Dwight Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Dwight, Illinois with ease and explore the best activities, attractions, accommodations, and more with our helpful travel guide.


Introduction to Dwight

Welcome to Dwight- a vibrant town situated in Central Illinois. It is a town full of rich history, scenery, and outdoor activities. You will find it nestled in Livingston County, about 80 miles southwest of Chicago. Its location, accessibility, and welcoming resident community make Dwight a perfect destination for any traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Dwight

Dwight is a small town rich in history, fantastic scenery, and numerous outdoor activities. Whether you love museums, natural scenery, outdoor adventures, or a blend of all three, you will find something to pique your interest in Dwight.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dwight Depot Museum

The Depot Museum, located on Mazon Street, is a tribute to the history of railroading in Dwight and the surrounding areas. This building was built in 1881 and served as a passenger terminal, freight house, and offices for many years before being transformed into a museum. You will discover exhibits about the importance of the railroad to the growth and development of central Illinois.

Richards Building

The Richard’s Building, located downtown, is the home of the Dwight Historical Society Museum. Built in 1891, the building was the scene of a bank robbery in 1922 and has now been converted into a museum. You’ll enjoy learning about the history of Dwight through the vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and old documents on display.

Natural Attractions of Dwight: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dwight Country Club

The Dwight Country Club is a beautiful nine-hole golf course, open every day to the public. The club features numerous amenities, including a pool, tennis courts, bowling lanes & more. It is perfect for a family-friendly day out or for spending some time in the great outdoors.

Renfrew Park

Renfrew Park is a peaceful oasis of tranquility in the heart of Dwight. Located adjacent to the creek, you will find it stocked with a variety of fish and perfect for those who love hiking and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dwight

Dwight to Pontiac Trail

The historic trail between Dwight and Pontiac is a great destination for biking enthusiasts. It spans 9.3 miles and travels through some of the most fantastic scenery that central Illinois has to offer.

Dwight to Pine Hills Nature Preserve Trail

This trail leads to the state’s most captivating scenic treasures, Pine Hills Trail. You’ll enjoy rock formations, unique flowers and vegetation, and picturesque views of the bottomland forests.

Best Things to Do in Dwight: Activities and Tours

Dwight Farmers Market

Get a true taste of the local dining and shopping scene by visiting the Dwight Farmers Market. Here, you will find fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade crafts, and products from local vendors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dwight

Day Activity
Day 1 Check-in, visit Dwight Depot Museum, Italian food at Monical’s Pizza
Day 2 Golfing, visit Dwight Country Club, tour Renfrew Park
Day 3 Hiking adventure and bird watching at the Pine Hills Nature Preserve Trail
Day 4 Explore the Historic Route 66, stop by Bill’s Toasty Shop
Day 5 Bike tour on Dwight to Pontiac trail and visit the Pontiac Murals
Day 6 Visit the Richard’s Building for a glimpse on the history, visit local shops for souvenirs
Day 7 Coffee at the Family Table Restaurant and begin the journey home

Food and Drink Scene of Dwight

Dwight has a rich food culture and is known for its diverse cuisine options.

Must-Try Dishes

Dwight Chili

Dwight Chili, also known as Route 66 Chili, is a famous dish that you cannot afford to miss whilst in Dwight. It is a hot chili packed with beef, beans, and spices that will keep you warm at night.

Monical’s Pizza

Monical’s Pizza is a classic option in central Illinois and has been a local staple since the 1950s. Their uniquely sweet tomato sauce and crispy crust make it a perfect family-friendly option.

Local Beverages

Dwight Wine Cellars

If wine is your beverage of choice, be sure to visit Dwight Wine Cellars, where you can sample locally produced wines and find out more about Illinois’ thriving wine industry.

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

Dwight Village Inn

Dwight Village Inn is a modern and elegant hotel located on Route 17. It features an outdoor pool and rooms equipped with wifi, cable tv and kitchenettes.

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

Dwight Historical Society Museum Guidebook

Pick up a guidebook at the Dwight Historical Society Museum to learn more about the local history of Dwight. It is a must-have for history enthusiasts and will be a great reminder of your trip to Dwight.

Local Culture and Customs of Dwight

Dwight has a friendly and welcoming community and is known for its unique history and architecture. The residents are welcoming, and the town is always engaging. The best way to get to know the locals and immerse yourself in the culture is to explore the town, interact with residents and participate in local events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Dwight

The best time to visit Dwight is from May to October when the weather is at its most pleasant. There are numerous outdoor activities and festivals to be enjoyed during this time, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dwight

Do:

  • Explore the Dwight Depot Museum and Renfrew Park.
  • Golf at the Dwight Country Club.
  • Attend the annual Dwight Harvest Days Festival, held annually on the third weekend of September.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter! Keep Dwight beautiful and pristine by patronizing the town’s many trash receptacles.
  • Don’t forget to bring a camera! The scenery and beauty of Dwight are worth capturing for posterity.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dwight

Dwight is a very safe town, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy all that it has to offer at any time of the day.

Health in Dwight

There aren’t many health facilities in Dwight. The Dwight Medical Clinic is available for minor emergencies, and nearby hospitals can provide comprehensive treatment.

Getting to Dwight: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dwight is a well-connected town, with many transportation options available to visitors.

Airports Near Dwight

The closest airport to Dwight is the Central Illinois Regional Airport, which is 44 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Dwight

Greyhound Lines provides regular bus services to Dwight, with a bus station located in the town center.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi from Pontiac or Joliet and access Dwight from those areas.

How to Get Around in Dwight

The best way to get around Dwight is by car. You can rent a car at the airport or use ride-sharing services. Biking and walking are feasible if the distance is not too far.

Where to Go Next from Dwight: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are numerous nearby destinations and excursions to visit after experiencing the wonders of Dwight.

Starved Rock State Park

Visit Starved Rock State Park, located in nearby Utica, IL, where you can experience stunning waterfalls, hiking, camping, and winter sports activities.

Conclusion

Dwight is a charming town full of engaging cultural history, exciting outdoor activities, and stunning natural beauty. With this travel guide, you can create the ultimate itinerary to ensure a memorable trip to Dwight, Illinois.