Need a little time to unwind? We get it — between work and family obligations, you deserve a little time with the besties. And what better way to unwind than walking through a historic downtown, perusing chic boutiques, sharing a bottle of wine, and grabbing a delicious meal? A memorable day trip awaits — get the girls together and spend some quality time in Paxton, Illinois!
Fuel & Finds
Get your morning pick-me-up at Kino’s Coffee, serving a delicious menu of hot or cold coffee drinks, smoothies, and breakfast sandwiches. Afterward, head up and down historic Market Street and discover the incredible deals at our locally owned boutiques. Freshen your wardrobe with trendy styles from Blush & Velvet and Lavender Lane Boutique. Bring home some new outfits for the youngsters in your life — from Little Munchkin Children’s Boutique. And give your home a makeover with home décor, beautiful floral arrangements, and antiques from A Picket Fence.
A Simpler Time
Ready for a vintage shopping venture? Several shops along Market Street specialize in vintage — or vintage-inspired — products in equally nostalgic settings. Serving Paxton for more than 75 years, Hudson Drug & Hallmark Shop offers the warmth and personality you’d expect from an old-fashioned drug store, plus a collection of Hallmark gifts, keepsakes, women’s and children’s clothing and accessories, and décor. Discover a collection of reclaimed goods alongside modern gifts and accessories at Ruby Jewel Antiques & Gifts, then head to Paxton Mercantile Co. and explore an eclectic mix of products inspired by a simpler time, from baking mixes to clothing.
Lunch & Off-Market Retail
Break for lunch at La Hacienda Cantina, for truly authentic Mexican flavors like their delicious street tacos and homemade tamales! After lunch, take a short trip down Market Street and around the curve to IL-9 and visit Flatland Finds, featuring a fantastic collection of antiques and pre-loved items suitable for all tastes.
Snacks & Toasts
Ready for a mid-afternoon snack? Mom & Pops Kettle Korn Stop features a fantastic selection of gourmet popcorns in a variety of delectable flavors. Try their classic original kettle corn or reach for premium flavors like Snickerdoodle, Lemon Delight, or Coco Crunch. The shop also carries a variety of old-fashioned candies and sodas, offering a sweet taste of yesteryear. Then, unwind with an end-of-the-day glass of wine at Prairie City Wine Room, boasting a wide selection of reds and whites ranging from dry to sweet in a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere — the best way to kick back after a day spent with your closest friends!
Snap a Selfie
Before leaving town, don’t miss the opportunity to commemorate your girls trip with a selfie in front of our downtown artwork! The Commandery Building (Market and State streets) and Welcome to Paxton (Market & Pells streets) murals offer fantastic backdrops for you and the girls, as do the water tower and clock tower at City Hall (136 S. Market St.). Finally, don’t miss the interactive art installation at 237 S. Market St., providing a fun and unique way to show your newfound love for Paxton!
Plan Your Next Getaway
Last on the agenda? Planning your next trip to Paxton! Our calendar is full of fun events worth planning a trip around. Celebrate the holiday season during Paxton’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 28, the Annual Paxton Christmas Parade — one of the most spectacular holiday celebrations in eastern Central Illinois, with more than 40 entries bringing joy and good tidings. The Evening Holiday Shopping Event on Dec. 5, invites shoppers to visit a collection of pop-up shops and food trucks around Downtown Paxton; musicians even stroll into local shops and eateries to serenade crowds with holiday standards! And there’s more! The Cadillac regularly hosts musical acts for a night of singing and dancing to your favorite jams! No matter what brings you back to town, we can’t wait to see you and the girls again!
No matter what time of year you’re in town, there’s always something happening in Paxton — from Christmas tree displays and fall gatherings to fun ways to beat the summer heat! Check out our Events Calendar and plan your trip today!