Paxton Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Paxton, Illinois with our helpful travel guide. Discover places to visit, things to do, where to eat, and more in Paxton.


Introduction to Paxton

Located in Central Illinois, Paxton is a charming city that offers plenty of attractions and activities for tourists. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or outdoor adventures, Paxton has something for everyone. With its small-town charm and friendly locals, Paxton is a perfect place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Paxton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Paxton Carnegie Library

Located in the heart of downtown Paxton, the Paxton Carnegie Library is an iconic landmark that was built in 1903. The library still serves as a public library, and visitors can explore the beautiful architecture and historical artifacts on display.

2. Paxton Depot

The Paxton Depot was built in 1870 and served as a train station for the Illinois Central Railroad for over a century. Today, the depot is a museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits about the history of the railroad and Paxton’s role in the transportation industry.

3. Ford County Historical Society

The Ford County Historical Society is a great place to learn about the history of the region. The society runs two museums - the Museum of the Prairie and the Depot Museum. Visitors can explore historical artifacts and exhibits, showcasing the life of the early settlers and pioneers.

Natural Attractions of Paxton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods is a beautiful natural area that offers plenty of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The lake is also surrounded by a golf course, making it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

2. Champaign County Forest Preserve

The Champaign County Forest Preserve is a vast natural area that offers numerous trails, campsites, and scenic views. Visitors can spend the day hiking, camping, picnicking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

3. Wildflower Walk

The Wildflower Walk is a unique attraction that features a variety of prairie flowers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the prairie to enjoy different types of wildflowers that bloom at various times of the year.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paxton

Paxton’s natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a novice, Paxton has something for everyone. Some of the most popular hiking and biking trails in Paxton are:

  • Kellar Trail
  • Canada Kame Hike
  • Lake of the Woods Scenic Trail
  • River Bend Trail

Best Things to Do in Paxton: Activities and Tours

Paxton offers plenty of unique activities and tours for visitors. Some of the best things to do in Paxton are:

  • Visit the Paxton Area Wine Trail
  • Attend the Paxton Swine ‘N’ Dine BBQ Contest
  • Enjoy the Paxton Freedom Fest
  • Explore the downtown area

Week-Long Itinerary for Paxton

Here’s a week-long itinerary for visitors to Paxton:

  • Day 1: Visit the Paxton Carnegie Library and Ford County Historical Society
  • Day 2: Hike the Kellar Trail and explore the Wildflower Walk
  • Day 3: Enjoy a day of fishing and picnicking at Lake of the Woods
  • Day 4: Visit the Paxton Depot Museum and explore downtown Paxton
  • Day 5: Take a bike ride on the Canada Kame Hike
  • Day 6: Attend the Paxton Swine ‘N’ Dine BBQ Contest or Paxton Freedom Fest
  • Day 7: Explore Champaign County Forest Preserve

Food and Drink Scene of Paxton

Paxton offers a range of food and drink options for visitors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich at The Hap’s
  • Pork Chop at the Harvest Thyme Bistro
  • Burger at Nora’s Place

Local Beverages

  • Wine from Mackinaw Valley Vineyard and Tuscan Hills Winery
  • Beer from Paxton Brew Works
  • Coffee from Willow Tree Coffeehouse

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

Paxton offers plenty of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Paxton Inn
  • Timber Creek Bed & Breakfast
  • Paxton Days Inn

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

Paxton is home to several unique shops and boutiques that offer souvenirs and local products. Some popular items to bring home include:

  • Homemade jams and jellies from PoleCat Pottery & Crafts
  • Handmade soaps from Turnberry Country Market
  • Local wines from Mackinaw Valley Vineyard and Tuscan Hills Winery

Local Culture and Customs of Paxton

Paxton is a friendly and welcoming city with a strong sense of community. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, such as the Swine ‘N’ Dine BBQ Contest and the Paxton Freedom Fest.

Best Time to Visit Paxton

Paxton is an enchanting city that can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit Paxton is during the fall when the leaves change color and the temperature is mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paxton

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Visit the local shops and boutiques
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Paxton

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas
  • Disturb the wildlife
  • Trespass on private property

Safety and Health

Safety in Paxton

Paxton is a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors are encouraged to take common-sense precautions, such as locking their cars and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Paxton

Visitors are advised to take precautions against tick bites during the summer months. Visitors should also carry sunscreen and drinking water during outdoor activities.

Getting to Paxton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Paxton is easily accessible by road and air.

Airports Near Paxton

  • University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI)
  • Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI)

Bus Stations Near Paxton

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Illinois Coach Lines

Other Options

  • Car rental is available at most major airports
  • Paxton is located near several major highways, making it easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Paxton

Paxton is a small city that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also rent a car or use local taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Paxton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Paxton is located near several other popular destinations in Central Illinois, including:

  • Champaign-Urbana
  • Bloomington-Normal
  • Decatur

Conclusion

Paxton is a charming city that offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or outdoor adventures, Paxton has something for everyone. With its small-town charm and friendly locals, Paxton is a perfect place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Plan your trip to Paxton today and experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this enchanting city.

Carnegie Library Carnegie Library