Our Stories

Terri shares her love of the Champaign Public Library for our "Your Places. Your Spaces. Your Community" campaign.

Terri shares her love of the Champaign Public Library for our "Your Places. Your Spaces. Your Community" campaign.

Grab those highly coveted fall photos in Champaign County!

Grab those highly coveted fall photos in Champaign County!

Mama Meta's Canteen plans to provide African food with some American twists for pick up, catering options for events, and pop up locations.

Mama Meta's Canteen plans to provide African food with some American twists for pick up, catering options for events, and pop up locations.

We can talk about sweater weather, sure. But we'd rather talk about soup season. As the chill in the air returns to the greater Champaign County area, soup hits the spot unlike any other dish.

We can talk about sweater weather, sure. But we'd rather talk about soup season. As the chill in the air returns to the greater Champaign County area, soup hits the spot unlike any other dish.

This recent headline caught our eye: the U of I's Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library is home to the 2nd largest Children's Book Collection in the country!

This recent headline caught our eye: the U of I's Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library is home to the 2nd largest Children's Book Collection in the country!

Around this time every year, we start to get that itch for fall. Here are a few of our favorite seasonal comfort items as we head into the start of October!

Around this time every year, we start to get that itch for fall. Here are a few of our favorite seasonal comfort items as we head into the start of October!

To help highlight a few you won't want to miss at Pygmalion 2021, here are five events you'll certainly want to make time for this weekend.

To help highlight a few you won't want to miss at Pygmalion 2021, here are five events you'll certainly want to make time for this weekend.

When you're looking for adventure in your backyard, consider visiting these historic gardens at Allerton Park and Retreat Center.

When you're looking for adventure in your backyard, consider visiting these historic gardens at Allerton Park and Retreat Center.

Co-Founders Susan Ogwal and Cindy Owusu to talk about returning favorites and new features of the 3rd annual C-U Black and African Arts Festival.

Co-Founders Susan Ogwal and Cindy Owusu to talk about returning favorites and new features of the 3rd annual C-U Black and African Arts Festival.

In our last blog for new U of I students, we're laying out a Food Bucket List to help get newcomers to our community introduced

In our last blog for new U of I students, we're laying out a Food Bucket List to help get newcomers to our community introduced

Half Century of Progress is one of the largest farm shows in the country. This year, it returns to Rantoul and is certain to be something curious onlookers will want to check out!G

Half Century of Progress is one of the largest farm shows in the country. This year, it returns to Rantoul and is certain to be something curious onlookers will want to check out!G

No matter where you go after college, our #OutsideofOrdinary community will always be yours. Here are our tips for new U of I students in the first entry of our Illini School Year Guide!

No matter where you go after college, our #OutsideofOrdinary community will always be yours. Here are our tips for new U of I students in the first entry of our Illini School Year Guide!

Summer isn't over yet! Add these six stops to your seasonal plans before transitioning to Fall.

Summer isn't over yet! Add these six stops to your seasonal plans before transitioning to Fall.

With a little chill in the air, and the leaves starting to change, fall is the ideal time to explore the outdoors. From spotting the best fall foliage to seeing the changing night sky, we’ve got the best spots for your fall outdoor adventures.

With a little chill in the air, and the leaves starting to change, fall is the ideal time to explore the outdoors. From spotting the best fall foliage to seeing the changing night sky, we’ve got the best spots for your fall outdoor adventures.

While area farms serve a purpose of growing or producing food, there’s also plenty of opportunities to visit a farm for fun. Here’s our top list of must-do activities on our local farms this fall.

While area farms serve a purpose of growing or producing food, there’s also plenty of opportunities to visit a farm for fun. Here’s our top list of must-do activities on our local farms this fall.

After a year off, our fall festivals are making a safe return to our community, providing everything from film-going experiences to live music to cultural celebrations. Check out what’s returning and make your plans for your weekend visit around these must-attend events!

After a year off, our fall festivals are making a safe return to our community, providing everything from film-going experiences to live music to cultural celebrations. Check out what’s returning and make your plans for your weekend visit around these must-attend events!

Something sweet opened a couple of weeks ago in the heart of downtown Fisher.

Something sweet opened a couple of weeks ago in the heart of downtown Fisher.

Rad Lad Games is planning to open on Mahomet's Main Street in August and you can learn more about the store in this Q+A with the owner!

Rad Lad Games is planning to open on Mahomet's Main Street in August and you can learn more about the store in this Q+A with the owner!

