Discover the Best Fun Things to Do in Champaign, IL

Posted on by Guide

Welcome to Champaign, Illinois, a vibrant city where every street corner and cultural center invites discovery. This guide reveals Champaign’s best-kept secrets and most-visited spots so you can enjoy it. Our carefully selected activities will show you the best of this charming city, whether you’re into sports, art, or weekend getaways. We’ll immerse you in Champaign’s vibrant entertainment scene, which blends history, culture, and modernity.

Things to Do in Champaign, IL

1. University of Illinois Memorial Stadium

Image Source: Rocio Alarcon

The Fighting Illini revere Champaign’s University of Illinois Memorial Stadium for its history and triumph. The 1923 stadium has hosted many memorable sporting events, halftime shows, and moments. Its classic architecture with modern amenities looks and sounds great when fans cheer loudly. More than sports can be played at the stadium. It can host community events, cultural shows, and graduations. Guided tours of the stadium, locker rooms, and sacred ground are available. As improvements are made, the University of Illinois Memorial Stadium will remain important to the university and city. Its commitment to preserving its rich history while welcoming change will keep it busy.

2. Sholem Aquatic Center

Image Source: Sholem Aquatic Center

The Champaign Sholem Aquatic Center is a lively water oasis perfect for fun and relaxation. In addition to a pool, it is a family-friendly place with activities for all ages. People can relax on a lazy river and laugh on thrilling water slides. This water paradise is all about fun. Sholem prioritizes family-friendly features like a kiddie pool and careful lifeguards to keep everyone safe and entertained. This aquatic center goes beyond swimming lessons. Events, swim meets, and community gatherings are held there. The staff cares about visitors’ comfort with clean facilities, plenty of seating, and shade. The Sholem Aquatic Center is a great summer hangout and shows Champaign’s commitment to offering lots of fun things to do. Everyone is welcome to experience aquatic adventures and unforgettable moments.

3. Libby’s Lounge Slots & Video Poker

Image Source: Libby’s Lounge Slots & Vide
  • Website: N/A
  • Address: 301 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820

Libby’s Lounge Slots & Video Poker in downtown Champaign is attracting gamers looking for fun and friendly people. Along with its lounge atmosphere, Libby’s has many slot machines and video poker games, making it a fun and exciting place to play. Friends and customers can chat about gaming in the lounge, a social hub. Libby’s Lounge’s adult entertainment is easily accessible to locals and tourists at 301 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820. Libby’s Lounge’s wide selection of games, friendly atmosphere, and central location demonstrate Champaign’s commitment to offering fun and entertaining entertainment for people who want to try their luck and relax in a lively but relaxed atmosphere.

4. AMC Champaign 13

Image Source: AMC Champaign 13

The AMC Champaign 13 theater is a cinematic paradise that enhances moviegoing. With 13 screens and cutting-edge facilities, this entertainment complex shows Hollywood blockbusters and independent films for all moviegoers. Soft seats and large spaces make the theater calming for guests. To maximize your cinematic experience, the snack stands offer a variety of tasty treats. AMC Champaign 13 shows more than movies. Premieres, special events, and themed nights make viewing memorable. AMC Champaign 13 promises movie fans an unforgettable experience in the world of cinematic wonders, demonstrating Champaign’s commitment to great entertainment.

5. Hessel Park

Image Source: Myeong Caleb Lee
  • Website: Hessel Park
  • Address: 1401 Grandview Dr, Champaign, IL 61820

Hessel Park is a beautiful and friendly urban oasis. In addition to its lush vegetation and well-kept grounds, the park hosts many community activities. Flowers in bloom and tall trees providing shade captivate visitors. For all ages and interests, Hessel Park has many fun activities. Open fields for sports and walking paths for leisure. The well-equipped playgrounds and picnic areas help families build community and gather outdoors. The park also hosts community events, giving it a lively, interesting vibe year-round. Hessel Park is a peaceful haven that shows Champaign’s commitment to creating a welcoming and calm space for locals and visitors with its year-round appeal and peaceful mix of nature and community spirit.

6. Activities and Recreation Center

Image Source: Mike Shen

The Activities and Recreation Center is more than a gym. It is a hub for health, wellness, and community involvement. ARC has modern facilities and cardio and weightlifting equipment for all fitness levels. It offers yoga, high-intensity workouts, and more to give visitors a complete experience. Indoor sports facilities that encourage friendly competition and teamwork make ARC stand out. Pools, water aerobics, and fun swimming make the Aquatic Center refreshing. Wellness programs at ARC include mental health and nutritional advice in addition to fitness. ARC encourages community involvement. Events and social gatherings motivate and unite people. ARC represents Champaign’s commitment to providing a complete, welcoming, and lively hub for healthy and balanced living.

