Illinois Road Trip Round Up: Outdoor Art
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois.
This week, we’re touring some of the state's must-see outdoor art! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
GREAT RIVERS AND ROUTES
Sailing down the mighty Mississippi River in Alton is a paddlewheel steamboat bearing the city’s name. Except the boat isn’t actually on the river. Instead, it is an outdoor mural soaring five stories high on the Riverbend Head Start & Family Services building, located on Landmarks Blvd. near the city riverfront. The mural is a nod to Alton’s historic past as a thriving river community which, at one time, rivaled nearby St. Louis as an important river port. The mural greets visitors to the city as they cross the Clark Bridge from Missouri.
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=134bbb89828df30e9de79fc65c41d134 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=94b596dab6c90412757439dd82785b96 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=3b7fce7f01633ef7ff90c593aec8e879 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=4529e93256be50a60062522eb1267909 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=8ee3b10696747356e70ecb9344542f06 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=3a74aefb2178ff75c6b8f274232faa25 1440w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=f48c7d8798220e5691953912a587795d 1920w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=c39669c9927942cf235591d17244645e 2560w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Aurora_Art_c2e368a7-8230-40a7-9b62-4e2ed3cf97fe.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=1d7899d152a80a4b1acc7c7179425a59 3840w)
ENJOY AURORA
A tour of the Aurora Area is a feast for the senses. Enjoy a robust collection of murals and freshly painted surfaces, from walls to utility boxes, featuring art provided by local and national talents commissioned by Aurora Public Art throughout downtown Aurora. Highlights include Bunnie Reiss’ whimsical natural landscape painted on the west wall of the Fox River Trail underpass at New York Street, Ruben Aguirre’s abstract piece at Broadway and Benton, the streetscape on LaSalle by Joshua Schultz, and Sam Cervantes’ angelic wings on the wall of La France Bakery at Galena and Broadway. Situated across Benton Street from SciTech Hands-On Museum, Christian Tobin’s permanent installation Isaac2 / Swimming Stones mystifies and captivates, blending physical science with artistic beauty. Public sculptures honoring Aurora’s past can be found at Phillips Park and elsewhere throughout the city. Take a self-guided architecture tour and engage with the history of design through decades of development and building styles. For more information and to plan your visit, go to www.enjoyaurora.com.
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=f20e02f5a29947954f5fd35ed10bf0ca 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=88628a882ba395cc5c0d217f7d41c052 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=03443508d49dd3401f3d8a9e10bf3398 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=7686550ad3a4253329a2708b0a771eed 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=6379a58e1c7ba99f528b65b62f43548b 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=73b6587dc3250dbd5edb394a50f8eda2 1440w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=c0034e7731caeba583037cdb106aa698 1920w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Bloomington_Normal_Art_34804352-3ea6-4f1e-bce5-3007e3ef8877.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=0824bc74866038217a3da770884b3db0 2494w)
VISIT BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL
Bloomington-Normal is home to many gorgeous murals, sculptures, and public art pieces. A statue showing the friendship of Abraham Lincoln and his McLean County friends Jesse Fell and David Davis, sculpted by Andrew Jumonville, stands in front of the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts for the public to view. Illinois State University is filled with outdoor artwork for anyone to appreciate as they tour the campus. Take a trip to Downtown Bloomington to admire and snap a picture with 6-foot tall corn on the cob – a sculpture called Star-Crossed Pollinators, created by Herb Eaton. Head a few blocks west of Downtown and find a mural created by 20 young local artists from the Youth Mural Project. There’s beauty all around Bloomington-Normal! A day spent admiring our outdoor art is a day well spent.
