Illinois Amish Country

The town of Arthur is located in the heart of Amish country, home to more than 2,000 Amish residents and hundreds of charming countryside businesses, Illinois' Amish Country offers shopping, dining, special events and guided educational tours (some of which feature meals in actual Amish homes).

CITY: Arthur

Allerton Park & Retreat Center

Allerton Park was the private estate of Robert Henry Allerton, who donated it to the University of Illinois in 1946. It features 1,500 acres of woodlands, formal gardens and more than 100 sculptures. The park is open to the public for hiking, picnicking, cross-country skiing and leisurely garden strolls.

CITY: Monticello

Scovill Zoo

This zoo overlooking Lake Decatur is home to animals from around the world, the Z.O.&O. Express train, the Endangered Species Carousel and the Zootique Gift Shop. Family events and activities are offered regularly.

CITY: Decatur

Children's Museum of Illinois

Kids can shimmy up Luckey's Climber, make a giant bubble and pretend to be whatever they can imagine, from a pilot to a scientist. The museum's permanent exhibits complement temporary exhibits and projects.

CITY: Decatur

The 200 Acres

Located in the heart of Illinois' Amish country, The 200 Acres is a working farm that features beautiful gardens, including a spectacular collection of more than 5,000 mums, and offers its heirloom seeds for sale. The 200 Acres is especially known for its more than 300 varieties of rare pumpkins, squash and gourds from around the globe that are grown right on the farm and displayed in its Great Pumpkin Patch from mid-September through October 31 every year. The on-site Homestead Bakery sells made-from-scratch goodies such as pies and angel food cake during spring, summer and fall.

CITY: Arthur

Lake Decatur

The state's largest artificial body of water, Lake Decatur spans 2,800 acres, with 30 miles of shoreline offering recreational opportunities and wildlife vistas at lakeside parks and the city marina. Water sports include boating, fishing, sailing and jet skiing. While shoreline locations surrounding Nelson Park Marina offer miniature golf, dining, public gardens and picnic facilities.

CITY: Decatur

Arthur Amish Country Information Center

This visitor's center offers maps and information on the entire Amish area, including the 150 Amish craft shops that dot the countryside surrounding the village of Arthur.

CITY: Arthur

Scovill House & Oriental Gardens

Serenity envelopes this intimate area, where visitors are welcomed by a Chinese Fu dog and flowering dogwoods, star magnolia, Japanese lilac, and rhododendron -- foliage native to the Orient. Originally commissioned by Guy and Rose Scovill in the 1920's and reconstructed in the 1980's, the gardens' soothing nature encompasses a small reflective point, sod bridge, and oriental sculptures, and surrounds a small cottage, which is available for gatherings and retreats.

CITY: Decatur

ACM Tours

ACM Tours is a full service, receptive tour guide company with many special services available at no additional cost. We literally open the door to fabulous Illinois Amish Country! We are ready to assist you with meals, attractions, lodging and step on guide service. We have available trained, professional, local step-on guides who are well versed in the history, customs and folklore of this most unique part of Illinois.

CITY: Arthur

Ferrel Clydesdale Farms

In operation since 1850, the farm features a blacksmith shop and Clydesdale horses. Chuck wagon cookouts are available.

CITY: Lovington

The Pour House

Nightlife bar with welcoming atmosphere for all and good quality food for lunch and dinner - try us!

CITY: Decatur

Monticello Railway Museum

View various pieces of steam and electric railroad equipment. Offers vintage train rides on Sat. and Sun. May through Oct., as well as a number of special events throughout the year.

CITY: Monticello

Beach House Restaurant

Wonderful American cuisine in an elegant setting. Dine inside or outside and take in an amazing view of Lake Decatur. Fresh seafood flown in daily from Florida makes this one of Decatur's treasures.

CITY: Decatur

Prairie Fire Glass

Blown glass - stained glass. Glass blown on site - Demos daily

CITY: Monticello

Anna Bethel Fisher Rock Garden

Created in 1927 from an old sand pit across the road from Lake Decatur, the city's oldest garden was extensively renovated in 1992. Its resurrected look features secluded paths leading through rocky terraces planted with unusual trees, and landscapes brimming with colorful perennials. Towering bald Cypress trees, planted in the 1920s, still reign over these delightful grounds.

CITY: Decatur

Macon County History Museum

Imagine Abraham Lincoln, the 6'4" lawyer, ducking to avoid bumping his head on the entrance of Macon Country's first courthouse built in 1829, which was the only log courthouse where Lincoln practiced law. This and other period buildings, located in the Macon County History Museum, allow visitors to travel back to different historical periods of the county. The prairie village on the museum grounds is home to such historical buildings as the log court house where Abraham Lincoln practiced in the 1830s.

