"When you think you know everything, it’s time to quit," Frank Parker says about his 30-some years of trumpet playing. Fortunately for music fans in the Springfield area, he isn’t planning to quit anytime soon.

"You never stop learning," Parker says.

It’s a truth Parker and his fellow musicians know all too well from their Monday jam sessions at Brewhaus, a downtown Springfield bar. 

When I first meet Parker before one such jam session, the spry older man is wearing a snug red turtleneck, broken-in black pleated pants, and a New Orleans Saints ball cap, with tufts of curly silver hairs peeking underneath. He casually exhales between drags on a cigarette outside before the jam session begins.

"It was the easiest gig I ever got," Parker says. "Three years ago on Valentine’s Day I just walked in to Brewhaus to hang out, you know." Parker mentioned to the bar’s owner that he should have jazz there. The owner said show up on Monday—and Parker has been showing up every week since to hang out and play from about 5:30 to 8 p.m.

A thick wooden bar dominates the narrow jam area, which is surrounded by tall circular tables and charming, well-worn booths. Behind the bar, an expansive mirror is framed by a large wooden piece that looks like an elaborate antique mantel.

The jazz musicians set up in a dark corner of the room. The "stage" is an unceremonious foot-high platform with brass railings on one side. There are no special lights, curtains, or sound systems—very little separates audience from performer.

But the snug performance space and lack of distance between spectator and musician allow for fluidity. One can watch from the sidelines one minute and easily jump in for the next song. Simplicity is part of the appeal.

As the musicians continue to set up, Parker tests the mic, quietly mumbling "1-2-1-2-1-2."

Youthful bearded bass player Ben Taylor plucks a few strings, while 72-year-old Donnie Hietler quietly sits at his keyboard. The well-dressed percussionist, Craig Russo, adjusts his drum set and steps off stage. These are the core players for the evening.

Other musicians trickle in with instrument cases in hand and greet their friends in the bar. Most check in with Parker by catching his eye and sharing a wave. They continue to socialize and wait for Parker to announce their name, calling them to the stage.

Why a jam session?

"It’s a lot freer. Jazz is not supposed to be the same … if it was [there would be] no improvisation and it wouldn’t be jazz," Parker says. "We never know what it’s gonna be … with jazz you just don’t know."

Keeping things fresh and free-flowing is what brings bass player Ben Taylor over from Champaign every week. The jam session format does not have as many restrictions as "society gigs" do, Taylor says. "[You] never know what to expect … never know who’s gonna sit in."

Taylor is one of the younger members of the core group. Wearing a zip-up fleece vest, a collared short-sleeved shirt, and loose fitting pants, he sits relaxed in a booth before the jam session begins.

Heitler, who’s been playing piano for more than fifty years, looks out through glasses with large black frames and thick lenses. His pale skin has seen some years, but his smile is youthful and bright. Heitler admires his fellow musicians, saying "each one of ’em has a story."

"We all know each other so it’s easy," says percussionist Craig Russo. He says the jazz musicians around Springfield come together to form a subculture.

Russo is a radiologist by day but considers playing jazz a great outlet and a passion. He says the players that come to Parker’s jam session have a range of talent and experience from "world class" to "obvious." "This is where people learn to play," he says. The laidback environment provides freedom for experimenting and making mistakes.

With a "1-2-uh" the music begins.

A trombonist is the first to take a solo. The notes come out sharp, clear, and fast. The drummer, keyboardist, and bassist get softer but maintain the beat. Parker’s trumpet rests momentarily as the trombonist finishes his spirited riff.

Then Parker takes over with his trumpet.  He is not tall in stature but he is big in sound. His baseball cap casts a shadow over his eyes, but his horn gleams brightly, reflecting the low lights of the bar and the neon signs.

The crisp notes of a piano crescendo and take the listener’s attention. Heitler’s fingers move swiftly across the keys. His head is turned slightly to the left, his body upright. He never looks down.

Taylor and Russo take their turns on bass and drums, respectively. Russo’s drum kit is tucked in the back of the crowded performance space. He is hard to see but easy to hear. Without strategy, his beats could overpower the tunes and the other musicians mere inches in front of him.

The bass lays down the foundation. Taylor says it’s the glue of the jam. He expressively allows for his instrument to emanate "plenty of mix between percussion and melodic stuff."

As the jam band moves to another song, the same pattern continues. The musicians unite in establishing the basic melody or framework of a song, then individuals make featured solo interpretations of that melody as the rest of the band backs them up.