Curious about how to tackle the Champaign County Fair’s robust schedule of events and activities? We’ve got you covered with our 2021 Champaign County Fair Guide.

Curious about how to tackle the Champaign County Fair’s robust schedule of events and activities? We’ve got you covered with our 2021 Champaign County Fair Guide.

As the birthplace of the disability rights movement, we're proud to say that thanks to leaders in our community, Disability Pride is a year-round feature of Champaign-Urbana.

As the birthplace of the disability rights movement, we're proud to say that thanks to leaders in our community, Disability Pride is a year-round feature of Champaign-Urbana.

At the I&I Antique Tractor & Gas Engine Club Showgrounds, attendees will see a ton of amazing things, so be sure not to miss these 8 highlights over the four-day Historic Farm Days in Penfield.

At the I&I Antique Tractor & Gas Engine Club Showgrounds, attendees will see a ton of amazing things, so be sure not to miss these 8 highlights over the four-day Historic Farm Days in Penfield.

Champaign-Urbana might be the Best Midwest Food Town according to Midwest Living, but good eats and drinks don't stop when you leave C-U.

Champaign-Urbana might be the Best Midwest Food Town according to Midwest Living, but good eats and drinks don't stop when you leave C-U.

Here are just a few ideas to make some time in Campustown a fun little adventure in your own backyard before students return!

Here are just a few ideas to make some time in Campustown a fun little adventure in your own backyard before students return!

Fourth of July events in the Champaign County Area start as early as this weekend! Here's your guide to the major celebrations, parades, and fireworks displays taking place this year.

Fourth of July events in the Champaign County Area start as early as this weekend! Here's your guide to the major celebrations, parades, and fireworks displays taking place this year.

After a long, challenging year, we’re excited to once again celebrate our local arts scene during the Boneyard Arts Festival, hosted by 40 North, the Champaign County Arts Council. This annual event, typically held over the University of Illinois Mom’s Weekend in April, was rescheduled for June to allow time for safety efforts and vaccinations to be widespread. We couldn’t be happier that this popular arts & culture festival is kicking off a return of events and festivals to the greater Champaign County area at a time when our local artists and venues need it most.

After a long, challenging year, we’re excited to once again celebrate our local arts scene during the Boneyard Arts Festival, hosted by 40 North, the Champaign County Arts Council. This annual event, typically held over the University of Illinois Mom’s Weekend in April, was rescheduled for June to allow time for safety efforts and vaccinations to be widespread. We couldn’t be happier that this popular arts & culture festival is kicking off a return of events and festivals to the greater Champaign County area at a time when our local artists and venues need it most.

Christy Miller, director of Simply Arthur, spoke with us to hopefully change that for those who haven't been to Arthur, or to entice you back if you've visited before.

Christy Miller, director of Simply Arthur, spoke with us to hopefully change that for those who haven't been to Arthur, or to entice you back if you've visited before.

Jane Addams shares some great options for summer reads signed by the author!

Jane Addams shares some great options for summer reads signed by the author!

Beat the heat this summer with local public swimming pools and splash pads!

Beat the heat this summer with local public swimming pools and splash pads!

Aikman Wildlife Adventure is operating with new summer hours. If you haven't been in awhile (or ever) it's time to make the trip to Arcola!

Aikman Wildlife Adventure is operating with new summer hours. If you haven't been in awhile (or ever) it's time to make the trip to Arcola!

We want to highlight a few resources available to visitors and residents alike as we wrap up AAPI Heritage Month and continue improving our community for all.

We want to highlight a few resources available to visitors and residents alike as we wrap up AAPI Heritage Month and continue improving our community for all.

In our continued celebration of AAPI Heritage Month, we sit down with EKAH, a local artist whose work inspires and connects with audiences far and wide.

In our continued celebration of AAPI Heritage Month, we sit down with EKAH, a local artist whose work inspires and connects with audiences far and wide.

Getting started with these ways to engage with AAPI culture can help to expand our knowledge of the traditions and values our neighbors and friends share here in Champaign County and beyond.

Getting started with these ways to engage with AAPI culture can help to expand our knowledge of the traditions and values our neighbors and friends share here in Champaign County and beyond.

In Champaign County, innovation is around every corner. Here are a few of the area's most notable contributions!

In Champaign County, innovation is around every corner. Here are a few of the area's most notable contributions!

