SIP, SAVOR, SHOP (and stroll!) in Downtown Champaign
Downtown Champaign offers endless opportunities to experience the local food, drink, and retail scene. Whether you're looking to sip craft cocktails, savor delicious bites, shop for unique finds, or take a leisurely stroll, we’ve got you covered. Oh, and be sure to stop by Experience Champaign-Urbana’s Welcome Center at 17 E. Taylor Street for local merch and a friendly welcome from our team!
SIP
Looking for a night out? Downtown Champaign is home to a variety of lively spots. And if you're not drinking, no worries—most places offer beautifully crafted mocktails and alcohol-free options!
Dim lighting, cozy seating, house music, and craft cocktails set the vibe at PUNCH! Bar, an upscale spot inside the Hyatt Place hotel—perfect for date night or a classy hangout.
Collective Pour boasts an impressive selection of whiskey, beer, and cocktails, while Esquire Lounge is a beloved classic with one of the most popular outdoor patios downtown—perfect for winding down after work.
At Pour Bros, you can pour your own drinks from their wall of local and regional beers, ciders, and meads (don't miss their skee-ball for some friendly competition).
For a cozy, quiet atmosphere, Hound’s Rest offers the charm of an English pub, complete with antique decor and intimate booths.
Feeling a little more adventurous? Blow off steam at The Axe Bar and test your axe-throwing skills, or hit the dance floor at Anthem, where you’ll find a mix of electro-pop, dance house, disco rap, and more.
Other great options: Ladro Enoteca, Barrelhouse 34, Bentley’s, Guido’s, Cowboy Monkey, Brass Rail
SAVOR
From comfort food to international flavors, downtown Champaign’s dining scene has something for every craving (plus vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options!).
Watson’s Shack & Rail serves up legendary Nashville hot chicken and indulgent comfort food (pro tip: go for the chicken and waffles!). Craving a great burger? Farren’s, Smith Burger Co., and The Space all offer can’t-miss selections.
If you’re veering toward the upscale, try Hamilton Walker’s, with its classic art deco ambiance, impeccable service, and expertly prepared steaks, seafood, and cocktails. If sliders and shareable bites are more your thing, Seven Saints is the place to go.
Pizza lovers have options, too! Pizzeria Antica specializes in authentic Neapolitan-style pizza made according to legit Italian rules and regulations, while Jupiter’s serves up thin-crust pies with creative toppings.
Take your taste buds on a world tour with Laotian and Thai cuisine at Sticky Rice, Zambian fare at Stango Cuisine, Indian comfort food at Kohinoor, fresh soul food at Neil Street Blues, authentic Mexican at Maize Mexican Grill, Carolina-style barbecue at Black Dog Smoke & Alehouse, and Japanese fusion at Tenkyu.
Need a pick-me-up? Mad Goat Coffee serves up serious brews, while Suzu’s Bakery offers delectable Japanese pastries.
Other great options: Big Grove Tavern, Martinelli’s Market, La Bahía Grill, Himalayan Chimney
SHOP
Downtown Champaign is full of one-of-a-kind shops where you can find everything from handmade goods to vinyl records and retro decor.
For the ultimate self-care haul, create your own custom-scented soy candle at Fire Doll Studio, a premier artisan chandlery, then stop by Walnut Street Tea Company, with over 500 varieties to choose from. Don’t forget an artisan-crafted, free-trade blanket (or socks!) from Ten Thousand Villages. (Check out the joyful mural, just outside the entrance, for a colorful selfie!)
Whether you’re into indie, jazz, hip-hop, classic rock—and everything else—music lovers will appreciate Exile on Main St., voted “Best Record Store” in Champaign-Urbana, featuring an extensive selection of LPs and turntables.
For bookworms, The Literary offers a curated selection of new releases, classics, and everything in between—plus, you can sip a cocktail or coffee while you browse! Meanwhile, Jane Addams Book Shop boasts an incredible collection of used books, magazines, and rare finds, some dating back over a century.
Mid-century decor fans will love Furniture Lounge, where you’ll find vintage-inspired home furnishings and artwork. And plant enthusiasts can explore unique greenery and botanical treasures at Plant Mode and Planted.
Other great stops: Circles Boutique, Joseph Kuhn & Co., Robert’s Fine Art of Jewelry, Needful Things, Dark Tower Comics
STROLL
Enjoy the charm of downtown Champaign on foot!
The Outside of Ordinary Mural features iconic local landmarks like the Champaign City Building, Urbana Farmers Market, Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch, and the University of Illinois’ State Farm Center—making it a favorite for selfies and snapshots.
A stroll down Park Avenue brings you to the Roger Ebert Statue, honoring the Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic and University of Illinois journalism alum. Take a seat next to him on the bench or give a “thumbs up” for a classic photo op!
For a peaceful escape, step into West Side Park, just beyond Ebert’s statue. This green space features public art, a fountain, a gazebo, winding pathways, and towering trees—a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery.
Whatever your vibe—sipping, savoring, shopping, or strolling—downtown Champaign is packed with opportunities to make the most of our brilliant, welcoming city!
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