Piatt County - 7 Attractions You Must Visit

Allerton Park is a stunning and peaceful area that boasts 960 acres of beautiful foliage, babbling ponds, sparkling waterfalls, grand country houses, as well as various recreational activities. Perfect for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous day trip, visitors can make the most out of their stay at Allerton Park by taking leisurely strolls along the trails through lush woodlands and meadows, working up a sweat with any number of outdoor activities like basketball and disc-golfing.

Bryant Cottage State Historic Site is a great place to learn about the past. This state-owned property features the Bryant Cottage, which was the home of Joseph and Mary Ann Bryant in 1870. The two-story frame structure was originally constructed on the adjoining farm in 1848 and later moved after the property was purchased by the state. Visitors to Bryant Cottage can see period furnishings, photographs, and documents depicting family life in America during this time.

Fu Dog Garden is a unique combination of oriental and Western appeal. The garden features bronze dogs by the entrance, stunning landscape scenery, an elaborately constructed gazebo, and even a reflection pond. Paths are made up of hazel logs leading visitors to the four colorfully crafted pagodas with stone stairways crafted in the style of ancient Chinese architecture. Artful sculptures are laid out across the garden including a three-eyed Fu Dog, the spiritual guardian of Chinese emperors.

Lodge Park is a breathtaking park situated along the Sangamon River. It features 650 acres of interesting terrain and land with trees galore and wildflowers throughout. Within the park, visitors can take advantage of numerous activities such as fishing, hiking, swimming, or even horseback riding. There are also plenty of picnic sites available for anyone who wants to kick back and just enjoy nature. The lodge itself offers cabins available for rent on a daily basis.

The Monticello Railway Museum,founded in 1971 by local volunteers, the museum has become an impressive attraction for adults and children alike. Visitors to the museum will get a chance to ride aboard restored passenger and freight train cars pulled behind vintage diesel locomotives along over six miles of track. In addition to rides, visitors can explore enginehouses, shop houses and other historic structures related to the railways that helped develop this area of Illinois.

The Monticello Railway Museum Wabash Depot is a significant piece of local history. Constructed in 1917 and originally used as a passenger stop on the Wabash Line, the depot offers a unique snapshot of railroading as it was in the early 20th century. In 1987, the Eastern Iowa Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society purchased the building with plans to convert it into an interactive museum that would celebrate past railroading practices.

Sun Singer, is a breathtakingly gorgeous park and hidden gem of the local area. It consists of nature trails that wind through the woods along a stream and there are plenty of beautiful scenic spots for picnicking. Visitors can experience the amazing wildlife of the area first-hand, with an abundance of birds, snakes, turtles and other small animals making their home in these peaceful surroundings. There is also an archery field where guests can practice their archery skills.