Illinois may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of coastal towns, but with access to Lake Michigan and several rivers, it has plenty of waterfront destinations to explore. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway, a historic town with cultural attractions, or a scenic spot for outdoor adventures, you can find it in Illinois. Here are seven of the best coastal towns in the state that you should visit.
Waukegan
Waukegan is the ninth largest city in Illinois and the fifth largest city around Lake Michigan. It has a beautiful beach with natural sand dunes, a marina for boating, and a pier for fishing and watching sunsets. Waukegan also has a rich arts and cultural scene, with boutique shops, dining, festivals, and the historic Genesee Theatre, which hosts many high-profile performers. Waukegan was named one of the best coastal towns in America by Only In Your State.
St. Charles
St. Charles is a charming town along the Fox River, about 40 miles outside Chicago. It has a historic downtown with shops, restaurants, and museums, as well as a riverwalk and a park with a waterfall. St. Charles is also home to the Hotel Baker, a historic landmark that was built in 1928 and features a rainbow-lit fountain and a rose garden. St. Charles was listed as one of the most charming waterfront towns in Illinois by World Atlas.
Cairo
Cairo is the southernmost town in Illinois, located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. It has a unique history and architecture, as it was once a thriving port city and a stop on the Underground Railroad. Cairo also has a scenic location, surrounded by water and forests. You can visit the Fort Defiance State Park, which offers panoramic views of the rivers, or the Magnolia Manor, a Victorian mansion that is now a museum. Cairo was featured as one of the waterfront towns in Illinois that everyone should visit by Only In Your State.
Peoria
Peoria is the largest city along the Illinois River, and it was the first European settlement in the state. It is a vibrant city with a diverse culture and a lively nightlife. Peoria also has many attractions along the riverfront, such as the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the Peoria Zoo, the Peoria Civic Center, and the Spirit of Peoria, a paddlewheel riverboat that offers cruises. Peoria was also mentioned as one of the waterfront towns in Illinois that everyone should visit by Only In Your State.
Shelbyville
Shelbyville is a small town on the Kaskaskia River and Lake Shelbyville, which was created by a dam in 1970. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. Shelbyville also has a historic downtown with antique shops, cafes, and murals. You can also visit the Shelby County Courthouse, which was built in 1879 and has a clock tower and a cannon. Shelbyville was included as one of the charming waterfront towns in Illinois by World Atlas.
Spring Valley
Spring Valley is a small town near the Valley of Spring Creek, which is surrounded by hills filled with natural springs. It is also near Ottawa along the Illinois River, and it is a great place for outdoor activities. You can hike, bike, or kayak along the river, or visit the Starved Rock State Park, which has canyons, waterfalls, and wildlife. Spring Valley was also featured as one of the waterfront towns in Illinois that everyone should visit by Only In Your State.
Zion
Zion is a town on the shore of Lake Michigan, named for Mt. Zion in Israel. It has a unique design, inspired by the Union Jack, and many of the streets are named after the Bible. Zion also has a beach, a lighthouse, a power plant, and a nature preserve. You can also visit the Shiloh House, a historic mansion that was built in 1901 and is now a museum. Zion was also listed as one of the most charming waterfront towns in Illinois by World Atlas.
Conclusion
Illinois has many coastal towns that offer a variety of attractions and experiences. Whether you want to enjoy the beach, the river, the history, or the culture, you can find it in one of these seven towns. The next time you are looking for a coastal getaway, consider visiting one of these amazing places in Illinois. You won’t regret it!