Judson University
THE ELGIN AREA: B U H L A R U T C E IT H C AN AR s
th homes and commercial building
n in bo You’ll find many different styles, see he Elgin area is
T
home to a multitude of architectural
styles and public
resources for exploring
them. From the Painted
Ladies scattered around downtown Elgin — you’ll recognize their intricate
coloring — to Frank Lloyd Wright’s only farmhouse
design, the area is a local
gem for architecture fanatics.
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ELGIN AREA VISITORS GUIDE
Day 1
For a weekend trip to explore it all, start by checking into an area hotel, then setting out for BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. This large-scale Hindu temple in Bartlett was built with hand-carved Italian marble and Turkish limestone; you don’t want to miss it! After lunch at a local restaurant — see P. 30 for a listing of fantastic nearby options — head on a walking or driving tour of downtown Elgin. The downtown Elgin area is home to five historic districts, the most recent being recognized in 2015. The Explore Elgin Area website is a great place for planning a tour;
search “Downtown Elgin Historic Commercial District” and “The Gifford Park Association: A Historic Home Tour” to access maps, information and audio guides to historic spots. The Painted Ladies, distinctly recognized by their intricate coloring, are scattered throughout the Elgin area and are a can’tmiss part of your day. You don’t need to go to San Francisco to see this unique style! Mark your calendars for the Historic Elgin House Tour, scheduled for Sept. 10 and 11, 2022. The tour features beautiful homes focusing on unique architectural elements, and this year will be the event’s 40th anniversary! Learn more at www. historicelginhousetour.com.