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VISIT CHAMPAIGN COUNTY
Art lives here in the greater Champaign County area. We're lucky to have iconic murals and outdoor sculptures all over our community, including the Outside of Ordinary mural outside of our office! The mural features a number of attractions from across the area, including The Virginia Theater, Hardy's Reindeer Ranch, and the Japan House at U of I. The mural is a favorite spot to snap selfies while enjoying downtown Champaign. Not too far from the mural is another iconic member of downtown: Mr. Eggwards! This posh looking egg took time to mask-up while we're #AllInIllinois, garnishing a number of social media hits. Lastly, if you're up for a challenge, take our social-distancing minded Public Art League Sculpture Scavenger Hunt!
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Chicago_North_Shore_Public_Art_Evanston_Mural_d9dad299-7b14-4fa0-94f7-23cf0d1735be.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=ce25a05cb46b5e5f6d6ab1b778b6f108 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Chicago_North_Shore_Public_Art_Evanston_Mural_d9dad299-7b14-4fa0-94f7-23cf0d1735be.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=c7ca3e096d6a2d245fc5bfbc90728b53 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Chicago_North_Shore_Public_Art_Evanston_Mural_d9dad299-7b14-4fa0-94f7-23cf0d1735be.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=3003ca8795ab7db01f16d555cf7de759 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Chicago_North_Shore_Public_Art_Evanston_Mural_d9dad299-7b14-4fa0-94f7-23cf0d1735be.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=4fd684a65b6a75a5d4b20162437cb143 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Chicago_North_Shore_Public_Art_Evanston_Mural_d9dad299-7b14-4fa0-94f7-23cf0d1735be.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=09a165dbe9942f61e8012810e5ca9102 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Chicago_North_Shore_Public_Art_Evanston_Mural_d9dad299-7b14-4fa0-94f7-23cf0d1735be.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=7ebd3d538d8e0867e0665ff3bcf823d0 1429w)
CHICAGO NORTH SHORE
The City of Evanston, home of Northwestern University and the urban border town of Chicago is a renowned artist town and home to The Big Picture: A Mural Treasure Hunt.. This mural hunt covers very different, creative, and explosive pieces of public art and you can answer fun questions and follow prompts from your phone and learn. A short drive away, visit the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park. This beautiful park runs for two miles and displays more than 60 sculptures by artists of local, national, and international reputation. A lovely landscaped and easily accessible place to stroll, rollerblades, or bicycle. Touching the art is encouraged!
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=85f2b00650289fa668cf9d394597f2f0 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=72c9ee43efc497a026ce214e349eaec8 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=0de5f9e6728bb645f684dd5eb809434d 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=6ba7905e37727f04b32cdf6681277a36 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=85d116c7cf0a095ac577704a21d2bbd7 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=20c5689c79254463e0b52ddb57f73020 1440w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=c0992f19d945e0ed6668bcabcd26b74e 1920w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/CHI_Southland_Art_e00ac1fa-550f-41f9-8ed6-e2298f45697c.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=5fcbbb93d4bf1a881dcf3490691ab8c1 2048w)
CHICAGO SOUTHLAND
Art is everywhere in Chicago Southland! In Homewood, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of Richard Haas murals. Haas, a celebrated painter, specializes in large, illusion murals. Stroll through the quaint streets of downtown Homewood and find all 15 of his creations! A short drive away is the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, a collection of 30 masterworks of large-scale sculptures, situated throughout 100 acres of prairie landscape. See popular works of art, like the giant Paul Bunyan sculpture. Other outdoor artwork includes the Flossmoor Sculpture Gardens, the Art Garden of Palos Heights and Tinley Park’s annual “Benches on the Avenue.” Chicago Southland is truly a work of art!
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VISIT EFFINGHAM
Walk our gallery! These twenty-nine sculptures, which bring life to the streets of Effingham, were created by some of the Midwest’s most well-known sculptors (and some of its best-kept secrets, as well). Each one is part of the annual Sculptures on the Avenues outdoor exhibition. Going into its 22nd year, Sculptures on the Avenues is a self-guided walking tour that winds in and out of the Downtown Effingham area, stopping at City Hall. Pause here, at 201 E. Jefferson Avenue, to view the piece that started it all... the “Flame of Hope”. Culture guides and maps are available at the Effingham Visitors Center.
