Batavia Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the beautiful state of Illinois, Batavia is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and small-town charm. Located just 40 miles west of Chicago, this picturesque destination is an ideal getaway for those seeking a break from the bustling city life.

With its rich history dating back to the 1830s, Batavia boasts a wealth of historic landmarks and architectural gems. Take a stroll down the vibrant downtown area, where you'll find well-preserved buildings that showcase the city's proud heritage. The Batavia Depot Museum is a must-visit, housed in a former Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad Depot. Here, you can delve into the city's railroad history and learn about its significance in shaping the region.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise in Batavia. The Fox River Trail, which winds its way through the city, offers stunning views of the river and its surrounding landscapes. Whether you prefer biking, hiking, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, this scenic trail is perfect for all ages and abilities. For a unique experience, rent a kayak or canoe and explore the calm waters of the Fox River, immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature.

Batavia also has a thriving arts and culture scene. The Batavia Fine Arts Centre hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, ranging from concerts to theatrical productions. Art lovers will appreciate the numerous galleries and art studios scattered throughout the city, showcasing the works of talented local artists.

Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse culinary offerings in Batavia. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, the city offers a range of dining options to suit every palate. Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients or savor international flavors from around the world.

No trip to Batavia is complete without a visit to Fermilab, one of the world's leading particle physics laboratories. Explore the iconic Wilson Hall, learn about groundbreaking scientific research, and marvel at the impressive displays and exhibits.

Alternative names: Settled: 1833Population: 26.5 thous.Area: 9.66 mi²Elevation: 666 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°51'1"N, 88°18'34"W

Location

IllinoisUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Batavia Top Attractions

Batavia Attractions - What to See and Explore

Batavia offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Batavia Depot Museum, United Methodist Church of Batavia, Eastside Community Center, First Methodist Church of Batavia. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Specialty museum • History museum • Museum
Batavia Depot Museum
The Batavia Depot Museum is a museum in Batavia, Illinois that was once the town's primary train station. It was the first of many depots built by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad.
Church
United Methodist Church of Batavia
The United Methodist Church of Batavia is a historical church in Batavia, Illinois. Funds for the church were donated by Rev. E. H. Gammon and Cpt. Don Carlos Newton in 1887 to replace the First Methodist Church of Batavia. It was designed by famed local architect Solon Spencer Beman in the Romanesque Revival style.
Church
Eastside Community Center
The Eastside Community Center, formerly the Catholic Holy Cross Church, is an historic building in Batavia, Illinois. It was built in 1897 to serve the Holy Cross congregation of Batavia, many of whom were Irish immigrants who came to work in local quarries.

Church
First Methodist Church of Batavia
The First Methodist Church of Batavia is a historic building in Batavia, Illinois. It functioned as a Methodist church until the 1880s. The building was then converted into the McWayne School Annex, which held classes until 1978. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
41°49'30"N • 88°19'3"W
Red Oak Nature Center
Nature and wildlife • Park
41°51'3"N • 88°18'15"W
Louise White School
The Louise White School is a Registered Historic Place in Batavia, Illinois. It was in active use as a school for 85 years, and served as home of the Chautauqua movement in north central Illinois.
41°51'54"N • 88°18'58"W
Campana Factory
The Campana Factory is a historic building in Batavia, Illinois. It was built in 1936 to serve as a factory for The Campana Company, which produced Italian Balm, the most popular hand lotion in the United States during The Great Depression.
41°50'60"N • 88°18'4"W
Judge Isaac Wilson House
The Judge Isaac Wilson House is a historic residence in Batavia, Illinois. It was the home of Isaac Wilson, a former Congressman who moved to the Batavia region and later named the settlement.
41°51'36"N • 88°18'51"W
Mrs. A. W. Gridley House
The Mrs. A. W. Gridley House is a Frank Lloyd Wright designed Prairie School home in Batavia, Illinois.

Day trips

Batavia – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Batavia, it's worth seeing attractions such as: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago (Bartlett), Farnsworth House (Plano), Graue Mill (Oak Brook).

8.3 miNE
Temple
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago, Bartlett
Nestled in the suburb of Bartlett in DuPage County, Illinois, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago is an architectural marvel and a beacon of spirituality. This traditional Hindu place of worship, inaugurated in 2004, is not only a sanctuary for the local Indian...
19 milesSW
Historical place, History museum, Museum
Farnsworth House, Plano
The Farnsworth House, a quintessential icon of modernist architecture, is nestled in the verdant landscape of Plano, Illinois. Designed by the legendary architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this museum in Kendall County is not merely a house but a work of art that...
20 milesE
Specialty museum, Museum
Graue Mill, Oak Brook
Nestled in the picturesque village of Oak Brook, Illinois, the historic Graue Mill is a captivating destination for tourists interested in American history and traditional milling. This grist mill, built in 1852, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early American...
19 milesSE
Sacred and religious sites, Temple, Historical place
Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, Lemont
Nestled in the serene suburb of Lemont, Illinois, the Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and cultural vibrancy for the local community and visitors alike. This majestic temple, embodying traditional Indian architectural aesthetics...
9.9 miE
5 acres of native Illinois animals
Cosley Zoo, Wheaton
Nestled in the charming city of Wheaton, Illinois, Cosley Zoo stands as a delightful attraction for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This quaint zoo offers a unique experience, giving visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with native wildlife...

Show all

Best Time To Visit Batavia

Learn when is the best time to travel to Batavia weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

July is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in June.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and February. Most of it rains in June, July and August.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Batavia?

The top attractions to visit in Batavia are:

What is the best time to visit Batavia?

July is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in June. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.