Arcola, IL

Arcola, IL is a small city located in Douglas County, Illinois. The history of Arcola can be traced back to the early 19th century when the area was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Kickapoo and Delaware tribes.

European settlement in the region began in the 1820s when the U.S. government opened the area for land sales. It was named Arcola in 1855 after the Italian city of Arcola, as many of the early settlers were of Italian descent.

The town's early growth was primarily driven by the construction of the railroad, which arrived in Arcola in 1857. This brought prosperity to the area, as businesses and industries began to flourish. The railroad also contributed to the development of the agricultural sector, as it facilitated the transportation of crops and goods to other parts of the state.

In the late 19th century, Arcola became known as the "Broom Corn Capital of the World." Broom corn, a type of sorghum used to make brooms, was grown extensively in the region. The broom corn industry brought wealth to many farmers in Arcola, and the city became a major center for broom manufacturing. Today, Arcola still celebrates its broom corn heritage with an annual Broom Corn Festival.

Another notable aspect of Arcola's history is its connection to the Amish community. In the late 19th century, a group of Amish families from Pennsylvania migrated to Arcola and established a settlement. The Amish community has since become an integral part of the city's culture, contributing to its charm and attracting tourists who are interested in learning about their way of life.

Over the years, Arcola has seen both periods of growth and decline. It has faced challenges like any small town, but continues to thrive as a vibrant community today. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere, strong sense of community, and its dedication to preserving its unique history.

Hippie Memorial

A tribute to the town's connection with the 1960s counterculture movement, featuring a larger-than-life sculpture of a hippie.

Rockome Gardens

A beautiful and serene garden featuring waterfalls, ponds, bridges, and a variety of plant life. Visitors can also enjoy activities like paddle boating and hiking.

Raggedy Ann & Andy Museum

A museum dedicated to the iconic Raggedy Ann & Andy dolls, featuring exhibits on their creation, history, and impact on popular culture.

Yoder's Kitchen

A popular Amish restaurant known for its traditional homestyle cooked meals and Amish-inspired decor.

Illinois Amish Country

The town of Arcola is located in the heart of Illinois Amish Country, and visitors can explore the scenic countryside, visit quaint Amish shops and boutiques, and observe traditional Amish farming practices.

The Little Theatre on the Square

A professional regional theater that hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, including Broadway musicals, comedy acts, and children's theater productions.

Amish Country Cheese Festival

Held annually in Arcola, this festival celebrates the area's rich dairy farming heritage with cheese tastings, live music, parades, and family-friendly activities.

Broom Corn Festival

Another annual event in Arcola, this festival pays homage to the town's historic broom-making industry and features broom-making demonstrations, live entertainment, and a large craft fair.

The Great Pumpkin Patch

Just a short drive from Arcola, this expansive pumpkin patch offers a wide selection of pumpkins, a corn maze, play areas for children, and seasonal activities.

Turkey Trot

Held on Thanksgiving Day, this popular 5K run/walk event attracts participants from all over the region and includes a costume contest and awards ceremony.

Arcola, Illinois has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Arcola are typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (26-28°C). July is the hottest month, with temperatures occasionally reaching the 90s°F (32-35°C). Humidity levels are quite high during this time.

Winters in Arcola are generally cold and snowy. Average temperatures range from the mid-20s to low 30s°F (-4 to 0°C). January is the coldest month, with temperatures occasionally dropping below 0°F (-18°C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average of around 21 inches (53 cm) per year.

Spring and autumn in Arcola are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and moderate precipitation. Spring temperatures range from the 40s to 60s°F (4-15°C), while autumn temperatures range from the 40s to 70s°F (4-21°C). These seasons can also bring occasional thunderstorms.

Overall, Arcola experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with significant temperature variations between seasons. It is advisable to pack accordingly when visiting or living in Arcola to accommodate the different weather patterns each season brings.

Arcola, Illinois is a vibrant and charming city that is home to several unique neighborhoods. Each neighborhood in Arcola has its own distinct features and characteristics, making it an attractive place to live or visit. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Arcola:

Downtown

The heart of Arcola, Downtown offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It features historic buildings, local businesses, quaint shops, and restaurants. The downtown area hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year.

Northside

Located on the northern side of Arcola, this neighborhood is primarily residential. It is characterized by beautiful tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a peaceful ambiance. Northside offers a suburban feel with easy access to nearby amenities.

Southside

Situated on the southern side of Arcola, the Southside neighborhood also consists mainly of residential properties. It is a family-friendly area with a strong sense of community. Residents here enjoy the proximity to schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

Eastside

The Eastside of Arcola is known for its mixed-use zoning, combining residential areas and light industrial spaces. This neighborhood has a more diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, duplexes, and apartments.

Westside

The Westside neighborhood is a primarily residential area with a mix of housing styles, including bungalows, ranch-style homes, and newer developments. It offers a quiet atmosphere and easy access to parks and green spaces.

Fairgrounds

Located near the town's fairgrounds, this neighborhood is mainly residential, with a few commercial establishments scattered throughout. It is a close-knit community known for its active involvement in local events, such as the annual Arcola Broomcorn Festival.

Overall, the neighborhoods in Arcola, IL, provide residents with a variety of options, from historic downtown properties to family-oriented residential areas. Whether you prefer a bustling city center or a peaceful suburban retreat, Arcola has a neighborhood to suit your lifestyle.