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=d4a9eb0d726f4147a4d739f21249b01c 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=5e1dc3d27bd40590b2bf59ecf2f164d8 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=3c6aa644882976c0f06689b49d83fd3d 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=c3624317c6276dba23de6bddd3dceb00 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=ced55cf9cc07654ffa87dc0b3bed16bd 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=60a0f13cb9726328db939e847b1e69ed 1440w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=595a87325f32a56a5822437e580458bd 1920w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=2cff671efe3acdecb5972ac6092ddf1f 2560w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Elgin_Art_0e91904d-6d4a-4b64-8023-0205bd4ef3e4.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=a209759203ae87885af7882ab658f944 3000w)
EXPLORE ELGIN
Downtown Elgin has been a center of outdoor public art. One of our most recognizable pieces is titled “Which Way” located near the Hemmens home of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, and numerous art events like theatre and dance. The artist Joanna White says this about her work "I tend to approach public art from the direction of my theatre background. I see the space, envision a story that could be told, and attempt to create a piece that reflects the environment in which it lives. Which Way is meant to appear as if it belongs here, it's intended to be playful as well as intriguing, to reflect the idea of inclusion and allow for individual stories." Visit our website for more information on our Public Arts Tour!
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HERITAGE CORRIDOR
The towns of Pontiac and Streator are filled with murals painted by the world-famous Walldogs. Once a year, the Walldogs make their way to a town to bring local people, places, and products to life through outdoor paintings. When in Pontiac, make sure to visit the backside of the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and its mural that features the nation’s largest Route 66 Painted Shield. Streator’s murals are the most recent, including ones that feature the discoverer of the ninth planet, Pluto, and the Musical Director of Disney’s Fantasia.
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Illinois_South_Art_0df1bd49-c001-426e-a557-45fc398ba261.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=423a7c6941c55ec5c599ddd737c49601 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Illinois_South_Art_0df1bd49-c001-426e-a557-45fc398ba261.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=736626360af5a79491156c775c1e3d32 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Illinois_South_Art_0df1bd49-c001-426e-a557-45fc398ba261.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=fcefaa9c2778ef4242a46bf420b90168 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Illinois_South_Art_0df1bd49-c001-426e-a557-45fc398ba261.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=1098c7d21a9771aa1b4039a52e3d4923 828w)
ILLINOIS SOUTH
ILLINOISouth is home to dozens of amazing artists. Some of the more unique art lies in Granite City’s Art and Design District, which is home to a large clown head and a giant operating swing that can fit ten people! Speaking of unique, you’ll see many pieces of folk art on display throughout the Village of Palestine. Steve Meadows, owner of S.D. Meadows Folk Art, has methodically scattered his artwork in town – everything from pieces that look like robots, to a creature that has a giant tongue. Then, of course, there are fantastic murals in several communities. Belleville’s Mural Project features several beautiful murals that can be found in many spots throughout the city. Last but certainly not least, there’s Marshall – which has 27 murals and 40 painted lions showcased everywhere you look. We hope you enjoy the art!
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=f44b4c64b499ce3ce2b529496d98851e 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=971b5a43b5ebdc00492d92cfe5513fa9 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=f3aa6bed1611465a979c2fc5e2d79479 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=ce516f6b6694a45d6101d86cc2552ff4 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=83e802b7e5d26ab99677557e19b6d880 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=4bcd2867c66a5891aea88582aba41b82 1440w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=a30b55d6ab6e3d8d1ccb4e014e0cff75 1920w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=e02d612d1c358396e3cd7e70206de6d4 2560w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Jacksonville_Art_73a823a8-7708-45c7-9081-c2075b75a4c5.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=d07e4c452f8a29930387b83903dbd998 3289w)
JACKSONVILLE AREA
Sprinkled throughout Jacksonville’s Historic Downtown you will find twelve beautiful outdoor painted murals on the sides of buildings. If you are walking around the square, with every corner you turn you might come face to face with one of our “Walldog Murals”. Starting in 2016, Jacksonville Main Street hosted artists known as Letterheads, or “Walldogs”, to display some heritage-based public art. Throughout the historic central business district, surrounding the downtown square the walls are painted with murals that highlight Jacksonville’s rich history. Keep an eye out, too, because Jacksonville Main Street intends to keep adding to the collection, so a new piece just might be getting painted as you watch! Visit jacksonvilleil.org for more information!
