Charleston Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Charleston is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality, Charleston is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful yet enriching getaway.

One of the must-visit attractions in Charleston is the beautiful Fox Ridge State Park. Spanning over 2,000 acres, this park boasts stunning hiking trails, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Fox Ridge State Park has something for everyone. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

For history buffs, Charleston is rich in historical landmarks and museums. The Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site offers visitors a glimpse into the life of Abraham Lincoln and his family during their time in Illinois. Explore the fully furnished log cabin and learn about the daily life of the 16th president of the United States.

Another notable attraction is the Coles County Historical Society Museum. Housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion, the museum showcases the history and heritage of the region through its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. Step back in time as you wander through the rooms filled with vintage furniture, clothing, and photographs.

Charleston also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Tarble Arts Center, located on the campus of Eastern Illinois University, features a diverse range of contemporary and traditional art exhibitions. The center also hosts various performances, workshops, and lectures, making it a hub for creative expression.

When it comes to dining, Charleston offers a wide range of culinary delights. From cozy cafes serving homemade pastries to upscale restaurants offering farm-to-table cuisine, there is something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss the chance to sample some of the local specialties, such as deep-dish pizza or a classic Illinois tenderloin sandwich.

Alternative names: Population: 21.2 thous.Area: 9.35 mi²Elevation: 696 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 39°29'5"N, 88°10'35"W

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IllinoisUnited States

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Charleston Top Attractions

Charleston Attractions - What to See and Explore

Charleston offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Coles County Courthouse, Old Main, Will Rogers Theatre and Commercial Block, Pemberton Hall. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Romanesque architecture
Coles County Courthouse
Coles County Courthouse is a historic courthouse in Charleston, Illinois. The courthouse is located in a public square in central Charleston and houses most of Coles County, Illinois's administrative offices as well as its courts. It was built in 1898 and designed by architect...
39°29'1"N • 88°10'31"W
Old Main
The Old Main, also known as the Livingston C. Lord Administration Building, is the oldest building at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois. Construction on the building began in 1896 and was completed in 1899. Architect George H. Miller designed the building, which has a medieval style resembling a castle.
Concerts and shows • Theater
Will Rogers Theatre and Commercial Block
The Will Rogers Theatre and Commercial Block is a historic theatre and commercial building located at 705-715 Monroe Avenue in Charleston, Illinois. The theatre, named for entertainer Will Rogers, was built in 1935 and opened in 1938.

Reportedly haunted
Pemberton Hall
Pemberton Hall is a women's residence hall at Eastern Illinois University, in Charleston, Illinois. Located at the north end of the university campus, at the corner of 4th street and Lincoln Avenue, Pemberton Hall is registered as a historic landmark, due to its status as the oldest women's college residence hall in the state.
Bridge
Sixth
The Sixth, Seventh, and Tenth Street Stone Arch Bridges are three stone arch bridges in Charleston, Illinois, which carry Sixth, Seventh, and Tenth Streets across the Town Branch of Cassell Creek.
39°29'25"N • 88°10'25"W
McFarland House
The McFarland House is a historic house located at 895 7th St. in Charleston, Illinois. Architect Charles D. Mitchell designed the Queen Anne house, which was built from 1890 to 1892.
39°29'38"N • 88°10'45"W
Alexander Briggs House
The Alexander Briggs House is a historic house located at 210 Jackson St. in Charleston, Illinois. Prominent local stonemason Alexander Briggs built the stone house in 1894; it is the only stone house remaining in Coles County.
Universities and schools
Eastern Illinois University
Eastern Illinois University is a public university in Charleston, Illinois. Established in 1895 as the Eastern Illinois State Normal School, a teacher's college offering a two-year degree, Eastern Illinois University gradually expanded into a comprehensive university with a...

Day trips

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

In the vicinity of Charleston, it's worth seeing attractions such as: State Farm Center (Champaign-Urbana), Memorial Stadium (Champaign-Urbana), Spurlock Museum (Urbana).

42 milesN
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
State Farm Center, Champaign-Urbana
The State Farm Center, a prominent arena in the heart of Champaign, Illinois, stands as a testament to the vibrant sports and entertainment culture in the United States. Constructed in 1963 and originally known as the Assembly Hall, this iconic venue has been a...
43 milesN
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Memorial Stadium, Champaign-Urbana
Memorial Stadium, a landmark of Champaign-Urbana in Illinois, stands as a proud testament to the spirit of sports and remembrance in the heartland of America. This expansive stadium, inaugurated in 1923, serves as the home ground for the University of Illinois at...
43 milesN
Specialty museum, Natural history museum, Museum
Spurlock Museum, Urbana
The William R. and Clarice V. Spurlock Museum, better known as the Spurlock Museum, is an ethnographic museum at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
43 milesE
Universities and schools, Arenas and stadiums, Monuments and statues
Memorial Stadium, Terre Haute
Memorial Stadium is the current home of the Indiana State Sycamores football and soccer section in Terre Haute, Indiana, United States. The stadium was renovated between 1967 and 1969; it was built to host professional minor league baseball; the Indiana State football team began playing there in 1949.
43 milesN
Monuments and statues
Alma Mater, Champaign-Urbana
The Alma Mater, a bronze statue by sculptor Lorado Taft, is a beloved symbol of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.