CITY: Decatur

The Great Pumpkin Patch

Open from mid-September through October 31, The Great Pumpkin Patch features 300 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds from around the world, all grown on the farm. The beautiful grounds feature various mazes and gardens, farm animals, a u-pick pumpkin patch and the Homestead Bakery, offering fresh-baked goods. Live entertainment is presented on fall weekends.

CITY: Arthur

Buxton's Garden Farm

Pull up to Buxton's roadside stand to buy in-season vegetables, pumpkins and festive Indian corn.

CITY: Sullivan

Long Creek Vineyards

Long Creek Vineyards is a family owned and operated vineyard established in 2004. The vineyard was planted on the family farm rooted in the quaint but lovely village of Long Creek, Illinois. (Located 3 miles east of Decatur, IL on US Route 36) Draped on the hillside of this farm are Chambourcin, Steuben, Vidal Blanc, La Crosse and Vignoles. In 2006 they planted a variety of Northern Italian grapes including Nebbiolo, Barbera and Sangiovese, as well as the French varieties of Syrah and Viognier.

CITY: Decatur

Villa Galleries

Fine art located in the heart of the Illinois Amish country. The Villa Galleries has dedicated its gallery to local artists who have ties to the central Illinois area either through living situation or artwork subject. Photography, watercolors, colored pencil, oil and acrylic, stained glass, and pottery are just a few of the mediums featured in the gallery.

CITY: Arthur

Decatur Civic Center

The Decatur Civic Center hosts trade shows, concerts, expos and more.

CITY: Decatur

Wacky Nackies

Gifts, decorative accessories, jewelry, candy - life's simple pleasures

CITY: Monticello

Steeple Gallery

We specialize in Americana, limited edition prints, custom framing, primitive antiques, gifts and decor. We are located in a 1906 vintage church.

CITY: Monticello

Stellar Tours

Amish Adventures will give you an up close and personal tour of the Illinois Amish culture and religion as you travel back in time along our quaint country roads with our professional and informed tour guide. To help our visitors learn more about the Amish culture, we offer a variety of tours that are customized to fit your itinerary. Tours of Amish homes, Amish farms, Amish woodworker's shop, a meal in an Amish home and a Step-on Guided Tour of the Amish countryside!

CITY: Arthur

Schaub Floral Display Center

Bursting with seasonal exhibits, our brightest newcomer nurtures flowering trees and scrubs such as weeping Japanese cherry, mock orange, forsythia, fragrant bulbs, and delightfully colored pansies. A perennial garden joins the array this summer, and the spring exhibit opens mid-March.

CITY: Decatur

Firehouse Flea Market & Antiques

We have a wide variety of items including glassware, pyrex, VCR tapes, DVD's, CD's, lamps, Fenton glass, jewelry, vintage clothing, books, small furniture & knick-knacks. We have something for everyone!

CITY: Decatur

Whitley Creek Recreation Area

This campground has 81 campsites, most of which are shaded.

CITY: Sullivan

Marsha's Vineyard Bed & Breakfast

Built in spring 2000 by a local Amish contractor, this 1 1/2 salt-box cottage includes two spacious siutes, private baths and kitchen located in the heart of Illinois Amish Country.

CITY: Arthur

Ziemer Gallery

Featuring Watercolors of Larry Ziemer, plus other artists

CITY: Monticello

Lake Shelbyville - Bo Wood Recreation Area

Most of the campsites in this 82 site campground are shaded. Located on Lake Shelbyville, beach nearby.

CITY: Sullivan

Sandy's Motel

24 rooms, restaurant nearby, non-smoking rooms, free movie channel.

CITY: Decatur

Boating on Lake Decatur

Boating on Lake Decatur is allowed year-'round with a permit (available at the cashier's window / 2nd floor of the Decatur Civic Center). For general information, call Lake Management Office at (217) 424-2837.

CITY: Decatur

African-American Cultural & Genealogical Society of Illinois Museum

AACGS promotes and provides resources and education on the history of the African American. Embracing all cultures, it offers (in part), genealogy workshops, museum displays, storytelling, essay & poetry contests and the promotion of Cultural Arts. Three main annual community events sponsored are Black History Month, Juneteenth National Freedom Day, and Kwanzaa Celebration.

CITY: Decatur

Arthur's Country Inn

16 modern rooms, moderately priced.

CITY: Arthur

Governor Oglesby Mansion

Built in 1874, this Italianate mansion was the home of Richard J. Oglesby, a U.S. senator and three-time governor of Illinois. Oglesby was also a Union general in the Civil War and a close friend of Abraham Lincoln.

