Rantoul Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, and stay in Rantoul, Illinois with our comprehensive travel guide.


Rantoul, Illinois, is a charming township located in Central Illinois, United States. Known for its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and a variety of exciting activities, Rantoul provides the perfect destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled and refreshing vacation. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of a great escape, Rantoul has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, and where to stay, as well as share some local insights, tips, and safety advice.

Introduction to Rantoul

Rantoul, named after Robert Rantoul, a representative from Massachusetts and a prominent naysayer of the annexation of Texas, was founded in the mid-19th century. Since then, it has evolved into a thriving township, known for its scenic beauty, friendly locals, and cultural diversity. The town was once home to the Chanute Air Force Base, which closed in 1993, and today boasts of a vibrant downtown area, wide-open countryside and diverse communities.

List of Places to Visit in Rantoul

There are a plethora of attractions in Rantoul that cater to tourists. In this section, we have categorized them into two sub-sections: Culturally Important Attractions and Natural Attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Rantoul has a rich and fascinating history to explore. Whether you are a history buff, archeology enthusiast, or simply curious about the past, Rantoul has several museums and historical places to visit.

  • Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum: This museum showcases the history of military and civil aviation and the role played by the Chanute Air Force Base in making the USA a superpower. You can tour the chronological exhibitions to learn about the evolution of aviation from hot air balloons to rockets and see vintage aircraft up close.

  • Rantoul Historical Society Museum: Housed in a former Carnegie Library, this museum is a treasure trove of information and artifacts that bring to life the rich and unique history of Rantoul.

Natural Attractions of Rantoul: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Rantoul is not short of natural wonders, and it offers several outdoor activities. Here are some natural attractions that you should add to your travel itinerary.

  • Walnut Point State Park: This state park is situated on a bluff overlooking Lake Shelbyville, in an undulating terrain of forests and meadows. It’s an ideal spot for camping, boating, fishing, and picnicking, or enjoying stunning views of the lake from one of the scenic vantage points.

  • Middle Fork River Forest Preserve: This preserve boasts of over 15 miles of untouched riverfront, virgin forests, and wetlands, located in the banks of the Middle Fork River. Visitors can indulge in angling, hiking, trails for biking, walking, and horseback riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rantoul

The natural beauty of Rantoul is undoubtedly breathtaking. Exploring Rantoul’s countryside on foot or bike could be the best way to do it, and here are some hiking/biking routes you can choose from:

  • River Bend Forest Preserve Trail: An easy and well-maintained 3.8 miles walking, horseback riding, and mountain biking loop trail offering great views of the Middle Fork River passing through wetlands, prairie habitats, and oak woods.

  • Kickapoo Rail Trail: This 24.5 miles rail-trail that stretches from Urbana to Danville boasts of flat limestone surface, diverse scenery, and red and white oak tree-lined paths, providing an excellent opportunity to discover the indigenous fauna and flora of the region.

Best Things to Do in Rantoul: Activities and Tours

There’s a lot more to Rantoul than history, nature, and culture. Here are some fun things to do and unique experiences to have when visiting this vibrant town.

  • Explore the Farmers’ Market: The Rantoul Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday during the summer season, from May to October. Here you can get fresh produce, shop for handmade crafts, listen to live music, and have fun in the heart of the town.

  • Have a Night Out: Many pubs, bars, and restaurants in Rantoul offer live entertainment, karaoke, sports nights, trivia evenings, and happy hours, providing a relaxing and fun night out.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rantoul

Here is a week-long itinerary for those looking to explore Rantoul systematically:

Day Activities
1 Visit Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum
2 Explore Rantoul Historical Society Museum and downtown Rantoul
3 Head to the Walnut Point State Park for boating and fishing
4 Visit Middle Fork River Forest Preserve for nature hiking
5 Biking the Kickapoo Rail Trail
6 Attend the Rantoul Farmers’ Market and downtown night out
7 Enjoy some retail therapy and visit antique shops and art houses

Food and Drink Scene of Rantoul

Sampling the finest local foods and drinks is a must for any traveler. Rantoul provides several options to tantalize your taste buds. Here is a list of must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Midwest Fried Chicken: Rantoul’s staple food is Midwest Fried Chicken, which is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside and served with biscuits, gravy, and mashed potatoes.

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: This sandwich is for those who love their food spicy, as it’s served with plenty of pickles and mustard to balance the heat.

Local Beverages

  • The Beer Stand: This stand at the Rantoul Farmers’ Market offers a variety of local beers from around Rantoul and the region.

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

There are several accommodation options to suit every budget and requirement in Rantoul. Here are some choices to consider:

  • Hilton Garden Inn: With top-notch amenities, great service, and comfortable rooms, this Hilton property provides everything a guest could need.

  • Quality Inn: The perfect budget option that doesn’t skimp on service or amenities. Quality Inn has a free continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a seasonal outdoor pool.

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

No trip is complete without taking back some memories of the time spent in Rantoul. Here are some unique souvenirs and local products that you shouldn’t miss.

  • Homemade Jams and Jellies: Made from the locally grown produce of the region, these homemade jams and jellies are a tasty memento of Rantoul.

  • Artwork and Crafts: Visit the Rantoul Art Gallery to purchase unique and original pieces of indigenous artwork and crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Rantoul

Rantoul has a diverse population, so be sure to respect cultural norms and customs when visiting the area. Ask locals questions if you’re unsure of anything, and remember that Rantoul values hospitality and friendliness above all else.

Best Time to Visit Rantoul

The best time to visit Rantoul is from March to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and most attractions are open, but the town is less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rantoul

Here are some do’s and don’ts to remember when traveling to Rantoul.

Do:

  • Explore the Countryside: Spend some time exploring Rantoul’s abundant natural surroundings and diverse wildlife, flora, and fauna.

  • Try the Fried Chicken: Rantoul’s famous Midwest Fried Chicken is undoubtedly worth a try.

Don’t:

  • Be Disrespectful of Local Culture: Rantoul is a community with diverse cultures, so be respectful when interacting with the people and their customs.

Safety and Health

Rantoul is a safe and welcoming town that values its visitors highly. Here is some safety and health advice to keep in mind while traveling to Rantoul.

Safety in Rantoul

Crime rates are low in Rantoul, but it’s still advisable to take some precautions, such as locking your doors and windows and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Rantoul

Rantoul doesn’t have any particular health hazards, but it’s always wise to carry a first-aid kit with essential medications.

Getting to Rantoul: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Rantoul is relatively easy. Here are some transportation options to consider.

  • Airports Near Rantoul: The closest airport is Willard Airport, which is located in Champaign, Illinois. It’s 30 minutes away from Rantoul.

  • Bus Stations Near Rantoul: Greyhound buses have a stop at nearby Champaign, Illinois, which is 20 minutes away from Rantoul.

How to Get Around in Rantoul

Rantoul has a well-connected network of roads and public transportation. The most convenient mode of transportation in Rantoul is by car, but taxi services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Rantoul: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rantoul is the perfect base for exploring Central Illinois and its surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Urbana: Just 20 minutes from Rantoul, Urbana is a vibrant college town that boasts of a thriving music and arts scene, exciting nightlife, and unique boutiques and shops.

  • Champaign: If you’re a wine enthusiast, visiting Champaign, known as the Illinois Wine Country, where you can sample some of the finest wines the region has to offer.

Conclusion

Rantoul is a hidden gem that has something for everyone, from fascinating museums and natural beauty to fun activities and unique experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, use this comprehensive travel guide to maximize your visit to this fantastic town.