Located in the center of Illinois lies the small town of Litchfield. Known as the hub of the area, this little town has seen a lot of growth over the years. As Litchfield continues to attract new residents and make a name for itself, they have begun adding many attractions to bring in visitors.
Boat lovers and fishermen come from Missouri and other parts of Illinois to take advantage of the numerous lakes in the area. Located along a five-kilometer (three-mile) stretch of Highway 66, many visitors stop to see the museum and eat at the popular Ariston Cafe. If you are planning a trip to Litchfield, here are five of the best things to do and see while you are there.
1. Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A visit to the Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center is like taking a step back in time. The museum had long been a dream of many of the local citizens. They wanted a way to commemorate the town’s history.
The dream was realized when the museum opened its doors to visitors in 2013. You can see an extensive collection of postcards recording Litchfield’s history. Other memorabilia of past businesses, the old railroad, and the early settlers are also located at the museum. Car aficionados of all ages will love the classic cars on display. The new welcome center is part of the other classic buildings and restaurants, located on Route 66, that are still in operation today.
Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center
Address: 334 Historic Old Route 66 North, 62056 Litchfield, IL
Phone Number: (217) 324-3510
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m.
2. Sky View Drive In
Put on your pajamas, load the kids in the car and head over to the Sky View Drive In. The theater is the last of the original drive ins found along Route 66. Still in operation today, this iconic landmark has been listed in the Route 66 Hall of Fame.
The theater is open April through September. On weekends they show a double feature. Be sure to stop by the snack bar and fill up on traditional movie favorites such as nachos, hamburgers, hot dogs and of course popcorn. If you happen to be traveling through Litchfield in October through March, you can stop by and check out the exhibit located in the front of the theater. This exhibit showcases the memories of movie goers from 1950 to today.
Sky View Drive In
Address: 1500 Old Rte 66 N, 62056 Litchfield, IL
Phone Number: (217) 324-4451
Hours of Operation: Daily, gates open at 7:30 p.m.
Ticket Price: 5 USD
Website: Sky View Drive In
3. Lake Lou Yaeger
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Outdoor enthusiasts will love stopping by Lake Lou Yaeger. The recreational park covers about 560 hectares (1,400 acres_ of woods, lake, sandy shorelines and camp grounds. The lake has no speed restrictions making it popular with boaters and water skiers alike.
You have access to two public boat ramps, one of which has a gas station and convenience store. If you are taking the boat out to get in some fishing, you will also find an ample supply of bait here. During the warm months of summer enjoy cooling off at Milnot Beach.
The designated swimming center has a sandy beach for relaxing, a high and low diving platform, bathrooms and air conditioned snack bar. And if you are just having too much fun to leave, Lake Lou Yaeger has a campground available. Over 44 sites with electricity for your recreational vehicle and a limited number of cabins to rent.
Lake Lou Yaeger
Address: 120 E. Ryder, 62056 Litchfield, Illinois
Phone Number: 866-733-5833
Website: Lake Lou Yaeger
4. Shoal Creek Conservation Area
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Nature lovers will certainly want to make a trip to the Shoal Creek Conservation Area. The 106-hectare (266-acre) nature preserve is located adjacent to Lake Lou Yaeger. Explore the many walking trails through oak forests, prairie barrens, up the ravines and along the cliffs.
On your walk, you will see over 700 different species of flora and fauna. If you are lucky and pay attention, you will also have the chance to see over 70 different types of butterflies. Shoal Creek is maintained by local volunteers and they also offer guided walks and workshops on conserving nature.
Shoal Creek Conservation Area
Address: 1200 Old US Route 66 North, 62056 Litchfield, Illinois
Phone Number: (217) 324-3041
Website: Shoal Creek Conservation Area
5. Litchfield Pickers Market
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Do you collect rare memorabilia or antiques? If so, make sure you plan a trip to the Litchfield Pickers Market. The large open air market is held the second Sunday of the month from April through October.
Located along the city streets of downtown, here you will find vintage antiques, collectibles, and memorabilia prior to 1980. While strolling through the market, you are sure to work up an appetite so stop by one of the many food vendors available. You can find everything from classic biscuits and gravy for breakfast to pulled pork nachos for lunch. Litchfield Pickers Market is always looking for more vendors. If you have old antiques or memorabilia you want to get rid of, see the website for details on how you can participate.
Litchfield Pickers Market
Address: 120 E. Ryder, 62056 Litchfield, Illinois
Website: Litchfield Pickers Market
Too much fun for just one day
With so many choices of things to do, you will need more than just one day in Litchfield, Illinois. This small town community has something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Whether you are an outdoors nut, history buff or antique diva, you will find someplace in Litchfield to satisfy your needs. If one day is all you have, then enjoy it with a scenic drive through Route 66 and take in the Americana history found along this stretch of highway.
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