If you find yourself in Central Illinois wondering what there is to do aside from look at corn and soybean fields, look no further. There are some hidden gems sprinkled throughout the area. There are many state parks perfect for hiking and exploring. They are all pretty kid friendly since the land is so flat!
I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite places to visit; some are just on our list to see.
History
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
New Salem
Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Illinois State Capitol
Water
Indoor Aquatic Center
Knights Action Park
Anderson Park and Aquatic Center
Clinton Lake
Lake Shelbyville
Farm Life
Okaw Valley Orchard
Monticello Railway Museum
Prairie’s Edge Farm
Animal Fun
Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch
Miller Park Zoo
Scovill Zoo
Henson Robinson Zoo
Eat
LaGondola Spaghetti House
Krekel’s
Monical’s Pizza
I’ll be sure to update as we explore and discover more fun.
If you have a favorite place that is not on this list, will you let me know? We’d love to explore more!
5 Comments
mylittlebend
I also highly recommend riding the trolley downtown Decatur. It’s completely free! Kids love it! We always catch it at the Library, ride to Merchant Street and visit Dels Popcorn Shop and Giggles, the get back on and ride back to the library. Also, for more water fun, visit Standing Padle Co. Kyaks, standup paddle boards and so much fun!
Meghan
How fun!! Looks like you guys have lots of good places to visit 🙂
apullen13
There’s a lot more to do here than most would realize. It’s looks like it’s just corn and soybeans. haha!
Jamie Eckert
I will have to keep these in mind when I plan our next family trip. Thank you for sharing!
apullen13
Wonderful!