentations occur throughout the year.
CITY: Clinton
Simpkins Military History Museum
The personal collection of Gary Simpkins includes artifacts from the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I and II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Cold War and Desert Storm.
CITY: Heyworth
Feb 2
Top of the Class Antique Show
Please join us for the return of one of Central Illinois' most hospitable and quality antiques show, with space for 45 quality exhibitors. Hours are as follows: Friday from 5-8pm; Saturday from 10am-5pm; and Sunday from 10am-4pm. Hosted by the Illinois State University School of Communication.
CITY: Normal
16
Third Sunday Market
From May to October, thousands of collectors clear their calendars to shop the 3rd Sunday Market, an event devoted exclusively to the finest in antiques, collectibles, crafts, and garden. A Bloomington tradition since 1988, the indoor/outdoor sale features more than 450 top dealers, representing 17 states. Whether you’re looking for the finest in antique furniture, Americana, folk art, vintage advertising, sport memorabilia, or antique linens & clothing you’re likely to find it here.
CITY: Bloomington
Dec 29
Christmas at Clover Lawn
The David Davis Mansion's annual holiday celebration, Christmas at Clover Lawn, runs from November 28 through December 29th. Tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Tours are free, but donations are welcome. Create holiday memories with your family by visiting the David Davis Mansion, all decked out for the holidays. Antique dolls and toys, spectacular evergreens, more than 15 decorated trees, and hundreds of 19th-century paper and glass ornaments turn the house and grounds into a Yuletide wonderland.
CITY: Bloomington
Sunset Inn & Suites
Hotel has five fantasy theme rooms including the Hearts Delight, Space Odyssey, Rain Forest, the Arabian, and the Roman Retreat.
CITY: Clinton
Motel 6 - Normal
At Motel 6 we welcome our guests 24 hours a day with a comfortable, pet friendly environment at the lowest rates of any national chain. Relax and enjoy Free WiFi throughout the building.
CITY: Normal
Upper Limits Rock Climbing Gym
Upper Limits has more than 20,000 square feet of climbing, including routes up to 110 feet tall. Other features include a wave-wall, bi-level cave, and a unique outdoor bouldering area. Upper Limits accommodates all ages and skill levels, offering introductory and advanced classes, parties, group rates, scout programs, and team building exercises. Come visit Upper Limits, one of the largest and tallest gyms in the world!
CITY: Bloomington
Early American Museum
The Early American Museum has an extensive collection interpreting 19th and early 20th century life in east-central Illinois. Two floors of exhibits present architecture, trades and occupations, decorative arts, and childhood and domestic life of the time.
CITY: Mahomet
Fairview Family Aquatic Center
Fun for the whole family! Zero depth activity pool, six lap swim lanes, separate pool for drop slides and diving boards, as well as a sand/water play area for children and two competition sand volleyball courts.
CITY: Normal
31
Noon Year's Eve
Can’t stay up until Midnight to ring in the New Year? Join the Children’s Discovery Museum and celebrate with activities from 9:30 am to 2:45 pm with a confetti countdown at Noon! This celebration will feature lots of activities and games for children of all ages. Noisemakers, party hats and games will make this day truly memorable. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
CITY: Normal
21 - 22
State Farm Illinois Collegiate Softball Championship
The Bloomington-Normal Area Sports Commission presents the 6th annual, State Farm Illinois Collegiate Softball Championship on September 21-22, 2012 at Champion Fields in Normal. There will be 24 games played over the two days. The tournament is hosted by the Bloomington-Normal Area Sports Commission and Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, with cooperation of the Town of Normal Parks and Recreation Department and Illinois State University Athletics. State Farm serves as the title sponsor. To view a schedule of day one match-ups, visit the website.
CITY: Normal
Rike House Museum
Built in 1853, the restored house of blacksmith Robert Ingle has undergone extensive restoration, and features antiques, a family bible and the town's first piano. Reservations required.
CITY: Le Roy
Illinois State University Planetarium
The night sky is recreated in this 100-seat celestial theater-in-the-round operated by ISU's Physics Department.
CITY: Normal
Station Two Twenty
Station Two Twenty, cultivated by Epiphany Farms Enterprise Inc., believes in creating a new food system that provides exceptional cuisine with a sustainable future. Epiphany Farms combines products from its land with those of local producers to supply Station Two Twenty's ever-changing, always seasonal menu. Our mission is to blend socially conscious farming techniques with comfortable fine dining, to produce something that customers not only enjoy, but also believe in.
CITY: Bloomington
The Laughing Kat
Located in the residence of local artist Frannie Thompson, this shop features all types of handmade creations. Her fine assortment of fused glass and beads, paintings, jewelry, sewing and purses awaits you.
