20 Attractions to Explore Near Grainger Engineering Library

The Main Quad is a place full of history and a great spot to spend the day. This two-block area, bounded by Green Street, Wright Street and Daniel Street contains the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, with its iconic stately architecture. The Main Quad offers an abundance of activities for visitors of all ages. It features an impressive array of sculptures and monuments honoring past distinguished faculty as well as current members of the university community.

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, is an iconic venue that brings together the community through the power of live performances. From operas and jazz concerts to theatrical plays and modern dance productions, this remarkable center draws visitors from across the country for their unique lineup of artistic talent. The facility's five theaters have become a hallmark of excellence with state-of-the-art audio and lighting systems that bring each experience to life.

From the limestone blocks to the ornate details of its structure, Hallene Gateway monument is an impressive sight to behold. Located in Champaign County, Illinois, this 20-foot-tall memorial was built to honor World War I veterans and it stands right beside the main highway running through Urbana. The monument's classic design is comprised of two pillars with a triangular pediment sitting atop them, plus smaller columns and intricate carvings decorating it from head to toe.

This beautiful museum has been around since it was founded in 1867 and it still remains an anchor of culture today. Featuring galleries filled with artifacts and art from all over the world, the Spurlock Museum offers something for everyone. In addition to its permanent collection, there are also regularly rotating exhibitions showcasing specific topics. These rotating exhibitions often have interactive elements that allow visitors to experience different cultures in a way.

Founded in 1947 and guided by the vibrant vision of its leadership, this center provides important worship services to the Catholic community and promotes the mission of The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign through insightful conversations, social media outreach, educational programs, and more. As part of an effort to serve both students and members of the local area alike, Newman Hall serves as a safe haven for personal growth and dialogue on a variety of religious topics.

The UI Ice Arena,is the premier spot for ice skating in this area. With two full-size NHL rinks, a professional sound system and snack bar, the facility provides a great atmosphere for all kinds. Whether it’s public skating sessions, adult hockey leagues or figure skating events - everyone loves to take a spin under these lights! Additionally, the arena offers classes and lessons taught by certified instructors as well as birthday parties, private meetings/events and skate gear rentals.

The Sousa Archives and Center for American Music is a one-of-a-kind resource offering invaluable insight into the history of music in the United States. Named after legendary bandmaster John Philip Sousa, this archive has an impressive collection of manuscripts, sound recordings, and print materials which documents the development of music from the nineteenth century to present day.

This Museum at the Historic Cattle Bank offers a unique peek into the community's past and present. Located in a renovated brick structure that traces its roots back to 1858, the museum is full of educational and interactive displays featuring artifacts, photographs, timelines and more that explore the community's history. Through an exciting array of interactive activities, visitors can become virtually immersed in key turning points in time as they learn about life in 19th-century Illinois.

Cattle Bank, is the oldest embodied banking institution in Illinois and continues to be a leader in providing quality banking services. Founded in 1849, Cattle Bank offers customers an extensive range of services including personal checking accounts, savings accounts, loans for agricultural needs as well as investment opportunities. With seven community based locations throughout Central Illinois and convenient online access.

King Park is a beautiful park with plenty to explore. Visitors can enjoy an array of outdoor activities including tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts, as well as a nature trail through the surrounding woods. The nearby lake is ideal for fishing and boating, while fields dotted with picnic tables make the perfect spot for a relaxing alfresco lunch. The park also provides playground equipment that makes it great for families with young children who need to let off some energy.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is an excellent choice for prospective students looking to pursue higher education. Located in Champaign County, the university offers degree programs in a wide variety of disciplines, including economics, engineering, journalism and computer science. The campus boasts an intimate learning environment with a modern academic center and a library filled with resources for students to research and study.

The Krannert Art Museum has become a staple fixture for art lovers around the area. Boasting an impressive two-story facility containing countless modern, contemporary, and historical works from international locations, it is easy to see why this particular museum is so highly regarded. Special exhibitions regularly take place in both the East and West Galleries while their permanent collections feature unique pieces from both creative and experimental artists.

The Illinois Terminal, is a multi-modal transportation center and the nucleus of the region's transit system. Offering intercity bus and rail service, local bus services, as well as taxis and bike rentals, it is designed to meet all your public transport needs. The terminal's four floors house ticketing offices, retail stores, cafes and restaurants. It also features escalators and elevators for easy access. In addition, informational signs are posted throughout the building.

The Champaign City Building has long been a source of pride and inspiration for the people of the community. At the center of the city is a beautiful building that covers over one million square feet and stands an impressive ten stories tall. Inside, local residents can find governmental offices from mayor to police and fire departments as well as cultural institutions like the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum. The building also houses some of Champaign's finest restaurants.

Downtown Champaign offers a thriving mix of culture, business, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the many charming shops that line the streets or take a stroll through one of its many green spaces. Historic sites such as the University of Illinois Main Quadrangle, Willard Airport, and Morrow Plots add to the unique character of downtown. The area also has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of restaurants and bars for visitors to enjoy.

The Urbana-Lincoln Hotel and Lincoln Square Mall offer a great destination for both locals and visitors alike. The hotel is easily accessible from all parts of the county and features a variety of lodging options to accommodate any budget. Inside the mall, shoppers will find a wide selection of stores to suit anyone's needs. With restaurants, clothing shops, toy stores, gaming parlors, and much more available, there really is something for everyone in this convenient location.

This vibrant public library provides an array of services to its patrons including borrowing of books, magazines, CDs and DVDs, computers and printing access, as well as activities like storytimes, book discussion groups, events and lectures. The library prides itself on fostering life-long learning within the community by providing educational materials like resources for job seekers and places of worship. Additionally, library staff are highly knowledgeable and eager to help.

This is a beloved landmark, having hosted numerous memorable sporting events over the years. Initially opened in 1923, with the capacity increasing to more than 62,000. It is now home to the Fighting Illini football team and serves as one of college football's larger venues. The stadium additionally boasts one of the nation's largest indoor video displays at 111 feet by 24 feet, and includes state-of-the-art sound systems as well as many other unique amenities.

Carle Park,is a beautiful and serene nature escape situated in the bustling city of Urbana. The park is home to a stunning pool of clear blue water with a stunning waterfall cascading down from the center. Its large meadows provide visitors with plenty of opportunities for picnicking, relaxing, and strolling along its many trails. There are also playgrounds for kids as well as plenty of activities for adults such as fishing, hiking, canoeing, bird watching and more.

The Virginia Theatre has been a monument to entertainment in the area for nearly one hundred years. Originally opening in 1921, the movie palace offered crystal-clear sound and images that were far ahead of its time. It is the only classic movie theater left standing with its original design still intact and it continues to host events ranging from rock concerts to live stage productions. Its grand auditorium and velvet curtains create an atmosphere that takes people back in time.