7. Krannert Art Museum

Image Source: Krannert Art Museum

The Krannert Art Museum is a cultural gem that goes beyond museum expectations. The museum offers a complete view of visual arts with its large collection of classical and modern works. Theme-based exhibitions make the galleries lively and thought-provoking. The museum promotes culture and learning. Educational programs, workshops, and outreach help the community understand art’s role in society. As part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the Krannert Art Museum seamlessly blends academics and art. This gives students and the public a rich, immersive learning environment. In addition to its architecture, the museum shows Champaign’s commitment to artistic diversity, cultural enrichment, and making the arts a part of daily life.

8. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in vibrant Champaign is known for its academic excellence and willingness to try new things. Our top public research university, UIUC, offers programs in many fields. It consistently ranks among the world’s best schools. Our campus has old and new buildings, making it interesting to learn and work. Culturally diverse students at UIUC contribute to a vibrant campus life outside of school. Cutting-edge facilities and research centers demonstrate the university’s commitment to cutting-edge research. These centers and facilities advance medicine, agriculture, and technology. UIUC’s extracurriculars, which help students develop personally and professionally, are innovative. The university is vital to academics, the local economy, culture, and the world. Excellence meets innovation at UIUC, transforming Champaign’s intellectual and social life.

9. Virginia Theatre

Image Source: Virginia Theatre

The historic Virginia Theatre in Champaign beautifully blends history, entertainment, and community. Built in 1921, its elegant architecture reflects Roaring Twenties wealth. Visitors are transported by its marquee and elegant interiors. The Virginia Theatre shows Champaign’s commitment to the arts. Live performances include Broadway shows, concerts, and old movies at the theater. It does this by attracting a diverse audience and enriching the local culture. The theater is lively and welcoming because of community events and educational programs. After years of restoration, the building has retained its charm while adding modern amenities. This shows that Champaign values its history while adapting to culture. Festivals and the Virginia Theatre’s connection to the past keep it a cultural center. It shapes city identity.

10. Illini Union

Image Source: Illini Union
  • Website: Illini Union
  • Address: 1401 W Green St, Urbana, IL 61801

The Illini Union is more than a student center. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s heart. As a central hub, it connects students, faculty, and visitors and offers many social, cultural, and fun activities. The Illini Union’s variety of restaurants makes the food court lively in addition to its great location. Art galleries and lounges in the union help everyone find their interests, work together, and relax. As the hub of student life, the union hosts many groups, events, and activities that enrich campus life. Bowling alleys and billiards boost its appeal as a social spot. The Illini Union houses campus services like the bookstore and information desk in a convenient, student-friendly location. The Illini Union embodies community spirit at its core. All students can gather, share experiences, and contribute to the lively college atmosphere.

11. State Farm Center

Image Source: Darryl Liu

The State Farm Center hosts entertainment, sports, and community events. When the Fighting Illini basketball teams play, the arena becomes a thrilling sports fan’s paradise. The State Farm Center hosts concerts, plays, and other world-class performances in addition to sports, enriching the city’s culture. Flexibility and modern amenities like premium seating make the center ideal for conferences, graduations, and community events. These foster community and shared experiences. State Farm Center is more than just entertainment—it engages the community. Its commitment to excellence and inclusivity has shaped Champaign’s culture and is a University of Illinois landmark.

12. Brainstorm Escapes

Image Source: Anna Kudriavtsev

Brainstorm Escapes in Champaign is a great place for adventure or mental challenge. Escape rooms with a variety of themes and plots immerse players in creative puzzle-solving and thrilling challenges. Brainstorm Escapes emphasizes teamwork, which improves communication and relationships. The facility accommodates beginners and experts with different difficulty levels, ensuring a fun and safe adventure for all. Escape rooms become living stories with new storytelling methods, keeping players engaged. Brainstorm Escapes participates in community events and competitions to liven up Champaign’s recreation scene. Locals and tourists can enjoy an intellectually and creatively stimulating experience in the city center.

