Historic Washington has been brimming with character, small town values and rich heritage since before Ronald Reagan first visited the town. While in Washington D.C. President Reagan once sent greetings with an associate coming to visit Washington, Illinois. The leader of the most powerful nation on earth noted that he had often traveled through downtown Washington as he hitchhiked back to college.
Above photos: Mayor Manier, City Administrator Bob Morris and past chamber president Gary Deiters posing with “Welcome to Washington” sign. Veterans Memorial Park, Holland’s Mercantile-old fashioned candy store. Fishing at Washington Park. Washington’s Historic Square still thrives with unique restaurants and quaint shops.
Don’t leave town without visiting the old fashioned candy store where candy is sold in bulk, and added features include a soda fountain and ice cream parlor. If you are searching for primitives, antiques, gifts and collectibles the square is a good place to start. Picnic tables surround the fountain in the town square inviting you to take a relaxing break from shopping. Unique Shopping: In addition to the shops on the Square, Washington has a variety of other businesses to complete your shopping experience. Washington is home to a first-class full service bicycle shop, a unique gift and jewelry shop carrying the widest variety of sterling silver, fireballs, fashion accessories and gifts imaginable. SHOP WASHINGTON, you’ll be glad you did.
What’s for dinner? Whether you’re after a steaming cup of coffee and fresh baked goods for a mid-day snack, a quick light lunch or something more hearty for dinner, you will find the perfect spot to fit your taste. Washington has dining options ranging from quaint cafes and sandwich shops, local pubs, or full service establishments offering Italian, Mexican or Chinese cuisine.
Washington Events: Cherry Festival; June 1-4, 2011, Heartland Pride/Taste of Washington: July 19, 2011, Autumn Fest: September 23, 2011 (tentative), Moonlight Madness: October 17-20, 2011, Veteran’s Day Celebration: November 6, 2011 (tentative), Candlelight Stroll: December 1, 2011.
Sites to Visit
Five Points Washington
Community Center opened in 2007, housing an aquatic center, fitness center with courts and indoor walking track, performing arts center, banquet center and expanded library.
Veterans Memorial
Washington Park District Lawn, 815 Lincoln, Washington, IL
309-444-9413
In 2004, the efforts of an aggressive young Washington Eagle Scout brought a de-militarized Black Hawk helicopter to our town to be used as the centerpiece for our Veterans Memorial. The helicopter is surrounded by the American Flag and the flags of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Merchant Marines and the Coast Guard.
Village Doctor Museum
105 Zinser Place, Washington, IL
309-444-2467
Visitors to the Village Doctor Museum will step inside a doctor’s office as it was in the period of 1900-1925. Office furniture and medical tools on display are in sharp contrast to those in use today.
Where to Stay
Cornestone Inn of Washington
Where to Stay
101 Washington Square, Washington, IL Ph, 309-444-5632 or 309-251-1603
Choose from one of our seven spacious rooms filled with period antiques and beautifully restored woodwork. Each room features a private bath, central air, queen bed, wireless internet, cable TV and DVD player. Most rooms include a double whirlpool tub. Full breakfast in our fireside dining room includes home-baked pastries. www.denhartbakingcompany.com
Crestview Motel
Where to Stay
1216 Peoria St, Washington, IL 309-444-4421 Clean, comfortable rooms, cable TV, free phone, microwave and fridge, high speed internet, truck parking, laundry, ice machine. Special weekly and commercial rates.
Sleep Inn & Suites
Where to Stay
1101 N. Cummings Lane, Washington, IL
This hotel offers many little extras and amenities including; Free deluxe continental breakfast, Free wireless high-speed internet access, Free local calls, Indoor heated pool and hot tub and excercise room. All 62 spacious guest rooms come equipped with flat-screel television, hair dryer, iron, ironing board and coffee maker with free coffee. Some rooms feature sofa sleepers, microwaves and refrigerators. Handicap accessible rooms are available.
Http://www.sleepin.com/hotel-washington-illinois-IL310
Super 8
Where to Stay
1884 Washington Rd., Washington, IL
309-444-8881 or 800-800-8000
46 rooms offers free continental breakfast.