Bishop Hill

Some might consider this town 70 miles northwest of Peoria a little sleepy, but that's part of the charm if you're looking for a laid-back day trip. Eric Jansson founded this town as an agrarian commune in 1846. The strong Swedish culture endured despite his murder four years later. Learn about it through a 10-minute video at Bishop Hill Museum, where you'll also find the fascinating paintings of self-trained primitive folk artist Olof Krans. Displays at Colony Church, Bishop Hill Heritage Museum, and off-the-cuff tours at Colony Hotel help complete the picture of early Bishop Hill life. Try one of Bishop Hill Colony Baker's "Olof's ear," a crispy delicious variation of elephant's ears with chocolate on the inside. You'll find more tasty diversions and Swedish-influenced gifts, crafts and arts in the town's six other shops and restaurants. Museum admission charged.