Champaign, Illinois Travel Guide

Discover the vibrant culture, rich history, and academic excellence of Champaign, Illinois, a city that offers a unique blend of innovation and tradition.

Welcome to Champaign, a vibrant city in the heart of Illinois, known for its blend of cultural richness and academic excellence. As home to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the city is brimming with youthful energy, innovative spirit, and a dynamic arts scene. The university's sprawling campus, with its historic buildings and lush green spaces, is a must-see for any visitor. Champaign offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to all interests. Downtown Champaign is a lively district filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and a variety of dining options that showcase the local flavor. Whether you're savoring a gourmet meal or enjoying a craft beer at one of the many breweries, the culinary scene here is sure to impress. For those interested in arts and culture, Champaign doesn't disappoint. The Krannert Art Museum, with its impressive collection of contemporary and historical art, and the Virginia Theatre, a historic venue hosting concerts, films, and performances, are just a few examples of what the city has to offer. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the numerous parks and trails, perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Champaign.

Visit during the University of Illinois' school year to experience the bustling campus life and numerous events.
Explore downtown Champaign for unique shopping and dining experiences.
Check out the local breweries for a taste of Champaign's craft beer scene.
Spend an afternoon at the Krannert Art Museum for a dose of culture.
Take a stroll through one of the many parks or trails to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Explore Champaign: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Champaign

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Hessel Park

Discover the tranquil beauty of Hessel Park in Champaign, Illinois—a perfect spot for relaxation, outdoor fun, and family-friendly activities.

4.7

University of Illinois Arboretum

Explore the lush landscapes of the University of Illinois Arboretum, a serene retreat for hiking and nature appreciation in Urbana, Illinois.

4.8

Champaign-Urbana Adventures in Time and Space

Experience immersive escape rooms and thrilling adventures at Champaign-Urbana Adventures in Time and Space, where fun and creativity collide.

4.9

West Side Park

Explore the natural beauty and family-friendly amenities at West Side Park in Champaign, Illinois—a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

4.6

Best landmarks in Champaign

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Seven Saints

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Seven Saints, the top grill and bar destination in Downtown Champaign, perfect for food lovers and social gatherings.

4.6

Watson's Shack & Rail

Experience a delightful fusion of flavors at Watson's Shack & Rail in Champaign, where chicken takes center stage and every dish is crafted with passion.

4.5

Farren's Pub & Eatery

Discover Farren's Pub & Eatery in Champaign, where delightful food and vibrant atmosphere meet for a memorable dining experience.

4.5

Maize at the Station

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Maize at the Station, a favorite spot in downtown Champaign for delicious tacos, enchiladas, and refreshing drinks.

4.4

Best restaurants in Champaign

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Black Dog Smoke & Ale House

Discover the best barbecue in Champaign at Black Dog Smoke & Ale House—where smoky flavors meet hearty hospitality.

4.6

Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant

Discover the vibrant tastes of Mexico at Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant in Champaign - where every meal is a celebration!

4.5

Seven Saints

Discover flavorful dishes and craft brews at Seven Saints in Downtown Champaign – where great taste meets vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

The Original Pancake House

Discover the charm of The Original Pancake House in Champaign for an unforgettable breakfast experience featuring fluffy pancakes and hearty American dishes.

4.7

Best bars in Champaign

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Aspen Tap House

Discover Aspen Tap House, the ultimate sports bar and brewpub in Champaign, offering delicious food, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Esquire Lounge

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Esquire Lounge, where exquisite drinks and delectable dishes come together in Downtown Champaign.

4.4

Big Grove Tavern

Experience the heart of American cuisine at Big Grove Tavern in Downtown Champaign, where local ingredients meet a welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Murphy's Pub

Discover the lively atmosphere of Murphy's Pub in Champaign, where craft beers and delicious pub fare meet friendly faces and local culture.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Champaign

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Esquire Lounge

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu at Esquire Lounge in Downtown Champaign, where great food meets lively nightlife.

4.4

The Red Lion

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Red Lion, Champaign's premier night club and event venue, perfect for dancing and socializing.

3.3

The Axe Bar

Discover the ultimate entertainment experience at The Axe Bar in Champaign, where axe throwing meets a lively sports bar atmosphere.

4.4

Tumble Inn Tavern

Discover the lively Tumble Inn Tavern in Downtown Champaign, a perfect spot for drinks, live music, and unforgettable memories.

4.4

Best shops in Champaign

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Market Place Shopping Center

Explore the Market Place Shopping Center for a unique shopping experience and delightful dining options in the heart of Champaign, Illinois.

4.2

Hobby Lobby

Explore your creativity at Hobby Lobby, a vibrant craft store in Champaign, Illinois, offering a vast selection of supplies for all your crafting needs.

