If you are planning a trip to Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, then you are in for a treat! This vibrant college town is home to the University of Illinois and has a wealth of fun and exciting activities for visitors to enjoy. In this article, we’ll take a look at the 12 best things to do in Champaign-Urbana, IL, from exploring the great outdoors to indulging in delicious local cuisine.
Visit the University of Illinois Campus
The University of Illinois campus is a must-visit when in Champaign-Urbana. It’s one of the largest campuses in the country and is home to some stunning architecture, including the iconic Alma Mater statue. Take a stroll around the campus, visit the Main Quad, and stop by the Illini Union Bookstore to pick up some school merchandise.
Explore the Krannert Art Museum
The Krannert Art Museum is located on the University of Illinois campus and is a great place to explore some stunning art. The museum has an impressive collection of artwork from around the world, including pieces from Europe, Africa, and Asia. It also has a strong collection of American art, including works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol.
Go to the Spurlock Museum
The Spurlock Museum is another great museum to visit in Champaign-Urbana. It’s located on the University of Illinois campus and has an extensive collection of artifacts from around the world. From ancient Egyptian mummies to Native American pottery, there’s something for everyone at this fascinating museum.
Check out the Champaign County History Museum
For a glimpse into the history of the area, head to the Champaign County History Museum. This small museum is located in the heart of downtown Champaign and has exhibits on the history of Champaign County. It’s a great place to learn about the local history and culture.
See a show at the Virginia Theatre
The Virginia Theatre is a beautifully restored historic theatre in downtown Champaign. It hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and movies. Check out their schedule to see what’s playing during your visit.
More Read
Walk or bike the Meadowbrook Park
Meadowbrook Park is a beautiful park in Urbana with walking and biking trails, a prairie garden, and a playground. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Go shopping at Market Place Mall
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to Market Place Mall in Champaign. It’s the largest mall in the area and has a variety of stores, including Macy’s, JCPenney, and Barnes & Noble.
Try local brews at Triptych Brewing
Triptych Brewing is a local brewery in Savoy, just a few miles outside of Champaign-Urbana. They brew a variety of delicious beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Stop by their taproom for a tasting or grab a growler to go.
Visit Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch
Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch is a great place to visit in the fall. It’s located just a few miles outside of Champaign-Urbana and has a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including apple picking, pumpkin picking, and hayrides. They also have a country store where you can purchase fresh produce, apple cider, and homemade baked goods.
Catch a game at Memorial Stadium
If you’re a sports fan, catching a game at Memorial Stadium is a must-do. It’s the home of the University of Illinois Fighting Illini football team and has a capacity of over 60,000 fans. The stadium has undergone several renovations in recent years, making it a great place to catch a game.
Experience the nightlife on Green Street
Green Street is the heart of the nightlife scene in Champaign-Urbana. It’s located near the University of Illinois campus and has a variety of bars and clubs for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a low-key pub or a high-energy dance club, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste on Green Street.
Indulge in delicious local cuisine
Champaign-Urbana has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of delicious local cuisine to try. Some must-try dishes include the famous horseshoe sandwich (a local specialty consisting of an open-faced sandwich topped with meat, fries, and cheese sauce), deep-dish pizza from Papa Del’s, and barbeque from Black Dog Smoke & Ale House.
Conclusion
Champaign-Urbana, IL, is a fantastic destination for visitors looking for a fun and exciting trip. From exploring the University of Illinois campus to indulging in delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant college town. Be sure to check out these 12 best things to do in Champaign-Urbana, IL, to make the most of your visit.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Champaign-Urbana, IL? A: The best time to visit Champaign-Urbana is in the fall when the weather is mild and the leaves are changing colors.
- What is the University of Illinois known for? A: The University of Illinois is known for its strong engineering and computer science programs.
- What is a horseshoe sandwich? A: A horseshoe sandwich is a local specialty in Champaign-Urbana consisting of an open-faced sandwich topped with meat, fries, and cheese sauce.
- What is the capacity of Memorial Stadium? A: Memorial Stadium has a capacity of over 60,000 fans.
- What is the best way to get around Champaign-Urbana? A: The best way to get around Champaign-Urbana is by car, although there are also public transportation options available.
