Canton
Experience the Canton Gateway Along the Illinois River Road
Come enjoy Canton! Vibrant, rich in history, and home to citizens of great character and ambition, including Charles Duryea, inventor of the first practical automobile, Elizabeth Magie, one of several credited with helping to develop the game of Monopoly, and William Parlin and William Orendorff, agricultural equipment innovators during the late 1800’s.
Canton has lovely lakes, an exceptional park system with more than 1,600 acres that can be enjoyed and explored year round, and a downtown filled with charming historical buildings, shops and restaurants. The area is a delight to hunters, fishermen and those poised with cameras to view the area’s abundant wildlife. The hardwood forest which surrounds Spoon River College is another natural jewel which should not be missed. Thankfully, the college has ensured protection for this valuable area by designating it as an arboretum.
Begin your journey with a stop at the Illinois River Road informational kiosk, located on the square in downtown Canton.
