Douglas County: Nature, Murals, and History

Nature at Walnut Point

Walnut Point State Park in Douglas County includes the 65-acre Upper Embarras Woods nature preserve. The Upper Embarras Woods Land and Water Reserve encompasses an old-growth forest and is part of the Walnut Point Natural Area. A designated nature reserve and an old-growth forest give nature enthusiasts two specific points of interest.

Arcola: Murals, Art, and Tradition

The Walldog Project in Arcola left behind 15 historic murals. The collection also includes a mural titled “Historic Route 45.” The World's One & Only Hippie Memorial is a 62-foot-long work of art; its creation began in 1992. It is located right next to the historic Illinois Central Arcola Train Depot. The two art forms are clearly distinct: a collection of 15 murals and a single, 62-foot-long work.

During a parade in Arcola, the Lawn Rangers twirl and toss brooms. This is a different cultural highlight from the murals: here, a specific performance is part of the parade. Douglas County is also home to the largest Old Order Amish settlement in Illinois.

Museum, Walking Tour, and Architecture

Admission to the Douglas County Museum is free. The museum offers changing exhibits year-round and a research and genealogy library. This means changing exhibition topics are complemented by a resource for research and family history; the museum therefore appeals to visitors interested in both exhibits and genealogy.

Tuscola offers a self-guided historic walking tour of downtown that you can take at your own pace. Books for the Downtown History Walking Tour can be purchased at the Douglas County Museum or at Flesor's Candy Kitchen. This makes it easy to take the tour at your own pace, and two specific places to buy the tour book are listed.

The Arcola Carnegie Public Library is a Classical Revival-style building; its areas of significance are education and architecture. The Henson House is significant for its history and architecture. Its recognition by the National Register was announced on December 31, 2020. These examples offer different perspectives on built history: the library’s clearly identified style and the historical and architectural significance of the Henson House.

Wildlife and Getting Around

Aikman's Wildlife Adventure is a wildlife park with a drive-through area in rural Arcola. Aikman's Walk-Thru Adventure features peacocks, hyenas, wolf-dogs, lemurs, and a large petting zoo. The names indicate different formats; specific animal species and the petting zoo are also listed for the Walk-Thru.

Ironhorse Golf Club is located in Tuscola, five minutes from Interstate 57, Exit 212. This specific exit information can help you plan your trip if golf is one of your interests.

Discover more destinations: Tuscola, Arcola, Sangamon County, Mcdonough, Hancock County, Edgar, Cook, Jersey County

For the broader travel overview: Illinois.