Metamora IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Metamora, Illinois.
1. Metamora Courthouse State Historic Site
LINCOLN LEGAL LANDMARK
The Metamora Courthouse State Historic Site is a well-preserved building where Abraham Lincoln practiced law during his circuit-riding days. Constructed in 1845, it served as the center of county government until 1896 and remains one of only two surviving courthouses from the historic Eighth Judicial Circuit. Today, it is a designated state historic site on the National Register of Historic Places, allowing visitors to step into a piece of Illinois' legal and political history.
2. Old Mill Vineyard
LOCAL VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
Old Mill Vineyard offers a tranquil setting for wine enthusiasts, featuring locally produced wines and scenic views of rolling grapevines. The vineyard hosts tastings and seasonal events, making it a popular stop for both locals and visitors. Guests can enjoy a sample of Illinois wines while relaxing amid the picturesque countryside.
3. Partridge Point Orchard
SEASONAL APPLE PICKING
Partridge Point Orchard is a family-friendly destination known for its pick-your-own apple experience. Located just north of Metamora, the orchard grows multiple varieties of apples and also offers local honey for sale. Visitors can take part in the harvest and savor the fresh flavors of fall in central Illinois.
4. Black Partridge Park
NATURAL RECREATION AREA
Black Partridge Park is a spacious public park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and playground facilities. Surrounded by mature trees and open green space, the park is ideal for family outings, sports, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Seasonal events and community activities are often held here, making it a centerpiece for local recreation.
5. Potting Shed Art Studio
CREATIVE ARTS WORKSHOP
Potting Shed Art Studio provides a welcoming space for both novice and experienced artists to explore their creativity. The studio offers classes, workshops, and open studio hours where guests can work on pottery, painting, and other crafts. It serves as a vibrant artistic hub within the Metamora community.
6. Metamora Fields Restaurant
GOLF COURSE DINING
Metamora Fields Restaurant is nestled within the Metamora Fields Golf Club, offering upscale dining with sweeping views of the well-manicured course. Diners enjoy contemporary American cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed setting. It's a popular spot for golfers and area residents alike, known for its friendly service and scenic vistas.
7. Village Town Square
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Village Town Square is the heart of Metamora, featuring an iconic octagonal cobblestone bandstand and the Honor Roll Memorial. This park is a favored location for community events and celebrations, and the 'Avenue of Flags' is displayed during major patriotic holidays. The square invites visitors to picnic, relax, and appreciate the town's history and civic pride.
8. Illinois Mennonite Heritage Center & Museum
CULTURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Illinois Mennonite Heritage Center & Museum preserves and interprets the Mennonite heritage in Illinois with engaging exhibits and genealogical resources. Visitors can explore the museum, restored barns, and prairie arboretum on the grounds, learning about Anabaptist origins and regional agricultural life. It offers a unique perspective on local history and culture just a few miles west of Metamora.
9. Joseph Villiger Blacksmith Shop
RESTORED HISTORIC FORGE
The Joseph Villiger Blacksmith Shop is a restored historical site that operated from 1906 to 1938 in Metamora. Inside, visitors can see an operating forge and artifacts that tell the story of early local industry. The shop offers hand-forged items for sale and provides a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the past.
10. The Original Woodford County Jail
19TH-CENTURY JAILHOUSE
The Original Woodford County Jail, built in the 19th century, stands as a testament to Metamora's legal and community history. Visitors can view the preserved jail cells and hear stories of justice from a bygone era. Its proximity to the courthouse highlights how law and order were managed in early Illinois towns.
11. Adlai E. Stevenson I Home
STEVENSON FAMILY LEGACY
The Adlai E. Stevenson I Home is a historic residence associated with the prominent Stevenson family. As the boyhood home of the future Vice President of the United States, it reflects Metamora's ties to national political history. The house is an important stop for those interested in Illinois' political heritage.
12. Metamora Farmer's Market
SEASONAL LOCAL MARKET
Metamora Farmer's Market is a vibrant gathering spot for locals and visitors to purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from area farmers and artisans. Held seasonally on Saturday mornings in the town square, the market fosters a sense of community and supports local agriculture. It is an ideal place to sample regional flavors and experience small-town charm.
13. Old Settler Days
ANNUAL SUMMER FESTIVAL
Old Settler Days is a longstanding summer festival that has been a staple in Metamora since 1901. The event features live music, carnival rides, and a variety of classic festival foods, drawing crowds for days of celebration and community spirit. It's a cherished tradition, bringing generations together for over a century.
14. Minonk Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE DISPLAYS
The Minonk Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the history of Minonk and the surrounding Woodford County area. Through artifacts, photographs, and historical records, the museum offers insights into regional life from its settlement days to the present. It serves as an educational resource for visitors interested in small-town Illinois heritage.
15. Woodford County Historical Society
REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER
The Woodford County Historical Society in Eureka is dedicated to preserving and promoting the county's history. The center houses archives, artifacts, and exhibits that chronicle significant events and daily life in Woodford County. Visitors can attend lectures and view rotating exhibits that celebrate the cultural fabric of the region.
16. Ronald Reagan Museum at Eureka College
PRESIDENTIAL LEGACY EXHIBIT
The Ronald Reagan Museum at Eureka College honors the legacy of the 40th U.S. President, who graduated from the institution in 1932. The museum features memorabilia, artifacts, and interactive displays detailing Reagan's life, career, and enduring impact. It offers a compelling experience for history buffs and those interested in presidential history.