4 Illinois Towns Are Finalists For America’s Favorite Small Town

For anyone who thought that Illinois was simply a combination of Chicago and a bunch of farm fields, there's still time to reconsider.

Yes, we certainly do have the energy of one of America's largest cities, but we also have an abundance of beautiful, quiet river towns and historic downtown squares. Illinois is definitely a state that offers something for just about everyone.

Now, four Illinois communities are getting national recognition for their charm after being named finalists in Parade Magazine’s “America’s Favorite Small Towns” contest.

The national competition, launched as part of celebrations for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, highlights 40 small towns across the country with populations under 250,000. Regional winners will be announced June 1st, followed by a national winner on June 12th.

Illinois’ finalists show just how diverse the Prairie State can be, from historic riverfront communities to picturesque tourist destinations.

One Particular Illinois Small Town Seems To Land On Lots Of "Best-Of" Lists

That town, as I'm sure you've already guessed, is Galena.

Galena, is a northwestern Illinois gem famous for its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture. Once a booming lead-mining town, Galena now attracts visitors with boutique shops, historic homes, wineries, and scenic views near the Mississippi River. The town also has presidential history: it’s where Ulysses S. Grant lived before becoming president, and his former home remains a popular attraction.

Further south, Edwardsville blends small-town charm with deep state history. The community is the third-oldest city in Illinois and was named for Ninian Edwards, the first governor of the Illinois Territory. Once a major stop along historic travel routes like the Goshen Trail and later Route 66, Edwardsville celebrates its heritage while offering a lively downtown full of locally owned shops and restaurants.

Our Next Two Small Town Finalists Are Pretty Spectacular, Too

Grafton, is another scenic Mississippi River town known for outdoor adventure and spectacular views. Located where the Illinois and Mississippi rivers meet, Grafton draws visitors for riverfront dining, boating, hiking, and its unique attractions like bluff-top resorts and gondola rides overlooking the water.

Rounding out the Illinois finalists is Alton, another historic river community with a long list of fascinating claims to fame. Alton is associated with important moments in American history, from abolitionist activism to visits by Abraham Lincoln. It’s also known as the birthplace of jazz legend Miles Davis and the hometown of Robert Wadlow, the tallest man in recorded history (8 feet 11 inches).

Read Parade Magazine's entire piece on America's Favorite Small Towns here.