"Someone has to jump out and get it," Parker says, referring to the first solo part. After someone gets it, it establishes a sort of pattern for the rest of the song.

But occasionally Parker nods or points to one of the musicians, nonverbally saying, "it’s yours, take it." His leadership keeps the improvisational music flowing smoothly.

The name of a new song is whispered among the band. And a barely audible "yeah, yeah, … yeah," from Parker is all it takes to decide what is coming up next. 

"[It’s] always a surprise, but it is great when you hit on something that really jams," says trombonist Doug Burns.

"Jazz brings people together," adds Karen Deal, a flutist participating in the jam session for the first time. The jam session offers an "opportunity for different musicians to play together, learn, and socialize at the same time," she says.

Deal’s regular musical repertoire is classical, not jazz. Currently the director of the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, she says she met Frank Parker at another jazz performance and he encouraged her to stop by. So she did.

And that’s what it’s all about.

"Everyone plays everywhere around here," Parker says in reference to local Springfield musicians. That’s why his jam session is open to those just passing through, wanting to hone their skills, or simply hoping to dazzle their friends.

And, of course, people who just want to listen to some great jazz are welcome anytime. —Story and Photos by Kristin Nisbet

Get There
Brewhaus
671 East Washington St.
Springfield, IL 62701
217.525.6399
Brewhaus features jazz on Mondays and special events featuring local bands many evenings each week.

Looking for more jazz in Springfield? Head to Remy’s on Monroe (225 East Monroe St., Springfield; 217.528.3222).

About the Writer
Jazz enthusiast Kristin Nisbet is an implant to central Illinois due to her pursuit of higher education. She enjoys going on spontaneous adventures and taking her pen along for the journey.

The hunt for beautiful vineyards often takes wine connoisseurs to Sonoma, Napa, Tuscany, Rhone—and central Illinois.

It may sound like a bit of a stretch, but it’s true. The state, known for its fertile soils, is home to as many as 80 wineries and 450 vineyards. And 10 scenic wineries are located right in central Illinois (plus the rest are within easy daytrip distance).

Fall is a terrific time to visit central Illinois wineries—in many instances, you can enjoy sunny autumn weather and striking fall foliage in addition to scenic views of the vineyards. Plus special events—some of which are listed below—ensure there’s never a dull moment when you embark on your next wine-tasting adventure.

Alto Vineyards 
4210 N. Duncan Rd., Champaign
217.356.4784

This family-owned winery and vineyard is located in the foothills of the Shawnee National Forest, but if you don’t want to make the trek to Southern Illinois you can also visit the winery’s tasting room in Champaign.

Baxter’s Vineyards
2010 E. Parley St., Nauvoo
217.453.2528

Enjoy free wine tastings and self-guided winery tours daily at this family-owned winery located near Nauvoo State Park. Plan a trip for the last weekend in October to hit up the Halloween in Boootiful Nauvoo celebration, with hundreds of jack-o-lanterns, a parade, a haunted house, and more. Next year, be sure to visit Nauvoo during Labor Day weekend for the annual grape festival.

Hill Prairie Winery
23753 Lounsberry Rd.
217.635.9900

Surrounded by native Illinois prairie grasses, Hill Prairie Winery and its vineyards boast plenty of history (the winery is housed in an original 1911 building). Aside from the usual tasting options, the winery hosts Murder Mystery Dinner Theater events (left this year: “Murder on the Disoriented Express” on October 30 and “It’s a Wonderful Death” on November 20 and December 18), live entertainment each Sunday, and a harvest festival and fish fry the first weekend in October.

Indian Creek Vineyard
R.R. 2, Toulon
309.286.5302

Located on a family farm near the land once occupied by the last settlement of Pottawattamie Indians, this winery is known for its Marachel Foch, Fronenac, Lacrosse, St. Pepin, and Leon Melot varieties of grapes. Stop into the Old Red Barn for a wine tasting on Saturdays and Sundays from May through December.

Kickapoo Creek Winery
6605 N. Smith Rd., Edwards
309.495.WINE

This winery located offers wine tastings, lunch six days a week, and beautiful walking trails around the grounds. Or for a different view of the winery, take a tour on the Grape Train.

Long Creek Vineyards Winery
7185 E. Firehouse Rd., Decatur
217.571.0052

Award-winning wines are the name of the game at this Decatur-area winery, where the wine is aged in oak barrels downstairs. Head to the winery the first weekend in October to celebrate Octoberfest, or join the Wine Angel Club anytime to adopt a plant in the vineyard for five years and receive discounts on wine.