4.5

T.J. Maxx

Discover unbeatable deals on fashion and home goods at T.J. Maxx, your ultimate shopping destination in Champaign, Illinois.

4.2

Country Fair Shopping Center

Discover a shopper's paradise at Country Fair Shopping Center, where diverse stores and dining options await in the heart of Champaign, Illinois.

3.8

Explore Champaign on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Champaign, mapped for you.

Champaign Essentials

Champaign is located in east-central Illinois. The nearest major airport is the University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI), situated about 5 miles south of the city. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Indianapolis International Airport (IND), both of which are approximately two hours away by car. Amtrak also provides train services to Champaign via the Illinois Terminal, connecting it to Chicago, Carbondale, and other major cities.
Champaign has a well-developed transportation system. The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) operates an extensive bus network that covers most of the city and its neighboring areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Renting a car is also an option, particularly if you plan to explore the surrounding countryside. Biking is popular, with numerous bike lanes and trails throughout the city.
The official currency in Champaign is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in downtown and near the University of Illinois campus. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in places where cards may not be accepted.
Champaign is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is always prudent to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, particularly in neighborhoods like Garden Hills and parts of North Champaign, which have higher crime rates. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe visit.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Champaign has several hospitals, including Carle Foundation Hospital and OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available throughout the city to purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, as Champaign has a relaxed dress code. Avoid overly formal attire unless attending a specific event. Religion: Do respect places of worship, such as churches and synagogues, by dressing modestly and being quiet. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a bus pass for the MTD buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Midwesterners are known for their friendliness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and the diverse food options available. Don't forget to tip your servers, typically 15-20%.
To experience Champaign like a local, visit the Urbana's Market at the Square on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts. Take a stroll through the University of Illinois campus to see its beautiful architecture and visit the Krannert Art Museum. Enjoy a night out at one of the many local breweries or catch a live performance at the Virginia Theatre. For a quieter experience, explore the natural beauty of Meadowbrook Park or Crystal Lake Park.

When is the best time to visit Champaign?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Champaign

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Champaign. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [hey]
- GoodbyeBye
  [bai]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/noh prah-bluhm]
- Thank youThanks
  [thaynks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [iks-kyoos mee/sor-ee]
- How are you?How are you?
  [haw ahr yoo]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [gud. yoo]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speek ing-glish]
- I don't understandDon't get it
  [dohnt get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [meh-nyoo, pleez]
- I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [noh meet fohr mee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheerz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go away!
  [goh uh-way]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kahl thuh cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get uh dahk]
- I'm lostLost
  [lawst]
- I'm illSick
  [sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wah-nuh buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [juhst brah-zing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [haw much]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too prahy-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [kan yoo doh bet-ter]
- What time is it?What time?
  [wut tahym]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wuhn]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [haf ten]
- MorningMorning
  [mawrn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yess-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [toh-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [toh-mah-row]
- 1One
  [wuhn]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [eyt]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres thuh]
- What's the address?Address?
  [uh-dres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Show me (on map)?
  [sho mee (on map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Next (bus)?
  [nekst (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Ticket (to ...)
  [tik-it (to)]

History of Champaign

Champaign, Illinois was founded in 1855 when the Illinois Central Railroad laid its tracks two miles west of the nearby city of Urbana. Initially known as West Urbana, the settlement grew rapidly due to the influx of settlers and businesses following the railroad. In 1860, it was officially renamed Champaign after Champaign County, Ohio.
In 1867, the Illinois Industrial University was established in Champaign County. Today known as the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, it has grown into a world-renowned institution for higher education and research. The university has played a significant role in the development and culture of Champaign, contributing to its reputation as a hub of innovation and learning.
The Champaign Race Riot of 1969 was a significant event in the city's history, highlighting the racial tensions of the time. The disturbances began in response to perceived injustices and discrimination faced by African American residents. The event led to increased awareness and subsequent efforts to address racial inequality in the community.
Founded in 1959, the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra has been a cultural cornerstone of the community for over six decades. It has brought classical music and world-class performances to the residents of Champaign and the surrounding areas, enriching the local arts scene and fostering a deep appreciation for music.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, downtown Champaign underwent a significant revitalization. Efforts included the restoration of historic buildings, the introduction of new businesses, restaurants, and cultural venues, and the creation of vibrant public spaces. This transformation has made downtown Champaign a bustling and attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
The Orpheum Children's Science Museum, housed in a former vaudeville and movie theater built in 1914, has been a beloved institution in Champaign since its opening in 1994. The museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that inspire curiosity and a love for science in children and families.
Opened in 1969, the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is a premier venue for the performing arts in Champaign. Located on the University of Illinois campus, the center hosts a wide range of performances, including theater, music, and dance, and serves as a cultural hub for the university and the wider community.