CITY: Clinton
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
Enjoy 9,300 acres of great outdoor picnicking, hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, water skiing. Fall foliage, winter offers ice fishing, snowmobiling on frozen lake. 308 campsites, Private marina.
CITY: Dewitt
Patton Cabin
The Patton Cabin was built in June 1829 by John Patton, one of the area's first settlers. The cabin was constructed with the help of Native Americans who lived in the area.
CITY: Lexington
Doty's Jewelry
A friendly little store with a lot of new stuff on the east side of the square.
CITY: Monticello
Starplex Cinemas/Normal Stadium 14
Starplex Cinemas combines the enjoyment of movies with expanded concessions stands and its Star Cafes.
CITY: Normal
DoubleTree by Hilton - Bloomington
The DoubleTree by Hilton, convenient to I-55, I-74 and I-39, is just minutes away from area corporations and some of the best golf in Illinois. The 185 warmly furnished guest rooms and 12 luxuriously appointed whirlpool suites feature exceptional comforts like our Sweet Dreams beds, Wolfgang Puck Coffee, as well as modern must-haves like complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access throughout. For family fun, vacation, or a historical outing, this hotel is a great place to be.
CITY: Bloomington
7
Christmas at the Courthouse
Visit the McLean County Museum of History's annual holiday event! The Christmas at the Courthouse celebration includes musical performances, crafts, homemade goodies and much more! Don't forget to check out all of the exciting exhibits at the museum while you're here!
CITY: Bloomington
Flower Corner & Country Church Craft Mall
A full-service florist specializing in weddings. The Flower Corner invites you to call and set up an appointment to speak with one of their designers for your special day! They also carry a large assortment of crafts, candles, quilts, pictures, wooden signs, and furniture.
CITY: Clinton
Outlaw Outfitters - Le Roy
One-hour guided horseback rides, hayrack and carriage rides for private rental, and barn dances are available. Open through March and October.
CITY: Le Roy
Challenger Learning Center
The Challenger Learning Center at Heartland Community College offers interactive, simulated space and science experiences through scheduled team missions for students and the public.
CITY: Normal
Uptown Normal
Uptown Normal has undergone a renaissance, with a recent overhaul of the area that included new streets and sidewalks, plus the addition of the Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference Center. Charming restaurants and shops populate Uptown Normal, including Babbitt’s Books, which offers hard-to-find rare antique books.
CITY: Normal
McLean County Arts Center
The McLean County Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 85 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales & Rental Gift Gallery.
CITY: Bloomington
Darnall's Gun Works and Ranges
Darnall's Gun Works and Ranges is a family owned business that provides a place for trap shooting, target practice and personal instruction and training in the use of firearms for self-defense.
CITY: Bloomington
Circle Lanes
Looking for late night or weekend bowling fun? Take your game to an unexplored new level with Xtreme Bowling – an adventure of lights, great music, wild bowling challenges, and (of course) your favorite food & beverages.
CITY: Bloomington
21
Christmas at the Mansions Tour
Christmas at the Mansions is a community-wide tour of the David Davis Mansion and two Mystery Houses in Bloomington-Normal. You'll see these gorgeous homes decorated in period Christmas finery. Take in the architecture, history, postcard scenes of decorated evergreen trees and Christmas wreaths, poinsettia plants, and even hosts dressed in period costumes, as you walk back in time to the late 1800's and early 1900's. Music and other surprises will complement your tour! Three hour tours are scheduled for Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Central parking and shuttle service is available at the David Davis Mansion or Second Presbyterian Church (313 N. East Street, Bloomington, Illinois).
CITY: Bloomington
15
Third Sunday Market
Thousands of collectors clear their calendars to shop the Third Sunday Market, an event devoted exclusively to the finest in antiques, collectibles, crafts, and garden. A Bloomington tradition since 1988, the indoor/outdoor sale features more than 450 top dealers, representing 17 states. Whether you’re looking for the finest in antique furniture, Americana, folk art, vintage advertising, sport memorabilia, or antique linens & clothing you’re likely to find it here.
CITY: Bloomington
Green Acres Baitshop and Campground
Full line bait shop, with 50-site campground. Full hook-up, showers and toilets.
CITY: Clinton
Grimsley's Flower Store
A tradition in Clinton since 1918, it remains today as a symbol of the way things used to be -- tin ceiling and walls, wood floor, quality service.
CITY: Clinton
Weldon Springs State Park
Weldon Springs offers beauty and recreation for all seasons! Camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, interpretive center & educational programs, picnicking, trails, sight-seeing, and more! Home of Veterans Point Memorial.
CITY: Clinton
ISU Galleries
ISU Galleries consists of three galleries that exhibit nationally known works and the latest projects from ISU students. Call for summer hours.
