Thomasboro IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Thomasboro, Illinois.
1. Hardy's Reindeer Ranch
FESTIVE FARM EXPERIENCE
Hardy's Reindeer Ranch offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with real reindeer in central Illinois. Guests can enjoy seasonal activities including a massive corn maze, Christmas tree farm, and special holiday events. The ranch provides educational tours where visitors can learn about these magnificent animals while experiencing rural Illinois charm.
2. Turkey Run State Park
NATURAL CANYON WONDERLAND
Turkey Run State Park features stunning sandstone ravines and canyons carved by glacial meltwaters thousands of years ago. Visitors can explore over 14 miles of rugged hiking trails that wind through lush forests and alongside dramatic rock formations. The park also offers camping, fishing, and picnicking opportunities along the scenic Sugar Creek.
3. Allerton Park and Retreat Center
HISTORIC GARDENS AND ART
Allerton Park and Retreat Center encompasses a 1,500-acre estate featuring formal gardens, nature areas, and a historic mansion. Visitors can wander through themed gardens adorned with over 100 ornamental sculptures and unique architectural elements. The park's natural areas include woodland trails along the Sangamon River, providing a perfect blend of art and nature.
4. Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area surrounds a 4,900-acre reservoir offering extensive water recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing for bass and crappie, and swimming in designated areas during summer months. The park features campgrounds, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing areas spread across 9,300 acres of scenic Illinois landscape.
5. Schitts & Giggles Gift Boutique
QUIRKY LOCAL SHOPPING
Schitts & Giggles Gift Boutique offers a delightful shopping experience with unique gifts and home decor items. Visitors can browse through an eclectic collection of locally crafted items, novelty gifts, and seasonal decorations. The boutique's friendly atmosphere and one-of-a-kind merchandise make it a popular stop for tourists looking for special souvenirs.
6. Champaign County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Champaign County Historical Museum preserves and celebrates the rich heritage of the region through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Housed in the historic Cattle Bank building, the museum features rotating and permanent displays showcasing the area's agricultural, industrial, and cultural development. Visitors can explore collections of photographs, documents, and objects that tell the story of Champaign County's evolution from the 19th century to present day.
7. Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve
SCENIC RECREATION AREA
Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve offers 900 acres of natural beauty with diverse recreational opportunities for all seasons. Visitors can enjoy the botanical gardens, Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden, covered bridge, and historic museum on the property. The preserve features an 18-hole golf course, boating on the lake, hiking trails, cross-country skiing in winter, and a carillon bell tower.
8. University of Illinois Arboretum
ACADEMIC BOTANICAL COLLECTION
The University of Illinois Arboretum showcases diverse plant collections across 57 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Visitors can explore themed gardens including the Japan House Garden, Idea Garden, and Miles C Hartley Selections Garden throughout the changing seasons. The arboretum serves as both a living laboratory for university students and a peaceful retreat for the public to enjoy.
9. Krannert Art Museum
FINE ARTS COLLECTION
Krannert Art Museum houses the University of Illinois' diverse collection of fine art spanning ancient to contemporary works from around the world. Visitors can view impressive permanent collections including European and American paintings, modern and contemporary art, Asian art, and ancient Mesopotamian artifacts. The museum offers rotating special exhibitions, educational programs, and events throughout the year in its spacious, modern facility.
10. Middle Fork River Forest Preserve
DARK SKY WILDERNESS
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve offers 1,700 acres of natural habitats along the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River, Illinois' only National Scenic River. The preserve is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, providing exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife observation in this ecologically diverse sanctuary.
11. Homer Lake Forest Preserve
LAKESIDE NATURE EXPERIENCE
Homer Lake Forest Preserve features a 80-acre lake surrounded by woodlands, prairie, and wetland habitats ideal for outdoor recreation. The preserve's Interpretive Center offers educational exhibits about local ecology and natural history with hands-on displays for visitors of all ages. Guests can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation throughout the 800-acre site.
12. Prairie Farm
EDUCATIONAL PETTING ZOO
Prairie Farm provides a free, family-friendly agricultural experience in the heart of Champaign's Centennial Park. Visitors can interact with farm animals including goats, sheep, chickens, and ponies in a traditional farm setting. The facility offers educational programs about farming and animal care, making it an ideal destination for families with young children.
13. Chanute Air Museum
AVIATION HISTORY COLLECTION
The Chanute Air Museum preserves the legacy of the former Chanute Air Force Base through extensive aviation exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore displays of historic aircraft, uniforms, and equipment that tell the story of military aviation history. The museum honors the contributions of the thousands of airmen and women who trained at this significant Illinois military installation.
14. Kickapoo State Recreation Area
RECLAIMED MINING LANDSCAPE
Kickapoo State Recreation Area showcases nature's resilience with over 2,800 acres of reclaimed land once used for coal mining. The park features crystal-clear ponds and the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River, offering exceptional opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and scuba diving. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, and hunting across diverse landscapes that have transformed from industrial use to natural beauty.
15. Spurlock Museum
GLOBAL CULTURAL ARTIFACTS
Spurlock Museum houses the University of Illinois' impressive collection of cultural artifacts from civilizations around the world. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to ancient Mediterranean, European, Asian, African, and indigenous American cultures through thousands of authentic objects. The museum's engaging exhibits and educational programs offer insights into human diversity and achievement throughout history.