Amish heritage, Midwest history and reindeer make Champaign County Illinois and the surrounding areas terrific itinerary additions
At the heart of the Midwest, visitors can enjoy an authentic cultural experience in Champaign County Illinois. In this micro-urban city, escape the modern life and travel back to the Amish Country and kiss a reindeer at Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch. In addition, discover one of America’s best-kept secrets, the Allerton Park and Retreat Center. Add these gems to your Central Illinois itinerary for a memorable small town America vacation.
Hidden Treasures in Champaign County Illinois
A historical treasure hidden near the upper Sangamon River in Monticello is the Allerton Park and Retreat. It offers an extraordinary curation of art, nature and history. In fact, artist and philanthropist Robert Allerton donated his private residence to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1946. It has since served as an education and research center as well as a forest, wildlife and plant-life reserve. In addition, it also served as an example of landscape gardening and as a public park. For those seeking activities deeply immersed in nature, the park is an ideal destination for such adventurers. With 1,500 acres of woodland and prairies, a 10-acre meadow and 14-mile of hiking trails, you’ll see why it’s one of the seven wonders of Illinois.
Georgian Manor House grounds in Champaign County Illinois
Befitting a splendid Georgian Manor House, the formal gardens feature extensive plantings and over 100 ornaments and sculptures. Enjoy a delicious group dinner in the mansion, and see why it’s listed in the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, it has been named one of the American Institute of Architects’ 150 Great Places in Illinois. In fact, after a long day of activities, enjoy a peaceful and magical night at the Mansion. The estate has 41 guest rooms and three guest houses, perfect for small or large groups. Whether you spend the night, take a hiking tour, or dance away at an outdoor concert, this is surely an experience your group will never forget.
Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch
Twenty minutes from the city of Champaign is Rantoul. This is where Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch is situated in the midst of flat plains, tall prairies and rich-soil. The 100-year old barn that started as a small Christmas tree farm with two reindeer has grown into a major tourist attraction. Now with over five acres of Christmas trees, 16 reindeer and a diverse Midwest farm, you’re in for a true farmcation.
This special country getaway offers unique attractions for all ages. Start your group visit with the Reindeer Experience Tour where you come face to face with Alaskan Reindeer. If you’ve never kissed a reindeer, Klondike and the other reindeer aren’t shy to let you give a peck. Guests will then enjoy a wild-west themed theater Texas BBQ lunch at their southern-style banquet facility. For a unique fall activity, depart on a treasure hunt through a challenging 10-acre corn maze outlined in the shape of a space rocket and astronaut. In addition, browse through the quaint gift shop and pick a pumpkin in the pines or a fresh-cut Christmas tree.
Nearby Champaign County Illinois Activities
Just 30 minutes from Champaign County Illinois reside the towns of Tuscola and Arthur, the oldest and largest Amish settlements in Illinois. As you find people traveling on bicycles and horse-drawn buggies, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a different time.
Amish Country
Explore the Amish Country’s simple life and let the culture of woodworkers, farmers and bakers herald you into a different mindset. Certainly it will evoke the spirit and culture of small town America and an appreciation for the hard working Amish communities.
Amish Artist Co-Op
Begin your visit at the Vault Art Collective, located in the historic bank in the heart of Tuscola. The artist-owned cooperative, with 50 local artist owners, is a small town America gallery with a big city feel. Hear from one of the local artists on their work and take some time to see the depth of talent in Central Illinois. In fact, the gallery offers artwork for purchase in a variety of mediums. For example, shop many impressive paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, ceramics, fiber art and more.
Woodworking and Amish Buggy Makers
Go behind-the-scenes when you tour the impressive Amish woodworker, Das Holz Haus’s facility. This large facility creates custom, hand-crafted furniture and cabinetry, focusing on intricate details that make your house a home. See the woodworkers in action, and the large Amish community helping create the end products that are made for customers all over the country.
The Amish buggy is a common sight in the Amish Country and you won’t leave without getting to ride one. Visit a local Amish buggy maker and experience an in-depth tour of his buggy shop. While there, see the ins and outs of creating the undercarriage, the buggy body, and listen as buggy makers discuss the old art of wheel making. Finish up the tour with a short buggy ride, completing the true Amish experience.
Spend Time with an Amish Family
Transport yourself to a time of simplicity as you visit the home of an Amish family. As your host guides you through their living space, take notice of the handmade items, as well as the similar lifestyle that the home reflects. After you’ve taken a moment for a silent prayer, your host will begin serving your delicious home cooked meal.
Civil War History of Douglas and Champaigne County Illinois
Connect with Douglas County’s rich history as you head through downtown Tuscola to the Douglas County Museum. While there, view a collection of Civil War-era firearms, sure to please any history buff. In addition, learn about local agriculture through artifacts and discover historical clothing and artwork at the intimate museum. In the past, before the museum’s establishment in 1984, many historical and cultural objects were destroyed or removed from the county. Thus the museum was formed to protect the local history and make it accessible for future generations.
A Family Confectionary
Take a break and enjoy something sweet for lunch at Flesor’s Candy Kitchen, a confectionary, soda shop and restaurant all in one. After inheriting their grandfather’s recipes, sisters Ann and Devon restored the Candy Kitchen almost a century after its opening in 1901. Carrying on the family tradition, the sisters have been devoted to bringing hand-made candy and ice cream back to Tuscola. In fact, try their delicious homemade ice-creams and their old-fashioned marble soda machine for a small town America experience.
For a truly cultural immersion into Midwest heritage and life, take a trip to small town America in Champaign County Illinois and the surrounding areas.
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