CITY: Normal
Illinois State University Farms
Open for group tours only, this farm includes a dairy operation, animals fed and monitored by computer, Crops of the World seen during growing season and the Aqua-Culture Center.
CITY: Normal
Elroy's
Cheer on your favorite team at Elroy’s! Featuring 24 TV sets, including 7 big screens! We offer a full menu and beer garden, with delicious food served by the best staff in town.
CITY: Bloomington
Baxter's American Grille
Baxter’s American Grille is the number one spot for modern atmosphere, exquisite food, fine wine, and in-house specialty drinks in the Bloomington area. Located at the Holiday Inn and Suites and across for Central Illinois Regional Airport, Baxter's American Grills brings big-city feel to the heart of the Midwest. Baxter’s American Grille now offers seasonal menus that boast a variety of signature dishes that you can't get find anywhere else. The new concept provides a delicious variety of steaks, seafood and chops accompanied with a Management & Chef team that are dedicated to a unique culinary experience. Whether you stop in for one of their new signature martinis or dine in the upscale open kitchen concept, Baxter’s American Grille is the destination for your evening out!
CITY: Bloomington
Twin Groves Wind Farm
Located on the wind-swept Bloomington Moraine in eastern McLean County, Twin Groves Wind Farm offers 396 megawatts of affordable, pollution-free wind energy, enough to meet the annual energy needs of about 118,000 homes. Learn more about this exciting new facility with a farm tour.
CITY: Ellsworth
Woodlawn Country Club
This nine-hole walking course features plenty of trees, and water that comes into play on seven of the nine holes. A snack bar is available.
CITY: Farmer City
Super 8 - Normal
The Super 8 in Normal is conveniently located just off I-55. The hotel offers a complimentary SuperStart breakfast, cable TV with HBO and free high speed internet.
CITY: Normal
Nickell Country Home
4 large bedrooms in a large country home with a magnificent breakfast
CITY: Mahomet
Reeser Embryo Farm
Tour this farm, which is a commercial embryo transfer station that uses donor cows.
CITY: Monticello
Brown Bag Deli-Restaurant
The Brown Bag boasts a large selection of homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, pies and cookies. All pies are homemade at "Pies by Inge". Informal atmosphere and no reservations required. Gourmet food shop and card/gift shop all under one roof.
CITY: Monticello
Skinner's Coachhouse Antiques
General antiques, collectibles, lighting, restoration and repair. Call for appointment.
CITY: Monticello
Medici
Newly opened in Uptown Normal, Medici offers a wide range of unique menu selections. Lunch and dinner served. Banquet space available.
CITY: Normal
Fat Jack's
Fat Jack's is one of the premier bars in Central Illinois featuring the best selection of microbrews and imports on draught, with 26 handles and a knowledgeable staff. In the mood for cocktails? Our bar staff will be happy to mix one from our premium selection of spirits including our Fat Jack cocktail. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you can find it at Fat Jack's!
CITY: Bloomington
Friends Creek Conservation Area
18 miles north of Decatur on Route 48 near Argenta. The park feature three nature trails - the quarter-mile Friends Creek Trail, the 2-mile Woodland Trail, and the 2.5-mile Sun Trail. Each varies in difficulty and meanders through topographies ranging from open meadows and floodplains, to towering oak-hickory forests and undulating hillsides.
CITY: Cisco
Candlewood Suites Hotel
The Candlewood Suites Hotel provides a convenient location off I-55 near the Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI). With a meeting room that can accommodate 30 guests, a 24-hour business center and free high-speed Internet access, the Candlewood Suites Hotel is the perfect place to base an extended business stay. The hotel features premium amenities including an outdoor patio with two barbecue grills, a state-of-the-art fitness center and the Candlewood Cupboard convenience store. The Bloomington-Normal Candlewood Suites is a new, "green" hotel designed for the extended stay traveler.
CITY: Normal
Longhorn Smokehouse
Visit the Longhorn Smokehouse for perfect Texas barbecue! This restaurant is family and locally owned since 1998. Dine in, carry out or drive thru!
CITY: Bloomington
Wye Motel
Newly remodeled; rooms with kitchenettes; others with microwave and refrigerators; cable television, free HBO and free local calls.
CITY: Clinton
Hampton Inn & Suites - Normal
The Hampton Inn & Suites hotel in Bloomington-Normal is within walking distance of the Shoppes at College Hills. The Hampton Inn & Suites offers a full range of services and amenities to make your stay with us exceptional. Their promise to guests is a clean, comfortable hotel room.
CITY: Normal
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is located just off of Veterans Parkway and within minutes of popular restaurants, shopping, business offices, and Illinois State University. Guests of the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites will enjoy a complimentary breakfast and free wireless Internet access. Relaxing accommodations, convenient amenities and friendly service makes the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites a great choice.
CITY: Normal
