Things To Do
in Champaign
Champaign, Illinois, sits in the heart of the Midwest as a lively college town anchored by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Its campus and research institutions drive an energetic blend of academics, arts, and technology. Downtown Champaign and nearby Urbana offer a walkable mix of cafés, restaurants, and cultural venues.
With a strong farmer’s market scene, parks, and family-friendly attractions, Champaign invites visitors to explore both campus culture and Midwestern charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café in the heart of Champaign, where you can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a delicious pastry. After breakfast, take a stroll around the Historic District to admire the beautiful architecture of the early 20th century buildings. Don’t forget to stop by the Champaign County Historical Museum to learn more about the city’s rich heritage.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Krannert Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of more than 10,000 works of art from various cultures and time periods. After immersing yourself in art, grab lunch at one of the many eateries in downtown Champaign, where you can sample local cuisine. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the vibrant shops and boutiques that line the streets.
As evening approaches, head to the Virginia Theatre, a beautifully restored historic cinema, to catch a classic film or a live performance. After the show, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant that offers both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the warm evening air. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the park, taking in the sights and sounds of the city at night.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of outdoor adventures. After breakfast, head to the Champaign-Urbana Trails, where you can choose between walking or biking along the scenic paths surrounded by nature. The morning air is refreshing, making it a perfect time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
In the afternoon, pack a picnic lunch and find a cozy spot in Meadowbrook Park, where you can relax and enjoy your meal amidst beautiful landscapes. After lunch, explore the park’s many trails or visit the nature center to learn more about local wildlife and plant species. This leisurely exploration provides a great opportunity for photography and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
As the sun sets, consider taking a guided night hike in the park to experience the beauty of the outdoors after dark. Afterward, head back to the city for dinner at a local brewery, where you can taste craft beers paired with hearty pub fare. End your day with a nightcap in a cozy bar, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠Rent for 1 bedroom in city center | $1,200-1,600 per month |
| 🚆Monthly public transportation pass | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries for 1 month | $250-350 |
| 💡Internet service (monthly) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university-driven culture and events
- Walkable campus and downtown areas
- Wide range of dining options and local markets
- Strong parks and outdoor spaces
- Good access to nearby nature areas
- Winter can be quite cold and snowy
- Some areas can get crowded during school events
- Traffic around campus can be busy during peak hours
- Limited fame-wide nightlife compared with larger cities
Places to Visit in Champaign
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic quad with historic red-brick buildings and green lawns, ideal for architectural and early-morning photography.
Modern and historic architectural contrasts; great for night photography and performance-themed shots.
Traditional Japanese garden on campus with serene ponds and carefully composed landscape views.
Historic courthouse and charming downtown streets provide classic Americana backdrop.
Wooded trails and reflective water scenes—beautiful in every season.
Food in Champaign
Champaign Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal bowls featuring local produce, grains, and proteins, commonly found at campus-area eateries.
Must-Try!
A popular Midwestern snack pairing crispy cheese curds with house-made fries and dipping sauces.
Locally brewed ales paired with hearty burgers, a common pairing in downtown spots and student-friendly pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal foods, and prepared street-food stalls.
A collection of food trucks and pop-up stalls around downtown Urbana offering diverse options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and brief eye contact are typical. Personal space is respected; in casual settings a handshake is common.
Tipping for service is expected. People generally form orderly queues in stores and eateries.
Safety
Tipping in Champaign
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., standard tipping ranges from 15-20% in restaurants and bars. Tips are customary for service staff; some venues may add a service charge for large groups.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is handy for markets and smaller vendors. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm to hot days with humidity. Plan early morning or evening outings, stay hydrated, and take shade breaks. Thunderstorms can develop in the afternoons.
Pleasant temperatures with vibrant fall foliage. Excellent for photography and outdoor strolling; layers recommended.
Cold temperatures with occasional snow. Indoor attractions shine, but bundle up for outdoor photography.
Mild days with blossoming trees and periodic rain showers. Great time for park visits and campus photography, with rain gear handy.
Champaign at Night
Hiking in Champaign
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic preserves with marshes, woodlands, and gentle trails suitable for day hikes.
Expansive network of trails through woodlands and prairies—great for longer hikes and mountain biking.
Lush gardens and varied terrain offering picturesque hiking and photography opportunities within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Champaign by plane.
Small regional airport in Savoy, IL, about 7–9 miles from Champaign; convenient for domestic travel with rental cars or rideshares.
Major international hub about 130 miles northwest; typically reachable by car, bus, or train for broader travel options.
Another major Chicago airport about 125 miles northwest; alternative for regional flights and often cheaper options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large core due to UIUC, contributing to a youthful, educated culture with events and lectures.
Residents who value a mix of urban amenities and approachable suburbia.
Stable communities and active participation in cultural and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
UIUC Illini basketball is a major draw, with games and campus intramurals contributing to local sports culture.
University football at Memorial Stadium draws large crowds and regional interest during the fall season.
Active club and university programs with regular matches and events around campus.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Champaign.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many campus-area restaurants label vegetarian options; look for veggie bowls, salads, and plant-based burgers. Don’t hesitate to ask for ingredient swaps or cheese options made without animal rennet.