CITY: Decatur

USTA/Ursula Beck Pro Tennis Classic

Players from over twenty countries competing for ATP World Ranking Points and $10,000 in prize money

CITY: Decatur

Decatur Park District

In addition to 39 neighborhood and community parks, our green spaces boast bike trails, picnic and camping facilities, gardens, golf courses, playgrounds, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and swimming pools.

CITY: Decatur

Monticello Railway Museum

Offers vintage train rides on Sat. and Sun. May through Oct. View various pieces of steam and electric railroad equipment.

CITY: Monticello

Arthur Flower Shop

Floral items.

CITY: Arthur

Anne Lloyd Gallery - Madden Arts Center

The warm, welcoming and slightly funky Madden Arts Center is a richly renovated hub where the Decatur Area Arts Council makes its home. The building houses galleries, classrooms, an art shop, photo lab and rehearsal spaces. The Anne Lloyd Gallery showcases local exhibits as well as extraordinary traveling collections. The gallery spotlights an International Arts Experience exhibition over an 8-week period each summer. Participating in the downtown Decatur “art walks” the gallery holds a “First Friday” reception on the first Friday evening of each month, showcasing a different artist or artistic medium each time.

CITY: Decatur

Gallery 510 Arts Guild, Ltd.

Located a few steps around the corner from the Madden Arts Center, this gallery is a cooperative venue for professional and emerging artists, displaying varying works from paintings and sculptures to glass, textiles, pottery and fiber art.

CITY: Decatur

Best Western - Gateway Inn

44 guest rooms. Inside entrances, elevator. There are some extended stay rooms with kitchenettes. Conference facilities including banquet room (350), meeting space/conference room, olympic indoor size pool and extensive outdoor deck area that is available for private events.

CITY: Monticello

James Millikin Homestead

The James Millikin Homestead is the former residence of James and Anna Millikin, founders of Millikin University, Millikin Bank and Millikin Estate Trust.

CITY: Decatur

Sports Zone Bar/ Decatur Conference Center & Hotel

The Sports Zone Bar and Grill is ideal for cocktails and dinner in a cheerful and relaxing atmosphere, whether it’s to watch the big game, or just to hang out with friends. Click here to find out what’s happening at the sports zone this month. Wednesdays are comedy night, $5 cover.

CITY: Decatur

Macon County Conservation District

Our green spaces boast bike and walking trails, picnic and camping facilities, and gardens.

CITY: Decatur

Monticello Farmers Market

This market sells fresh local produce.

CITY: Monticello

Sullivan Marina

Located on a serene wooded hilltop, gently slopes into a full-service marina and restaurant situated on Lake Shelbyville.

CITY: Sullivan

Wabash Depot Antique Centre

This beautiful 10,000-sqare-foot building has been restored to its twentieth-century rail depot grandeur, and now houses antique dealers selling their treasures.

CITY: Decatur

Dielman's Asparagus Patch

Pick up fresh asparagus at this roadside spot from mid-April through the end of May.

CITY: Monticello

Intown Motel

22 rooms, restaurant nearby, free movie channel, pets allowed.

CITY: Decatur

Theatre 7

Local theatre presentations at their best, with local talent providing high quality entertaining plays throughout the year for your enjoyment.

CITY: Decatur

The Informant! - Firestone Service Center Decatur

The vice president of an agri-business giant is recruited by the FBI to uncover evidence of his company’s suspected illegal price-fixing. But in his zealous attempt to become the ultimate informant his lies begin to pile up and erode the secret agent world he has created for himself. Look for Alexander Calder’s giant red outdoor Flamingo sculpture as two of the movie’s main characters walk through downtown Chicago’s Federal Plaza.

CITY: Decatur

The Informant! - St. Mary's Hospital

The vice president of an agri-business giant is recruited by the FBI to uncover evidence of his company’s suspected illegal price-fixing. But in his zealous attempt to become the ultimate informant his lies begin to pile up and erode the secret agent world he has created for himself. Look for Alexander Calder’s giant red outdoor Flamingo sculpture as two of the movie’s main characters walk through downtown Chicago’s Federal Plaza.

CITY: Decatur

Tate & Lyle Players Championship

This is one of Decatur/Forsyth's premier community events. The competition is an official event and the longest stop on the LPGA's Duramed Futures Tour. The tournament will boast the largest purse on the tour and feature a four day, all caddied, 72-hole stroke play professional tournament.

CITY: Forsyth

Foster's Inn

Small motel with nearby restaurants.

