Whenever anyone wants to get off campus and find something to do in the local community, it seems like everyone flocks to downtown Champaign. But while Champaign does have adorable vintage shops and trendy restaurants that rival those in Chicago, we cannot forget about the other half of the sister cities, Urbana. Urbana offers just as many interesting things to do as Champaign does and is a great place to go when you are looking for an escape from the stress of campus life. So next time you are looking for somewhere new, make sure to check out these awesome places in Urbana!
Station Theatre and Champaign Urbana Community Theatre
If you are a theatre buff like me and are having a hard time finding places to see shows, fear not because there are actually TWO fantastic theatres in Urbana! The Station Theatre and the Champaign Urbana Community Theatre both put on quality productions year round. They produce many diverse kinds of shows, so everyone will be able to find something they enjoy. The Station Theatre recently put on a production of the Tony-award winning play God of Carnage. Champaign Urbana Community Theatre’s upcoming 2012 season includes musicals such as The Producers, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Legally Blonde. Also, if you are looking for a performance outlet, both theatres hold open auditions; get involved in the local theatre scene!
Urbana Free Library
Ever get sick of studying in the same dreary library? (UGL, anyone?) If so, check out the beautiful Urbana Free Library, located in downtown Urbana. This library is one of the oldest in the state and holds a plethora of historical information about Champaign County. It was also named one of the America’s best public libraries by the American Library Association, so it is definitely a welcome change from some of the libraries on campus.
Candlelight Lane
As the holiday season nears, this is definitely a place to visit. After Thanksgiving, make plans with a group of friends to trek over to Candlelight Lane, where the residents light up their homes for the holidays. Grab a peppermint mocha latte from Starbucks and ring in the season by enjoying all the Christmas lights and decorations. Take a relaxing stroll before you get into gear for finals and Winter Break.
The Courier Café
A true Urbana institution, the Courier Café serves delicious food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and will most likely be a better alternative than dorm food or having to cook for yourself. The Courier Café is also open late, so when you are feeling like some quality late night food, hop a bus over to Race Street in downtown Urbana. It is open from 7 AM to 11 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 7AM to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. The cute antique theme offers a great atmosphere and it makes you feel like you have traveled back in time.
Make sure to check out these awesome places, and the many other activities that Urbana has to offer!