Things To Do
Main Quad
Take a stroll through the heart of campus and check out The Main Quad, The Alma Mater statue, and The Illini Union all within walking distance of each other. This area is such a special part of campus!
University of Illinois Arboretum
The arboretum has over 100 acres of beautiful gardens and natural spaces we highly recommend exploring! It is open daily and admission is free.
Krannert Art Museum
Open from 10:00am to 4:00pm, this museum is always free and open to the public! We loved stopping in between classes in our college days.
Allerton Park & Retreat Center
If you love the outdoors and find yourself with extra time to explore, this is the spot of our favorite date together. Allerton Park is full of history and has 14 miles of quiet trails, gardens, and historic mansions to enjoy. It is about a 30 minute drive southwest of Champaign.
Watson's Shack & Rail
"Best wings in the Midwest" - Elliot Hamilton Known for their chicken sandwiches and wings, this is one of our favorite places in Champaign for a casual lunch or dinner. There's a great bourbon selection and fun frozen drinks!
Seven Saints
Known for its sliders and cocktails, this gastropub gives a chill, church like vibe.
Black Dog Smoke & Ale House
Black Dog serves fantastic barbecue out of the old rail station building. There is also a second location in Urbana if you’re on that side of town.
Big Grove Tavern
Across the street from the Hyatt Hotel, Big Grove Tavern serves farm to table American style dishes.
Barrelhouse 34
A fun bar with a nice outdoor patio and rooftop. No food here, just great barrel room vibes.
Merry Ann's Diner
Open 24/7, this is a true Champaign staple for the morning after.