CITY: Monticello

Shelbyville State Fish and Wildlife Area

A 6,400-acre wildlife area on the north end of Lake Shelbyville. Hunting for waterfowl, forest and upland game is popular. Boat access is provided to accommodate anglers and hunters.

CITY: Bethany

Hieronymus Mueller Museum

Located on Mueller Company grounds, where the accomplishments of inventor Hieronymus Mueller, Decatur's "Unsung genius" and holder of over 500 patents, are celebrated. Among the expanded facility's treasures: The seventh of only eight cars manufactured by Mueller.

CITY: Decatur

Graber Produce Patch

This roadside produce stand offers asparagus, radishes, eggplant and sweet corn.

CITY: Sullivan

The Informant! - Macon County Circuit Court

The vice president of an agri-business giant is recruited by the FBI to uncover evidence of his company’s suspected illegal price-fixing. But in his zealous attempt to become the ultimate informant his lies begin to pile up and erode the secret agent world he has created for himself. Look for Alexander Calder’s giant red outdoor Flamingo sculpture as two of the movie’s main characters walk through downtown Chicago’s Federal Plaza.

CITY: Decatur

Arches Antique Marketplace

Antiques of all sizes and descriptions, from books and clothing to kitchen utensils and baby items.

CITY: Findlay

Kohls

Value shopping.

CITY: Forsyth

The Informant! - Hickory Point Mall

The vice president of an agri-business giant is recruited by the FBI to uncover evidence of his company’s suspected illegal price-fixing. But in his zealous attempt to become the ultimate informant his lies begin to pile up and erode the secret agent world he has created for himself. Look for Alexander Calder’s giant red outdoor Flamingo sculpture as two of the movie’s main characters walk through downtown Chicago’s Federal Plaza.

CITY: Forsyth

Nature's Bounty

Buy dried herbs and flowers, or pick your own red and golden delicious apples.

CITY: Sullivan

Albert Taylor Theatre at Millikin University

The Albert Taylor Theatre is located in the historic Shilling Hall. The 275-seat auditorium was built as Millikin University opened in 1902. Renovations to the theatre were completed in 2006 and include Handicapped Accessible and Wheel Chair Accessible seating. Annual productions by the Millikin University Department of Theatre & Dance, School of Music, and Opera Program are all held in this theatre. Lectures, classes, and rehearsals are also held in the facility.

CITY: Decatur

Assumption Historical Society/Museum

This museum displays old school pictures and artifacts from the town of Assumption. Open by appointment.

CITY: Assumption

Martha's House of Florals

Beautiful flowers, gifts, candy and cards. While away a few minutes in this treasure trove.

CITY: Atwood

The Younker House Bed & Breakfast

3 rooms, smoke-free facility and free breakfast.

CITY: Decatur

African American Civil War Soldiers Monument

This unique artwork is one of only a handful of sculptured tributes to the African American Civil War soldier in the entire United States. Commissioned by the City of Decatur, the work was designed and created by renowned artist, Preston Jackson. Jackson created several concepts for the statue and allowed the citizens of Decatur to vote to select the final design.

CITY: Decatur

The Informant! - Econo Lodge

The vice president of an agri-business giant is recruited by the FBI to uncover evidence of his company’s suspected illegal price-fixing. But in his zealous attempt to become the ultimate informant his lies begin to pile up and erode the secret agent world he has created for himself. Look for Alexander Calder’s giant red outdoor Flamingo sculpture as two of the movie’s main characters walk through downtown Chicago’s Federal Plaza.

CITY: Decatur

Coyote Cabins - Fishing Lair

Fishing Lair is a 2 bedroom retreat stocked with bottled water, coffee and snacks. The first night offers a crockpot dinner with fresh bread. Enjoy fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mini-golf, golf, live theatre just minutes away.

CITY: Sullivan

Cisco Farms

Stop by this roadside market for in-season fresh strawberries, tomatoes, beets, broccoli, cucumbers, eggplant and peppers.

CITY: Cisco

Spare Time Lanes

32 lanes, automatic scoring, free parking, lounge and food.

CITY: Decatur

Del's Popcorn Shop -- Decatur

"The Popcorn Shop" was opened in 1934 by John Baldwin. In 1945, Mr. Baldwin leased his business to Del and Emily Barnett. A year later the Barnetts purchased The Popcorn Shop and changed the name to "Del's Popcorn Shop". Lou Ann Jacobs purchased the Decatur business in 1978 and has added her own flare and expertise to the business taking it way beyond what anyone could have imagined. Del's always has a large variety of tempting treats, most of which can be found and ordered right here online. A package from Del's Popcorn Shop is always sure to put a smile on every face.