Mackinaw Valley Vineyard
33633 State Rt. 9, Mackinaw
309.359.WINE

Sample some of the winery’s many varieties, then purchase a glass or a bottle to enjoy with cheese and crackers on the deck or patio overlooking the vineyards. Mackinaw Valley is known for its music nights on Saturdays from June through September or, to keep you entertained through the winter, try the upcoming winter trivia nights on some Saturdays from January through April.

Sleepy Creek Vineyards
8254 E 1425 North Rd., Fairmount
217.733.0330

If playful labels and wines with names like Bull Headed and Sour Puss aren’t enough to draw you to Sleepy Creek Vineyards, their location just down the road from Kickapoo Creek State Park may sell you on a visit. Wine tastings and wandering suit most, or for even more fun check out the schedule for live music. Members of the Purple Finger Club receive a t-shirt, wine discounts, access to special parties, and even get to help with seasonal activities including pruning, planting, vine training, harvesting, bottling, and labeling.

Spirit Knob Winery
2213 E. 640th Pl., Ursa
217.964.2678

Located on the bluffs overlooking the Missisippi River Valley, this winery is worth a stop for the scenery alone. The family-owned destination, located ten miles north of Quincy, offers complimentary wine tastings with an appointment.

Willett’s Winery & Cellar
10105 E. Market St., Manito
309.968.7070

Located in a restored 1893 building near Spring Lake, Willett's Winery & Cellar features a vineyard and apple orchard. After you sample the wine, wander the woodworking shop and nearby bakery, pottery, and chocolate shops. The winery regularly offers live music, so check the entertainment schedule before visiting to see what’s coming up.

Learn more about Illinois wineries at the Illinois Wine website.

There’s a lot more to Elkhart’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-it small town than meets the eye. This stop along Route 66 in Central Illinois offers options for dining, shopping, and even learning—all in the span of two tiny blocks.
 
Why bother stopping? “It’s very well-sited right on I-55 and smack on Route 66,” explains Andrea Niehaus, owner of Horsefeathers Antiques & Gift Shop and The Wild Hare Cafe. “Plus it’s like a page torn from Norman Rockwell.” In other words, it boasts about as much character as you can possibly fit in one tiny downtown.
 
Horsefeathers and Wild Hares
Revitalizing downtown Elkhart is all in the family for Andrea and her sister, Renee Sisk. Andrea and her husband, Peter, renovated the original red brick bank building downtown (104 Governor Oglesby St.), which was built in 1892. Now it houses Horsefeathers, in business since 2004, as well as The Wild Hare Café, an area lunch attraction that opened two years ago.
 
Horsefeathers, which occupies the front of the building, is filled with a variety of antiques, vintage kitchen items, jewelry, locally made soaps and foods (including a large selection of candy, jams, and other items from the Amish community near Arcola), as well as American-made gifts and paper goods.
 
In the back, The Wild Hare Café displays paintings by Renee (who owns The Dragonfly Studio next door) and offers a selection of homemade soups, sandwiches, salads, and to-die-for pies. Everything is made by Andrea and Renee and served on a mismatched collection of antique dishes—and the recipes for many of the menu items, which draw a bustling lunch crowd to the restaurant each day, originated from their mother and grandmother’s recipe collections.
 
Andrea recommends trying the salad sampler plate—which gives you a taste of salads ranging from chicken salad to Moroccan wild rice—on your first visit. The quiches and soups are other crowd favorites, she adds—but of course, it’s important to save room for a slice of pie too.
 
Soon, Horsefeathers will be expanding into the vault located next door and will offer even more antiques and locally made goods. Then, later, Andrea hopes to open a ’50s diner in the building as well, to cater to locals and the Route 66 crowd.
 
An Eclectic Assortment
Across the street from Horsefeathers, the beautifully restored building that previously housed Miss Jessie’s Gallery (103 ½ Governor Oglesby St.) has been transformed into an eclectic assortment of services and shops owned by Scott Bottrell, his fiancée Shannon O’Loughlin, and their friend Ken Reese.
 
The striking entryway to the building is an attraction itself, with old records displayed on an exposed brick wall and musical instruments hanging from the towering ceiling. Straight ahead, the spacious room with gleaming wood floors is home to the Yoshukai Karate Alliance, where Scott and Ken teach the traditional style of Japanese Karate. The room also serves the Elkhart Fencing Club, led by Ken. To the right is the entrance to Wander Years, a small shop Shannon fills with art, antiques, collectibles, handmade gifts, and restored furniture.
 
