Arthur IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Arthur, Illinois.
1. The Great Pumpkin Patch
FALL FARM EXPERIENCE
The Great Pumpkin Patch is a seasonal attraction just south of Arthur that operates from early September through October. Visitors can explore the expansive farm featuring countless pumpkin varieties, a unique display of gourds, and family-friendly activities. The farm offers a perfect autumn experience with photo opportunities, educational exhibits, and a taste of rural Illinois charm.
2. Amish Country Tours
AUTHENTIC CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Amish Country Tours provides visitors with guided experiences through the heart of Illinois' largest Amish settlement. Tourists can observe the unique Amish way of life, including horse-drawn buggies, one-room schoolhouses, and traditional farming practices. The tours offer insight into a different culture while respecting the privacy and customs of the Amish community.
3. Green Meadow Farm
AMISH GOAT FARM
Green Meadow Farm is an Amish family-owned goat farm that welcomes visitors for an authentic agricultural experience. The farm offers horse buggy rides and behind-the-scenes tours that showcase traditional farming methods. Visitors can purchase locally-made goat milk products and experience firsthand the sustainable practices of Amish farmers.
4. Shady Crest Farm Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND GOODS
Shady Crest Farm Market offers a diverse selection of fresh local produce, homemade foods, and handcrafted items in Arthur. Visitors can browse through fresh fruits and vegetables, deli meats and cheeses, hand-dipped ice cream, homemade fudge, and various baked goods. The market provides a genuine taste of the region with its bulk foods, dried fruits, and other specialty items made by local Amish families.
5. The Homestead Bakery
FRESH AMISH BAKED GOODS
The Homestead Bakery delights visitors with freshly baked Amish goods made from scratch daily. Their selection includes breads, cookies, pies, and other delectable treats prepared using traditional Amish methods. The bakery offers a taste of authentic Amish cuisine that can't be found in ordinary supermarkets or chain bakeries.
6. Beachy's Bulk Foods
TRADITIONAL AMISH GROCERIES
Beachy's Bulk Foods is a popular Amish-owned grocery store offering a wide variety of bulk food items, spices, and specialty goods. Shoppers can find everything from baking supplies to candies, dried fruits, and unique food items not typically available in conventional stores. The store provides a glimpse into the Amish pantry while offering visitors quality ingredients and products at reasonable prices.
7. Country Cheese and More
SPECIALTY CHEESE SHOP
Country Cheese and More specializes in a wide variety of artisanal cheeses, meats, and specialty foods in downtown Arthur. Visitors can sample unique cheese varieties, purchase locally-made food products, and find distinctive gifts and souvenirs. The shop captures the essence of Amish Country's culinary traditions while offering modern shoppers a taste of authentic, high-quality dairy products.
8. Yoder's Lamps Antiques & Collectibles
UNIQUE VINTAGE FINDS
Yoder's Lamps Antiques & Collectibles houses an impressive collection of vintage lamps, antiques, and collectible items in Arthur. Treasure hunters can explore rooms filled with historic pieces, unique finds, and beautifully crafted Amish goods. The shop offers both serious collectors and casual browsers an opportunity to step back in time and discover one-of-a-kind items with authentic character.
9. Otto Center
COMMUNITY AND CULTURE HUB
The Otto Center serves as a cultural and community hub in Arthur, hosting various events and providing information about the local Amish community. Visitors can learn about the history, traditions, and lifestyle of the Amish people through exhibits and educational programs. The center acts as a bridge between tourists and the local Amish population, fostering understanding and appreciation of this unique culture.
10. Amish Country Bicycle Tour
SCENIC RURAL CYCLING
The Amish Country Bicycle Tour offers cyclists a chance to explore the picturesque countryside around Arthur at their own pace. Riders pedal past Amish farms, schools, and businesses while enjoying the peaceful rural landscape and fresh country air. This self-guided experience provides an eco-friendly way to observe Amish life and the beautiful agricultural scenery of central Illinois.
11. Winters Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Winters Gallery showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople in a charming space in Arthur. Visitors can browse through paintings, sculptures, handcrafted items, and other artistic creations that often reflect the rural and Amish influence of the region. The gallery provides a cultural dimension to Arthur's attractions, highlighting the creative talent fostered in this unique community.
12. The Little Theatre on the Square
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Little Theatre on the Square in nearby Sullivan has been presenting professional live theatrical performances for over 60 years. This nationally recognized venue was named one of the "Top 10 Places to See the Lights Way Off-Broadway" by USA Today and has hosted more than 175 famous stars including Mickey Rooney and Alan Alda. Visitors can enjoy Broadway-quality productions in an intimate, historic setting just a short drive from Arthur.
13. Amish Country Tractor Cruise
VINTAGE FARM EQUIPMENT PARADE
The Amish Country Tractor Cruise celebrates agricultural heritage with a parade of vintage and modern tractors through the countryside around Arthur. Participants and spectators can admire the evolution of farming equipment alongside the horse-drawn implements still used by the Amish community. This unique event bridges the gap between modern and traditional farming methods, creating a colorful display of rural American culture.
14. Amish Country Spring Quilt Show
TRADITIONAL TEXTILE ARTISTRY
The Amish Country Spring Quilt Show displays hundreds of handcrafted quilts representing both traditional Amish patterns and contemporary designs. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stitchwork, bold colors, and geometric patterns that characterize these functional works of art. The event celebrates the rich textile tradition of the Amish community while providing quilting enthusiasts an opportunity to appreciate and purchase these heirloom-quality pieces.
15. Amish Country Cheese Festival
DAIRY DELIGHTS CELEBRATION
The Amish Country Cheese Festival is an annual event celebrating the dairy traditions of the region with cheese tastings, food vendors, and family activities. Visitors can sample a wide variety of artisanal cheeses, enjoy live entertainment, and participate in cheese-themed contests and games. The festival highlights the important role of dairy farming in the local economy while providing a fun, flavorful experience for cheese lovers of all ages.