Did you know Jubilee College was one of the first educational institutions in Illinois to admit students regardless of gender or race when it opened in the 1840s? This pioneering spirit makes Jubilee College State Historic Site one of Illinois’ most fascinating historical treasures. Nestled among 3,200 acres of rolling hills and natural beauty, this remarkable destination combines rich history with outdoor adventure, offering visitors a unique glimpse into frontier education while providing modern recreational opportunities.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Jubilee College State Historic Site is located at 13921 W. Route 150, Brimfield, IL, approximately 15 km (9.3 miles) northwest of Peoria. The site is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient day trip destination for visitors in central Illinois.
Nearest Airports
- General Downing-Peoria International Airport – 24 km (15 miles) away
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport – 240 km (149 miles) away
Most visitors find renting a car the most convenient option for reaching the historic site, as public transportation options are limited in this rural area.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
Start by booking your flights to experience this unique piece of Illinois history.
Best Time to Visit Jubilee College State Historic Site
The ideal time to visit Jubilee College State Historic Site is from April through October when the weather is most favorable for outdoor exploration. During these months, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 29°C (59°F to 84°F), providing comfortable conditions for hiking, horseback riding, and touring the historic buildings.
Recommended Seasons
- Spring (April-May): Wildflowers bloom across the prairie areas, and the mild temperatures make hiking particularly pleasant.
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for exploring all trails and participating in outdoor activities, though be prepared for occasional hot days.
- Fall (September-October): The changing foliage creates spectacular views, with comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.
Seasons to Avoid
- Winter (November-March): Cold temperatures, potential snow, and limited site access make winter visits less ideal. Temperatures can drop to -6°C (21°F) or lower.
Note that the historic buildings may have limited hours during the off-season, so always check the official website before planning a winter visit.
Getting Around Locally
Navigating Jubilee College State Historic Site is straightforward, with well-marked trails and paths connecting the various historic buildings and natural areas. The site spans 3,200 acres, offering plenty of space for exploration.
Transportation Options
- Personal Vehicle: Most visitors drive between different areas of the park, with ample parking available near the main historic buildings.
- Walking: A network of hiking trails connects the historic buildings and natural areas, making walking a pleasant option for exploring the immediate vicinity.
- Horseback Riding: The park permits horseback riding on designated trails, offering a unique way to experience the landscape as early visitors might have.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Having your own transportation gives you the freedom to fully experience everything the historic site has to offer.
Where to Stay
While Jubilee College State Historic Site doesn’t offer on-site accommodations, several lodging options are available in nearby communities, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Camping Options
For outdoor enthusiasts, Jubilee College State Park offers camping facilities with sites that can accommodate RVs, trailers, and tents up to 15 m (50 feet) in length. The campground provides basic amenities including fire rings and picnic tables.
Camping fees range from $10 to $30 per night, depending on the season and amenities.
Nearby Hotels
The cities of Peoria and Brimfield, both within 20 km (12 miles) of the site, offer various hotel options ranging from budget-friendly motels to upscale accommodations.
Most hotels provide modern amenities including Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to local restaurants and shopping.
Bed & Breakfasts
Several charming bed and breakfasts operate in the surrounding rural communities, offering a more intimate and personalized lodging experience with home-cooked meals and local insights.
These accommodations often feature historic buildings with period furnishings, providing an immersive experience that complements your visit to the historic site.
Find Your Perfect Stay
Book accommodations near Jubilee College State Historic Site to make the most of your visit.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While Jubilee College State Historic Site doesn’t have on-site dining facilities, the surrounding communities offer a variety of dining options that showcase local Illinois cuisine and flavors.
Nearby Dining Options
Local Favorites
- Brimfield Cafés: The nearby town of Brimfield offers several small cafés serving homestyle breakfasts and lunches with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
- Kickapoo Diners: Traditional American diners in Kickapoo serve hearty Midwestern fare including pork tenderloin sandwiches and homemade pies.
- Peoria Restaurants: Just a short drive away, Peoria boasts a diverse dining scene with everything from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
Local Specialties
- Illinois-Style BBQ: Featuring slow-cooked meats with sweet tomato-based sauces.
- Corn Dishes: Fresh local corn prepared in various ways, reflecting Illinois’ agricultural heritage.
- Horseshoe Sandwich: An open-faced sandwich topped with meat, french fries, and cheese sauce – a central Illinois specialty.
Picnic Tip: Many visitors bring picnic lunches to enjoy at the designated picnic areas throughout the park. This option allows you to maximize your time exploring while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Jubilee College State Historic Site offers a fascinating blend of historical exploration and outdoor recreation, with attractions that appeal to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike.
Historic Buildings
- Jubilee College Building: The centerpiece of the site is the original 1840s Gothic Revival structure that housed the college’s chapel, classrooms, and dormitory facilities. Guided tours offer insights into frontier education and daily life.
- Schoolmaster’s Office: A meticulously recreated period office and library featuring original artifacts and educational exhibits about the college’s history.
- Bishop Chase’s Residence: Visit the restored home of Philander Chase, the Episcopal bishop who founded the college in 1839.
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking: Over 40 km (25 miles) of multi-use trails wind through woodlands, prairies, and ravines, offering opportunities to observe native wildlife and plants.
- Horseback Riding: Designated equestrian trails provide a unique way to experience the landscape as early settlers might have.
- Mountain Biking: Challenging terrain makes this a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to deer, wild turkeys, foxes, and over 160 bird species, making it ideal for wildlife photography and birdwatching.
