Best things to do on a road trip from Chrisman, Illinois and Mattoon, Illinois.
Chrisman, Illinois, and Mattoon, Illinois are two small towns located in the south-central region of the state with a drive time of two hours and twenty minutes between them. The scenic drive is filled with surprises, natural beauty, and interesting landmarks. Halfway on the route is the town of Tuscola, Illinois. This small town is not to be missed on the journey.
Top Five Things to Do
Visit the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site
The Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is a must-visit attraction on your road trip from Chrisman to Mattoon. It is located in Lerna, Illinois, just 30 minutes southwest of Mattoon. The site is a historic recreation of the home of Thomas Lincoln, father of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home and see demonstrations of life in the 1800s.
Go antique shopping in Charleston, Illinois
Charleston, Illinois, is located just 10 minutes away from Mattoon and has a charming downtown filled with antique and gift shops. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the unique items and discovering treasures from another time. A must-visit shop is The Unique Shop, which has been a staple in the community for over 40 years.
Explore the Rockome Gardens
Rockome Gardens is a unique attraction located in Arcola, Illinois. The garden boasts beautiful flowers, water features, and a petting zoo for the little ones. This attraction is a favorite for families, couples, and individuals who love nature and want to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Visit the Progress City USA
Progress City USA is an attraction that pays homage to the agricultural heritage of the region. Located in Casey, Illinois, visitors can explore the farmhouses, silos, and barns that make up the complex. The highlight of the attraction is the world's largest wind chime. It is a sight to behold with over 6 tons of steel pipes and measuring over 55 feet.
Take a tour of the Tuscola Train Depot
The Tuscola Train Depot is a historical site that has been around since the late 1800s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the depot and explore how the train changed the landscape of the region. The train depot is an essential part of Tuscola's history.
Interesting facts about each location
- Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site: It was donated to the state of Illinois in 1929 by Mrs. William Randolph Hearst.
- Charleston, Illinois: The city is home to Eastern Illinois University, where notable alumni include the actor John Malkovich.
- Rockome Gardens: The founder, Arthur Martin, was a former Amish bishop who believed that beauty and nature were an essential part of life.
- Progress City USA: The farm machinery and buildings were donated by the local farm families to create this unique attraction.
- Tuscola Train Depot: The depot was restored in 1987, and the project cost over $300,000.
Conclusion
The road trip from Chrisman to Mattoon is a two-hour journey filled with surprises and attractions. Tuscola, Illinois, is a must-visit attraction and a perfect halfway point for the trip. The highlights include visiting the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, touring the Tuscola Train Depot, and exploring Progress City USA. Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll through Charleston's antique shops and explore the beauty of Rockome Gardens. The trip route is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, and visitors will undoubtedly leave with a better appreciation of the history and culture of the region.