These locally-owned restaurants are the perfect place to visit during Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

These locally-owned restaurants are the perfect place to visit during Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

Tourism will help the greater Champaign County area and other communities like it to restore jobs and a sustained economic impact on local businesses.

Tourism will help the greater Champaign County area and other communities like it to restore jobs and a sustained economic impact on local businesses.

As we celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week, we reflect on the losses over the past year and look towards the role travel will play in our economic recovery.

As we celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week, we reflect on the losses over the past year and look towards the role travel will play in our economic recovery.

While 2020 may be remembered as a year we'd rather forget, a few wins in our community will continue to shape those who visit, work, and live in Champaign County for years to come.

While 2020 may be remembered as a year we'd rather forget, a few wins in our community will continue to shape those who visit, work, and live in Champaign County for years to come.

Roger Ebert looms large in the greater Champaign County area to this day. Read his favorite films and find them on streaming services at home!

Roger Ebert looms large in the greater Champaign County area to this day. Read his favorite films and find them on streaming services at home!

Urbana's Market at the Square returns May 1st and we couldn't be more excited.

Urbana's Market at the Square returns May 1st and we couldn't be more excited.

We have an incredible array of public art to explore from murals to sculptures and so much more. Here are five that have a particularly interesting story behind their creation!

We have an incredible array of public art to explore from murals to sculptures and so much more. Here are five that have a particularly interesting story behind their creation!

With the beautiful weather we've been having, we have patio season and spring cocktails on the brain

With the beautiful weather we've been having, we have patio season and spring cocktails on the brain

Read through our guide to freshening up your home and wardrobe for the new season!

Read through our guide to freshening up your home and wardrobe for the new season!

Itching to try a new sport? We have five you should try this spring and summer!

Itching to try a new sport? We have five you should try this spring and summer!

Check out these popular bike paths around the greater Champaign County area

Check out these popular bike paths around the greater Champaign County area

If you're thinking of casting a reel this spring, then be sure to try one of these community favorites for fishing in Champaign County!

If you're thinking of casting a reel this spring, then be sure to try one of these community favorites for fishing in Champaign County!

The new Rantoul Sports Complex, poised to open for tournament play in April, is already proving to be quite impactful for all involved.

The new Rantoul Sports Complex, poised to open for tournament play in April, is already proving to be quite impactful for all involved.

Here's a breakdown of six Easter events worth checking out in the greater Champaign County area!

Here's a breakdown of six Easter events worth checking out in the greater Champaign County area!

It doesn't take an expert to acknowledge the serenity the Japan House Gardens offer, but learning a bit about their history makes a visit to these spaces all the more special.

It doesn't take an expert to acknowledge the serenity the Japan House Gardens offer, but learning a bit about their history makes a visit to these spaces all the more special.

Legends Play Here in Champaign County, and we can't wait to welcome you next year for the IHSA Boys State Basketball Tournament in 2022.

Legends Play Here in Champaign County, and we can't wait to welcome you next year for the IHSA Boys State Basketball Tournament in 2022.

Before heading out to explore the Kickapoo Rail Trail this spring, get to know a few of the unique aspects that make this feature Outside of Ordinary.

Before heading out to explore the Kickapoo Rail Trail this spring, get to know a few of the unique aspects that make this feature Outside of Ordinary.

As you hunt for a spring read, these books are just a few of the eye-catching titles you'll find during a visit to Jane Addams Book Shop in Downtown Champaign.

As you hunt for a spring read, these books are just a few of the eye-catching titles you'll find during a visit to Jane Addams Book Shop in Downtown Champaign.

It’s no secret that Champaign County is home to and is surrounded by acres and acres of farmland with some of the richest soil in the world. This coming week, we're celebrating agriculture innovation through the AgTech Innovation Summit and through our local agricultural leaders.

It’s no secret that Champaign County is home to and is surrounded by acres and acres of farmland with some of the richest soil in the world. This coming week, we're celebrating agriculture innovation through the AgTech Innovation Summit and through our local agricultural leaders.

Whether you're someone who likes to garden outside or you're just eager to bid winter adieu, we have a few local plant shops in town that can help you.

Whether you're someone who likes to garden outside or you're just eager to bid winter adieu, we have a few local plant shops in town that can help you.

The greater Champaign County area is full of incredible options for walking and running amongst incredible nature scapes.

The greater Champaign County area is full of incredible options for walking and running amongst incredible nature scapes.

Check out these exhibits on Black culture, racial and social justice, and history that are poignant for Black History Month.

