Bishop Hill IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bishop Hill, Illinois.
1. Bishop Hill Heritage Association Museum
COLONIAL HISTORY PRESERVED
Bishop Hill Heritage Association Museum showcases the rich history of the Swedish pietist colony founded in 1846. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of this unique utopian community. The museum serves as an excellent starting point for understanding the historical significance of Bishop Hill before exploring the rest of the historic district.
2. Bishop Hill State Historic Site
NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
Bishop Hill State Historic Site is an open-air museum operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, featuring four surviving buildings from the original colony. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1984, the site offers self-guided tours of the Colony Church, Colony Hotel, and Museum. Visitors can immerse themselves in the 19th-century atmosphere while learning about the Swedish immigrants who established this utopian community.
3. Colony Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS BUILDING
The Colony Church stands as one of the most important structures in Bishop Hill's historic district. Built by Swedish colonists, this preserved church offers visitors a glimpse into the religious life of the original settlement. The church hosts special events including the traditional 'Julotta' Christmas morning service at 6 a.m., continuing a Swedish holiday tradition.
4. Bjorklund Hotel
HISTORIC COLONIAL LODGING
The Bjorklund Hotel (Colony Hotel) represents one of the few remaining original buildings from the 1846 Swedish colony in Bishop Hill. Visitors can tour the first floor of this historic structure to witness the living conditions and architectural style of the 19th-century settlement. The hotel stands as a testament to the community's craftsmanship and self-sufficiency during the colony's heyday.
5. Olof Krans Museum
PRIMITIVE ART COLLECTION
The Olof Krans Museum houses a valuable collection of primitivist paintings by colonist Olof Krans (1838-1916) in a historic brick building. These artworks provide a unique visual record of life in the Bishop Hill Colony through the eyes of someone who experienced it firsthand. Visitors can view these important cultural artifacts while gaining insight into the daily activities, customs, and appearance of the Swedish settlement.
6. Bishop Hill Village Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY GREEN
Bishop Hill Village Park serves as the central green space within this historic community, featuring a gazebo and memorials to the town's early settlers and Civil War soldiers. The park hosts various community events throughout the year, including the traditional 'Jordbruksdagarna' harvest festival held the last full weekend in September. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while appreciating the historical significance of this communal gathering space.
7. Outsider Gallery
CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE
The Outsider Gallery in Bishop Hill offers visitors a more contemporary art experience within this historic village. The gallery showcases works that contrast with and complement the historical context of the community. Art enthusiasts will appreciate this opportunity to engage with modern creative expressions alongside the traditional Swedish colonial heritage.
8. Vasa National Archives
SWEDISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE CENTER
The Vasa National Archives serves as an important repository for documents and artifacts relating to Swedish-American heritage. Located in Bishop Hill, this institution preserves the history of Swedish immigration and cultural contributions to America. Visitors interested in genealogy or Swedish-American relations will find valuable resources and exhibits that illuminate this important aspect of American history.
9. Henry County Historical Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Henry County Historical Museum expands beyond Bishop Hill's Swedish colony history to encompass the broader regional heritage. This specialty museum houses artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of development throughout Henry County. Visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of how Bishop Hill fits into the larger historical context of the area.
10. Bishop Hill Bakery and Eatery
TRADITIONAL SWEDISH CUISINE
Bishop Hill Bakery and Eatery offers visitors an opportunity to taste traditional Swedish recipes in a historic setting. The establishment serves authentic dishes that connect today's visitors with the culinary heritage of the original colonists. While enjoying Swedish pastries, breads, and meals, patrons can experience an important aspect of cultural preservation in this living historic village.
11. P L Johnson's Restaurant
LOCAL AMERICAN DINING
P L Johnson's Restaurant welcomes hungry visitors with American favorites and vegetarian options in the heart of Bishop Hill. The restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere for travelers exploring the historic village to rest and refuel. Diners can enjoy quality meals while reflecting on their experience of this unique historic destination.
12. Wiley Park
LOCAL RECREATIONAL AREA
Wiley Park provides outdoor recreational opportunities near Bishop Hill in the neighboring community of Galva. The park offers visitors a chance to enjoy natural surroundings as a complement to the historical experiences in Bishop Hill. Families and nature lovers will appreciate this outdoor space for picnicking, walking, and relaxing during their exploration of Henry County.
13. Galva Park District
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACES
The Galva Park District maintains several recreational areas near Bishop Hill, expanding visitors' options for outdoor activities. These community green spaces include facilities for sports, picnicking, and casual outdoor enjoyment. Travelers can balance their historical exploration with physical activity and relaxation in these well-maintained parks.
14. The Colony Inn
HISTORIC PUB EXPERIENCE
The Colony Inn offers visitors to Bishop Hill a chance to unwind with refreshments in a historic setting. This pub provides a social gathering place reminiscent of how the original colonists might have gathered, albeit with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy beverages and conversation while absorbing the unique atmosphere of this preserved 19th-century community.
15. Jordbruksdagarna Harvest Festival
TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURAL CELEBRATION
Jordbruksdagarna is Bishop Hill's traditional 19th-century harvest festival held annually on the last full weekend in September. Visitors can witness demonstrations of historical harvesting and crop processing methods used by the original Swedish colonists. This immersive living history event offers a unique opportunity to experience the agricultural practices and celebrations that were central to the colony's self-sufficient lifestyle.