Rantoul - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

This is a charming place rich with history. Established in 1859, the first settlers sought refuge from the bustle of city life among the peaceful bluffs and rivers. While the town has grown over time, it still retains much of its original 19th century flavor. Today, Paxton is a thriving community of more than 5,000 people that is surrounded by parks, farms, and rolling hillsides. Visitors from all around come to experience the annual pumpkin festivals and taste homemade pies from a local bakery.

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 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.

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.

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.