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=ddb120fec05f453001dba5487d8d104a 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=454fbbbd7be0fb1dc903a3d1e9d3956f 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=f1d4be72b3a882ce83777547a325dc31 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=e11c5c1bf580e5016362cb533e1b133c 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=93c2cef8291c394df7f41fb1b997f3ad 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=dc7150aa98ef00b444557ee2949c9bee 1440w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=5e0a41d40b57a662ee1b13acc3e7cb2e 1920w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=428101f37f475ef8030c013507b39a2b 2560w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/McHenry_Art_7cc14bbd-d075-46df-a425-0b95eb8aa63d.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=8e32fecbb1f74835776a1258c51b8a83 3840w)
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
Woodstock on Film and on the Stage Mural and Sculpture Garden features Woodstock’s cultural legends including Orson Welles, Chester Gould, Bill Murray, and Groundhog Day, Geraldine Page, Paul Newman and so many more. Visitors from all over flock to Woodstock, IL to revel in all things Groundhog Day the movie. While visiting the filming locations you must visit the mural and snap a photo with Ned Ryerson’s friendly face.
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Discover_Peoria_Art_3a6f0f06-5997-479e-8da5-f1238930f820.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=6c74adb5793e3f4b5192f7c856f5a2bf 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Discover_Peoria_Art_3a6f0f06-5997-479e-8da5-f1238930f820.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=4b97f8c239a9e000cfcde60aafd8cd1f 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Discover_Peoria_Art_3a6f0f06-5997-479e-8da5-f1238930f820.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=4c7181dbeef782acce1bb3bd4fdef5aa 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Discover_Peoria_Art_3a6f0f06-5997-479e-8da5-f1238930f820.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=1cb7e465b78d392b888001659e187fa0 940w)
DISCOVER PEORIA
Discover Peoria ArtThe Peoria area is filled with fantastic murals and sculptures by local artists that are not only beautiful to look at but also can make for some great pictures to up your Instagram game and spread positive vibes. ArtsPartners of Central Illinois brings nine large scale sculptures from artists around the country to downtown Peoria every year for the Sculpture Walk Peoria and the 2020 sculptures are officially here! Walk the walk and take a self-guided tour narrated by the artists explaining the inspiration behind their sculptures. Big Picture Peoria is changing the face of Peoria one wall at a time. Not only are they educating the community and youth about the arts but Big Picture is also responsible for the majority of murals in the central Illinois area. You can even check out the Mural Map of Peoria by Big Picture with pictures of the murals, descriptions of each mural, and the exact address of where the murals are located so you can hunt them down easily! Read Discover Peoria’s Mural Walk blog to learn more about which murals we love to take pictures at!
