Things To Do
in Taylorville
Taylorville is a small Midwestern county seat in central Illinois surrounded by farmland and quiet residential neighborhoods. The town centers on a compact downtown with historic brick storefronts, civic buildings, and a community-oriented atmosphere. Outdoor recreation around Lake Taylorville and nearby Sangchris Lake draws locals for fishing, boating and trails.
Visitors will find low-key local dining, friendly service, and easy access to larger cities like Springfield for more extensive services or attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by strolling through the historic downtown area, admiring the architecture of the old buildings. Stop by a local café to indulge in a hearty breakfast while soaking in the charm of the town. Don't forget to visit the local boutiques for unique finds and gifts.
In the afternoon, head over to the Taylorville Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich history and heritage. Enjoy lunch at a popular diner nearby, where you can try classic American dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the nearby parks to enjoy the fresh air.
As sunset approaches, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, savoring local flavors and specialties. After your meal, consider catching a live music performance or community event happening in the town square. End your day with a relaxing evening stroll under the stars.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a lakeside café before setting off for outdoor adventures at Lake Taylorville. Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the serene waters and enjoy the lush surroundings. Take your time and appreciate the peaceful nature that Lake Taylorville has to offer.
After your morning adventure, have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots near the lake. Spend the afternoon fishing or hiking on the surrounding trails, soaking in the beauty of the local wildlife. Don't forget to capture the stunning views with your camera as you explore.
As evening falls, head back to the lakeshore to witness the breathtaking sunset reflecting off the water. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh catches of the day. Finish off the night with a bonfire by the lake, sharing stories and laughter with friends or family.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4.00 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $4-6 |
| 🏨Budget motel room (per night) | $60-110 |
| ⛽Gallon of gas | $3.00-4.00 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly small-town atmosphere with community events and approachable locals
- Easy access to lakes, fishing and outdoor recreation nearby
- Low cost compared with larger cities and uncomplicated logistics
- Short drives to Springfield for expanded dining, cultural and medical services
- Limited nightlife, specialized dining and cultural attractions within town
- Car-dependent for most errands and attractions; public transit is minimal
- Fewer lodging options and limited late-night services
- Severe-weather risk (thunderstorms/tornadoes) in certain seasons
Places to Visit in Taylorville
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic courthouse and surrounding brick storefronts provide classic small-town architectural shots, especially in morning light or during seasonal decorations.
Sunrise and sunset reflections on the reservoir, boat docks and grassy edges create picturesque waterside scenes with migratory birds and fishing activity.
Rows of corn and soybean fields, red barns and wide skies are ideal for golden-hour landscape photography and capturing the agricultural character of central Illinois.
Wooded trails, rocky outcrops and vantage points over the lake offer variety for nature and wildlife photography.
Seasonal festivals, parades and farmers' markets are good for candid street photography and documenting local life.
Food in Taylorville
Taylorville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A plate of a main protein (fried chicken, meatloaf or pork chop) with three sides like mashed potatoes, green beans and coleslaw; widely available at diners and family restaurants.
Must-Try!
Freshwater pan-fried or beer-battered fish served with fries and tartar sauce — commonly offered near Lake Taylorville and at seasonal lakefront eateries.
While not Chicago proper, local pizzerias often serve hearty, deep-dish or thick-crust pies adapted to local tastes; a reliable comfort option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market (spring–fall) on or near the square with local produce, baked goods, preserves and occasional food trucks or barbecue vendors — great for sampling fresh, local flavors.
During warm months, look for temporary food stands and grills near Lake Taylorville offering fried fish, corn, lemonade and funnel cakes at weekends and events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are typically polite and appreciate courteous greetings, brief small talk and respectful behavior — a simple 'hello' goes a long way.
Dress is casual and modest in most settings; loud or disruptive conduct is frowned upon, especially at community events and places of worship.
Much of the surrounding land is private farmland — stay on public trails and avoid trespassing on fields or driveways.
Support for local businesses and participation in community events is valued; recycling, volunteering and polite engagement are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Taylorville
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., typical restaurant tipping is 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service. Bartenders usually receive $1–2 per drink or 15–20% on the tab; taxis and ride-shares ~10–15% and round up for short trips. For small counter-service spots, tipping is appreciated but not always expected.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but smaller vendors and some rural businesses may prefer cash. Mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are increasingly common. ATMs are available in town but may be limited outside business hours.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daytime highs often in the 80s–90s°F (upper 20s–mid 30s°C); afternoons can bring thunderstorms and occasional severe-weather watches. Great time for lakeside activities, fishing and community events, but plan for sun protection and sudden weather changes.
Mild, pleasant temperatures and clear skies make it ideal for outdoor exploration, harvest festivals and viewing fall color across farmland. Evenings cool down, so bring layers.
Cold with temperatures frequently below freezing and periodic snow; roads can be icy during storms. Dress warmly and check road conditions if traveling to outdoor sites.
Variable weather with warming temperatures, rain showers and the start of green-up; watch for muddy trails and the possibility of severe thunderstorms or tornado watches as seasons change.
Taylorville at Night
Hiking in Taylorville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails around Sangchris Lake offer a mix of lakeside walks, wooded sections and vantage points for wildlife viewing. Good for moderate hikes and birdwatching.
Informal paths and maintained shoreline areas around Lake Taylorville for short hikes, nature walks and photography; best in spring through fall.
Several small county parks and quiet country lanes provide pleasant walking routes through farmland, wildflowers and seasonal scenery — ideal for easy hikes and cycling.
Airports
How to reach Taylorville by plane.
Springfield, IL — about 30–40 miles west of Taylorville. Small regional airport with commercial flights and car-rental options; a convenient gateway for reaching Taylorville by rental car or shuttle.
Decatur, IL — roughly 35–45 miles southeast. Smaller regional airport offering limited commercial and general aviation services; useful for private flights or regional connections.
St. Louis, MO — about 80–100 miles southwest. Major international airport with many domestic and international flights; often chosen for broader flight options and competitive fares, followed by a drive or rental car trip to Taylorville.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial portion of the population has deep local roots and connections to agriculture and small businesses; community institutions and high school activities are important.
Residents who work locally or commute to nearby cities like Springfield or Decatur for employment; value affordable living and local services.
An above-average share of older adults live in the area, reflecting multi-generational families and retirees attracted to quieter living and lower costs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local high school sports are central to community life; Friday-night football and winter basketball games draw families and neighbors for spirited support.
Recreational fishing and boating on Lake Taylorville and Sangchris Lake are popular year-round activities among residents and visitors.
Youth and adult league baseball/softball in summer are community staples, with local fields hosting weekend games and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taylorville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options are available but limited compared with larger cities; diners and cafes usually offer salads, grilled vegetable sides, and egg-based dishes. Call ahead to confirm vegetarian or vegan options, and look for markets and delis that can prepare customized plates.
Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but cross-contamination is possible in small kitchens. If you need strict avoidance, bring snacks or check menus in advance and consider traveling to Springfield for a wider range of GF choices.
Smaller establishments are generally helpful but may lack specialized training; communicate allergies clearly and ask about ingredients. Pharmacies and grocery stores in town can supply emergency items.