Click on one of the towns below to explore everything that Illinois has to offer.
Addison
Ah, Addison - a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Illinois, founded in 1839 with a current population of approximately 88,612. This charming town boasts a rich history, being named after Joseph Addison, the renowned 18th-century English essayist. With its picturesque streets and welcoming community, Addison has sister city relationships with Triggiano, Italy and Kettering, England, adding an international flair to its small-town charm. Whether you're exploring its historic sites or savoring its diverse culinary scene, Addison is sure to captivate any traveler seeking an authentic American experience.
Algonquin
Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Algonquin beckons with its small-town charm and big-city energy. Founded in 1890, this historic town boasts a population of approximately 88,389. With sister cities like Lake in the Hills and Barrington Hills, Algonquin seamlessly blends old-world allure with modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a delightful mix of tradition and innovation.Avon
Welcome to the charming town of Avon, Illinois, founded in 1854 and home to a population of approximately 6,500 residents. Known for its picturesque countryside, Avon boasts a rich history, with notable figures such as former U.S. Congressman Lane Evans hailing from the area. Sister cities such as Avon, Indiana, and Avon, Connecticut, further showcase the town's community spirit and connections beyond its borders. Whether you're exploring local farms or diving into the town's vibrant arts scene, Avon is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.Belleville
Welcome to Belleville, Illinois, a charming town with a population of approximately 44,478, founded in 1814. Known for its rich history, Belleville was home to the first German Catholic Church in the state and was a key stop on the Underground Railroad. Sister cities include Paderborn, Germany, and OrleĢans, France, adding international flair to this Midwest gem. Soak up the small-town charm, explore historic sites, and indulge in the local cuisine in this hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.Belvidere
Welcome to Belvidere, Illinois! Founded in 1835, this charming town of approximately 30,109 residents is steeped in history. Known for its iconic Boone County Courthouse and connection to famous mobster Johnny Torrio, Belvidere offers a unique blend of small-town charm and intriguing stories. Sister cities include Schwetzingen, Germany, and Lerdo, Mexico. Discover the hidden gems and rich culture of Belvidere on your next adventure!Berwyn
Step into the vibrant world of Berwyn, Illinois, a town founded in 1908 that effortlessly blends art, culture, and history into its urban landscape. With a population of approximately 56,657, Berwyn boasts a rich heritage, being the birthplace of famed poet and author, Edgar Lee Masters. Known for its diverse community and dynamic arts scene, Berwyn has sister city relationships with cities in Mexico and Poland, adding an international flair to its local charm.Bloom
If you're looking for a hidden gem in the heartland of America, look no further than Bloom, Illinois. Founded in 1831, this charming town is steeped in history, being home to the famous abolitionist and author Adin Ballou. With a population of approximately 90,922, Bloom offers a quaint Midwest experience with a touch of intellectual flair. Sister cities include Zaventem, Belgium and Kislovodsk, Russia, adding to the town's cosmopolitan charm.Bloomington City
Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Bloomington City boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Founded in 1830, this vibrant town is home to approximately 76,610 residents. Known for its charming downtown area, Bloomington City offers a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. Sister cities such as Asahikawa, Japan, and Vladimir, Russia, contribute to its international flair.Bourbonnais
Welcome to Bourbonnais, a charming town in Illinois founded in 1875. Known for its rich history in agriculture and as the birthplace of the Chicago Bears training camp, this town offers a blend of small-town charm and sports culture. With a population of around 40,137, Bourbonnais is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Midwest. As a sister city to Saint-Avold in France, Bourbonnais boasts a touch of European flair right here in the United States.Champaign City
Welcome to Champaign City, a vibrant town in Illinois founded in 1855. Home to a population of approximately 81,055, this charming city boasts a rich history, being the birthplace of legendary American film critic Roger Ebert. Champaign City is also known for its sister city relationship with Modena, Italy, adding an international flair to its local charm. Explore the diverse culinary scene, lively arts community, and unique blend of small-town warmth with big-city amenities in this hidden gem of the Midwest.Cicero
Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Cicero is a vibrant town founded in 1867 with a population of around 83,891 residents. This bustling community has a rich history, with notable figures like Al Capone once frequenting its streets during the Prohibition era. Sister cities include towns in Poland and Mexico, adding an international flair to this small American gem. From delicious eateries to historic landmarks, Cicero offers a taste of culture and charm unlike any other.Collinsville
Welcome to Collinsville, Illinois, a hidden gem steeped in history and charm! Founded in 1837, this town of approximately 36,265 residents boasts a rich past, including being the site of the world's largest ketchup bottle and hosting the annual Horseradish Festival. Collinsville also proudly shares sister city relationships with Dusternburg, Germany, and Lugano, Switzerland. Come explore the unique blend of small-town hospitality and quirky landmarks that make Collinsville a must-visit destination!Cunningham
Welcome to Cunningham, a hidden gem founded in 1841 in the heart of Illinois. This charming town of approximately 41,250 residents boasts a rich history, including being the birthplace of renowned author James Jones. With its picturesque main street lined with historic buildings and a vibrant arts scene, Cunningham offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and cultural experiences. Sister cities include Vincennes, Indiana and Yamanouchi, Japan, adding an international flair to this quaint American town.Danville
Welcome to the historic town of Danville, Illinois, founded in 1827 and home to approximately 32,113 residents. This charming town boasts a rich history, with notable figures like former Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden, having ties to the area. Danville is also known for its sister city relationship with Zhenjiang, China, adding an international flair to its small-town charm. Explore the local shops, indulge in the diverse cuisine, and immerse yourself in the welcoming community of Danville.Decatur
Welcome to Decatur, Illinois, a charming town founded in 1823 with a population of roughly 52,915 residents. Known for its rich history as the hometown of famous billionaire philanthropist Howard Buffett, Decatur offers a mix of quaint Midwestern charm and vibrant cultural experiences. Sister cities include Tokorozawa, Japan, and Greifswald, Germany, adding an international flair to this hidden gem. So, grab a bite at a local diner, explore historic sites, and soak up the small-town atmosphere in Decatur.Du Page
Welcome to Du Page, a hidden gem founded in 1839 with a population of around 87,793 residents. This picturesque town is known for its rich history, including being the former home of the famous evangelist Billy Graham. Du Page boasts a charming small-town vibe, with friendly locals and a thriving arts and culture scene. Sister cities include the bustling metropolis of Naperville, making Du Page the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience.Dundee
Ah, Dundee, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Illinois, founded in 1835 with a population of approximately 64,167. This charming town boasts a rich history dating back to the pioneer days, with notable figures such as Elijah Hough paving the way for its development. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant community, Dundee is also twinned with sister cities like Inverness, Scotland, providing a unique blend of cultures and experiences for visitors to explore. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or food enthusiast, Dundee offers a little something for everyone to enjoy.Ela
Nestled in the heart of Illinois lies the charming town of Ela, founded in 1838 and home to approximately 42,654 residents. With a rich history dating back to the pioneer days, Ela boasts picturesque landscapes and a thriving community spirit. Known for its vibrant local art scene and culinary delights, Ela also has sister city ties with distant lands, making it a diverse and welcoming destination for travelers seeking a slice of Americana with a global twist.Elk Grove
Welcome to Elk Grove, a hidden gem founded in 1956 with a population of around 92,905 residents. This vibrant town is not only a gateway to Chicago but also boasts a rich history dating back to the early settlers and Native American tribes. Explore the quaint downtown area filled with charming shops and eateries, or take a stroll along the scenic Elk Grove Park. Sister cities include Pecs, Hungary and Laziska Gorne, Poland, adding an international flair to this cozy Midwestern town.Evanston
Welcome to Evanston, Illinois, a vibrant town with a population of approximately 74,486 residents. Founded in 1863, Evanston boasts a rich history including being the birthplace of Tinkertoys and the first home of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. This charming town is also known for its picturesque beaches along Lake Michigan and its sister city relationship with San Pedro, Belize. So, whether you're a history buff or a beach lover, Evanston has something for everyone to enjoy.
