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Champaign

Champaign, Illinois, US

Champaign, Illinois, offers visitors a vibrant blend of cultural experiences, educational opportunities, and outdoor adventures. Home to the University of Illinois, the city boasts lively arts scenes, historical sites, and beautiful parks ideal for exploration.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Chicago

Local Time

10:16 AM

Population

88,909

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

65-85°F (18-29°C) - Warm and humid, late summer thunderstorms possible...

Best Time

May, Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type B

Internet

Average

Airport Info

ORD

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Distance

Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by car via I-57 S, covering about 135 miles.

Description

O'Hare is one of the busiest airports worldwide, offering a range of amenities including dining, shopping, and lounges. It offers extensive international and domestic connections.

Champaign, Illinois, is a delightful destination where visitors can explore the University of Illinois campus, enjoy cultural performances at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, and dive into history at the Champaign County History Museum. Urbana's Market at the Square provides a delightful local shopping experience. Meadowbrook Park offers serene natural beauty, while downtown Champaign charms with its local eateries and boutique breweries, making it a great spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

Champaign Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Moderate Risk

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of local laws such as the legal drinking age of 21 and smoking restrictions in public places.

Crime Rates

Champaign has a mixed crime rate with higher incidents of property crime compared to violent crime. Areas around the University of Illinois may experience occasional petty theft.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities in Champaign are accessible, with several hospitals and clinics providing routine and emergency care. Seasonal flu and weather-related health issues such as heatstroke during summer can occur.

Natural Disasters

Champaign is located in an area that can experience tornadoes. It is important for visitors to be aware of weather alerts and know the location of shelters.

Law Enforcement

Champaign is served by its own police department which works in collaboration with the University of Illinois Police Department. Patrols are regular in high-density areas, enhancing law enforcement visibility, especially around university campuses.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Champaign, managed by the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (CUMTD), is generally safe and reliable.

Solo Travelers

Champaign is generally accommodating for solo travelers, but caution is advised, especially at night.

Recent Developments

There are ongoing efforts to improve public safety and reduce crime through community programs and increased law enforcement resources.

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Champaign Monthly Weather Overview

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Best season to visit

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Best Time to Visit Champaign

Summary: Champaign, Illinois features a continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The best time to visit is from late spring to early fall when the weather is milder and vibrant events take place.

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May

Best

May is ideal with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). The city blooms with spring flowers, and outdoor activities flourish. Events like the Champaign Farmers Market attract visitors.

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July

July brings warm summer days, perfect for enjoying local parks and outdoor festivals like the Taste of C-U. Average temperatures are between 21°C and 31°C (70°F to 88°F).

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August

August continues the warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 66°F to 85°F (19°C to 29°C). Summer events and school year preparations bring a lively atmosphere.

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October

Best

October is known for its beautiful fall foliage and cool temperatures, averaging 45°F to 64°F (7°C to 18°C). The CU Pride Festival and Halloween events draw tourists and locals alike.

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December

Visit in December to experience a winter wonderland, with temperatures between -4°C and 4°C (25°F to 40°F). Holiday festivities and winter sports in nearby areas are popular this time of year.

Seasonal Events in Champaign

October 1 - October 31

The Great Pumpkin Patch

A popular annual event featuring a wide variety of pumpkins, live music, food vendors, and hayrides. It's a family-friendly event perfect for fall celebrations.

The Great Pumpkin Patch

August 26 - August 27

Sweetcorn Festival

Held in nearby Urbana, this festival features live music, food stalls, and plenty of sweetcorn. It's a local favorite celebrating the harvest season.

Sweetcorn Festival

April 15

Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery Spring Open House

An event showcasing local artisanal cheeses and welcoming spring with farm tours, cheese tastings, and more.

Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery

April 21 - April 22

Illinois Marathon

This annual marathon attracts runners from all over the country, featuring various races, including a marathon, half-marathon, and 10K, winding through the streets of Champaign and Urbana.

Illinois Marathon

Popular Foods in Champaign

Steak Sandwich

A tender, juicy steak sandwich that is a local favorite, often served with a side of au jus or horseradish sauce.

Deep-Dish Pizza

Though more famous in Chicago, deep-dish pizza is also a local treat in Champaign, boasting a thick, buttery crust with layers of cheese and rich tomato sauce.

Corn Dog

A popular state fair food, corn dogs are a local staple featuring a hot dog coated in a cornmeal batter, deep-fried to golden perfection.

Beer Cheese Soup

A warm and comforting dish made from rich cheese and beer, perfect for the cold Illinois winters.

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

A Midwestern favorite, this sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin, larger than the bun, for an enjoyable crunch in every bite.

Closest Airports to Champaign

Regional Airport

Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI)

A smaller regional airport offering mainly domestic flights and efficient services with minimal wait times. Facilities include free Wi-Fi and various dining options.

Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car via I-74 W, covering about 50 miles.

Security lines are typically short. Very traveler-friendly with easy airport layout, making navigation straightforward.

BMI Website

International Airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

O'Hare is one of the busiest airports worldwide, offering a range of amenities including dining, shopping, and lounges. It offers extensive international and domestic connections.

Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by car via I-57 S, covering about 135 miles.

Consider using the airport's mobile app for navigation and access to real-time flight information. Public transport options include CTA Blue Line trains.

ORD Website

Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation

Champaign is perfect for a family vacation with its array of kid-friendly attractions like the Orpheum Children's Science Museum, Crystal Lake Park, and playgrounds. The local Campustown area offers family-friendly dining and entertainment options.

Couples Retreat

Couples seeking a quiet, romantic getaway will enjoy Champaign's cozy bed and breakfasts, scenic parks like Meadowbrook Park for peaceful walks, and intimate dining experiences at local farm-to-table restaurants.

Educational Trip

With the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign is rich in educational opportunities. Visitors can explore museums like the Krannert Art Museum and Spurlock Museum, making it a great destination for educational trips.

Nature Excursion

Nature enthusiasts can revel in the natural beauty surrounding Champaign, with protected areas such as the Anita Purves Nature Center and Busey Woods offering scenic hiking trails and wildlife observation opportunities.

Food and Wine Tour

Champaign offers a burgeoning food scene with local wineries and breweries. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours at places like Alto Vineyards and Riggs Beer Company, making it an ideal spot for a gastronomic adventure.

Custom Language

Illini

University identity.

Refers to the University of Illinois sports teams and its community.

The Quad

Campus focal point.

The main green space on the University of Illinois campus often used for gatherings and events.

Jupiter’s

Entertainment hub.

Local slang for a popular pizza and games venue in downtown Champaign.

Local area acronym.

Short for Champaign-Urbana, often used to refer to the metropolitan area collectively.

The Alma Mater

Symbolic landmark.

A renowned statue at the University of Illinois, symbolizing the institution and used as a common meeting point.

Popular Sports & Teams in Champaign

Illinois Fighting Illini Football

The Illinois Fighting Illini football team represents the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in college football. They are a member of the Big Ten Conference and play their home games at Memorial Stadium in Champaign.