
Nestled in the heart of the Fox Valley and just one hour west of Chicago, St. Charles celebrates a vivid history while embracing the promise and advantages of the 21st Century.
Back in the 1880’s, the Fox River, which courses through the heart of our city, enticed the city’s benefactors - Edward J. Baker and his niece, Delorra Norris – to share a vision of St. Charles as a haven for experiences steeped in culture and the arts. Today, St. Charles has become the “Pride of the Fox” and is the reality of that 125-year old vision. Throughout the city, civic, art and performing centers, sprawling school campuses and public parks, and stately, edifying churches are lasting testaments to the dreams of the Baker and Norris Families.
Ninety percent of our shorelines are preserved for picnicking, jogging, and bicycling. Miles of trails wind through nature preserves and remnant Illinois’ prairies. Canoes and kayaks skim about as paddlewheel boats cruise the Fox River, providing wondrous sights for the shoppers and antiquers strolling across the Main and Illinois Street bridges while browsing the retail choices of Century Corners, downtown St. Charles, Fox Island Square, and Third Street Shops.
As daytime draws to a close, the performing stages and theater venues of St. Charles come alive. River and fireside dining experiences and charming pubs with live entertainment lure folks looking to relax and unwind. More than 30 restaurants bring unique flavors to St. Charles from throughout the world.
Special events enhance the mainstays of life in St. Charles. Every month, the Kane County Flea Market attracts antique and craft sellers who tempt buyers from throughout the Midwest, each delighted to explore the wide range and prices of eclectic merchandise for that special and sometimes rare find.
Each fall, St. Charles’ Scarecrow Festival kicks off autumn. In its 22nd year, this nationally-recognized family event draws more than 60,000 attendees to enjoy three days of seasonal fun and to wonder at almost 200 festive Scarecrows crafted by area residents, businesses, and organizations displayed whimsically in St. Charles’ Lincoln Park.
St. Charles has earned its reputation as a community of charms and treasures— regardless of the time of year—activities, adventures, and moments to share abound in St. Charles.
St. Charles’ portfolio of hotels and meeting facilities ensures our reputation as a well-rounded tourism destination. Lodging choices for leisure guests, convention space for 3,500, and tradeshow/exhibit capabilities for 10,000 are available at Pheasant Run Resort. Q Center, formerly Anderson Worldwide, is one of the nation’s most outstanding corporate training facilities. Hotel Baker is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and an additional eight (soon to be nine) economy and mid-range properties provide rooms for visitors choosing St. Charles for a myriad of reasons.
The St. Charles Visitors Bureau provides the ultimate in service, whether visitors are looking for a romantic getaway, family vacation, sports event or meeting destination. With the Bureau’s help, every visit is unforgettable, because St. Charles, Illinois, truly is just the kind of place to visit again…and again…and again…
St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau
sales@visitstcharles.com
(800) 777-4373
www.visitstcharles.com
Arcada Theatre
105 E. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174
(847) 795-1800
www.o-shows.com
Classic Cinemas’ - Charlestowne 18
(Charlestowne Mall)
3740 E. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174
(630) 443-4378
www.classiccinemas.com
The Noble Fool Theater
4051 E. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174
(630) 584-6342
www.noblefool.org
Norris Cultural Arts Center
1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles, IL 60174
(630) 584-7200
www.norrisculturalarts.com
Pheasant Run Resort & Mega Center
4051 E. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174
(630) 584-6300
www.pheasantrun.com
St. Charles Bowl
2520 W. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60175
(630) 584-9400
www.stcharlesbowl.com
Steel Beam Theatre
111 W. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174
(630) 587-8521
www.steelbeamtheatre.com
The Fine Line Creative Arts Center
6N158 Crane Road, St. Charles, IL 60175
(630) 584-9443
www.finelineca.org
Windy City Amusements, Inc.
920 W. Main Street, St Charles, IL 60174
(630) 443-4547
www.windycityamusements.com