13. Elevate Trampoline Park

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Elevate Trampoline Park is a thrilling Champaign hangout. Many of its activities defy gravity and elevate fun. Large trampoline, dodgeball, and slam dunk areas are available at the park. This allows all ages to enjoy bouncing activities. Elevate’s Ninja Warrior courses are fun and challenging. A Kids’ Zone keeps kids safe and entertained. The park offers more than fun. Fun trampoline fitness classes are also available. Because the trampolines make great backdrops, Elevate Trampoline Park is popular for parties and solo fun. Due to safety concerns, the park has strict rules that allow confident bouncing. Elevate Trampoline Park is a lively and welcoming Champaign recreation hub. It encourages active living and enhances group and individual fun.

14. Pour Bros. Craft Taproom

Image Source: Kevin

Pour Bros. Craft Taproom, at [Address], is a Champaign craft beer hub. This bar and community hub serves a variety of locally sourced craft beers to beer lovers and casual drinkers. It offers a variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to robust stouts, to give customers a complete taste experience. Pour Bros. stands out with its self-serve tap system. Customers can pour the right amount of beer and taste it. Friends can gather at the taproom to share stories and enjoy craft beer due to its welcoming atmosphere, open seating, and emphasis on social interaction. It enhances Champaign with events, live music, and themed nights. Pour Bros. helps the Champaign community and craft beer scene by partnering with local breweries and businesses. Pour Bros. The Craft Taproom is a community-focused craft beer bar with a patio for dining.

15. Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch

Image Source: Brigitte Ferdinandsen

Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch in Champaign is a popular fall destination with a twist. The fall activities go beyond apple and pumpkin picking. They provide many activities for families to enjoy the season. Apple picking is a fall tradition at U-pick orchards. The pumpkin patch is full of holiday spirit, making it ideal for creative pumpkin-picking and fall family photos. Curtis Orchard goes beyond produce. A petting zoo, giant slides, a corn maze, and hayrides will ensure a fun-filled day for the whole family. Apple cider donuts and pies smell delicious in the orchard. The festivals and events get people excited for fall and make it more fun. During harvest season, families can escape to Champaign’s rolling hills or this orchard and make lasting memories.

Expanding Your Champaign Experience

Now that we’ve explored the highlights, let’s delve deeper into the vibrant tapestry of Champaign, IL. Here are additional activities and events that will enrich your visit:

1. U-Pick Orchards:

  • Immerse yourself in the quintessential autumn activity of picking your own apples.
  • Explore a variety of apple orchards, offering a personalized and memorable harvesting experience.

2. Pumpkin Patch Adventures:

  • Wander through the festive pumpkin patch in search of the perfect pumpkin.
  • Discover a variety of pumpkins, from classic orange to unique and colorful varieties.
  • Create lasting memories with creative pumpkin-picking traditions and picturesque family photos.

3. Family-Friendly Attractions:

  • Enjoy a day filled with laughter and exploration at the orchard’s petting zoo.
  • Take on the excitement of giant slides and navigate through the twists and turns of a corn maze.
  • Hop on a hayride for a scenic tour of the orchard, adding a touch of nostalgia to your experience.

4. Cider and Bakery Delights:

  • Indulge your taste buds with the enticing aroma and flavors of freshly baked goods.
  • Sample delectable treats such as apple cider donuts and pies from the orchard’s bakery.

5. Seasonal Events:

  • Immerse yourself in the spirit of fall with orchard-hosted seasonal events and festivals.
  • Enjoy cider tastings, harvest festivals, and special events tailored for Halloween festivities.

6. Picturesque Setting:

  • Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life amidst the scenic beauty of Champaign’s rolling hills.
  • Capture the warmth of fall colors, creating an idyllic backdrop for family bonding and seasonal enjoyment.

7. Local Community Engagement:

  • Embrace the local community spirit by attending events and festivals hosted by the orchard.
  • Participate in activities that showcase the interconnected tapestry of Champaign’s vibrant community.

8. Souvenir Shop:

  • Extend your Champaign experience by exploring the orchard’s souvenir shop.
  • Take home a piece of the orchard’s charm with seasonal decorations, locally crafted items, and unique gifts.

9. Culinary Experiences:

  • Discover culinary delights beyond the orchard by exploring local eateries and cafes in Champaign.
  • Embrace the flavors of the season with autumn-inspired dishes and beverages.

10. Outdoor Enjoyment:

  • Extend your outdoor experience by exploring nearby parks or nature trails.
  • Embrace the crisp fall air with a leisurely stroll or a family picnic in the picturesque surroundings.

