Illinois' Charming City Is A Riverside Gem With Dutch Architecture, Old-School Charm, And Scenic Trails

Boasting the dazzling lights of Chicago, major league baseball teams, and America's largest prehistoric earthen mound, Illinois is bustling with excitement. Paddle up the cypress swamps of a secret, mysterious bayou, or cast your rods over Lake Michigan to reel in a big one. And for those craving a touch of riverside scenery with charming old-world architecture, add Fulton to your list of cities to visit. Tucked along the Mississippi River, along the Iowan border, and only about two hours west of Chicago, rolling green meadows and a majestic Dutch windmill makes Fulton the place to be for historic landmarks and countryside adventures.

Around the mid-1800s, the rural village of Fulton was settled by immigrants from Holland, and the rich Dutch heritage is a point of pride for the townsfolk today. Not only was the towering De Immigrant Windmill constructed to honor the town's Dutch roots, but the nearby Windmill Cultural Center is a treasure trove of fully functioning scale-model windmills, a fascinating glimpse into this ancient technology. Guided tours of the De Immigrant Windmill takes you up inside the machinery, and if the Midwestern breezes are cooperating, the millstones will grind flour to the delight of everyone.

You don't have to venture far for outdoor fun in Fulton. Anglers will find the marina downtown a convenient spot for great fishing, while the portion of the Great River Trail that passes through town is a scenic bike path through bucolic countryside. Just a short drive north of Fulton, amidst the swampy marshes of the Mississippi River, the Lock and Dam 13 Recreation Area is a spellbinding waterscape of grassy islands and ghostly trees. Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for flocks of Canada geese, pelicans, and bald eagles. Whether you're touring windmills or wildlife spotting, Fulton is a guaranteed thrill.

Aside from Dutch windmills, Fulton hides historic architecture and cultural landmarks around every corner. Just down the street from the Windmill Cultural Center is the Martin House Museum, an Italianate villa dating to the 1850s. The wraparound porch, decorated eaves, and stained glass windows have earned the Martin House a well-deserved spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Head inside for a glimpse of the stunning walnut interiors, and explore the museum's displays of local memorabilia and historic photographs.

Adults and children alike will find endless thrills at Heritage Canyon, a sprawling park of shady woodlands so tranquil, the bustling city feels far away. At one time an old quarry, the park was transformed with quaint, 19th-century style buildings to resemble a rural frontier town. Serene trails take you through the various structures on a journey back in time, from a post office and schoolhouse to the village church and log cabins. Another fun spot for all the family to enjoy is the Andersen Nature Center, where you can wander through displays of insects, plants, and wildlife found in the area.

If you're looking for more old-world architecture, you could head a little over an hour south to Bishop Hill, a historic prairie village with 19th century charm. And while actually across the border in Iowa, the Saw Mill Museum is just a 15-minute drive from Fulton. Explore all things lumberjack here, and children will especially love the various sawmill equipment displays, floating log raft simulator, and the fire station race track. After a fun-filled afternoon, head back over to Fulton to find a good meal.

While they might not be deep dish, you can still satisfy your pizza cravings at Manny's Too, a favorite with the locals for serving a unique combination of pizza and tacos. Other options include boneless wing baskets, enchiladas, and tostadas. For more Mexican food, try Don Julio's right next door, another local favorite with a nearly five-star rating on Google. Popular dishes include steak fajitas, nachos with salsa, and blended lime margaritas. Service is friendly and the atmosphere is warm. For all things sugary and sweet, head to Krumpets Bakery and Café, which takes the top spot on Tripadvisor for where to eat in Fulton. You can also sit down to an array of mouthwatering breakfast and lunch options, plus pastries and bread made with locally-milled flour.

If you're craving a night of merrymaking, stop by the King Pins Saloon and Dance Hall, where locals gather to enjoy live music, shoot some pool, and try their hand at darts. Order a Bloody Mary at the bar, try the fish bites and cheesy one-pound burgers. While you're waiting for your food, you might even get roped into joining a line dance. The Brunch House by the marina is also beloved by Fulton townsfolk. Sit down to breakfast pancakes or Belgian waffles with whipped cream, and there's a drive-through window if you're in a hurry.

To fully soak up the Midwestern vibes, turn your Fulton day trip into an adventurous weekend getaway. A cozy bed for the night can be found at the AmericInn by Wyndham downtown, or make the short drive across the border to Iowa for a stay at the Holiday Inn Express. With endless thrills and excitement, a trip to this charming riverside city will surely be memorable.