Elgin, Illinois
Enjoy your drive to Elgin in your RV rental from RVShare! Chartered as a city by the State of Illinois in 1854, Elgin is one of the fastest growing cities in Illinois. It is a large diverse community, which prides itself with its spirit of volunteerism and participation, which was acknowledged by the National Civic League by winning the prestigious “All-America City Award” twice. Elgin often called “The City in the Suburbs” is a vibrant city, which has retained its charm, yet have welcomed changes to it community. The city’s downtown area has seen a lot of renovations and developments including new residential buildings, commercial establishments, and art galleries, to name a few. It is a reflection of how the city has progressed since it’s founding in 1836. The Grand Victoria Casino, a riverboat casino, which opened in the 1990’s, has also contributed significantly in the economy of the city by drawing in thousands of people to the city annually. The city is also the home to a large number of Laotian Americans, who have opened stores and restaurants, which added to the cultural diversity the city enjoys
We are sharing with you our favorites in Elgin, which we think will make you take a trip to the city sooner than later. It is a beautiful city worth a visit.
Popular Tourist Attractions
Grand Victoria Casino Elgin
Even if you are not into gambling, you must still make a stop at the Grand Victoria Casino, which is situated atop the Fox River. It is one of the best gaming, dining, and entertainment destinations in Illinois. It is open to the public free of charge and only people who are 21 years old or above are allowed inside. Aside from the casino which has more than 1,100 exciting slots, a variety of Vegas-style table games, and exciting game promotions and giveaways, it houses 4 restaurants where you can dine in, and an entertainment center where shows are held regularly. It is a tourist magnet, which is why you must check it out too.
Elgin Symphony Orchestra
We hope you get the chance to watch and listen to the Elgin Symphony Orchestra play beautiful music. It is one of the best orchestras in the country and the pride of the city. It is also one of the reasons why you must visit the city. It has been named “Orchestra of the Year” three times by the Illinois Council of Orchestras. The orchestra has scheduled concerts throughout the year, which are usually held at the Hemmens Cultural Center and the Schaumburg Prairie Center for the Arts. If you are planning to take a trip to Elgin and want to listen to the orchestra play, you can check out their website for their concert schedule and ticket prices.
Elgin History Museum
Housed in an 1856 landmark building known as Old Main, the Elgin History Museum is where you will learn about the history of this fascinating city. It features five permanent exhibits including Elgin: From River to Rails which is about the founding and history of the city; Explore Elgin Architecture which illustrates the design styles and architecture of the buildings in Elgin; Elgin Road Races which depicts the colorful history of the Elgin road race; Elgin Watch Factory which displays the watches manufactured by the factory; and the Hiawatha Pageant, a tribute to the Native American culture. It also houses numerous temporary exhibits, which are changed regularly. You can also purchase unique gift items in the museum store.
Campgrounds and State/National Parks
Lehman's Lakeside RV Resort
A beautiful RV Park beside a lake and about 20 miles from Elgin, the Lehman’s Lakeside RV Resort is a great option especially if you want to be near the cities of Elgin, Chicago and Rockford. It exudes a laid back and homey feel, which is ideal for RVers who want to wake up in the morning with the sounds of birds instead of horns honking. It has 3 types of size, which depends on how long you will be staying. The RV Park has a total of 162 spaces, with 68 sites available. It has 46 full hookup sites and 50 pull-thrus. Amenities and services include free wi-fi internet access and cable TV, water activities in its 8-acre lake with free fishing, paddleboats, canoes, row boats, swimming in its sanded beach, camp store, coin laundry, and an air-conditioned recreation hall. Lehman’s Lakeside RV Resort is open all year round.
Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Located in the village of Volo about 26 miles from Elgin, the Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort is a family owned and operated camping resort, which is ideal for families. A fun-filled vacation awaits you and your family in the camping resort, which is nestled on acres of splendid Illinois meadows. Fish Lake Beach Camp is also a great place to stay if you plan to visit the Six Flags Great America. The Resort has a total of 595 spaces, 45 of which are available. Amenities and services include water activities in its lake, heated swimming pool, wading pool, recreational hall, playground, a camp store, and restrooms and showers, to name a few. In-season is from May 1 to October 15.
Sycamore RV Resort
Located in the city of Sycamore about 23 miles from Elgin, the Sycamore RV Resort is a family owned and operated RV Resort that was established in 1986. The RV Park is situated along the banks of a lake where you can enjoy numerous activities such as swimming, boating and fishing. The RV Park has 74 spaces, 10 of which are full hookups. Amenities and services include a pavilion, restrooms and showers, Laundromat, campground store, basketball and tennis court, to name a few. Although the RV Park is open all year round, it has limited spaces so it is better for you to reserve before your trip.
Events
Festival
Elgin International Festival
The Elgin International Festival also known as Elgin iFest is an annual celebration that pays tribute to the city’s and the Greater Fox Valley’s rich cultural diversity. It is a one-day event where you will learn more about each continent represented by a number of countries. It showcases their culture through games, music, entertainment, food, arts & craft, and merchandises. There are also three stages where you can watch performances by entertainment artists representing different countries. Admission to the Elgin iFest is free and open to all ages.
The Scandinavian Festival
An annual festival held the Sunday after Labor Day at the Vasa Park, the Scandinavian Festival is a celebration of the Scandinavian heritage in Elgin and the Greater Fox Valley. Learn more about Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and Finland through its music, dances, cultural exhibits and other form of entertainment. Savor delicious Scandinavian dishes and fellowship with the locals. You can also shop for crafts and gift items from more than 50 vendors. The festival is meant to be enjoyed by everyone in the family! Children under 12 years old are free of charge.
The city of Elgin is like a gift waiting to be unraveled. A lot of surprises await you in this vibrant and culturally diverse city! Planning to take trip soon? Why not visit Elgin and enjoy great music, awesome festivals and numerous attractions.
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