Events in Champaign, IL

Stay updated on the latest events in Champaign, IL, by checking the local calendar. Whether it’s a cultural festival, live music, or community gatherings, there’s a lively event scene to be discovered.

1. University of Illinois Events:

  • Attend lectures, performances, and cultural events on the university campus.
  • Explore the diverse range of activities hosted by student organizations.

2. Local Concerts and Live Performances:

  • Check out the schedules at venues like the Virginia Theatre and State Farm Center.
  • Immerse yourself in the local music scene with live performances from various genres.

3. Champaign-Urbana Festivals:

  • Engage in community spirit with festivals celebrating art, music, and culture.
  • Explore diverse themes, from film festivals to culinary celebrations.

4. Art Exhibitions at Krannert Art Museum:

  • Attend gallery openings and exhibitions showcasing local and international artists.
  • Participate in events that bring the community together through artistic expression.

5. Illini Union Activities:

  • Stay updated on events organized by the Illini Union.
  • Attend social gatherings, workshops, and performances on campus.

6. Local Sports Events:

  • Cheer for the Fighting Illini at various sporting events.
  • Join the community in supporting local teams and athletes.

7. Community Theater Productions:

  • Enjoy theatrical performances by local theater groups.
  • Attend plays, musicals, and experimental productions throughout the city.

8. Champaign Public Library Events:

  • Explore literary events, book clubs, and author talks.
  • Engage in educational workshops and community discussions.

9. Special Events at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom:

  • Attend themed nights, live music performances, and beer-related festivities.
  • Experience the unique and social atmosphere of this craft beer destination.

10. Escape Room Challenges at Brainstorm Escapes:

  • Participate in special escape room challenges and competitions.
  • Engage in events that blend intellectual stimulation with entertainment.

Fun Activities for Adults

Champaign offers a vibrant nightlife and adult-friendly activities. Explore the diverse dining scene, check out live music venues, or simply unwind at a cozy bar.

1. Craft Beer Tasting at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom:

  • Explore a diverse selection of craft beers using the unique self-serve tap system.
  • Enjoy a social atmosphere, live music, and themed nights.

2. Live Entertainment at Virginia Theatre:

  • Attend concerts, live performances, and classic film screenings at this historic venue.
  • Immerse yourself in the cultural heartbeat of Champaign.

3. Escape Room Challenges at Brainstorm Escapes:

  • Engage in intellectually stimulating escape room challenges.
  • Gather a group of friends for a night of teamwork and mystery-solving.

4. Outdoor Recreation at Hessel Park:

  • Enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, or outdoor games in this serene park.
  • Embrace the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.

5. Trampoline Adventure at Elevate Trampoline Park:

  • Soar to new heights with trampolines and ninja warrior courses.
  • Experience a dynamic blend of fitness and fun.

6. Culinary Exploration in Downtown Champaign:

  • Explore local eateries, cafes, and restaurants offering diverse flavors.
  • Indulge in culinary delights, including seasonal and international dishes.

7. Attend a Local Concert at a Pub or Music Venue:

  • Discover the local music scene at pubs and intimate music venues.
  • Enjoy live performances from various genres in a relaxed setting.

8. Adult Classes and Workshops:

  • Join adult classes or workshops at local community centers.
  • Explore activities such as art classes, cooking workshops, or dance lessons.

9. Casino Night at Libby’s Lounge Slots & Video Poker:

  • Try your luck at gaming in a vibrant and entertaining atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a night out with friends, testing your skills at video poker.

10. Attend Local Festivals and Events:

  • Participate in festivals celebrating art, music, and culinary delights.
  • Engage in community events that showcase the vibrant culture of Champaign.

Conclusion

As your adventure in Champaign, IL, draws to a close, we hope this guide has enriched your experience and left you with a trove of cherished memories. From the iconic landmarks like the University of Illinois Memorial Stadium to the hidden gems waiting to be discovered, Champaign has proven itself as a city of endless possibilities. Whether you strolled through the historic Virginia Theatre, enjoyed the outdoors at Hessel Park, or indulged in the vibrant nightlife, Champaign’s diverse offerings have showcased the spirit of this dynamic community. As you bid farewell to this unique city, remember that Champaign’s doors are always open, inviting you to return for another round of fun-filled experiences. Until then, may your travels be as exciting and enriching as your time in Champaign, IL. Safe travels!