Upstairs, the Ramblin’ Elk Music Sanctuary offers a place for music lovers to spend time. Open jam rooms draw musicians who want to stop in, and formal rehearsal rooms are available for rent. Scott and Ken also offer trumpet, drum, piano, and vocal lessons; sell instruments and accessories; and handle instrument repair.
 
The goal with the myriad businesses in one building is to “be an institute of learning,” Scott explains. “We want everybody to feel at home and hang out. We just want people to get lost and wander or to play, relax, and learn.” That notion even extends behind the building, where a courtyard filled with plants, sculptures, and seating offers a place for visitors to enjoy the scenery.
 
More Quick Stops
Down the block, stop in and say hello to Jean Tweet, owner of Birdsong. While you’re there, browse her collection of books, antiques, fabric, and vintage clothing. The floor-to-ceiling shelves displaying classic cookbooks, historical fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books are a popular attraction, as are the variety of handmade aprons, beautiful tablecloths, and materials including upholstery fabric and feed sacks for sale.
 
If you’re in the mood for bar food (including terrific fried fish on Fridays) instead of the soups, salads, and sandwiches offered at The Wild Hare Café, mosey down the street to Talk of the Town (115 Governor Oglesby St.) instead. Or finish the day with a pastry from Bluestem Bakery (107 Governor Oglesby St.) or a beer at The Blue Moon (101 Governor Oglesby St.).
 
And come back soon, because this tiny town is constantly evolving—and on a mission to become a can't-miss Central Illinois destination.

Another year of the Illinois State Fair—that Mecca of fried food, livestock, and carnival rides—has drawn to a close. From the Midway excitement to the threat of a tornado, there wasn’t a dull moment at this year’s festivities. Relive the highlights with our first-ever photo essay, featuring snapshots of this year’s fair action.

Rainy, stormy weather early in the week may have hindered attendance, but Thursday was a beautiful day to attend the Illinois State Fair. Photo by Julie Collins.

A vendor dishes up a Philly cheese steak sandwich and regales fairgoers with tales of the tornado that narrowly missed the fair the night before. Photo by Nicole Collins.

A crowd of onlookers oohs and aahs as three divers plummet into the pool simultaneously. Photo by Nicole Collins.

The Ferris Wheel is always a popular stop for fairgoers. Photo by Nicole Collins.

Fried cheese may not be one of the wackiest fried dishes at the Illinois State Fair, but it’s definitely one of the tastiest. Photo by Nicole Collins.

The options at the Fried What! booth aren’t for the faint of heart—you’ll find everything fried here, from Snickers and Oreos to key lime pie and cheesecake. Photo by Nicole Collins.

A first-time fairgoer enjoys a must-try: French fries with salt and vinegar. Photo by Julie Collins.

As they make their way down Main Street USA, a family contemplates their next food purchase. Photo by Julie Collins.

For $1, fairgoers had the opportunity to milk a cow. (Trust us, it’s fun!) Photo by Nicole Collins.

Kids squeal with delight as they take a spin on the Tilt-A-Whirl. Photo by Nicole Collins.

Amusement park ride options abound at the Illinois State Fair. Photo by Julie Collins.

The state fair isn’t all play for participants, who must groom and feed their livestock throughout the week. Photo by Nicole Collins.

Perching on the swings offers a fantastic view of the fair. Photo by Julie Collins.

A man makes taffy—one of the tasty (and not fried!) treat options at the Illinois State Fair. Photo by Nicole Collins.

For a change of pace, fairgoers can stop at the Illinois Wine Experience to sample vintages bottled in the state and relax on the porch. Photo by Julie Collins.

Attending the Illinois State Fair is a bit pricier this year. For the first time since 1990, admission rates increased. Expect to pay $5 for adults (up from $3 last year) and $2 for kids between the ages of five and 12 (they used to get in for free). Kids younger than five still gain free admission.

Still, five dollars is pretty cheap entertainment. Spend the day viewing butter cows and real-life cows, listening to live music, and watching the variety of people who make an appearance at the fair each year. Plus, for a few dollars more, you can taste the myriad fried foods and beverages (yep, you can even get fried beverages—this year one vendor is offering fried Pepsi).

If you're looking for some bargains, there are still a few deals left you can take advantage of:

Carnival Bargains
The Illinois State Fair boasts two carnival areas: the main carnival midway and Adventure Village. Tickets for the rides aren't cheap—$5 for four coupons, $25 for 22 coupons, $60 for 55 coupons—but there are some options available to help families save cash.

