20 Fun Things to do in Champaign, Illinois
The city of Champaign is one occupying the regional axis of Illinois, south of Chicago. Originated in the year 1856, this very city has experienced an increase in its population size, owing to the development alongside arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad in the area.
This city in recent times holds the accolades and is made popular of being home to the University of Illinoisand several tech companies, creating that very urban themed scenery and environment.
Fun Things to do in Champaign, Illinois
The city of Champaign, Illinois is made perfect for an amazing vacation and holiday experience since it affords to visitors the opportunities to relax, chill and hangout; with great parks and their various lovely outdoor leisure opportunities.
Present in a region as well that does breathes the air of culture, there are also various places of attractions of thriving cultural hub to also consider visiting as well; few of which would be talked about in the course of this article.
Finally, for all things entertainment, all the way to music concerts and down to festivals, this city has got free attractions and activities for such.
Here are the best things to do in Champaign, Illinois for a fun time.
1. Visit the Virginia Theatre
The Virginia Theatre present on the regional axis as well of Champaign, Illinois, is one dedicated to all things live performance and motion pictures for the entertainment purpose of the Champaign-Urbana community.
Having been in existence all the way back to the year 1921, this very theater house is one which ever since them has been attracting unique directors and actors around the globe.
Finally, present also within its vicinity is the life-size bronze sculpture of Roger Ebert, of which visitors do show up at for some moment of exploration of its trademark “thumbs up” gesture installed in front of the theatre.
Why you should visit
The Virginia Theatre is one very ideal location for a perfect date or an outing with your friends and family, while you get thrilled with each one of its amazing performances and exciting movies.
Address: 203 W Park Ave, Champaign, Champaign- Urbana, IL 61820-3928.
2. Explore the selection of books at the Champaign Public Library
The Champaign Public Library is a public attraction in the city of Champaign, open from Monday to Thursday, of which visitors are fully welcomed and ushered into its quiet meeting room for explore and scanning through its exciting selections of books.
Just as its mission statement dictates, the Champaign Public Library is one which is committed to inform, inspire, and connect with the community, by venturing into profitable collaboration with the community to provide and host skill-building and literacy programs.
Basically, this is perceived as an ideal location to be at for knowledgeable and intellect individuals; specifically for kids to come read, learn and meet new friends.
What to expect
Here, visitors get to explore and scan through its shelves of nicely arranged varieties of books put up for sale.
Address: 200 W Green St, Champaign, Champaign- Urbana, IL 61820-5193.
3. Explore the beauty of nature at Crystal Lake Park
The Crystal Lake Park just as its name insinuates is another natural habitation of this very city, one which also makes our list of fun things to do near Champaign, since visitors gets to explore its beauty of nature of dense urban forest andcsurroundings.
This very community attraction is also characterized by its Family Aquatic Center of overhanging rock wall and a zero-depth entry swimming pool; an experience where you get to enjoy encounters with animals.
What to expect
Since it is a water based region, crystal lake park do offer non-motorized boat rentals for visitors to enjoy riding on, though they could also choose to enjoy the fun and thrills of its picnic areas and playgrounds as well.
Address: 206 W Park St, Champaign-Urbana, IL 61801, United States.
4. Eat al fresco at Downtown Champaign
Downtown Champaign is more like a small town within the city itself, one very place dominated by the presence of many local shops and restaurants, just a stone throw actually from the north of Campustown and the University.
In this very small town of Champaign, visitors get to come across a handful number of restaurants to enjoy breakfasts of mostly American cuisine and seasonal menus, most especially the delicacy of al fresco.
Why you should visit
There are a whole lot of places of attractions to check out in downtown Champaign, one of such is the Orpheum Children’s Museum open for young explorers to come to tour its renovated vaudeville theatre.
Other places of interest to visit as well include Jane Addams Bookshop, a local favorite for bibliophiles, the coffee shop of Aroma Cafe alongside the event center of StreetFest.
5. Enjoy the beautiful game of football at Memorial Stadium
Who doesn’t love football? Since literally everyone does love watching this beautiful game. Should you happen to find yourself in the city of Champaign, there’s no better place to catch up with the beautiful game of football than the Memorial Stadium.
The reason behind such a setting isn’t far fetched, since the Memorial Stadium is one blessed with a od and comfortable seat setting of Olympic standard to enjoy watching a football game.
What other things happen here
Football aside, there are some other hosted competitions to get yourself thrilled with at the Memorial Stadium, one of such competitions being the NCAA Men’s Division I Outdoor Track & Field Championships.
6. Go on a shopping spree at the Urbana’s Market on the Square
If there’s one thing both visitors and tourists alike do crave for a whole lot while visiting an entirely different city outside their own very city of residence, such very desire would be craving for a memorable shopping experience.
Should that be a deciding factor for them choosing to visit the city of Champaign, there’s no better place to enjoy a memorable shopping experience than going on a shopping spree at the Urbana’s Market on the Square.