Check out these exhibits on Black culture, racial and social justice, and history that are poignant for Black History Month.

Rediscover the bountiful outdoor spaces to explore, whether you want to hike along area rivers, kayak on our lakes, or camp under the stars.

Rediscover the bountiful outdoor spaces to explore, whether you want to hike along area rivers, kayak on our lakes, or camp under the stars.

We social distanced during fall and winter of 2020 so we can catch the blooms rise this spring. These spaces showcase annuals and perennials that are sure to inspire. Snap a pic for your Instagram and share with #outsideofordinary!

We social distanced during fall and winter of 2020 so we can catch the blooms rise this spring. These spaces showcase annuals and perennials that are sure to inspire. Snap a pic for your Instagram and share with #outsideofordinary!

With tons of snow on the ground and plenty to do, here's how you can have some fun before winter is on its way for the season.

With tons of snow on the ground and plenty to do, here's how you can have some fun before winter is on its way for the season.

Across the greater Champaign County area, local breweries make art out of brewing. From all corners of Champaign County, you can find a beer that suits your tastes. Head to the tap room or pick up a growler to enjoy these crafted beverages.

Across the greater Champaign County area, local breweries make art out of brewing. From all corners of Champaign County, you can find a beer that suits your tastes. Head to the tap room or pick up a growler to enjoy these crafted beverages.

There’s something special about dining al fresco with the fresh air and the sunset providing the ambience. Our downtown districts offer hundreds of outdoor seats to enjoy with social distancing, but these iconic patios provide the perfect backdrop for dinner or a drink.

There’s something special about dining al fresco with the fresh air and the sunset providing the ambience. Our downtown districts offer hundreds of outdoor seats to enjoy with social distancing, but these iconic patios provide the perfect backdrop for dinner or a drink.

Farms large and small surround our micro-urban community, providing fresh ingredients for local chefs to incorporate into their menus, and for us to prepare at home. Here’s where you can pick up the freshest ingredients of the season to support our local food system.

Farms large and small surround our micro-urban community, providing fresh ingredients for local chefs to incorporate into their menus, and for us to prepare at home. Here’s where you can pick up the freshest ingredients of the season to support our local food system.

On top of the headaches that COVID-19 brought our way almost a year ago, thinking local could go a long way this Valentine's Day!

On top of the headaches that COVID-19 brought our way almost a year ago, thinking local could go a long way this Valentine's Day!

From lowkey lovebirds to fun-loving family plans, we have your Valentine's Day ideas covered!

From lowkey lovebirds to fun-loving family plans, we have your Valentine's Day ideas covered!

The Urbana Park District kicks off a new webinar series in February celebrating hobbies. With increased down-time during COVID-19, the series will focus on what keeps us busy and interested during the quiet hours.

The Urbana Park District kicks off a new webinar series in February celebrating hobbies. With increased down-time during COVID-19, the series will focus on what keeps us busy and interested during the quiet hours.

Need a recharge, refresh, or just a little getaway? As we #PlanForVacation this week, explore why a trip away can be incredibly beneficial to your mental health!

Need a recharge, refresh, or just a little getaway? As we #PlanForVacation this week, explore why a trip away can be incredibly beneficial to your mental health!

Curious about the Indoor Winter Farmers Market? Here's why it's worth the trip to Lincoln Square Mall.

Curious about the Indoor Winter Farmers Market? Here's why it's worth the trip to Lincoln Square Mall.

Indoor dining can resume, but what other changes come with Tier One mitigations?

Indoor dining can resume, but what other changes come with Tier One mitigations?

We can't bring 15,000+ people to your house for the game, but we can utilize some local businesses to recreate some of our favorite elements of watching sports and cheering on our favorite team.

We can't bring 15,000+ people to your house for the game, but we can utilize some local businesses to recreate some of our favorite elements of watching sports and cheering on our favorite team.

Find the best local places to grab winter gear. Staying inside all season long is so last year.

Find the best local places to grab winter gear. Staying inside all season long is so last year.

Shopping for a music lover? Whether they play music or listen to it, there's a local option waiting to help you find the perfect gift!

Shopping for a music lover? Whether they play music or listen to it, there's a local option waiting to help you find the perfect gift!

Shopping local is easy if you have names on your holiday list that enjoy cozy home decor. From candles to accent furniture and more, the greater Champaign County area has you covered!

Shopping local is easy if you have names on your holiday list that enjoy cozy home decor. From candles to accent furniture and more, the greater Champaign County area has you covered!

