Champaign, Illinois, is filled with history, culture, and great food, and I’m excited to share my three-day adventure exploring the city. This trip was unforgettable, from checking in at the charming I Hotel to diving into local history, enjoying amazing meals, and experiencing the unique sights that Champaign has to offer. Here’s my full itinerary while visiting Champaign, including the can’t-miss spots and experiences that made my journey so special.
Day 1: Dive Into Local History and Basketball Game Night
Hotel Check-in at I Hotel and Conference Center
My trip began at the I Hotel, an ideal spot to stay in Champaign. From the moment I checked in, I felt welcomed, especially with a thoughtful gift bag waiting for me! The hotel’s modern yet cozy ambiance made it the perfect retreat for the next few days. Its location also made it super convenient for exploring Champaign, as it’s close to major attractions and some incredible restaurants.
Lunch at Maize at the Station
For lunch, I headed to Maize at the Station, located at 100 N. Chestnut Street in Champaign. This place is an absolute gem if you’re into Mexican cuisine! I tried their tacos and guacamole, and both were packed with authentic flavors. The restaurant is set in a restored train station, giving it a unique and charming atmosphere. It was the perfect way to fuel up before the day’s activities. The Openning Hours is from Mon–Thu 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Fri–Sat 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM, Sun 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM. It’s location is 100 N. Chestnut Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Starting The African American Heritage Trail
Illinois Central Railroad African Trail
This self-guided tour takes you through some incredible historical sites, each telling stories of resilience and community. One highlight was the Illinois Central Railroad, which played a key role in the migration and history of African Americans in Champaign. Walking along the trail, I could feel the strength and legacy of the people who made an impact here. The Illinois Central Railroad holds significant historical value, especially in the African American community. This railroad was more than just transportation—it was a pathway to new opportunities.
J.C. Penney Boycott and Picketing Site
I also learned about the J.C. Penney boycott and picketing campaign, an impactful protest that took place right in Champaign. Seeing these sites firsthand gave me a deeper appreciation for the courage and activism of those who fought for change.
As I stood outside the Gazette News Office, formally the J.C. Penney store, a historical marker stood as a reminder of the powerful labor movement. It was surreal to be in a place where workers once fought for fair wages and better working conditions. The site, though quiet now, still carried the weight of history.
Skelton Park
Located in the heart of Champaign, 101 E. Washington Street, Champaign, IL 61820, Skelton Park is a peaceful green space named in honor of local educator and activist Art Skelton. The park also features beautiful artwork and murals that highlight the local community. Strolling around here was a refreshing break and offered a moment to reflect on the trail’s historical significance. Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Richmond Alumni Gallery
At the Richmond Alumni Gallery, I found a collection that celebrates the achievements of African American alumni from the University of Illinois. The gallery is vibrant and inspiring, showcasing diverse stories of success. This is my self-guided tour, so I have to remember the open hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Sat-Sun Closed. This gallery is located at Alice Campbell Alumni Center, 601 S. Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801
Black Joy Project
Nearby, the Black Joy Project is an installation that truly made me smile—it’s all about celebrating joy and resilience in the Black community. The space radiated positivity and purpose, reminding me of the importance of celebrating everyday victories and the beauty of Black identity. You can see how much effort has made it a place where people can feel seen and appreciated for who they truly are. The colorful artwork, inspiring quotes, and community contributions all come together to tell a deeply personal and universally relatable story. For anyone in the area, I’d highly recommend stopping by to immerse yourself in this uplifting celebration—a dose of joy that stays with you long after you leave! It is located at Spurlock Museum, 600 S. Gregory St., Urbana, IL
Basketball Game Night
After a day full of history, I headed back to the hotel to refresh and then enjoyed an evening at a men’s basketball game. The energy of the fans, the excitement of the game, and just being part of the crowd made it a thrilling way to end my first day in Champaign. Game Times is vary depending on schedule. The Basketball Game Night is at 1700 S. Fourth Street, Champaign.
Day 2: Unique Outdoor Experiences and Local Eats
Breakfast at Pekara Bakery
My morning started at Pekara Bakery, where I had one of the best breakfasts of the trip. Their fresh pastries and coffee were perfect to kick off the day. Pekara’s atmosphere is cozy, making it a local favorite for breakfast and brunch. Open time is from Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sat–Sun 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM. The Pekara Bakery is located at 811 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL 61820
Goat Hike
A goat hike was next on my itinerary! This was such a unique experience and honestly so much fun. A serene country landscape and the cutest, most curious goats eager to join you on a stroll. We spent about an hour hiking alongside them as they wandered around us, making the whole hike way more lively. It was truly unique and got us all smiling and laughing as the goats would come up to nuzzle or playfully skip along. The goat tour is at 4410 North Lincoln Avenue, Champaign, IL, US 61822.
Cheese Tasting at Caprae
After our hike, we moved inside to the cheese-tasting room at Caprae. We sampled cheeses made right there on the farm, and each had its own rich, fresh flavor that truly stood out. They walked us through each variety, from creamy goat cheese to more aged, robust ones. You could taste the freshness in every bite! It was like savoring a slice of the farm itself. I would highly recommend this experience—both for the fun interactions with the goats and for the amazing cheese!