A designated farmers market of which visitors gets to shop for the very best of its local farmer’s fresh produce, alongside some other commodities of clothing, and a variety of locally-made goods.
Finally, the Urbana’s Market at Square has also got quite a few numbers of stands for ready-to-eat hot foods, and live performances from its local musicians provide a great soundtrack.
Address: 401 S Vine St, Champaign Urbana, IL 61801, United States.
7. Explore the historic artifacts of Spurlock Museum
This Museum of Spurlock is one which breathes the air of World Cultures in the city of Champaign, boasting of having over 50,000 artifacts sourced from all over the world within its disposal of over nine galleries.
This museum house specifically set up to assist in highlighting the contributions of human beings from all regions of history is one very place of attraction to consider visiting should you find yourself in its city.
Why you should visit
Here, visitors gets to explore its various amazing artifacts from the various regions of East Asia, North America, and Mesopotamia, characterized by its eye-catching displays of traditional headwear and marble sculptures.
Address: 600 S Gregory St, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, United States.
8. Beat the summer heat at Sholem Aquatic Center
The Sholem Aquatic Center is also another place of recommendation when it comes to attractions to visit in Champaign; one very place designated for beating the summer heat of the city by enjoying a wonderful swimming time with your friends and family.
For those who haven’t acquired knowledge as to how to go about swimming, well worry no more as provisions have already been made for them through its learn-to-swim programs for kids and adults alike
Finally, it has also got few water games open got exploration by kids, such as a water slide/lazy river combo, toys and other outdoor activities.
Why you should visit
Though it does host a variety of parties and celebrations, it is an ideal location to relax under the shade, soak up some rays or enjoy other outdoor recreation.
Address: 2205 Sangamon Dr, Champaign, Champaign-Urbana, IL 61821-4981
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9. Enjoy a relaxing evening with Alto Vineyards and Winery
The Alto Vineyards and Winery in Champaign, IL, is one reputable for its top notch delivery of beer, wine, water and soda, to the delightful taste of both visitors and tourists alike, with all these taking place in its country setting of enough outdoor space.
The experience that comes with being present at this very attraction is that visitors gets to grab a taste and enjoy wine tasting in its winery; a dining experience which is mostly complemented by a small selection of cheese, crackers, and meat.
Why you should visit.
Visitors gets to grab the taste of its varieties of sweet and affordable wines while hanging out with their loved ones.
Address: 4210 N Duncan Rd, Champaign, Champaign- Urbana, IL 61822-8934.
10. Get stunned with the beauty of nature at Meadowbrook Park
Meadowbrook Park as a known fact is and happens to be one of the most visited attraction in Champaign, Illinois; one which comes with the experience of walking in its natural world,while getting amazed with its beauty.
With over Five miles worth of trails, surrounded and dominated by plenty of gardens and natural areas, this certainly is a place that attract lots of attention, thereby making it a popular spot for enjoyment and entertainment.
What other things happens here
The Meadowbrook park has also got a picnic tables and pavilions that allow perfect to enjoy eating and relaxing outdoors.
Address: 2808 S Race St, Champaign Urbana, IL 61802, United States.
11. Go back in time with Krannert Art Museum
The Krannert Art Museum which is just a stone throw from the Memorial Stadium and present on the regional axis of University of Illinois campus, is one which illustrates the rich history and culture of Champaign Illinois, through its many galleries of fine art and art collection spans millennia.
Right over at this museum house, visitors are presented with a reputable platform to explore the ancient Andean artworks and West African headwear, constituted mostly of American and European paintings of the past two centuries.
Why you should visit
Made open and free to all members of the public, here visitors gets to enjoy its beautiful moments of exploration of its art in the galleries of high ceilingnd well-lit spaces.
Address: 500 E Peabody Dr, Champaign, IL 61820, United States.
12. Give kids their moments at Orpheum Children’s Science Museum
The holiday experience and vacation stay of kids in Champaign Illinois wouldn’t be spiced up a bit if a visit to the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum isn’t accomplished, one very interactive space that preaches science and creativity.
The kids who should consider themselves lucky, are taken through a walk of its interactive exhibits, of Dino Dig and Critter Corner, making it an ideal location to visit in spring and summer.
What do they offer
This very museum house offers a variety of after-school programs and summer camps of utmost interest to the kids.
Address: 346 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820, United States.
13. Visit the nature endowed Hessel Park
The Hessel Park is another public space that holds the bragging rights of being one of the beloved parks occupying the regional axis of the city of Champaign Illinois; one which is characterized by abundant trees and play areas, making it gathering even more popularity.
Talking of its nature endowed environment, Hessel Park has got within its surroundings an accessible playground complemented by the presence of a splash pad, for some moments of fun during summer.
Finally, it has also got a half-mile of paved pathways for individuals looking to take a walk or stroll, and a beautiful shaded environment to catch some good rest as well.
What other things happen here
The Bessel Park do holds its hosted events first Saturday of each month, made known for its live music from its talented local artists during the summer.
Address: 1400 Grandview Dr, Champaign, IL 61820, United States.