Enhance Your Experience
Discover guided tours and special activities at Jubilee College State Historic Site.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Beyond the historic buildings themselves, Jubilee College State Historic Site offers several cultural and educational experiences that provide deeper insights into Illinois’ frontier history.
On-Site Museum
The site features a small but informative museum housed within the restored college building. Exhibits showcase:
- Original artifacts from the college’s operational period (1840-1862)
- Educational materials and teaching tools from the 19th century
- Interactive displays explaining frontier education methods
- Photographs and documents illustrating student life
Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, Jubilee College State Historic Site hosts various events that bring history to life:
- Living History Days (Spring and Fall): Costumed interpreters demonstrate 19th-century crafts, cooking, and educational practices.
- Heritage Festival (Summer): Celebrating local history with music, traditional foods, and historical demonstrations.
- Candlelight Tours (December): Experience the historic buildings decorated for a 19th-century Christmas celebration.
Nearby Cultural Attractions
Expand your cultural experience by visiting these nearby attractions:
- Peoria Riverfront Museum: Located 20 km (12 miles) away, featuring art, science, and history exhibits.
- Wildlife Prairie Park: A 25 km (15.5 mile) drive, showcasing native Illinois wildlife in natural habitats.
- Kickapoo Creek Winery: Sample local wines in a scenic setting just 10 km (6.2 miles) from the historic site.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
The natural areas surrounding Jubilee College State Historic Site provide abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation throughout the year.
Seasonal Outdoor Activities
- Spring: Wildflower walks, bird migration watching, and photography opportunities as the landscape awakens.
- Summer: Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and picnicking in shaded areas.
- Fall: Foliage viewing, nature photography, and cooler-weather hiking through colorful landscapes.
- Winter: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on designated trails when snow conditions permit.
Natural Features
- Restored Prairie: Experience one of Illinois’ signature ecosystems, home to native grasses and wildflowers.
- Jubilee Creek: A tributary to Kickapoo Creek running through the park, offering opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
- Woodland Areas: Explore diverse forest habitats featuring oak, hickory, and maple trees.
- Geological Features: Observe natural bedrock exposures including shale, sandstone, limestone, and coal.
Trail System
The park’s extensive trail system accommodates various activities and skill levels:
- Multi-Use Trails: Over 40 km (25 miles) of trails shared by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
- Prairie Loop Trail: A 3.2 km (2 mile) easy hike through restored prairie habitat with interpretive signage.
- Woodland Ridge Trail: A more challenging 4.8 km (3 mile) route with elevation changes and scenic overlooks.
- Historic Site Path: A 1.6 km (1 mile) accessible path connecting the main historic buildings.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Jubilee College State Historic Site enhances the experience for everyone while helping preserve this important historical landmark for future generations.
Safety Guidelines
- Stay on designated trails to avoid hazards and protect sensitive natural areas.
- Bring adequate water, especially during summer months when temperatures can reach 32°C (90°F).
- Apply insect repellent during warmer months to protect against ticks and mosquitoes.
- Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance from any animals encountered.
- Check weather forecasts before visiting, as trails can become muddy after rain.
Visitor Etiquette
- Touch historic artifacts and buildings only when explicitly permitted by staff.
- Maintain quiet voices inside historic buildings to respect other visitors.
- Follow the “leave no trace” principle by taking all trash with you.
- Keep pets leashed at all times and clean up after them.
- Yield to horses on multi-use trails (hikers and bikers should step aside).
Important: The historic buildings contain original materials and artifacts. Please follow all posted guidelines and staff instructions to help preserve these irreplaceable resources.
Visitor Comments About Jubilee College State Historic Site
“The combination of history and natural beauty at Jubilee College was unexpected. We spent a full day exploring the historic buildings and hiking the trails. The guided tour provided fascinating insights into frontier education that I’d never considered before. Don’t miss the view from the ridge trail!”
“As an international visitor, I found Jubilee College State Historic Site to be a hidden gem that offered an authentic glimpse into American frontier history. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and the buildings are remarkably well-preserved. I especially enjoyed learning about Bishop Chase and his progressive educational philosophy.”
“We visited during the fall and the colors were spectacular! The hiking trails provided enough challenge to keep it interesting while still being manageable for our whole family. The kids were fascinated by the old schoolroom and the hands-on activities in the museum. Definitely worth the drive from Chicago.”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Bring
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Many of the site’s attractions require walking on uneven surfaces.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during summer months.
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended year-round.
- Binoculars: Enhance wildlife viewing and appreciate architectural details.
- Camera: Capture the historic buildings and natural beauty.
Planning Essentials
- Operating Hours: The historic site is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesday through Sunday.
- Admission: Entry to the grounds is free, though some special events may have fees.
- Guided Tours: Available at scheduled times throughout the day; check the visitor center for current schedule.
- Accessibility: The main historic building has wheelchair access, though some trails may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
- Cell Service: Coverage can be spotty in some areas of the park; download maps in advance.
Local Tip: Visit on weekdays if possible to enjoy a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds, especially during the popular fall season.
Your Historic Adventure Awaits
Jubilee College State Historic Site offers a rare opportunity to step back in time while enjoying the natural beauty of central Illinois. From exploring the pioneering educational institution that broke barriers in the 1840s to hiking through diverse ecosystems, this destination rewards visitors with both knowledge and recreation. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a unique day trip, Jubilee College State Historic Site delivers an experience that connects you with Illinois’ rich heritage and natural landscape. Pack your curiosity, comfortable shoes, and camera – a memorable journey through time and nature awaits at this remarkable historic treasure.
The above is subject to change.
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