Mega Pass. For $60, the mega pass photo ID allows you to ride as many rides you want as often as you want during the entire fair. Passes are available on the first floor of the Emmerson Building. (Please note that they do not include the cost of gate admission, the Giant Slide, or the Sky Ride. Personal checks are not accepted for purchase of a Mega Pass.)

Carnival Midway "Pay One Price" Armbands. Monday, August 17 through Friday, August 21,  each person who purchases a $25 pass is eligible for unlimited rides from noon until 6 p.m. The deal is also available from noon to 10 p.m. on Sunday, August 23.

Children's Miracle Network Carnival Ride Tickets. For $25 per person, you can purchase a one-day pass good for unlimited rides on the main carnival midway or in Adventure Village on any one day of the fair. The nonrefundable passes are only good during designated times, however:  noon to closing on Monday, August 17 through Friday, August 21; 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 22; and noon until 5 p.m. on Sunday, August 23. The Children's Miracle Network passes are available for purchase at a number of retail outlets in the area or online.

Grandstand Steals
If you're still contemplating the purchase of Grandstand tickets, you're in luck. Through the state fair's recently announced "All-American Value, More '4' Less" promotion, any person who purchases four Grandstand seats in the third and lowest price range will receive $5 off each ticket, for a total savings of $20. Plus, for every four seats purchased, you'll receive one free 2009 Illinois State Fair t-shirt.

Tickets can be purchased at the Grandstand box office in person or over the phone (217.782.1979) or online through Ticketmaster.

For more information on the Illinois State Fair, visit the official fair website.

Photo: aka Kath

The next time you're in downtown Lincoln, stop across the street from City Hall (700 Broadway) and look up. There, perched on the rooftop, you'll spot an unusual site.

No, it's not the phone booth where Clark Kent dons his cape and becomes Superman—although this phone booth's location would provide a prime lookout for the superhero. Rather, it was placed on the rooftop as part of a World War II civil defense system.

Later, when the government no longer feared attacks from the sky on small towns across the United States, it was used for storm watching. Rumor has it that the lowest firefighter on the totem pole would be sent to the roof to keep an eye out for tornadoes. Then, if they spotted one, they'd place a call to sound the sirens. (And, undoubtedly, would get the heck off the roof right away.)

Although the phone booth is no longer in use, it still sits atop City Hall as a piece of local history.

Odds are, there are plenty of other terrific small town oddities in Central Illinois—and we want to feature them here! Send your ideas to editor@illinois-adventures.com, and you just may spot your fact on the site soon.

Abraham Lincoln history and the supernatural collide in Springfield, Bloomington, and Lincoln, where guided tours highlight the sites and spirits of Central Illinois.

Springfield Walks
Inspired by ghost walks he took through Europe, Illinois native Garrett Moffett began researching Illinois ghost lore. After developing Macomb’s first ghost walk, Moffett started Springfield Walks in 2006. On a given night, as many as 100 people may participate in the thoroughly researched Lincoln’s Ghost Walk tour—one of many Moffett offers.  
 
Lincoln’s Ghost Walk: Legends & Lore is a 90-minute, 12-block walking tour that combines Lincoln history with eerie stories about Lincoln’s spiritual beliefs, his prophetic visions, his ghost in the White House, Mary Todd Lincoln’s insanity trial, Lincoln’s funeral train, and his tomb. Despite talk of visions, dreams, séances, insanity, and ghosts, this tour is suitable for all ages. Try It: March 3 to May 30, Tuesday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; June 2 to August 30, Monday to Sunday at 7:30 p.m.; September 1 to October 31, Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ($12 adults, $8 kids ages 11–17, free for kids under 10 up to two kids then $5 per child, $10 seniors and military)

Kick the ghost hunting up a notch with Springfield’s Haunted Dead Walk, a 16-block, 2.5-hour walking tour that explores Springfield’s haunted history, including ghost sightings at Springfield High School, the Inn at 835, and the Governor’s Mansion. If the timing is right, you may even get to participate in a hands-on paranormal investigation. Try It: September 5 at 8 p.m., every Friday and Saturday in October at 7 p.m. (not suitable for kids under 12 years of age; $15 per person)

For an adults-only look at Springfield’s true-crime history, come along on the 90-minute, 12-block R-Rated Springfield walking tour. You’ll learn about keystone cops and brothel raids, prohibition and speakeasies, race and miner riots, lynchings, the mob and murder, and the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre connection. Intrigued yet? Take the tour to learn more. Try It: June 6 to September 27, every Saturday at 8 p.m.; every Friday and Saturday in October at 7 p.m. (must be older than 16 years old for this tour; $15 adults, $13 seniors and military)

