Arenzville Travel Guide

Plan out your trip to Arenzville with our complete travel guide featuring top attractions, outdoor adventures, dining, accommodation, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Arenzville

Arenzville is a quaint town located in Western Illinois, blessed with beautiful natural attractions and historical importance. This small town offers a perfect escape to tourists looking for a relaxing countryside getaway.

Despite being a small town, Arenzville has a lot to offer to tourists, including a wide range of outdoor activities, cultural festivals, historical attractions, and mouth-watering cuisine. In this travel guide, you will find everything you need to know to plan out your perfect trip to Arenzville.

List of Places to Visit in Arenzville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Arens-Virginia Historical Society Museum: Located at 207 Main Street, Arens-Virginia Historical Society Museum, is a must-visit destination to learn about the history and culture of the community.

  • Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail: A scenic trail that follows the historic canal linking the Illinois and Michigan Rivers. It offers stunning views, picnic areas and a chance to learn more about the early settlers and river transportation.

  • Lincoln in New Salem State Historic Site: Explore the history of Abraham Lincoln as he began his political career in New Salem. Admire the reconstructed village of the early 1800s and learn how locals made their living and socialized.

Natural Attractions of Arenzville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area: This place offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities like wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting and hiking. With over 16,000 acres of rolling hills, forests, creeks, and ponds, this place is a paradise for nature lovers.

  • Griggsville Landing Lime Kiln: This historic site, dating back to the Civil War era, is located in the heart of Arenzville. It offers a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and educate oneself about the region’s history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arenzville

  • Indian Point Trail: This 1.6 mile paved trail offers a great way to enjoy the beautiful forest and wildlife of the Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area.

  • Beardstown Riverfront Trail: This 1.7-mile trail offers picturesque views of the Illinois Riverbanks, splendid scenery of downtown Beardstown and a chance to spot the eagles and other wildlife that frequent the area.

Best Things to Do in Arenzville: Activities and Tours

  • Arens-Virginia Agricultural Fair: Held every June, this is the most significant gathering of the community. Enjoy the entertainment programs, carnival rides, exhibits, and food vendors during the three-day extravaganza.

  • Kayaking: Kayaking on the Illinois River is an excellent way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature and river wildlife. Located just 20 minutes from Arenzville, a kayak tour down the Illinois River is a fantastic way to explore the region’s wildlife and scenic views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arenzville

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Arens-Virginia Historical Society Museum
Day 2 Explore the Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
Day 3 Take a kayaking tour down the Illinois River
Day 4 Visit the Lincoln in New Salem State Historic Site
Day 5 Enjoy the Griggsville Landing Lime Kiln and nearby scenery
Day 6 Take the Indian Point Trail and the Beardstown Riverfront Trail
Day 7 Attend the Arens-Virginia Agricultural Fair

Food and Drink Scene of Arenzville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arenzville Burgoo: This traditional stew is made of various meats, vegetables and spices and is a staple for the annual fair.

  • Pie: Enjoy delicious homemade fruit pies like apple, peach, and cherry, baked fresh every day at local bakeries like the Hoosier Mama Pie Co.

  • Craft beer: Savor craft beers brewed locally like Three Floyd’s Brewing, 18th Street Brewery, and Kinslahger Brewing Company.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Sample wines from local wineries such as the Alto Vineyards and Winery, Danenberger Family Vineyards and Hill Prairie Winery.

  • Beer: Explore the variety of artisan brews at local breweries like the White Oak Brewing, Buzzbomb Brewing Company and Blue Island Beer Company.

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

  • The Brick House Bed & Breakfast: This charming, fully furnished bed & breakfast is located in the heart of Arenzville, offering a comfortable and relaxing stay for its guests.

  • The Sleep Inn: This recently opened hotel is perfect for travelers looking for a comfortable stay near the top attractions of the area.

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

  • Arens-Virginia Historical Society Museum: Visit the society gift shop to purchase local history books, quilted items, Christmas ornaments, T-shirts, handmade cards and much more.

  • Antiques and Collectibles of Arenzville: Explore the town’s best antique shops and purchase unique items like antique furniture ornaments, rare books, and vintage glassware.

Local Culture and Customs of Arenzville

Arens-Virginia is a warm and welcoming small town with a friendly community. Visitors are expected to be respectful of locals and their customs, and it is always nice to show appreciation for the beauty and history of the town.

Best Time to Visit Arenzville

The best time to visit Arenzville is during the summer (June to September) when the weather is mild, and the town is bustling with outdoor activities, festivals, and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arenzville

Do:

  • Respect locals and their customs.
  • Explore the town’s history and famous landmarks.
  • Try local delicacies like Arenzville Burgoo.
  • Participate in the town’s annual fairs and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or do anything that could harm the nature or wildlife around.
  • Be rude or disrespectful towards the locals and their traditions.
  • Bring pets to the state wildlife area unless they are kept on a leash and under control.

Safety and Health

Safety in Arenzville

Arens-Virginia is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should still be cautious and take necessary safety precautions.

Health in Arenzville

There are plenty of medical facilities in Arenzville, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Tourists should make sure they have necessary medical insurance coverage to gain access to healthcare facilities.

Getting to Arenzville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Arenzville

  • Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI): Located in Springfield, IL, approximately 45 miles from Aernzville.

  • Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI): Located in Bloomington, IL, approximately 60 miles from Arenzville.

  • St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL): Located in St. Louis, MO, approximately 130 miles from Arenzville.

Bus Stations Near Arenzville

  • Greyhound: The nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Springfield, IL, approximately 40 miles from Arenzville.

Other Options

  • Driving: Travelers can easily access Arenzville from the major highways, including Route 78, Route 104, and Route 116.

How to Get Around in Arenzville

  • Walking: Strolling down the streets of Arenzville is the best way to explore the town’s beauty and history.

  • Cycling: Bikes are readily available on rent for tourists who want to enjoy a leisurely ride on the town’s scenic trails.

Where to Go Next from Arenzville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Springfield: This state capital is known for its connection to Abraham Lincoln’s life and great museums.

  • St. Louis: Located less than a 2-hour drive from Arenzville, you should visit the iconic Gateway Arch and the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Conclusion

Arens-Virginia is a hidden gem in Western Illinois, offering endless opportunities to explore the region’s beauty, history, and culture. With mouth-watering delicacies, scenic hikes, and natural attractions, this town is a perfect escape for tourists looking for a peaceful yet adventurous trip. This guide will help you plan your trip to Arenzville, ensuring that you don’t miss out on anything this charming town has to offer.