These are just some of the many amazing local art options we have for gifting in Champaign County!

These are just some of the many amazing local art options we have for gifting in Champaign County!

Check out options for Christmas Eve and Christmas catering options in Champaign County!

Check out options for Christmas Eve and Christmas catering options in Champaign County!

If you're trying to figure out what to give someone this holiday season, then consider gifting award-winning flavors, foods, and more from the greater Champaign County area.

If you're trying to figure out what to give someone this holiday season, then consider gifting award-winning flavors, foods, and more from the greater Champaign County area.

As you're finishing up holiday shopping, one option to consider is gifting community pride and a piece of what makes your home in Champaign County special.

As you're finishing up holiday shopping, one option to consider is gifting community pride and a piece of what makes your home in Champaign County special.

With a great collection of local bookstores in the greater Champaign County area, you're in luck if you're buying books this holiday season.

With a great collection of local bookstores in the greater Champaign County area, you're in luck if you're buying books this holiday season.

Read about tips to show someone you're thankful for them by shopping local!

Read about tips to show someone you're thankful for them by shopping local!

This year, it's more important than ever to support local retailers and businesses. Our 2020 Shop Local Guide makes it easy and exciting

This year, it's more important than ever to support local retailers and businesses. Our 2020 Shop Local Guide makes it easy and exciting

Curious about what's changing under the state of Illinois' Tier 3 Mitigations? We're here to help!

Curious about what's changing under the state of Illinois' Tier 3 Mitigations? We're here to help!

Everyone does Thanksgiving a little differently. If you're using whipped cream in a can this year, you can thank a Champaign-Urbana inventor for that delicious topping to your pie.

Everyone does Thanksgiving a little differently. If you're using whipped cream in a can this year, you can thank a Champaign-Urbana inventor for that delicious topping to your pie.

It's National Take a Hike Day! Here's how to celebrate in Champaign County

It's National Take a Hike Day! Here's how to celebrate in Champaign County

2020 has thrown just about everything at us. Take Thanksgiving cooking off your to-do list this year and support local restaurants.

2020 has thrown just about everything at us. Take Thanksgiving cooking off your to-do list this year and support local restaurants.

With Halloween coming up later this week, a lot of us have candy on the mind. At Flesor's Candy Kitchen in Tuscola, candy is an everyday obsession.

With Halloween coming up later this week, a lot of us have candy on the mind. At Flesor's Candy Kitchen in Tuscola, candy is an everyday obsession.

With amazing bars and restaurants come incredible cocktails, mixed drinks, and other adult concoctions perfect for the weekend ahead. Here are a few we can't stop thinking about.

With amazing bars and restaurants come incredible cocktails, mixed drinks, and other adult concoctions perfect for the weekend ahead. Here are a few we can't stop thinking about.

As a new season breaks through the summer months, one thing is far from over: farmers market season.

As a new season breaks through the summer months, one thing is far from over: farmers market season.

As the largest PrideFest in Illinois outside of Chicago, inclusivity and acceptance for all is a huge part of what makes us Outside of Ordinary.

As the largest PrideFest in Illinois outside of Chicago, inclusivity and acceptance for all is a huge part of what makes us Outside of Ordinary.

With cooler weather coming, you need to check out these fall attractions this weekend!

With cooler weather coming, you need to check out these fall attractions this weekend!

Check out the best tacos in the state of Illinois!

Check out the best tacos in the state of Illinois!

Check out these five seasonal comfort items worth picking up as we head into Fall!

Check out these five seasonal comfort items worth picking up as we head into Fall!

Located in Sullivan, this incredible orchard features favorite apple picking in its over 1500 fruit trees that grow 27 varieties of apples, peaches, plums, and pears.

Located in Sullivan, this incredible orchard features favorite apple picking in its over 1500 fruit trees that grow 27 varieties of apples, peaches, plums, and pears.

Who doesn't love pizza? There are some incredible options all over the state of Illinois!

Who doesn't love pizza? There are some incredible options all over the state of Illinois!

With Welcoming Week coming up soon and many elements going virtual, we wanted to overview this year's event and give the University YMCA a chance to talk about how everyone can get involved.

With Welcoming Week coming up soon and many elements going virtual, we wanted to overview this year's event and give the University YMCA a chance to talk about how everyone can get involved.

September marks the end of summer, so a full vacation might be out of the picture. Luckily, there are a ton of day trip possibilities in the greater Champaign County area!