North First Street Corridor
Back in town, I explored the North First Street Corridor, a cultural hub with vibrant murals, public art, and history at every corner. Exploring the North First Street Corridor felt like stepping into the heartbeat of Champaign’s history and community. This area celebrates the stories of local residents, with murals, small businesses, and landmarks that create a unique vibe that’s both nostalgic and vibrant. As I walked down the street, I could see the pride and sense of belonging woven into every corner.
North First Street Barbershop Mural
One of my favorite spots was the North First Street Barbershop Mural, where the artwork really captures the essence of community and camaraderie. The mural, featuring generations of barbers and customers, almost feels alive, like they’re all sharing stories and laughs right there on the wall. It’s a piece that not only brings color to the neighborhood but also honors the legacy of a local institution. The mural is a beautiful tribute to the neighborhood’s culture, showing how a simple barbershop is much more than a place to get a haircut—it’s a community gathering space, a staple in people’s lives.
If you’re ever near Champaign, make sure to take some time to wander through this corridor and take in the rich cultural history that’s so beautifully preserved and celebrated.
Lunch at Collective Pour
For lunch, I stopped by Collective Pour, a casual spot with a great selection of craft beers and a relaxed vibe. Their menu had a variety of delicious options, and the atmosphere was ideal for unwinding after the busy morning. It’s located in downtown Champaign, so it’s easy to get to after a morning of sightseeing. Location: 340 N Neil St. Suite 101, Champaign.
Snack at the Popcorn Shop
A quick stop at the Popcorn Shop was next on my list. With all kinds of unique flavors, I couldn’t resist grabbing a bag for a tasty snack! The shop is charming and has that nostalgic feel of an old-fashioned popcorn stand. It’s the perfect place for a sweet or savory treat. Location: 1506 S. Neil St., Champaign, IL, United States, Illinois
Evening Break at the Hotel
I took some time to rest back at the hotel before heading out again. After a full day, it was nice to recharge and get ready for the final day of my trip.
Day 3: Murals, Local History, and Brunch
Mural: Each One Teach One
Located on University Avenue, this mural is absolutely stunning—it really took me back in time. The detail and care put into each brushstroke are incredible, and you can feel the power of the “Each One Teach One” message right from the sidewalk. Standing in front of it, I felt so connected to the legacy of knowledge-sharing within the African American community. The vibrant colors, historical faces, and quotes in the mural seem to breathe life into the past, reminding everyone who walks by of the resilience and strength within African American history. It’s truly one of those spots where you don’t just look, but actually feel the weight of the story it tells.
African Americans in the Civil War & African American Elected Officials
This stop was unexpectedly emotional for me. The site is dedicated to honoring African American soldiers who fought during the Civil War, and learning about their bravery and sacrifice made me pause and reflect on the hardships and challenges they overcame. Visiting this spot reminded me of the sacrifices made for freedom and justice, with each story highlighted here adding another layer of respect and admiration. It’s humbling to think about the determination they had in fighting for a country that didn’t always treat them as equals. This exhibit really adds depth to the African American Heritage Trail and helps to connect the dots between the struggles of the past and the ongoing pursuit of equality and recognition.
Then, the “African American Elected Officials” exhibit brought everything full circle for me. It showcased the journey from those early struggles in the Civil War to moments where African Americans began to make strides in political spaces, creating change from within the system. Seeing the names and faces of these pioneers who broke barriers in local and national offices was inspiring. It really brought home the idea of legacy—how the sacrifices of Black soldiers translated into real progress through representation and policy changes later on. These two exhibits together gave me a powerful sense of continuity, reminding me how each generation’s progress builds on those who came before. It’s definitely an experience that left me feeling inspired and hopeful.
Black Businesses in Urbana
It was inspiring to see the growth and impact of Black-owned businesses in Urbana. Supporting local businesses is a big part of any travel experience for me, and these businesses bring so much value to the community. Each one reflects the unique talent and hard work of its owners, and it was truly a privilege to support them.
KOFENA Mural
Exploring the KOFENA Mural was a special experience that felt so layered with history, pride, and purpose. It’s located on a wall in Urbana, and the vibrancy of the colors alone is enough to draw you in. But what really left an impression on me was how each part of the mural tells a story. KOFENA (Keepers of the Flame for Educational and National Advancement) was created to honor African American history and celebrate Black voices. There’s an undeniable energy in the artwork that makes you feel connected to those who came before and their impact on the community today. It felt like each piece of the mural was saying, “We’re here, we’re resilient, and we’re moving forward.”
I found myself pausing for longer than I expected, taking in the details, and thinking about the significance of each scene depicted. It’s not just a mural—it’s a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and recognition. If you’re visiting Urbana, definitely make time to see this piece; it’s a beautiful tribute that adds so much to the community.
Brunch at Neil Street Blues
To finish my trip, I went to Neil Street Blues for brunch. Their Southern-inspired dishes are mouthwatering, and the soulful vibe of the restaurant makes it a standout. It’s located on Neil Street in Champaign and is known for live jazz and amazing comfort food. The perfect spot to reflect on the past few days before heading home!
Final Thoughts
Champaign, IL, is filled with incredible history, art, and flavors. From unique experiences like goat hikes and cheese tastings to impactful historical sites along the African American Heritage Trail, this trip has been nothing short of amazing. If you’re planning a trip, Champaign offers a mix of culture, outdoor fun, and delicious food that’s perfect for a memorable getaway.
Remember to tag @experiencechampaign and @travelwiththerussells on social media to share your adventures and connect with other travelers.
Enjoy your trip to Champaign!
