Campus IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Campus, Illinois.
1. The Virginia Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Virginia Theatre is a beautifully preserved historic venue that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. Visitors can enjoy a variety of performances including concerts, films, and theatrical productions in this iconic space. The theater offers a glimpse into the past with its stunning architecture while providing modern entertainment experiences.
2. State Farm Center
PREMIER SPORTS ARENA
State Farm Center is an impressive arena with 15,500 permanent seats that opened in 1963. Beyond hosting the University of Illinois basketball teams, this versatile facility serves as a venue for concerts, community events, and other large gatherings. The distinctive dome-shaped building is an architectural landmark on the university campus.
3. Champaign Public Library
MODERN LITERARY HAVEN
Champaign Public Library welcomes visitors with light-filled, open spaces and wonderful Peter Sis murals throughout the building. The library features a colorful TeenSpace, fun makerspace, quiet meeting rooms, a Library Café, and Friendshop Bookstore. Visitors can enjoy the various resources and programs offered in this community hub located at 200 W Green Street.
4. Antiques & More at Staley Road
TREASURE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Antiques & More at Staley Road encompasses over 8000 square feet of space featuring 80 different vendors offering a diverse selection of items. Visitors can browse through antiques, vintage clothing, mid-century pieces, retro items, Amish-made candies, candles, soaps, advertising signs, and furniture. This expansive antique mall truly has something for everyone looking for unique finds and collectibles.
5. Memorial Stadium
FIGHTING ILLINI FOOTBALL HOME
Memorial Stadium serves as the iconic home field for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini football team. The stadium offers an exciting gameday atmosphere with passionate fans cheering on their team throughout the football season. Visitors can experience college football traditions and the energy of Big Ten athletic competition in this historic venue.
6. Krannert Art Museum
PREMIER UNIVERSITY ART COLLECTION
Krannert Art Museum houses an impressive collection of more than 11,000 works of art dating from the 4th century B.C. to the present. As the second largest fine art museum in Illinois, it features floors of classic oil paintings and varied works by contemporary artists across numerous galleries. The museum offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural destination for art lovers visiting the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus.
7. Meadowbrook Park
NATURAL PRAIRIE LANDSCAPE
Meadowbrook Park offers 130 acres of outdoor exploration featuring ample walking trails, a vibrant tall grass prairie, a working farmstead, and playground facilities. Visitors can enjoy paved trails that wind through the natural landscape while discovering the artistic elements of the integrated Wandell Sculpture Garden. The park provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural elements for outdoor enthusiasts in Urbana.
8. Wandell Sculpture Garden
ART AMID NATURE
Wandell Sculpture Garden was established in 1999 within Meadowbrook Park and continues to grow along the park's trails and green spaces. Visitors can discover a variety of sculptures thoughtfully placed throughout the natural setting, creating a unique outdoor art experience. The garden beautifully combines artistic expression with the prairie landscape for a contemplative walking experience.
9. Robert Allerton Park
HISTORIC ESTATE GARDENS
Robert Allerton Park spans an impressive 1,517 acres and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as one of the American Institute of Architects' 150 Great Places in Illinois. The ornate park features formal gardens, natural areas, and a historic manor house that visitors can explore through guided or self-guided tours. Nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike will appreciate the unique combination of landscape architecture and natural beauty found throughout the expansive grounds.
10. Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
CULTURAL PERFORMANCE HUB
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts serves as the premier cultural venue at the University of Illinois, hosting a diverse range of performances throughout the year. Visitors can experience dance, theater, orchestral concerts, and other artistic presentations across multiple performance spaces within the complex. The center nurtures both student talent and professional touring acts, providing the community with access to world-class performing arts.
11. Parkland Theatre
COMMUNITY THEATER EXCELLENCE
Parkland Theatre offers engaging theatrical performances and educational opportunities as part of Parkland College's performing arts program. Audiences can enjoy a variety of productions ranging from classic plays to contemporary works presented in an intimate setting. The theater serves as both a training ground for aspiring performers and a cultural resource for the broader community.
12. Champaign County Museums
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Champaign County Museums preserve and showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of the region through various exhibits and collections. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of the area's development from early settlement to modern times. These museums provide educational opportunities for all ages to connect with the local history of Champaign County.
13. University of Illinois Arboretum
LIVING PLANT MUSEUM
The University of Illinois Arboretum serves as a living laboratory featuring diverse plant collections, gardens, and natural areas across its expansive grounds. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens including the Japan House Garden, Miles C. Hartley Selections Garden, and various other horticultural displays. The arboretum provides both recreational opportunities and educational resources for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
14. Champaign County Balloon Festival
COLORFUL SKY CELEBRATION
The Champaign County Balloon Festival fills the skies with colorful hot air balloons during this popular annual event. Visitors can witness spectacular balloon launches, nighttime balloon glows, and even participate in tethered balloon rides when available. The festival typically includes food vendors, entertainment, and family activities creating a festive atmosphere for attendees of all ages.
15. 40 North - Champaign County Arts Council
LOCAL ARTS PROMOTION
40 North serves as the Champaign County Arts Council, dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts throughout the region. The organization coordinates various events including gallery walks, the Boneyard Arts Festival, and other cultural programming throughout the year. Visitors interested in experiencing local creativity can consult 40 North's resources to discover exhibitions, performances, and artistic opportunities during their stay in Champaign-Urbana.