Tucked away in the heart of central Illinois, Arcola is a small town that has recently earned the distinction of being named the “most underrated town” in the entire state by several travel publications. With a population just under 3,000, Arcola may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning an Illinois getaway, but its unique blend of history, culture, and quirky attractions make it a hidden gem worth discovering.
A Gateway to Amish Country
Arcola is best known as the “Gateway to Illinois Amish Country.” The surrounding countryside is home to the largest Amish population in the state, and visitors can experience the simplicity and craftsmanship of Amish life by exploring local farms, sampling traditional Amish cuisine, and shopping for handmade goods. The Illinois Amish Heritage Museum offers an in-depth look at the community’s history and traditions, providing context and appreciation for this enduring way of life.
A Town Steeped in History and Whimsy
Founded in 1855 alongside the Illinois Central Railroad, Arcola’s roots run deep in the region’s agricultural and railroad heritage. The town’s historic downtown features well-preserved buildings, local shops, and diners that evoke a sense of classic Midwestern charm.
One of Arcola’s most famous natives is John Barton Gruelle, the creator of the beloved Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. The town celebrates this legacy with a museum and local events dedicated to the iconic characters.
But Arcola’s sense of whimsy doesn’t stop there. The town is home to the world’s only Hippie Memorial, a 62-foot-long artwork created by local eccentric Bob Moomaw. This colorful installation is a tribute to the counterculture era and stands as a testament to Arcola’s embrace of individuality and artistic expression.
Signature Events and Unique Attractions
Arcola’s community spirit shines brightest during its annual Broom Corn Festival, a lively celebration of the town’s broom-making heritage. Since 1980, the festival has featured the famous Lawn Rangers, a precision lawn mower drill team that marches in formation with brooms and mowers, entertaining crowds with their playful routines. The festival also includes parades, crafts, live entertainment, and a wide array of local food, drawing visitors from across the region.
For animal lovers, Aikman’s Wildlife Adventure offers a drive-through and walk-through experience where guests can interact with a variety of exotic and domestic animals-a rare find in a town of this size.
A Welcoming Community with Small-Town Charm
Despite its modest size, Arcola is a vibrant community with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the historic downtown, enjoy murals and public art, and dine at local favorites like The Hen House, known for its hearty, home-cooked meals. The town’s proximity to larger cities like Champaign, Charleston, and even Chicago makes it an accessible day trip or weekend escape.
Why Arcola Stands Out
Arcola’s charm lies in its ability to surprise and delight. From its deep Amish roots and quirky festivals to its artistic tributes and historic significance, the town offers an authentic slice of Illinois that is often overlooked by travelers focused on bigger cities or more famous destinations. Its blend of tradition, creativity, and hospitality makes it a place where stories are cherished and new memories are easily made.
As travel writers and locals alike have noted, Arcola is the kind of place where you’ll find stories only the locals know-until you visit and become part of the story yourself. For anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with heart, history, and a dash of eccentricity, Arcola, Illinois, is truly the most underrated town in the state.
Sources:
- https://www.worldatlas.com/travel/12-most-underrated-towns-in-illinois-to-take-a-trip-to.html
- https://97zokonline.com/most-underrated-town-in-illinois/
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-05-09-illinois-town-named-the-most-underrated-in-the-state/
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-03-21-illinois-city-named-most-underrated-city-to-visit-in-the-entire-state/
- https://www.arcolaillinois.org/community
