Washington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Washington, Illinois with our comprehensive travel guide.


Washington, Illinois is a charming town located in Central Illinois that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure or a history buff looking to explore, Washington has it all. In this comprehensive travel guide, we have outlined everything you need to know to plan your trip to Washington, Illinois.

Introduction to Washington

Washington, Illinois is located in the Midwest region of the United States, in the heart of Illinois. The town is known for its friendly locals, small-town charm, and beautiful scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Washington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Historical Society Museum: Explore the rich history of Washington, Illinois at this museum that features artifacts and exhibits from the town’s past.
  2. John Denham House: Visit this historic house, which was once home to John Denham, one of the founding fathers of Washington.
  3. Veterans Memorial: Pay tribute to the men and women who have served our country at this moving memorial.

Natural Attractions of Washington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Five Points Washington: This community recreation center offers a variety of activities, including a gym, fitness classes, and a pool.
  2. Washington Park District: Get out and enjoy the great outdoors at this park, which includes walking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields.
  3. Washington Community High School Pool: Take a dip in this indoor pool that offers lap swimming and swim lessons.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Washington

  1. Rock Island Trail: This 26-mile trail is perfect for both hiking and biking and offers scenic views of the countryside.
  2. Parkway Trail: This trail runs through the heart of Washington and is great for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Washington: Activities and Tours

  1. Wine Tasting at Kite Hill Vineyards: Sample some of the best wines in Illinois at this local vineyard.
  2. Ghosts of Washington Tour: Learn about the town’s haunted history and hear spooky stories on this guided tour.
  3. Spirited Wine Tours: Take a tour of local wineries and learn about the winemaking process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Washington

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Historical Society Museum and John Denham House
Day 2 Hike or bike on Rock Island Trail
Day 3 Explore nature at Washington Park District
Day 4 Take a dip in Washington Community High School Pool
Day 5 Wine tasting at Kite Hill Vineyards
Day 6 Ghosts of Washington Tour
Day 7 Spirited Wine Tours

Food and Drink Scene of Washington

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pickle Fried Chicken: Experience a unique twist on traditional fried chicken with this local specialty.
  2. Italian Beef Sandwiches: Sink your teeth into a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich that is packed with flavor.

Local Beverages

  1. Beer from Kelleher’s Irish Pub: Sip on a cold brew at this cozy pub that is known for its wide selection of craft beers.
  2. Wine from Oak Ridge Winery: Sample some of the best wines in the region at this local winery.

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

  1. Sleep Inn & Suites: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities, including a fitness center and indoor pool.
  2. Cornerstone Inn Bed & Breakfast: Stay in this charming bed and breakfast that is located in the heart of downtown Washington.

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

  1. Handmade Pottery from Just Right Pottery: Purchase unique handmade pottery that is made on-site at this local pottery studio.
  2. Wine from Kite Hill Vineyards: Bring home a bottle of local wine that reflects the unique terroir of Central Illinois.

Local Culture and Customs of Washington

The locals in Washington place a high value on community and family. It is not uncommon to see families spending time together at local parks and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Washington

The best time to visit Washington is during the fall months, when the foliage is at its peak and the weather is mild. This is also when many local festivals and events take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Washington

Do:

  1. Take advantage of the town’s natural beauty by going for a hike or bike ride on one of the nearby trails.
  2. Try the local cuisine, including the famous pickle fried chicken.

Don’t:

  1. Leave without exploring the town’s rich history and visiting the local museums.
  2. Forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Washington

Washington is generally a safe and friendly town, but visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety.

Health in Washington

Washington has several medical facilities, including OSF Saint Francis Medical Center and Unity Point Health - Methodist Hospital, that can provide visitors with medical care if needed.

Getting to Washington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Washington

  1. Peoria International Airport: This airport is located approximately 20 miles from Washington.

Bus Stations Near Washington

  1. Greyhound Bus Station: This station is located approximately 18 miles from Washington in East Peoria.

Other Options

  1. Renting a Car: Visitors can rent a car at Peoria International Airport to get around Washington and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Washington

The best way to get around Washington is by car or on foot. The town is small enough that most attractions are within walking distance, but a car will give visitors more flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Washington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Peoria: Just a short drive from Washington, Peoria offers a variety of attractions, including the Peoria Zoo and the Illinois Riverfront Museum.
  2. Bloomington: Located approximately 30 miles from Washington, Bloomington is home to numerous galleries, museums, and theaters.

Conclusion

Washington, Illinois offers visitors a warm welcome and a wealth of attractions that are sure to please. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxation, this charming town has something to offer.