14. Take a tour of the Champaign County History Museum
The Champaign County History Museum is also another blessed place of attraction in Champaign Illinois; one of few designated locations of which both visitors and tourists alike get to explore Champaign’s history with each and every single one of its impressive collections.
Talking of its impressive Collections, it has them put on display in its rotating galleries and exhibits; one which preaches the message of the student life at the University of Illinois, and the war years.
Why you should visit
Visitors gets to take a tour of its World War II memorabilia, made up of medals and uniforms of the Tuskegee Airmen of Chanute Air Base, Rantoul; a beautiful moment of exploration to behold indeed.
Address: 102 E University Ave, Champaign, IL 61820, United States.
15. Go fishing at Kaufman Lake
The Kaufman Lake offers fun moments close to the waters, one attraction that also holds the bragging rights of being one of few excellent places to go fishing with your friends and family in the city of Champaign Illinois.
Since it is close to the seaside, it also does makes provision for a grill and a small boathouse which are oftentimes put up for rentals, creating a perfect setting to enjoy lunchtime and picnic with your family or friends.
What to expect
Visitors get to enjoy their ride on its water bodies making use of its remote-controlled boats, radio-controlled boats, personal kayaks and canoes, and paddleboards.
Address: 2702 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, Champaign-Urbana, IL 61821-2806.
16. Escape from the tussle of the city at University Avenue Tree Walk
The University avenue tree walk offers the perfect opportunity for both visitors and tourists alike to distance themselves from the bustling streets of Champaign, Illinois; an ideal location to come enjoy your vacation experience and stay with friends and family.
Basically, visitors do show up at this environ to come take a walk and stroll of its naturally endowed space of over 20,000 street trees and 100,000 private trees; one which subsequently would serve as well as provide shade and freshness of the air during your stay.
Why you should visit
Right over here at the University Avenue Tree Walk, visitors gets to explore and take a tour of its over 40 different tree species and fruit illustrations.
Address: University Avenue, Champaign, Champaign- Urbana, IL 61820.
17. Check out the music library of The Sousa Archives Center for American Music
The music library of Sousa Archives & Center for American Music is one which breathes the air of music in Champaign, Illinois; one which is dedicated to preserving a remarkable collection of historical artifacts, archival records, and other formats.
Talking about its music formats, it do covers genre of music on topics relating to women and music and baseball and music, with notable works and collections from the evergreen archives of Herbert L. Clarke, John Philip Sousa, and Albert Austin Harding.
What do they offer
The The Sousa Archives Center for American Music do offer historical artifacts and archival records in multiple formats open for visitors to come explore.
Address: Harding Band Building, 1103 S 6th St, Champaign, IL 61820, United States.
18. Visit the pavilion and picnic area of West Side Park
The West Side Park just as its name insinuates is a public park in the city of Champaign Illinois as well, offering to both its local residents and visitors alike a wide range of the very best of outdoor activities.
This public park has also got its art and craft side in the sense that it has got its diverse open art collection in its beautiful and friendly setting, making it one of the most popular attraction of the city to both its local residents and visitors.
Finally, the west side park Is also one characterized by its natural endearing beauty, one which Is also blessed with a calm serene environment perfect for catching some good rest.
What to expect
Visitors gets to stroll around as they go about exploring its different sculptures, a bandstand, a playground, and a memorial dedicated to firefighters and police officers tagged national hero’s.
Address: 400 W University Ave, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
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19. Take a stroll around the Boneyard Creek
The Boneyard is a 3.3-mile-long waterway of the city of Champaign, right on the campus ground of the University of Illinois campus; one which do serve as well as the favorite camping site for people of native american.
The attraction that comes from this very site arises from its stormwater drain, which was an effort put In place to maintain the hydrological function, natural beauty, and water quality of the Creek.
What to expect
Here, visitors gets to take a stroll while enjoying sightseeing of its beautiful environs. Though there are also the presence picnic tables as well for Individuals interested in enjoying Picnic’s.
Address: Champaign, IL 61820, USA
20. Sample every beer at Pour Bros. Taproom
The Pour Bros. Taproom is a designated comfort zone for lovers of good beer, which also do happen to make our list of the best things to do Champaign, IL. The experience of this very attraction is that visitors gets to check out and sample every beer on ground in the company of their friends.
Taking a walk into its ever functioningbar with numerous delectable options of beers, visitors are at liberty to sample anyone of its beers by taking a sip of them with fine music in the background.
What do they offer
The pour bros taproom do offer the fine selection of the best wines alongside handmade cocktails, meads, and ciders.
Address: 40 E University Ave, Champaign, IL 61820, United States.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, talking of one of such very plsvd to visit or Plan a Trip to in the whole of United States, the city of Champaign, Illinois, is one which is bound to make such s list, one which you will definitely love to explore.
This is evident as well in the fact that there are a whole lot of exciting and unique places to visit, while also enjoying and engaging with each and every single one of those fun activities that comes with visiting such very places.
