Arcola Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Arcola with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Arcola

Located in central Illinois, Arcola is a charming town in the heart of Amish country. Known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, Arcola is a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.

List of Places to Visit in Arcola

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Arcola is home to several museums and historical places that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Arcola include:

  • The Arcola Depot: A beautifully restored train station that now houses a museum that showcases the town’s railroad history.
  • The Illinois Amish Interpretive Center: A museum that offers visitors insight into the Amish way of life and their culture.
  • The Ervin Park: A beautiful park that features the Amish Heritage Welcome Center, as well as a replica of an Amish barn.

Natural Attractions of Arcola: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Arcola is located in the heart of the Illinois Amish country, surrounded by beautiful farmland and forests. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the town’s natural beauty. Some of the top natural attractions in Arcola include:

  • Rockome Gardens: A beautifully landscaped botanical garden that features over 1,000 varieties of plants and flowers.
  • Kaskaskia River: A picturesque river that flows through the town and offers visitors the opportunity to go boating and fishing.
  • Lake Shelbyville: A large reservoir located just a short drive from Arcola, that offers visitors swimming, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arcola

Arcola is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers plenty of hiking and biking routes. Some of the best routes to explore in Arcola include:

  • Shelbyville Trail: A 33-mile long trail that connects multiple parks and natural areas around the Lake Shelbyville area.
  • Rockome Gardens Trail: A scenic trail that runs through the beautiful Rockome Gardens.

Best Things to Do in Arcola: Activities and Tours

Arcola offers visitors a range of fun activities and tours to enjoy during their stay. Some of the best things to do in Arcola include:

  • Amish Country Tours: Guided tours that take visitors through the Amish community and showcase their way of life.
  • Fall Festival: A popular event that takes place every year in September and features a parade, craft vendors, and live music.
  • Amish Country Cheese Festival: A two-day festival that celebrates all things cheese, including cheese making, cheese tasting, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arcola

Day 1: Visit the Illinois Amish Interpretive Center and the Ervin Park.

Day 2: Explore the Rockome Gardens and enjoy a scenic picnic.

Day 3: Take a guided Amish Country Tour and experience the Amish way of life.

Day 4: Visit the Arcola Depot and learn more about the town’s railroad history.

Day 5: Hike or bike the Shelbyville Trail.

Day 6: Attend the Fall Festival and enjoy live music and local food.

Day 7: Visit the Lake Shelbyville and enjoy a day of fishing and swimming.

Food and Drink Scene of Arcola

Must-Try Dishes

Arcola is known for its hearty, home-style cooking, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in Arcola include:

  • Amish Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken made with fresh, locally-raised chicken.
  • Homemade Pies: Delicious pies made with fresh fruit and other locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches: A classic Midwest specialty, served on a toasted bun with all the fixings.

Local Beverages

Arcola is known for its refreshing, ice-cold root beer, which can be found at various local eateries and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Arcola: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Arcola offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Arcola include:

  • The Arcola Inn: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of town.
  • The Best Western Plus Green Mill Village Hotel and Suites: A modern hotel located just a short drive from the town center.
  • The Arcola House Bed and Breakfast: A beautifully restored Victorian-style home that offers spacious rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

What to Buy in Arcola: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Arcola is known for its locally-made crafts and products, including handmade quilts, wooden furniture, and other artisanal goods. Other popular souvenirs include jars of homemade jams and jellies, as well as locally-made cheeses and meats.

Local Culture and Customs of Arcola

Arcola is deeply rooted in its Amish heritage, and visitors are encouraged to respect the culture and customs of the Amish community. Visitors are also encouraged to dress modestly and refrain from taking photos of the Amish people without their permission.

Best Time to Visit Arcola

The best time to visit Arcola is during the fall, when the colors of the leaves change and the town celebrates its annual Fall Festival. However, each season brings something special to the town, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the spring and summer, and cozy winter events to attend during the colder months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arcola

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs of the Amish community.
  • Visit the local museums and attractions to learn more about the town’s rich history.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the town’s parks and outdoor areas.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of the Amish people without their permission.
  • Wear revealing or provocative clothing when visiting the Amish community.
  • Disrupt the peace and quiet of the town with loud noises or behavior.

Safety and Health

Safety in Arcola

Arcola is a safe and welcoming town, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors are encouraged to take standard safety precautions, such as locking their doors at night and not leaving valuables unattended in public places.

Health in Arcola

Arcola is home to several medical clinics and pharmacies, and visitors can access quality healthcare if needed. Visitors are also encouraged to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when exploring the town’s outdoor areas.

Getting to Arcola: Transportation Options and Logistics

Arcola can be easily accessed by car or bus, with several major highways running through the area. The closest airport is the University of Illinois Willard Airport, located approximately 35 miles away from Arcola. Visitors can also take a bus to the nearby town of Mattoon and then take a taxi to Arcola.

Airports Near Arcola

  • University of Illinois Willard Airport (Approximately 35 miles away)

Bus Stations Near Arcola

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Mattoon (Approximately 10 miles away)

Other Options

  • Visitors can also take a taxi or rental car from nearby cities such as Champaign or Decatur.

How to Get Around in Arcola

Arcola is a small town and can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and car rentals are also available for those who prefer to travel by car.

Where to Go Next from Arcola: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Arcola is located near several other popular destinations, including:

  • Champaign: A vibrant college town located approximately 30 miles away from Arcola, known for its great restaurants, museums, and cultural attractions.
  • Springfield: The capital city of Illinois, located approximately 60 miles away from Arcola, known for its rich history and landmarks.
  • Effingham: A charming town located approximately 30 miles away, known for its great restaurants, shopping, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Arcola is a hidden gem in the heart of Illinois, with a rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s history, go on an outdoor adventure, or simply relax and enjoy some delicious home-style cooking, Arcola has something for everyone.