The Top 5 Must Do Things in Champaign, IL

Champaign, IL, is known for being the home of the main campus of the University of Illinois, Parkland College, and a host of well-known startup companies. You’ll find Fortune 500 companies like John Deere, Dow Chemical, IBM, and State Farm call this eastern Illinois city home.

Whether you’re moving, visiting, or already living in Champaign, IL, here is a list of the top five things to do that you don’t want to miss.

Meadowbrook Park

Anyone who wants a brisk day out in nature loves Meadowbrook park. From wandering scenic trails to a unique sensory garden to an old farm, there are plenty of places to enjoy fresh air or a picnic. On the way to the park, take notice of the twenty sculptures created by local artists that provide plenty of amazing photo opportunities.

University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana

It wouldn’t be a trip to Champaign, IL, without a stop at the gorgeous, sprawling campus of the University of Illinois. While many might want to stay away from the student-center area, this massive campus is home or nearby many of the city’s main sights.

The university goes back to 1867, when it was founded. You’ll find 650 buildings, a research park, and a beautiful arboretum. Many special events take place at the Memorial Stadium and State Farm Center, so make sure to see a game or attend any number of other spectacles going on.

Virginia Theater

The hottest performance arts spot in Champaign, IL, is the Virginia Theater. You can stop by here to see a play, a film, or something else. The Spanish Revival-style interior makes for a historical and memorable visit, regardless of why you’re there.

The Virginia theater was built in 1912 and is home to one of the only original Wurlitzer Theater Pipe Organs still in use.

Downtown Champaign, IL

Like most cities of its size, the heart and soul of Champaign lie right downtown. You’ll find endless eateries and venues to keep you well-fed and well entertained. Even though Champaign, IL, is a good-sized city, it maintains a small-town feel. The streets are walkable and safe, and the city is full of beautiful old brick buildings.

Even if you’re not looking for an exciting night, a stroll downtown will bring you the relaxation you crave.

Market at the Square

Every Saturday morning from May through October, the area just outside of the Lincoln Square Mall hosts the market at the Square. This market features hundreds of farmers and vendors selling food, crafts, and everything else you can think of.

The market has been a tradition of the Champaign area since 1979, when locals would come to buy milk, meat, and cheese. Now, over 200 different stalls fill the area, along with live music, food trucks, and more.