If spirits aren’t your thing, try the 90-minute Mr. Lincoln’s Bicentennial Springfield Walk, which highlights Lincoln’s life in Springfield before he was elected president, including his law practice, his wedding, and his famous farewell from Springfield. Try It: May 1 to September 26, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. ($12 adults, $8 kids ages 11–17, free for kids under 10 up to two kids then $5 per child, $10 seniors and military)

Spirits of Bloomington
For the past couple of years, Spirits of Tours guides Chris Hotz and Deborah Senger have donned the attire of a distinguished Abraham Lincoln and a graceful Mary Todd Lincoln to take interested souls on a tour of Bloomington’s place in Lincoln history, with intriguing tales, myths, and paranormal accounts of the area thrown in for good measure.

The carefully researched Spirits of Bloomington: Lincoln Legends & Lore relies on more than 50 references, countless personal interviews, and Deborah’s expertise as a historic and spiritual medium, certified paranormal investigator, and parapsychologist. Participants spend 90 minutes wandering a mile of downtown Bloomington with Abe and Mary, enjoying an entertaining and at times spooky account of Lincoln history, a little lost girl, murderous millionaires, and more. Try It: August 21 at 8 p.m., September 11 at 8 p.m. ($10 each; reservations required)

Come along with Frankie (Chris Hotz) and Sally (Deborah Senger) as they investigate the paranormal on the Route 66 Ghosts and Gangsters Tour. Your two Prohibition-era guides will take you on a short walk through downtown Bloomington, a hotspot during Prohibition and the gangster era. You’ll take a peek at former speakeasy sites and finish the tour with a paranormal investigation at the haunted Phoenix/Mid-City Hotel on Route 66. Try It: August 22 at 9:30 p.m., September 12 at 9:30 p.m. (ages 12 and older; $20 per person; reservations required)

Spirits of Lincoln
This summer, the Spirits of Tours from Bloomington have expanded to Lincoln, where guides Chris Hotz and Deborah Senger arrive dressed as Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln to guide participants around downtown.

The Lincoln Ghost Walk begins at the christening scene on the corner of Broadway and Chicago, then continues throughout the downtown historic district with stops at the Logan County Courthouse and other historical sites. Be prepared for a dose of the paranormal along with insights on Abe and Mary’s life from the actors who portray them. Try It: August 14 at 8 p.m., August 28 at 9 p.m. ($10 per person; reservations required)

If you’re clamoring for more spooky sightings in Central Illinois, join Chris and Deborah for a paranormal investigation at the Scully Mansion north of Lincoln. A portion of the proceeds from the investigation will be donated to The Mill on 66 Restoration Project. Try It: August 15 at 7:45 p.m. ($20; reservations required)

Whether you’re traveling on two wheels or on your own two feet, Central Illinois has plenty of trails to keep you occupied. Here’s a sampling of the many routes available—from short jaunts to long hauls.

Try them out, then we want to hear from you: What favorite trails did we miss? Share your picks in the comments section below or by emailing editor@illinois-adventures.com today so we can add them to the list.

Bloomington/Normal Constitution Trail
Twenty-four miles of hard-surface trail—perfect for walking, hiking, jogging, and biking—run through the twin cities of Bloomington and Normal. No matter where you are, it’s easy to find a section of the trail to travel. Download the natural trail guide here.

Champaign County
Champaign County (including Champaign-Urbana, Mahomet, Rantoul, and Savoy) offers a slew of trails for serious and casual bicyclists and hikers. Download maps for the many trails from champaigncountybikes.org and the city of Champaign.

Clinton
Clinton Lake’s three hiking trails cater to all types of hikers. Try the easy to moderate 5-mile Houseboat Cove Trail north of the beach, which follows the shoreline and loops back through the woods. For a more challenging hike (it’s a bit hilly), try the 9.3-mile North Fork Trail for views of the lake and a 40-acre restored prairie. The 10-mile equestrian/hiking/cross-country ski trail on the north side of the lake (east of the Parnell Access Area) allows you to get outdoors year-round.

Danville
The 7.6-mile Out and Back Trail in Kickapoo State Recreation Area near Danville, which is rated “difficult,” passes through forest, bottomland, and along the edge of abandoned cropland—plus it offers scenic views of the Vermilion River. Other, easier trails are also clearly marked in the area if you’re looking for a shorter route. In addition, the recreation area boasts a 12-mile single-track mountain bike trail.