September marks the end of summer, so a full vacation might be out of the picture. Luckily, there are a ton of day trip possibilities in the greater Champaign County area!

Check out the state of Illinois' most unique shopping opportunities!

Check out the state of Illinois' most unique shopping opportunities!

Support and celebrate National Black Business Month with these different ways to show support!

Support and celebrate National Black Business Month with these different ways to show support!

Explore the best family activities in the state of Illinois as summer wraps up!

Explore the best family activities in the state of Illinois as summer wraps up!

Read about how Behemoth Durable Goods navigated COVID-19 to open their business and what safety measures they have in place for customers.

Read about how Behemoth Durable Goods navigated COVID-19 to open their business and what safety measures they have in place for customers.

We're exploring the state's best fish sandwiches this week!

We're exploring the state's best fish sandwiches this week!

Read about how Plantify navigated COVID-19 to open their business and what safety measures they have in place for customers.

Read about how Plantify navigated COVID-19 to open their business and what safety measures they have in place for customers.

As August plugs along and we start feeling fall around the corner, now is a great time to try something a little Outside of Ordinary.

As August plugs along and we start feeling fall around the corner, now is a great time to try something a little Outside of Ordinary.

TELY ORGANICS opened right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic earlier this year. Find out what that process is like and what they've done to keep patrons safe and smiling as they enjoy organic drinks and more.

TELY ORGANICS opened right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic earlier this year. Find out what that process is like and what they've done to keep patrons safe and smiling as they enjoy organic drinks and more.

Read about geocaching spots all over the state of Illinois!

Read about geocaching spots all over the state of Illinois!

When nature turns up the heat, these are some of the best ways to stay cool!

When nature turns up the heat, these are some of the best ways to stay cool!

Tasty Tart opened right at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic earlier this year. Find out what that process is like and what they've done to keep patrons safe and smiling as they try a new treat!

Tasty Tart opened right at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic earlier this year. Find out what that process is like and what they've done to keep patrons safe and smiling as they try a new treat!

Check out some of the best local breweries around the state of Illinois!

Check out some of the best local breweries around the state of Illinois!

Learn how two U of I students began making masks to help with shortages.

Learn how two U of I students began making masks to help with shortages.

From sentimental first-date spots to scenic areas with gorgeous backdrops, memorable proposal spots are all over the greater Champaign County area.

From sentimental first-date spots to scenic areas with gorgeous backdrops, memorable proposal spots are all over the greater Champaign County area.

Explore Instagram spots across the entire state of Illinois!

Explore Instagram spots across the entire state of Illinois!

Luckily for us, there are a lot of “staycation” opportunities right here in the greater Champaign County area! Here are just a few ideas for a trip right in your own backyard!

Luckily for us, there are a lot of “staycation” opportunities right here in the greater Champaign County area! Here are just a few ideas for a trip right in your own backyard!

Rather than offer training tips or a guide to great toys, we want to give you an overview to some dog friendly activities and features of the greater Champaign County area so that you know all there is to enjoy with your four-legged friend.

Rather than offer training tips or a guide to great toys, we want to give you an overview to some dog friendly activities and features of the greater Champaign County area so that you know all there is to enjoy with your four-legged friend.

Check out some of the best ice cream spots around the state!

Check out some of the best ice cream spots around the state!

Here are three outdoor spaces to add to your summer to-do list!

Here are three outdoor spaces to add to your summer to-do list!

Read about how Curtis Orchard is opening their season with public safety and health in mind.

Read about how Curtis Orchard is opening their season with public safety and health in mind.

Check out some of the state's must-see outdoor art as you plan your day and weekend road trips!

Check out some of the state's must-see outdoor art as you plan your day and weekend road trips!

As great local breweries start to roll out their summer options, there's no shortage of amazing brews to try.

As great local breweries start to roll out their summer options, there's no shortage of amazing brews to try.

This week, we’re touring some of the state's best picnic spots!

This week, we’re touring some of the state's best picnic spots!

Summer treats in Champaign County? Who wouldn't be down for a day trip to try all these incredible desserts and snacks?

Summer treats in Champaign County? Who wouldn't be down for a day trip to try all these incredible desserts and snacks?

Check out some of the best fishing spots across the state of Illinois!

Check out some of the best fishing spots across the state of Illinois!

Celebrating the 4th of July this year might look a little different, but there's still plenty to do!

Celebrating the 4th of July this year might look a little different, but there's still plenty to do!

