Urbana

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Urbana's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Urbana Sweetcorn Festival, where you can enjoy fresh corn and local crafts. Stroll through the vibrant streets lined with historic buildings while soaking in the rich culture of the area. Make sure to stop by the Urbana Free Library to explore its impressive collection and learn about the town's history.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, take a leisurely walk through the Urbana Park District, where you can appreciate the beautiful landscapes and gardens. Visit the Krannert Art Museum to view a diverse collection of art from various periods and cultures. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the Urbana Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and handmade goods.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of Urbana's charming restaurants, perhaps trying out some Midwestern comfort food. After your meal, catch a live performance at the Urbana Civic Center, where local artists and musicians showcase their talents. End your evening with a stroll through the park, enjoying the peaceful ambiance under the stars.

day 2
Nature Walks and Bird Watching
morning
:

Begin your day early with a visit to the Busey Woods, where you can immerse yourself in a tranquil natural environment. The morning light filters through the trees, creating a picturesque backdrop for bird watching and nature photography. Bring a field guide to identify the various species of birds and wildlife that inhabit this beautiful area.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas in the woods, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Following lunch, take a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna from an expert. This interactive experience will deepen your appreciation for the ecological diversity of Urbana.

evening
:

After a day spent in nature, head back to town for a casual dinner at a local pizzeria. Share stories and experiences with your travel companions while enjoying a slice of Urbana's finest. Conclude your evening with a visit to a nearby coffee shop to relax and reflect on your day's adventures.

day 3
Cultural Immersion at Local Museums
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Champaign-Urbana Community Museum, where you can learn about the local history through interactive exhibits. Each exhibit tells a unique story about the area's cultural heritage and development. Enjoy a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the significance of various artifacts on display.

afternoon
:

After exploring the museum, enjoy lunch at a nearby deli that serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Spurlock Museum, which showcases artifacts from different cultures around the world, with a particular focus on global traditions. Engage with the museum staff for a more enriching experience as they share fascinating stories behind the exhibits.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local produce and sustainability. Experience a culinary journey that highlights the region's agricultural bounty while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local theater for a play or film screening, immersing yourself in the local artistic scene.

day 4
Outdoor Recreation and Sports
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a refreshing run or bike ride along the scenic trails of the Urbana Park District. The fresh air and beautiful surroundings make for an invigorating start to your day. After your workout, head to a local café for a hearty breakfast to refuel.

afternoon
:

Join a local sports group for an afternoon of friendly competition at the Urbana Sports Complex, where you can play soccer, tennis, or volleyball. The camaraderie and team spirit will enhance your experience in this vibrant community. Afterward, relax in the park and enjoy a picnic with snacks from a local grocery store.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather your group for a barbecue at one of Urbana's public grills in the park. Enjoy the delicious food while sharing laughs and stories with friends. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the park, enjoying a peaceful end to an active day.

day 5
A Day at the University of Illinois
morning
:

Begin your exploration at the University of Illinois campus, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the buildings. Visit the Main Quad, a beautiful green space surrounded by iconic structures, perfect for people-watching. Don't forget to stop by the Illinois Natural History Survey to learn about local wildlife and research initiatives.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, grab lunch at one of the university dining halls or a nearby café offering student-friendly prices. Spend your afternoon visiting the University of Illinois Arboretum, where you can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the diverse plant species and conservation efforts.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, dine at a popular campus eatery, where you can experience the vibrant student life. Engage with local students and share your travel experiences over a meal. After dinner, catch an evening lecture or cultural event at the university, diving deeper into academic and local discussions.

day 6
Exploring Local Breweries and Distilleries
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before embarking on a tour of Urbana's craft breweries. Learn about the brewing process and the unique ingredients that give each beer its distinctive flavor. Enjoy tastings of different brews while chatting with passionate local brewers.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration with a visit to a local distillery, where you can discover how spirits are made from grain to glass. Participate in a guided tasting session and learn about the unique distillation techniques used in the production process. For lunch, enjoy some delicious pub fare at the brewery or distillery restaurant.

evening
:

Return to one of your favorite spots for dinner, perhaps trying out a pairing menu that matches local dishes with craft beer or spirits. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you meet fellow travelers and locals. End the evening with a nightcap, reflecting on the unique flavors experienced throughout the day.

day 7
Family Fun at the Urbana Park District
morning
:

Begin your family-friendly day at the Urbana Park District, where you can enjoy various activities suitable for all ages. Start with a nature scavenger hunt, exploring the trails and parks while searching for local wildlife and plants. Kids will love the playgrounds and open spaces to run and play.

afternoon
:

After a morning of fun, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park's many scenic spots, complete with sandwiches and snacks from a local grocery store. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Urbana Indoor Aquatic Center, where families can enjoy swimming and water slides. Parents can relax while kids have a blast in the water.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, head to a family-friendly restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy a fun atmosphere with a diverse menu. Share stories about your favorite moments of the day while enjoying a delicious meal. Conclude your evening with a movie at a local theater, perfect for winding down after an active day.

day 8
Shopping and Dining in Downtown Urbana
morning
:

Start your day by exploring the unique boutiques and shops in downtown Urbana, where you can find locally made crafts and gifts. Enjoy browsing through art galleries and specialty stores that showcase the talents of local artisans. Don’t forget to pick up a few souvenirs to remember your visit.

afternoon
:

After shopping, take a break at a cozy café for lunch, sampling some local dishes while enjoying the ambiance of downtown. Continue your afternoon by visiting the Urbana Arts and Culture Program, where you can learn about upcoming events and local art initiatives. Engage with local artists and perhaps even join a workshop to create your own art piece.

evening
:

As the sun sets, indulge in a delightful dinner at one of the downtown restaurants, known for their farm-to-table cuisine. Experience the lively atmosphere as you enjoy your meal, perhaps accompanied by live music from local artists. End your evening with a stroll through downtown, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and charming architecture.

day 9
Relaxation and Spa Day
morning
:

Indulge in a relaxing morning at a local spa where you can treat yourself to a massage or facial. The serene environment will help you unwind and rejuvenate, preparing you for a day of self-care. After your treatment, enjoy a refreshing herbal tea in the spa's relaxation area.

afternoon
:

Post-spa, head to a trendy café for a light lunch, focusing on healthy options to nourish your body. Spend your afternoon taking a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens at the Urbana Garden Club, enjoying the tranquil setting and blooming flowers. Consider bringing a book to read while soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, enjoy a quiet dinner at a local bistro known for its calming atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Reflect on your day of relaxation while savoring every bite. Conclude your evening with a soothing cup of herbal tea at a nearby tea house, ensuring a peaceful end to your day.

Discover Urbana

Read more in our Urbana 2025 Travel Guide.

Urbana Travel Guide