Chicago steals the spotlight when it comes to tourism in Illinois, but the Midwest state has more to offer than skyscrapers and Lake Michigan. That’s especially true if you’re looking for charming small towns to have a relaxing getaway — and if that’s the case, Arcola needs to be on your radar. Not only does it have a tiny downtown bursting with personality and local artwork, but you’ll also find quirky attractions at your fingertips, like the Hippie Memorial, fun annual festivals, and a wealth of shops dedicated to the Amish lifestyle.
This unassuming town is located smack in the middle of Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis, giving you three large airports to choose from that are about two hours away. Arcola is home to around 3,000 people, and the surrounding area is comprised of large Amish communities. That makes it a truly unique place to visit, allowing you to immerse yourself in another culture and enjoy a slower pace of life. There’s nothing in Arcola quite as striking as Chicago’s waterfront road highlighting some of the world’s best architecture, but if you prefer open spaces and quirky attractions, it’s a wonderful destination in the heart of Illinois.
Indulge in the quirky side of Arcola with shops and public sculptures
Arcola is one of the quirkiest towns in the Midwest. For proof, look no further than the “Hippie Memorial” — a 62-foot-long work of art that stretches through downtown. Created by Bob Moomaw, the abstract sculpture celebrates acceptance, freedom, and being happy with who you are. Next to the memorial is a marker offering more details about the piece, and it’s a wonderful spot to stop and reflect on how you ended up at this exact moment in time.
Another strange fact about Arcola is that John Gruelle, the creator of the iconic Raggedy Ann dolls, was born in town. To honor his legacy as an artist and cartoonist, you’ll find bronze sculptures of Raggedy Ann and Andy perched on a bright red park bench. The installation is located just a few steps away from the “Hippie Memorial.”…