Lincoln
Near Lincoln, Edward R. Madigan State Park features an easy, 4.5-mile loop along Salt Creek and through the woods. For another lovely, quick hike or bike ride, take the loop through Kickapoo Creek Park off Old Route 66 in Lincoln.

Shelbyville
One of many trails near Lake Shelbyville, the 11-mile Chief Illini Trail takes you along the edge of the lake and across rolling hills and open prairies. For a quicker jaunt, try the 4-mile General Dacey Trail in Dam West Recreation Area, which wends its way through Shelbyville’s Forrest Park.

Springfield
In the Springfield area, try the 7-mile Springfield Park District Interurban Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail, the 5-mile Lost Bridge Trail that connects Springfield and Rochester, and the 2.2-mile-long Wabash Trail on Springfield’s southwest side.

Westville
The Forest Glen Preserve has 25 miles of trails to choose from, including the 11-mile River Ridge Backpack Trail, a rather challenging trek.

Are you ready for a trip back in time—and some serious adventure? Try the Route 66 Trail through Illinois. You can download the trail guide—and find plenty of information on other Central Illinois trails—at the League of Illinois Bicyclists website.

Photo: a tree is nice from Flickr

Get your fill of classic Italian fare and great steaks at family-owned Guzzardo’s Italian Villa in Lincoln.

Located downtown on the south side of the square, The Villa has been a Lincoln mainstay for more than 50 years—and still serves many of the same dishes that graced the menu when the restaurant opened in 1957.

The History
After Italian immigrants Dominic (Doc) and Rose Guzzardo moved from the Chicago area to Lincoln in 1947, they dreamed of opening an Italian restaurant. Ten years after they arrived in town, that dream became a reality.

At the time, the site of the restaurant was just a storage building with 2x12s, a dirt floor, and no upstairs. Once construction was completed, the new upstairs area seated 24 people, who could look down through the middle of the restaurant to see who was coming in the door. The restaurant grew quickly after that—the family added the second room in 1962 and the two smaller rooms in the late 1960s.

Doc and Rose’s son John was only 11 at the time the restaurant opened and regularly helped his father, mother, and sister (who was 16 at the time). “I worked here from the day it opened and started making pizzas extremely early. I always loved when my dad and I worked in the kitchen together,” John recalls.

They served a menu much like today: pizza, pasta, steak, even broiled lobster back then. But their biggest seller was the pizza. “At the time, we sold the only pizza in town. People didn’t even know what pizza was,” John recalls. They started delivering their Italian pies in the early 1960s when Ed Madigan (the late secretary of agriculture under George H.W. Bush) owned a cab company in Lincoln and would pick up food in his cab to drop off at people’s homes.

Madigan’s deliveries are one of John’s many fond memories from the early years at the restaurant. “I got to meet so many different people—the Harlem Globetrotters used to come to Lincoln and eat at the restaurant, friends of my dad would come visit, different people were always coming up to eat,” John says. As he grew up, at one time or the other, most of his close friends worked at The Villa with him. “We still carry those memories even today about how hard we used to work,” John recalls.

And then one day a new employee came to town. Frankie Hallett arrived from Cleveland, looking for a job in Lincoln so her parents would let her attend Lincoln Christian College in the fall. John’s dad said if she came back in September and asked for Rose, they’d put her to work.

So Frankie did, and the rest, as they so often say, is history. Frankie and John fell in love, married, and continue to work together at the restaurant today. “Frankie came to school on the advice of my dad telling her to show up and become a waitress, and 47 years later here we are,” John says with a grin.

John worked at the restaurant all through high school and college, then he was drafted. “When I was drafted I really didn’t know if I was going to come back to the business or not,” John says. But when he got out of the service, John and Frankie married and decided to move back to Lincoln to help his parents run the business. In 1978, Doc and Rose decided to retire, so John and Frankie bought the restaurant and took over.

Soon thereafter, it was time for a new generation to start working. John and Frankie’s kids—Shelly, Janelle, and Nick—all helped out in the restaurant, just like their father did, while still in elementary school and all the way through their junior high and high school years. After getting married, however, Shelly and Janelle moved away.

Nick continued to work part-time at the restaurant while he attended Lincoln College. And then, his second year at the college, something clicked and he realized the restaurant business was his calling, just as it had been his father’s. “Nick decided he wanted to do it,” John says. “I never thought he’d want to be in the restaurant business, but if you look at him today he’s a spitting image of me when I was 32 years old.”

