Tourism
Come create your own memories
Historic Crawford County Illinois has something for everyone… historic sites, golf courses, camping, recreational lakes and rivers, unique shops, family-oriented annual events, museums, fine dining and excellent hotel/motel accommodations.
The county offers three golf courses, including the beautiful Quail Creek Country Club, which has been host to PGA tour events. Shooting and archery ranges, hiking, biking and horseback trails, sports courts, beautiful parks, fishing lakes, a conservation area and campsites are located throughout the county. The free-flowing Wabash River serves as the winding eastern edge of Crawford County Illinois.
Crawford County was formed on December 31, 1816, and is located in the central eastern portion of the state. The county was named in honor of William H. Crawford, a United States Senator from Georgia who also served his country as Minister of France, Secretary of War, and Secretary of the Treasury. He was also a prominent presidential candidate in 1824.
Crawford County consists of several unique communities, each with its own distinguishing features. Robinson, the county seat, is home to the late writer James Jones, author of From Here to Eternity and The Thin Red Line, and well as boasting the birthplace of the Heath Candy Bar. Hershey Chocolate, producers of the Heath Bar, along with Marathon Petroleum, and Lincoln Trail College make their home in Robinson. Retail choices include clothing, jewelry, antiques, home décor, specialty foods, floral and garden shops.
Oblong, located on the western edge of the county, also offers a variety of unique retailers. Collectibles, quilt and sewing supplies, handcrafted gifts, floral, and furnishings can be found along Main Street in Oblong. The Oil Field Museum in Oblong features two buildings of displays, tools, books and literature, working models and photographs regarding the boom days of oil discovery in Crawford County Illinois in the early 1900’s.
Palestine is the oldest town in the state of Illinois still in its original location. The entire business district is listed on the National Historic Register, and many turn-of-the-century buildings house art galleries, antique and collectable stores, and gift shops. Visitors come from all around to visit this historic village full of rich history. Palestine is home to the Fife Opera House, the annual Pioneer City Rodeo and Labor Day Festival, and many other history rich events throughout the year.
Hustonville, at the Wabash River Bridge on the northeast edge of the county, features the Hutson Memorial Village. A “town” made up of original, furnished log cabins, a log barn, and log church, is named in honor of the Isaac Hutson family which was massacred by Indians in 1813. Each year, the event is re-enacted, and several other family oriented events are held at the complex throughout the year. Antique and specialty stores round out the village, along with a bookstore located in the house where Illinois’ ninth Governor, August French was married.
Flat Rock gets a big “thumbs up” when it comes to a great milkshake, fresh pie, and friendly conversation. The annual Flat Rock Homecoming is a great time to visit the village for memorable family fun.
A great opportunity…a lifetime of happiness
Experience a lifetime of happiness in Crawford County Illinois. Everything is at your fingertips… friendly neighborhoods, quality education, modern healthcare facilities, noteworthy recreation and premium shopping choices. Business opportunities are welcomed with open arms. For more information, contact the City of Robinson at (618) 544-7616 or online at www.cityofrobinson.com/tourism.
Come see what there is to offer. You are always welcome in Crawford County, Illinois.
Download your tourism grant application at the link below. Applications are due March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1 of each year.