Tony and Isabella
Things To Do
Allerton Park (Our Wedding Venue!)
We’re so excited to be getting married at Allerton. It is an absolutely stunning estate surrounded by gardens, forest trails, beautiful sculptures, and so much history. It’s one of our favorite places, and we’d love for you to explore it while you're here. Wake up early for a quiet walk, explore the gardens, frolic in the meadow, or enjoy a peaceful moment before the celebration begins. The grounds are especially beautiful in the morning or just before sunset. Fun fact: on August 28th, 2021, we signed our names (pictured above) in the very gazebo that we’ll be standing in front of to say our vows on August 28th, 2026 (yep, five years to the day, and somehow the only date Allerton had left for a 2026 wedding). If you happen to spot it, you’ve found a little part of our story. Drinks on you!
Greenhouse Cafe at Allerton Park
If you’re looking for a little mid-day fuel, or just a spot to unwind with a drink, we’re lucky to have the Greenhouse Café right at Allerton. It’s the perfect place for a sandwich, salad, or a refreshing lemonade between garden walks. Even better, the chef behind the café is also our wedding caterer, so you'll get a sneak peak of all the deliciousness to come. Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday–Sunday: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Art Mart
If you know Isabella, you know Art Mart. Every time she’s back in Champaign, it’s one of her first stops for food, gifts, and home goods. It’s home to her favorite kale salad, a vegan zucchini muffin that might just change your life, and her go-to lavender iced latte. Add in plenty of wine, cheese, and meats for the ultimate spread, plus an endless lineup of perfect pastries, and you’ll see why she loves it so much. Over the years, a few of her birthday wishes have been as simple as: “Let’s grab Art Mart and have a picnic at Allerton.”
Fiesta Cafe
Our first date spot! Don’t make our mistake - order more than just a margarita (but definitely order margaritas). This place has been a favorite for years. Trust us and order the Alex Tacos.
Pizzeria Antica
One of our all-time favorites - we miss it all the time. When we first started dating, many of our best nights were spent sharing two pizzas, a margherita and a funghi, and a bottle of wine, talking for hours. Now, with much busier lives living in the city, those simple, perfect dates feel even more special. We can’t recommend it enough.
Jarling's Custard Cup
A Champaign-Urbana staple and our favorite dessert spot. Isabella’s lemon custard on a waffle cone has been her go-to for 28 years. It's the only thing that’s ever made Tony almosst consider giving up his mint chocolate chip. Almost.
Downtown Monticello Shopping and Dining Guide
If you’re hoping to stay near Allerton, the link below has a great guide to all things shopping and dining in Monticello.
Monticello Railway Museum
All aboard! The Monticello Railway Museum is a not-for-profit gem, home to over 70 historic trains, some of which are more than 100 years old! Before you head out on Saturday, you can even take a train ride yourself. How could I not include this?