Theirs is more of a buddy or brother relationship than a father-son one, John admits. “He’s my best friend. We get along extremely well.”

John and Frankie think the world of their daughter-in-law, Shelly, too. She could have gotten a teaching job in the area once she married Nick, but instead she chose to go into the restaurant business with her husband. “If it weren’t for Nick and Shelly, we wouldn’t have this restaurant today,” Frankie says. Now Shelly runs the upstairs and Nick runs the kitchen, just like Frankie and John did for so many years. Although Frankie and John still work at the restaurant (officially, it’s a family corporation), now Nick and Shelly are in charge.

And, one day, their son J.T., now 7 years old, may take over. “I’m going to run the restaurant and take this baby over,” says J.T. who, along with his younger sister Julia, often spends time at the restaurant with their parents and grandparents. When he runs the place, J.T. says with a grin like his grandfather’s, he’ll swap a few pictures on the wall and add an egg sandwich to the menu (it’s his favorite thing to cook), but otherwise leave the place as it is today.

“They say only 7 percent of third-generation businesses and restaurants survive—we’re a rare commodity,” John says.

“And we’re looking forward to the fourth,” Frankie adds, nodding to her grandchildren.

The Restaurant
It should come as no surprise that the walls in The Villa are adorned with family photos and newspaper clippings collected over the years. Portions of the restaurant are devoted to snapshots of employees, family, work at the State Fair (where the Guzzardo family is involved in the Food-A-Rama each year), Lincoln Railer basketball, and more.

Warm hues, Italy-inspired murals on the walls, ornate lighting, and intimate seating areas impart an old-world feel. It’s all designed to imbue each meal with a sense of the Guzzardo family history—and make guests—whether they’re regulars or not—feel at home.

“As you travel, there are so many chains that dominate these communities,” John says. “We’ve been very fortunate to build a clientele and have people come from out of town.” He estimates that on Friday and Saturday nights, about 50 percent of their business comes from out of town and 50 percent of diners are visiting for their first time.

“Most of it is word of mouth. We do very little advertising,” Frankie says.

Frankie thinks so many people talk about the restaurant and keep coming back—some from long distances and over the span of 50-plus years—because of its intimate, welcoming ambience. “You walk through the dining room and people call you over and say hi. I think people like that camaraderie, that small-town feeling with the big-town food.”

The Food
Most of the fare served at The Villa is the same as it was 52 years ago—for instance, the thousand island dressing is homemade using the same recipe Doc and Rose started out with. “Dad was a dreamer and was always putting recipes together,” John recalls. Plus, a lot of the mainstays on the menu originated from John’s grandmothers. The tomato sauce and pizza dough served at the restaurant are still made using one of his grandmother’s recipes.

It only takes one visit to The Villa to learn that you’d better come with an empty stomach—and be prepared to take home leftovers anyway. The restaurant is known for its salad bar, which is complimentary with all entrees and includes a fresh selection of salad toppings, plus French onion soup, fresh-baked bread, and crispies (another of Doc’s recipes, they’re deep-fried pizza dough squares covered in cinnamon and sugar—a crowd favorite).

If you make it past the salad bar to the main course, the Italian food and pizza are two favorites. And the steaks draw people from miles around. “If you ever go on the weekends, people say there’s no better prime rib anywhere,” John says. Nick and John cut the steaks themselves each morning and slow-cook them with the bone in so the beef is fresh and nearly melts in your mouth.

There are plenty of other menu options aside from Italian fare and steaks too, including a selection of sandwiches (try the schnitzel), burgers, massive hand-breaded chicken strips, fish and shrimp, and sides including giant twice-baked potatoes.

In other words, there’s something for everyone on the menu. And that’s just the way Doc and Rose Guzzardo wanted it.

Get There
509 Pulaski St
.
Lincoln, IL 62656
217.732.6370

The Villa dining room is open Tuesday through Saturday from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Delivery service is available Tuesday through Sunday from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended, particularly on the weekend.

* Please note that The Villa does not serve alcoholic beverages.

Celebrate Lincoln’s 200th birthday in style at the historic State House Inn. Package includes overnight accommodations in a deluxe guest room, two tickets to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, a $50.00 gift certificate to Saputo's Restaurant, two welcome beverages in the “No Name Bar,” a full hot American breakfast buffet, and a complimentary Lincoln souvenir to remember your trip. Saputo’s reservations are suggested. You may also request additional tickets when reserving. Total package price is $160.00 + tax for Deluxe Guest Room and $170.00 + tax for Deluxe Suite accommodations. Learn more.