Champaign (IL), United States of America is a vibrant and diverse city located in the heart of the Midwest. It is home to the University of Illinois, a Big Ten university and a major research institution, and is a great destination for travelers looking for a variety of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities.
The city of Champaign is known for its vibrant downtown, with its historic buildings, unique shops, and diverse dining options. There are also many cultural attractions, including the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, the Orpheum Children's Science Museum, and the Spurlock Museum of World Cultures.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Champaign has a variety of parks, trails, and recreational facilities, including a variety of sports complexes. Visitors can also explore the nearby forests, ponds, and lakes, or take advantage of the nearby Allerton Park and Retreat Center.
Champaign is also home to a variety of festivals and events, including the Champaign-Urbana Film Fest, the University of Illinois Spring Festival, and the Pygmalion Music Festival. For those interested in nightlife, downtown Champaign offers a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.
No matter what time of year you visit, Champaign is sure to have something to offer everyone. From its diverse culture and educational opportunities to its variety of recreational activities, Champaign is a great destination for all types of travelers.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Champaign: Downtown Champaign is the city's cultural and entertainment hub, home to a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, and many unique attractions.
2. Campustown: Campustown is the area just north of the University of Illinois campus and serves as the main student-oriented area of Champaign. It features a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, and is the center of activity for local college students.
3. Savoy: Savoy is a small village located just south of Champaign and is known for its small-town charm. It features quiet neighborhoods, excellent restaurants, and is close to several outdoor activities.
4. Urbana: Urbana is a city just east of Champaign and is home to the University of Illinois. It features a lively arts and music scene, a variety of restaurants, and is known for its tree-lined streets.
5. North Prospect Avenue: North Prospect Avenue is a vibrant commercial district that runs through Champaign and Urbana. It's home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
1. Krannert Art Museum: Located on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus, the Krannert Art Museum is a comprehensive fine arts museum with a permanent collection of over 12,000 objects and over 30,000 square feet of exhibition space.
2. Spurlock Museum: The Spurlock Museum is a cultural museum located on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus. It houses collections from around the world, including artifacts from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Americas.
3. Illinois State Capitol: Located in Springfield, the Illinois State Capitol is the building that houses the Illinois General Assembly and the offices of the Governor of Illinois. It was designed in the Second Empire style and built between 1868 and 1888.
4. The Orpheum Children's Science Museum: The Orpheum Children's Science Museum is a hands-on science museum located in downtown Champaign. It features interactive exhibits that explore science, engineering, and technology, as well as a variety of educational programs.
5. Allerton Park and Retreat Center: Allerton Park and Retreat Center is a 1,500-acre park located just outside of Champaign. It features a 19th century mansion, a nature center, a lake, gardens, and a variety of hiking trails.
1. The Piato: This street-style eatery offers a variety of flavorful dishes, including classic tacos, quesadillas, and burritos. The Piato also has a full bar, making it a great spot for a casual night out.
2. Avanti’s: This Italian restaurant is known for its delicious pizzas, pastas, and subs. The comfortable atmosphere and friendly service make Avanti’s a great choice for a meal with family or friends.
3. Dodo: A local favorite, Dodo serves up a variety of tasty dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and burgers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
4. Black Dog Smoke & Ale House: This BBQ joint serves up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and pulled pork sandwiches. The restaurant also features a full bar, making it a great spot for a fun night out.
5. Big Grove Tavern: This gastropub offers a variety of dishes, including artisanal pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. The bar features a wide selection of craft beers, making it a great spot for an after-dinner drink.