Chandlerville IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Chandlerville, Illinois.
1. The Virginia Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Virginia Theatre is a beautifully restored historic theater in downtown Champaign that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. Visitors can enjoy various performances including plays, concerts, and classic film screenings in this ornate venue. The theater's architectural details and rich history make it a cultural cornerstone of the community.
2. State Farm Center
PREMIER SPORTS ARENA
State Farm Center is an impressive 15,500-seat arena that opened in 1963 and serves as home to the University of Illinois basketball teams. The facility hosts not only sporting events but also concerts, conventions, and other major entertainment productions throughout the year. Its distinctive dome shape makes it an architectural landmark in the region.
3. Champaign Public Library
MODERN LITERARY HAVEN
The Champaign Public Library features light-filled, open spaces with wonderful Peter Sis murals and numerous amenities for visitors. The library offers a colorful TeenSpace, fun makerspace, quiet meeting rooms, and a Library Café and Friendshop Bookstore. Visitors can enjoy the blend of literary resources and community gathering spaces in this modern facility.
4. Antiques & More at Staley Road
VINTAGE TREASURE TROVE
Antiques & More at Staley Road is a sprawling 8,000 square foot antique mall featuring 80 vendors with something for every collector. Visitors can browse through antiques, vintage clothing, mid-century pieces, retro items, Amish-made candies, candles, soaps, advertising signs, and furniture. This destination is a must-visit for anyone seeking unique historical items and collectibles.
5. Memorial Stadium
ICONIC COLLEGE FOOTBALL VENUE
Memorial Stadium is the historic home of the Fighting Illini football team at the University of Illinois. The stadium offers an authentic college football atmosphere with traditions dating back generations. Visitors can experience the energy of game days and appreciate the venue's significance to both the university and local community.
6. Krannert Art Museum
PREMIER UNIVERSITY ART COLLECTION
Krannert Art Museum is the second largest fine art museum in Illinois, housing an impressive collection of more than 11,000 works of art from the 4th century B.C. to the present. Visitors can explore floors of classic oil paintings and varied works by contemporary artists across multiple galleries and temporary exhibitions. The museum offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural destination for art lovers visiting the University of Illinois campus.
7. Robert Allerton Park
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GARDENS
Robert Allerton Park is an ornate 1,517-acre estate listed in the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as one of the American Institute of Architects' 150 Great Places in Illinois. The park features formal gardens, hiking trails, and stunning architectural elements that blend European design with natural Illinois landscapes. Visitors can explore the historic mansion, numerous sculptures, and themed gardens throughout this magnificent property near Champaign-Urbana.
8. Meadowbrook Park
PRAIRIE TRAILS AND SCULPTURES
Meadowbrook Park is a sprawling 130-acre green space in Urbana featuring ample walking trails, a vibrant tall grass prairie, and a working farmstead. The park is home to the Wandell Sculpture Garden, established in 1999, which displays various artistic sculptures along the paved trail system. Visitors can enjoy the playground, natural areas, and outdoor art while getting exercise in this recreational gem.
9. Activities and Recreation Center
CAMPUS FITNESS COMPLEX
The Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) is a comprehensive fitness and recreation facility located on the University of Illinois campus. Visitors can access state-of-the-art exercise equipment, indoor tracks, swimming pools, and courts for various sports. The center serves as a hub for physical wellness and recreational activities for both students and community members.
10. Champaign Park District
COMMUNITY RECREATION NETWORK
The Champaign Park District oversees numerous parks, facilities, and recreational programs throughout the city. Visitors can enjoy various seasonal events, outdoor spaces, and community activities organized by the district. The parks range from neighborhood playgrounds to larger recreational areas with sports facilities, gardens, and natural features.
11. Atkins Tennis Center
PREMIER TENNIS FACILITY
The Atkins Tennis Center is a top-tier tennis facility located on the University of Illinois campus. The center features both indoor and outdoor courts, hosting collegiate matches as well as community programs throughout the year. Tennis enthusiasts can watch competitive matches or potentially arrange to use the well-maintained courts when available.
12. American Football House
MUSIC HISTORY LANDMARK
The American Football House is a culturally significant location known for its connection to the influential emo band American Football. Music fans make pilgrimages to this otherwise unassuming house that was featured on the cover of the band's iconic debut album. The house represents an important piece of indie music history in the Champaign-Urbana area, which has a rich legacy of musical innovation.
13. Art Coop
CREATIVE ART SUPPLY SHOP
Art Coop is a beloved local art supply store that offers a wide range of creative materials for artists, students, and hobbyists. Visitors can browse through unique art supplies, take workshops, and connect with the local creative community. The shop embodies the artistic spirit of Champaign-Urbana with its personalized service and commitment to nurturing creativity.
14. Champaign County Balloon Festival
COLORFUL AERIAL CELEBRATION
The Champaign County Balloon Festival is an annual event featuring dozens of colorful hot air balloons filling the skies above central Illinois. Visitors can watch balloon launches, potentially take rides, and enjoy festival activities including food vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly attractions. The festival creates a magical atmosphere as balloons glow against the evening sky during special night illumination events.
15. Farm-to-Table Restaurants
LOCAL CULINARY EXPERIENCES
Champaign-Urbana boasts a booming farm-to-table restaurant scene featuring fresh ingredients sourced directly from local farms. Visitors can experience a range of dining options from casual cafes to upscale establishments, all celebrating the agricultural bounty of central Illinois. These culinary destinations showcase seasonal menus and support the region's farming communities while providing memorable dining experiences.