CITY: Decatur

Lincoln Trail Homestead State Memorial

This is the site of Abraham Lincoln's first Illinois home. Bisected by the Sangamon River, the site also features picnicking and hiking.

CITY: Mount Zion

Yoder's Lamps & Antiques

A shop full of antiques and 30+ dealers, plus a large inventory of antique oil and gas lamps. Repair and parts are available for antique and modern oil and gas lamps. Authorized Aladdin Lamp dealer and repair.

CITY: Arthur

Harris Agricultural Museum

The museum houses an agricultural display that includes antique tractors (1922-1937), engines, a 1919 grain/dump truck, a replica of a 1920s farmstead kitchen, and more.

CITY: Atwood

TJ Maxx

Designer clothing -- value pricing.

CITY: Decatur

Lobby Gallery

Art "takes off" in the Lobby Gallery at the main terminal of the Decatur Airport. Exhibits range from watercolors and acrylics to oils, pastels, and fiber art.

CITY: Decatur

Elwin Antique Mall

Fourteen individual rooms hold antiques of every sort, including pine, oak, & walnut furniture; wicker, glassware, advertising signs and posters, books, jewelry, linens, quilts, primitives, granite ware, stoneware, cast iron, Fostoria, Fiestaware, country florals, crafts, tin chandeliers, country accessories and much more!

CITY: Elwin

David Lee's Cola'zeum

Come and see 100+ years of Coca Cola history. In addition to the wonderful Coke items, you will see a collection of Elam Root Beer memorabilia. Souvenirs and refreshments are available as well.

CITY: Forsyth

The Little Theatre On The Square

A Professional Actor Equity Association-affiliated theatre performing Broadway musicals and comedy. Produces five mainstage shows from mid-June to mid-August. Three theatres for young audiences, shows, in addition to a fall, Christmas, & spring show.

CITY: Sullivan

The Lil Cottage

Located between Arthur and Arcola in the small group of houses called Chesterville. This is a one bedroom house, with living room, full kitchen and bathroom. The bedroom has a queen size bed and the living room has a queen size sofa bed. It also has air conditioning and a washer & dryer, it is newly remodeled.

CITY: Arthur

Melrose Quilts & Sewforth

Seasonal retail store offers heirloom quilts & homespun accessories. Occasionally the Mennonite shop owner may be seen working on her quilts.

CITY: Arthur

Victoriana Bed & Breakfast

This restored 105-year-old home is located in the heart of Decatur's historic district. It is decorated with Victorian and traditional furnishings. A full 3-course breakfast is served daily.

CITY: Decatur

Pla-Mor Lanes

40 lanes, automatic scoring, ABC approved fluorescent lighting, seating for 200, free parking, restaurant and lounge.

CITY: Decatur

Antique Interiors

A quaint antique shop featuring a nice selection of antiques including several arts & crafts items. Some small items plus furniture, pottery, pictures and vintage mail boxes.

CITY: Decatur

Lincoln Square Theatre

The Lincoln Square Theatre was built in 1915, designed principally to present touring theatrical and vaudeville productions. The original structure featured seating for 1,355 patrons.

CITY: Decatur

Avon Theatre

Promoting Timeless Excellence in Film The Avon Theatre, featuring the best of independent, world and documentary films, foreign and Hollywood classics, and educational programming that will enhance the cultural richness of the downtown Stamford community. Once again, discerning film goers can ask: "What's on at the Avon?" It was formed in 2003 under the name the Avon Theatre Film Center, Inc., to restore a vital downtown landmark and reopen it as a community venue for the presentation of timeless film. A Brief History of the Avon Theatre The Avon Theatre has been described as an eclectic and whimsical picture house, with a prevailing Neo-Colonial motif that incorporates traditional Art Deco themes. The theatre is highlighted by a strikingly original exterior facade, framed magnificently by a restored vertical "AVON" marquee that lights up the Connecticut sky at night.

CITY: Decatur

Bergners

Value shopping -- traditional department store.

CITY: Decatur

Birks Museum

Once the original reading room of Millikin University's Gorin Library, Birks Museum maintains a montage of memories: Among them, a Belleek mirror made for Queen Victoria; a life mask of Abraham Lincoln circa 1864; and 700 paperweights.

CITY: Decatur

Kaeuper Hall at Millikin University

Kaeuper Hall is located in the Perkinson Music Center. The 167-seat auditorium was named after Hermann Kaeuper, the first Director of the School of Music. The handicapped accessible hall hosts weekly School of Music recitals, guest instrumental and vocal performances, opera rehearsals, and other intimate concerts.

CITY: Decatur