The international travel website World Atlas maintains that “Americans are among the nicest people in the world” and compiled a list of 12 of the most welcoming towns in the United States to support that contention.
People seeking a vacation with plenty of community events and friendly residents might want to consider the two places in Illinois that made the list. World Atlas recommended one Illinois community as a “small, welcoming” gem and lauded another for its “fun-filled annual events.”
What are the most welcoming towns in Illinois?
World Atlas chose Downers Grove and Kewanee as two of the friendliest places in America. The site described Downers Grove as a “best-kept secret” west of Chicago and noted Kewanee’s reputation as “The Hog Capital of the World.”
Things to do in Downers Grove, Illinois
World Atlas says the village’s annual calendar of events speaks to its welcoming character. Downers Grove hosts over 140 community events and festivals each year, according to World Atlas.
The Rotary GroveFest in June features carnival rides, a beer garden, live entertainment and a car show. During the Downers Grove winter Ice Festival, residents and visitors can admire dozens of ice sculptures lining the downtown streets.
Friday evenings during the summer mean informal car shows, and summer Saturdays are opportunities to shop at the farmers’ market downtown. Downers Grove is also the home to the Tivoli Theatre, which opened on Christmas Day in 1928.
What is Kewanee, Illinois known for?
The “Hog Capital of the World” is known for Kewanee Hog Days, a festival typically held Labor Day weekend. The event features carnival rides, the “world’s largest outdoor pork barbecue,” and a craft show and flea market.
Other annual events include a car show, an Independence Day celebration popular amongst families from all around the region, and a farmers’ market at Berrien Park every Wednesday and Saturday from May through October. Kewanee’s downtown is adorned with eye-catching murals that celebrate both civic and national pride.
What are the ‘most welcoming’ cities in the U.S.?
World Atlas defined these 12 cities as “most welcoming” towns in America.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: World Atlas describes Illinois cities as two of the ‘most welcoming’ in the nation
Reporting by Mike Kramer, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