With Phase Four reopening guidelines released by the state, indoor activities and businesses are going to look a bit different.

With Phase Four reopening guidelines released by the state, indoor activities and businesses are going to look a bit different.

Read about why our local airport is going to be key for ensuring safe travel.

Read about why our local airport is going to be key for ensuring safe travel.

Check out some of the most amazing farmers markets across the state of Illinois!

Check out some of the most amazing farmers markets across the state of Illinois!

This week, we’re touring some of the state's top golf courses!

This week, we’re touring some of the state's top golf courses!

Shopping local makes a big difference in our Outside of Ordinary community. Read these insights into why supporting local matters today, tomorrow, and always.

Shopping local makes a big difference in our Outside of Ordinary community. Read these insights into why supporting local matters today, tomorrow, and always.

These best practices make sure we're all playing a part in safe shopping.

These best practices make sure we're all playing a part in safe shopping.

The greater Champaign County area is reopening and ready for shoppers, and we have your guide to some of the best gifts, products, and goods in the area.

The greater Champaign County area is reopening and ready for shoppers, and we have your guide to some of the best gifts, products, and goods in the area.

As you start dreaming up trips to take in the future, keep in mind these five can't-miss views!

As you start dreaming up trips to take in the future, keep in mind these five can't-miss views!

Read how Sidney Dairy Barn is keeping the ice cream coming with safety guidelines in place for customers and employees.

Read how Sidney Dairy Barn is keeping the ice cream coming with safety guidelines in place for customers and employees.

Check out how Just BEE Açaí is switching things up to bring delicious treats to your front door!

Check out how Just BEE Açaí is switching things up to bring delicious treats to your front door!

All week, you told us where your first stop would be after Stay-At-Home guidelines are lifted. Here's what you said!

All week, you told us where your first stop would be after Stay-At-Home guidelines are lifted. Here's what you said!

While our community looks very different during the COVID-19 pandemic, we see hope and unity all around the greater Champaign County area. We know that because of our residents, our business owners, and our students that our community will come back stronger than before.

While our community looks very different during the COVID-19 pandemic, we see hope and unity all around the greater Champaign County area. We know that because of our residents, our business owners, and our students that our community will come back stronger than before.

Shop curbside to put together your own Champaign County Area Stay-at-Home Kit!

Shop curbside to put together your own Champaign County Area Stay-at-Home Kit!

Read about the new COVID-19 guidelines for shopping at Urbana's Market at the Square.

Read about the new COVID-19 guidelines for shopping at Urbana's Market at the Square.

Read how local golf courses are adjusting their operations for the May 1 reopening under COVID-19 guidelines

Read how local golf courses are adjusting their operations for the May 1 reopening under COVID-19 guidelines

Read how Urbana Park District is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations and adapting their services.

Read how Urbana Park District is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations and adapting their services.

Read how Jenkins Catering is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations and adapting their services.

Read how Jenkins Catering is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations and adapting their services.

Read about how Aikman Wildlife Adventure is adjusting its services during COVID-19 closures.

Read about how Aikman Wildlife Adventure is adjusting its services during COVID-19 closures.

Read about how the Spurlock Museum is adjusting its services during COVID-19 closures.

Read about how the Spurlock Museum is adjusting its services during COVID-19 closures.

Take on this scavenger hunt featuring Public Art League Sculptures!

Take on this scavenger hunt featuring Public Art League Sculptures!

Find out how Dr. G's Brainworks can provide you with plenty to do and play during stay-at-home orders!

Find out how Dr. G's Brainworks can provide you with plenty to do and play during stay-at-home orders!

Read about how the Art Coop is adjusting to COVID-19 closures.

Read about how the Art Coop is adjusting to COVID-19 closures.

Read about how the Champaign Park District's new "We Challenge You" initiative and how its outdoor facilities can help you adjust during COVID-19 changes.

Read about how the Champaign Park District's new "We Challenge You" initiative and how its outdoor facilities can help you adjust during COVID-19 changes.

Spending a lot of time on Zoom meetings? Bring a little bit of Champaign Conuty flair to the calls with these community backgrounds!

Spending a lot of time on Zoom meetings? Bring a little bit of Champaign Conuty flair to the calls with these community backgrounds!

Find out how Pandamonium Doughnuts is changing the way they use their food truck and altering ordering in the wake of COVID-19.

Find out how Pandamonium Doughnuts is changing the way they use their food truck and altering ordering in the wake of COVID-19.