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Rockford_Art_1__91a6af02-916a-4f1e-b6d6-b01f39b01dfb.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=a16eec6ac3195e4a850d0a74ee4aab51 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Rockford_Art_1__91a6af02-916a-4f1e-b6d6-b01f39b01dfb.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=a8b0f8516facdba9346a68e702607da9 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Rockford_Art_1__91a6af02-916a-4f1e-b6d6-b01f39b01dfb.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=bd36fa9202677e45d4d4ceffb2fc82c9 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Rockford_Art_1__91a6af02-916a-4f1e-b6d6-b01f39b01dfb.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=44a1b505eae58b1aa0949e166e1f7867 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Rockford_Art_1__91a6af02-916a-4f1e-b6d6-b01f39b01dfb.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=5ff536dd47fc3c1dc292ea02c6812606 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Rockford_Art_1__91a6af02-916a-4f1e-b6d6-b01f39b01dfb.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=03ced265c479a999105683e188e17287 1440w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Rockford_Art_1__91a6af02-916a-4f1e-b6d6-b01f39b01dfb.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=7df27ac248f897f0c55514311dc1ffb3 1550w)
ROCKFORD
If you’re on the hunt for an abundance of unique, public art pieces in a close area, look no further than downtown Rockford! In 2019, a brand-new event called CRE8IV: transformational ART brought eight lead artists to the downtown Rockford area to create nine large-scale murals. These murals turned walls that were once plain into colorful, unique pieces of art available for anyone to view. Also scattered around the downtown area are 13 one-of-a-kind sculptures created by several different artists throughout the Midwest. Both the sculptures and murals are all within walking distance of each other, so those looking to view some art don’t need to travel too far! Maps of the sculpture and mural locations can be downloaded on the gorockford.com website.
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/VisitSI_Art_350e3609-6a79-4766-8bcc-bfbdaefaba50.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=782eddf80eb693a698ab815316c10086 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/VisitSI_Art_350e3609-6a79-4766-8bcc-bfbdaefaba50.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=0def04848e68079fe4a654ed2a330bd7 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/VisitSI_Art_350e3609-6a79-4766-8bcc-bfbdaefaba50.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=b4a24a6d363988ff05d53fab4791206d 640w)
VISIT SI
The Williamson County outdoor art scene continues to grow and bring extra charm to our vibrant area! Beautifully crafted statues can be found throughout our communities, paying tribute to notable local figures as well as esteemed veterans. Outdoor murals are increasing in popularity in our downtown districts. These vivid works of art are a must-see and great for those trendy Instagram shots! During the summer and fall seasons, you’ll also find a number of outdoor performing art events to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for a little history, local creativity, or live music you’ll find it all when you visitSI!
![](https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Springfield_Art_5e2aca72-a752-4df8-acf1-9e5f7a18fdc8.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=0ab4a56a207b05bd3604386b372a2965 320w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Springfield_Art_5e2aca72-a752-4df8-acf1-9e5f7a18fdc8.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=9ba811415029baa199d6a0478cb83fd2 540w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Springfield_Art_5e2aca72-a752-4df8-acf1-9e5f7a18fdc8.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=2ad7bbd70feef34f1e01c93d3ab1c86d 768w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Springfield_Art_5e2aca72-a752-4df8-acf1-9e5f7a18fdc8.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=8b13f9cb2f9c99d0276fa0d3ff3b226c 1024w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Springfield_Art_5e2aca72-a752-4df8-acf1-9e5f7a18fdc8.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=35b309b3956683b4be23e63787bef9de 1200w, https://riversandroutes.imgix.net/images/Springfield_Art_5e2aca72-a752-4df8-acf1-9e5f7a18fdc8.jpeg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=e3f82c9fd59ece8b7dd889fe65387bdd 1440w)
VISIT SPRINGFIELD
Enjoy the freedom of movement and open spaces as you view the amazing street art of Springfield. We have so many talented artists in our town that help beautify our city! Springfield has a vibrant and varied art scene including art galleries, local theatre, and outdoor theatre. Although the current conditions have forced many to be put on pause, the amazing outdoor art is alive and well. Art Alley is a concept that came to life during an event in 2017, to help raise funds to benefit downtown revitalization. It’s a pop-up art event where artists compete to create a mural in one day and unveil it during a reception that night. Each year the murals change, making this a great spot to visit, wander through and take pictures of the incredible artwork! Located off 5th Street between Adams and Washington, this is an ideal place to start your journey. Enjoy our blog of other street art visuals and plan to take them all in.