McNabb IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near McNabb, Illinois.
1. Arcadia: America's Playable Arcade Museum
VINTAGE GAMING PARADISE
Arcadia: America's Playable Arcade Museum offers visitors a hands-on experience with classic arcade games from the golden age of gaming. Visitors can enjoy dozens of vintage arcade cabinets that are fully operational and available for play, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for older gamers and introducing younger generations to retro gaming culture. The museum preserves gaming history while providing an interactive entertainment experience that makes it a unique attraction along Route 66.
2. Funks Grove Nature Spaces
HISTORIC WOODLAND TRAILS
Funks Grove Nature Spaces features beautiful woodland trails through one of the largest remaining stands of original timber in Illinois. Visitors can explore the serene forest setting that has been preserved by the Funk family for generations, offering a peaceful retreat from busy highway travel. The natural area provides excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and connecting with nature throughout the changing seasons.
3. Funks Grove Church & Chapel in the Trees
SPIRITUAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
Funks Grove Church & Chapel in the Trees offers visitors a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the area with its historic church building and unique woodland chapel. The picturesque setting includes the main church structure as well as the distinctive Chapel in the Trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of local history. Visitors can explore the well-maintained grounds and cemetery that contain graves dating back to the early settlers of the region.
4. Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup
SWEET TRADITIONAL TREAT
Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup offers visitors a taste of tradition with their authentic maple syrup production that has been ongoing since 1891. Visitors can learn about the time-honored process of collecting sap from maple trees and transforming it into delicious syrup, with seasonal opportunities to observe the production firsthand. The distinctive spelling of 'sirup' reflects the family's traditional approach to this sweet treat that has become a must-stop for travelers along Route 66.
5. Route 66 Mural and Bench
ICONIC HIGHWAY TRIBUTE
The Route 66 Mural and Bench in McLean provides travelers with a perfect photo opportunity commemorating the historic Mother Road. This colorful roadside attraction captures the spirit of Route 66 travel and serves as a reminder of McLean's place along this iconic American highway. Visitors can rest on the bench while appreciating the artistic celebration of road trip culture that has defined this region for generations.
6. Village Square Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE
Village Square Park in McLean offers a peaceful retreat bordered by Hamilton, Park, and Morgan Streets among historic buildings. The park features a covered pavilion with picnic tables, large shade trees, and memorial monuments honoring citizens who served in World Wars I and II. This central gathering space provides an ideal location for visitors to relax, enjoy a picnic, or learn about the community's history while traveling through the area.
7. Funk Prairie Home and Gem Museum
HISTORIC ESTATE COLLECTION
The Funk Prairie Home and Gem Museum showcases the historic residence of the prominent Funk family alongside an impressive collection of minerals and gems. Visitors can tour the well-preserved Victorian-era home that offers insights into the lives of this influential agricultural family who shaped the region's development. The attached gem museum houses a remarkable collection of minerals, gems, and fossils that Lafayette Funk gathered from his travels around the world.
8. Dixie Restaurant & Truck Stop
ICONIC ROUTE 66 DINING
The Dixie Restaurant & Truck Stop has been serving hungry travelers along Route 66 and Interstate 55 for generations as a classic American roadside establishment. Visitors can enjoy traditional diner fare in an authentic setting that captures the essence of historic highway travel in America. The restaurant serves as both a practical stopping point for current travelers and a nostalgic reminder of the golden age of automobile tourism.
9. McLean Depot Train Shop
RAILROAD HISTORY HUB
The McLean Depot Train Shop celebrates the community's rich railroad heritage through its location in a historic train depot building. Visitors can explore model trains and railroad memorabilia that showcase the importance of rail transportation to the development of McLean and surrounding areas. The shop offers both a glimpse into local history and specialized items for railroad enthusiasts and collectors.
10. Sugar Grove Nature Center
EDUCATIONAL OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE
Sugar Grove Nature Center provides an immersive natural experience with educational exhibits, wildlife viewing opportunities, and miles of scenic trails. Visitors can explore the interpretive center to learn about local ecosystems before venturing out into the surrounding Funks Grove for hiking, bird watching, and seasonal activities. The center offers programming throughout the year designed to connect people with nature through guided walks, workshops, and special events for all ages.
11. Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Interpretive Statue
HISTORIC HIGHWAY MONUMENT
The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Interpretive Statue and Wayside Panel in McLean provides travelers with information about the historic Mother Road and its significance to the local area. Visitors can learn about McLean's place in Route 66 history through informative displays that highlight points of interest and historical context. The statue serves as both an educational resource and a memorable photo opportunity for those documenting their journey along this iconic American highway.
12. Mt Hope Township Community Hall & Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Mt Hope Township Community Hall & Museum preserves and displays artifacts and information about the history of McLean and the surrounding townships. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring photographs, documents, and items that tell the story of the area's settlement and development over the generations. The museum offers a window into rural Illinois life through the years, highlighting the agricultural traditions and community spirit that have defined the region.
13. Mt Hope Funks Grove Park District Trail
RECREATIONAL FITNESS PATH
The Mt Hope Funks Grove Park District Trail offers visitors a well-maintained walking path for exercise and outdoor enjoyment in the McLean area. The trail provides access to playground equipment and fitness stations, making it suitable for family outings and fitness enthusiasts alike. Throughout the year, the park district hosts community events including Independence Day celebrations and Halloween parties that welcome both residents and visitors.
14. Shaggy Dog
QUIRKY ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
The Shaggy Dog attraction in McLean offers visitors a whimsical roadside photo opportunity that has become a memorable stop for Route 66 travelers. This distinctive folk art installation captures the charm of America's roadside culture that flourished during the heyday of highway travel. The unique character of this attraction exemplifies the quirky, individualistic spirit that has made Route 66 famous across the country and around the world.
15. Altitude Trampoline Park
INDOOR FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Altitude Trampoline Park offers visitors an exciting indoor activity center featuring wall-to-wall trampolines for people of all ages. Located in nearby Bloomington, this family entertainment venue provides a variety of jumping activities, games, and challenges in a safe, supervised environment. The park is perfect for family outings, birthday celebrations, or active fun during inclement weather when exploring McLean County.