Read about how the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is adjusting to COVID-19 closures.

Read about how the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is adjusting to COVID-19 closures.

Read about how public libraries are adjusting their services during COVID-19 closures.

Read about how public libraries are adjusting their services during COVID-19 closures.

Read about how Fiesta Café is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how Fiesta Café is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how the Orpheum Children's Science Museum is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how the Orpheum Children's Science Museum is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how Sam's Cafe is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how Sam's Cafe is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how the Champaign County Forest Preserve District and its outdoor facilities can help you adjust during COVID-19 changes.

Read about how the Champaign County Forest Preserve District and its outdoor facilities can help you adjust during COVID-19 changes.

Read about how Mahomet's Museum of the Grand Prairie is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how Mahomet's Museum of the Grand Prairie is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how Champaign's Hopscotch Bakery + Market is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Read about how Champaign's Hopscotch Bakery + Market is adjusting to COVID-19 regulations, and how you can continue to support this local business.

Pi Day brings to mind one thing here at VCC: delicious, decedent pies! We’ll leave the math to students at Parkland and U of I, because today we’ve got local pie on the brain!

Pi Day brings to mind one thing here at VCC: delicious, decedent pies! We’ll leave the math to students at Parkland and U of I, because today we’ve got local pie on the brain!

When we "Spring Forward", it's easy to really miss that extra hour! Make the most of the ones you do have by Living #OutsideofOrdinary!

When we "Spring Forward", it's easy to really miss that extra hour! Make the most of the ones you do have by Living #OutsideofOrdinary!

With warm weather upon us, it's time to explore the many safe summer activities available. Check out our top four recommendations for summer.

With warm weather upon us, it's time to explore the many safe summer activities available. Check out our top four recommendations for summer.

As you traverse the community, it becomes immediately clear that arts and culture are an integral part of the Champaign County area’s landscape. From public art to museums to events, local and national talent is on display all around you to discover. Here’s our top recommendations for integrating arts and culture into your visit to the greater Champaign County area.

As you traverse the community, it becomes immediately clear that arts and culture are an integral part of the Champaign County area’s landscape. From public art to museums to events, local and national talent is on display all around you to discover. Here’s our top recommendations for integrating arts and culture into your visit to the greater Champaign County area.

As you approach the greater Champaign County area from any direction, you’ll see miles of farmland overflowing with traditional crops such as corn, soy and wheat. Look harder, and you’ll find dozens of additional farms growing and raising food that sustain us year-round. We enjoy the bounty of these crops through on-farm experiences, markets, and authentic farm-to-table dining. Check out our suggestions for eating like a local, with all local ingredients.

As you approach the greater Champaign County area from any direction, you’ll see miles of farmland overflowing with traditional crops such as corn, soy and wheat. Look harder, and you’ll find dozens of additional farms growing and raising food that sustain us year-round. We enjoy the bounty of these crops through on-farm experiences, markets, and authentic farm-to-table dining. Check out our suggestions for eating like a local, with all local ingredients.

Red Grange, Dick Butkus, Deon Thomas, Deron Williams, Mike Small, Tatianna McFadden—all legends that have trained and competed at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Who will be the next legend to play in the greater Champaign County area?

Red Grange, Dick Butkus, Deon Thomas, Deron Williams, Mike Small, Tatianna McFadden—all legends that have trained and competed at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Who will be the next legend to play in the greater Champaign County area?

Make the first full week of March memorable with these seven #OutsideofOrdinary ideas!

Make the first full week of March memorable with these seven #OutsideofOrdinary ideas!

Leap Day only comes once every four years. Seems like a perfect opportunity to do something Outside of Ordinary! Let's talk ways to make Leap Day memorable!

Leap Day only comes once every four years. Seems like a perfect opportunity to do something Outside of Ordinary! Let's talk ways to make Leap Day memorable!

Looking to get in on the Fat Tuesday fun? Here's a bit about the holiday, and a few ways to celebrate Fat Tuesday in Champaign County!

Looking to get in on the Fat Tuesday fun? Here's a bit about the holiday, and a few ways to celebrate Fat Tuesday in Champaign County!

Get out of hibernation and check out seven Outside of Ordinary events and attractions this week!

Get out of hibernation and check out seven Outside of Ordinary events and attractions this week!

If you're in town for the IHSA State Wrestling finals as a competitor, supporter, or fan of the sport, here are some ways to make Champaign-Urbana home during your visit!