Explore the hidden gems of our region. Interactive map included.
In a land of encroaching suburbia, Richmond offers a quiet, country-like getaway. This community hasn’t forgotten its agricultural heritage, and embraces both its open lands and its busy thoroughfares.
Centered along IL Route 173 and U.S. Route 12, this town of fewer than 2,000 residents is just 12 miles from Lake Geneva, Wis., and 10 miles from McHenry. We asked locals what was fun about their town and discovered a treasure of locally owned shops. While it’s a fun place during the weekend, we recommend avoiding a trip on Mondays, when many downtown shops are closed.
➲ Ginger Blossom
Owner Ginger Blossom travels to exotic locales such as India, Thailand, Bali, Mexico and Nepal in search of fair trade items. She’s filled an entire farmstead – home, barn, tent and outbuildings – with unique furniture, garden art, textiles, clothing and jewelry. 3016 IL Route 173, (815) 678-4015.
➲ Antiques
Four stores downtown.
1905 Emporium. Buy, sell and trade antiques, have them restored and find vintage items. 10331 N. Main St., (815) 678-4414.
Antiques on Broadway. Find refinished antique and vintage furniture and architectural salvage. 10309 N. Main St., (815) 678-7951.
Solid Brass Fine Antiques. Browse antique furniture, fabrics, clothing, home décor, military and sports items. 5509 Broadway St., (815) 678-4411.
Fox & Finch. Shop vintage home furnishings inside a former bank. 5611 Broadway St., (815) 678-4740.
➲ 2K Adventure Gear
Nippersink Creek winds through town on its way to the Fox River. Put in your kayak at nearby Spring Grove, but first stock up at this paddler’s paradise, filled with canoes, kayaks, paddles, outdoor gear and clothing. During the warmer months, join a kayak tour. 10310 N. Main St., (815) 862-1400.
➲ Prairie Trail Bike Path
Follow this 26-mile path north from Algonquin to the Wisconsin state line, passing just west of downtown Richmond. See preserved prairies, shaded forests and the Glacial Park conservation area. Horseback riding is allowed in places, as is skiing or snowmobiling.
➲ Richmond Hunt Club
Pheasant hunting and clay shooting are popular, but the club’s nearly 1,000 acres of open land are also available for fishing, hiking and picnicking. A popular destination for business retreats and fundraising groups, the club also sports seven paintball fields. 5016 IL Route 173, (815) 678-3271.
➲ Paisano’s on Broadway
The painted faux stone interior of this bistro matches its authentic Italian menu. Gluten-free and whole-wheat pastas, steak, seafood and veal entrees. 5614 Broadway, (815) 678-4500.
➲ Olive Black Martini & Wine Lounge
Start the night here while your table is readied at Paisano’s. Begin with a martini, such as a house-specialty Chocolate, or the “Cheesecake Factory,” a cheesecake martini with your choice of filling, including butterscotch, raspberry or almond. 5607 Broadway, (815) 678-7370.
➲ Anderson’s Candy Shop
Four generations of candymakers, spanning nearly a century, have brought their delicious handmade chocolates, fudges and treats to chocoholics. The family’s candymaking methods haven’t changed much, but their products have. Ask about sugar- and gluten-free options. 10301 N. Main St., (815) 678-6000.
➲ Local Festivals
Fall Fest kicks off on Sept. 28 with a wine walk, hay wagon rides, scarecrow competition, pumpkin painting and a street dance. Christmas of Yesteryear welcomes the holiday season from Nov. 29-Dec. 1 with carolers, cookies and Santa.
➲ Doyle’s Pub
Richmond was named by a man who won that right by winning a competition to scale the city’s new mill in 1844. The original is long gone, but today, a replica mill is home to this popular hangout for Harley riders. Recently renovated, it includes outdoor seating and a pub menu. 5604 Mill St., (815) 678-3623.
➲ The Silos
Richmond’s sister city, Spring Grove, is where America’s first vertical grain silo was constructed, in 1873. In Spring Grove, visit the original site in Lyle Thomas Park, and see a replica of the square wooden silo. Then, tour the country roads and see how many modern ones you can spot.