10 Best Small Towns in Illinois for a Relaxing Weekend Escape

While Chicago may be the main attraction in Illinois, the state is home to picturesque small towns that offer history, scenic beauty, and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, outdoor adventure, or a quiet retreat, these 10 best small towns in Illinois make for the perfect weekend getaway.

1. Galena – Illinois’ Most Charming Historic Town

Known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, Galena is a favorite destination for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll through Main Street’s boutique shops, visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home, or explore scenic trails along the Galena River.

📍 Location: Northwestern Illinois
🔗 Visit Galena

Historic cannon on a concrete base overlooking a river, bridge, and town with colorful buildings and a church steeple in the background, under a partly cloudy sky.

2. Woodstock – A Small Town with Hollywood Fame

Famous for being the filming location of Groundhog Day, Woodstock offers a quaint town square, historic opera house, and lively farmers’ market.

📍 Location: Northern Illinois
🔗 Explore Woodstock

3. Nauvoo – A Historic Riverfront Town

Located along the Mississippi River, Nauvoo is a beautiful historic town with deep Mormon heritage. Explore pioneer-era homes, wineries, and the stunning Nauvoo Temple.

📍 Location: Western Illinois
🔗 Visit Nauvoo

4. Princeton – A Hidden Gem for Antique Lovers

Princeton is perfect for those who love antique shopping, historic architecture, and charming bed-and-breakfasts. Visit the Red Covered Bridge and Captain Swift Covered Bridge for scenic photo ops.

📍 Location: North-Central Illinois
🔗 Discover Princeton

5. Ottawa – Outdoor Adventures & History

Located at the junction of the Illinois and Fox Rivers, Ottawa is known for its outdoor recreation and rich history—including being the site of the first Lincoln-Douglas Debate.

📍 Location: North-Central Illinois
🔗 Visit Ottawa

6. Elsah – A Picture-Perfect River Town

Nicknamed “the town that time forgot”, Elsah is filled with quaint historic homes, scenic Mississippi River views, and cozy B&Bs.

📍 Location: Southwestern Illinois
🔗 Explore Elsah

7. Mount Carroll – A Quaint Arts and Culture Destination

Mount Carroll boasts Victorian-era homes, a thriving arts scene, and the famous Timber Lake Playhouse. It’s perfect for a relaxing getaway with a touch of culture.

📍 Location: Northwestern Illinois
🔗 Visit Mount Carroll

8. Bishop Hill – A Swedish Settlement with Unique Charm

Founded by Swedish immigrants in the 1800s, Bishop Hill offers charming historical sites, folk art galleries, and Scandinavian heritage museums.

📍 Location: Western Illinois
🔗 Discover Bishop Hill

9. Grafton – A Riverside Getaway

Grafton is the perfect destination for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy stunning river views, local wineries, and scenic drives along the Great River Road.

📍 Location: Southwestern Illinois
🔗 Visit Grafton

10. Lebanon – A Literary & Historic Treasure

Home to The Looking Glass Playhouse and the historic Mermaid House Hotel, Lebanon is a charming town filled with bookshops, cafes, and historic sites.

📍 Location: Southwestern Illinois
🔗 Explore Lebanon

Final Thoughts

From historic districts and scenic riverfronts to boutique shopping and outdoor adventure, these small towns in Illinois offer a perfect escape from city life. Whether you’re looking for history, relaxation, or adventure, these hidden gems provide an unforgettable weekend getaway.

For more Illinois travel guides, check out our Best Museums in Chicago and Historic Sites in Chicago.