If You Like Public Art
Regardless of its shape, form, or location, public art invigorates public spaces and is freely accessible to all. Here are a few spots to stop along the Byway to view public sculptures, murals and more!
We recommend calling or visiting each website for up-to-date information on hours of operation, etc.
Northern Leg of the Byway
Princeton
Check out native flowers of Illinois, floating in a sea of green in this mural located in the Lovejoy Way walkway (formerly Columbus Street).
Ottawa
"A Brush with History" public art program was developed to help revitalize Ottawa’s downtown and celebrate Ottawa’s past. Murals to date have focused on figures or events that shaped Ottawa’s history including local industry, prominent citizens or the creation of a major improvements in the area.
Central Leg of the Byway
Peoria / East Peoria
Explore the vibrant arts community in Greater Peoria with an interactive art mural map featuring over 60 colorful, public murals.
Peoria
Enjoy a stroll just off the river along Washington Street. This Sculpture Walk features fifteen unique sculptures for a period of twelve months. Every year, a new set of sculptures will be installed.
Streator
With more than 40 pieces of public art available, the art scene of Streator has been growing and captivating audiences every year. Most notably are the series of 17 murals painted by 250 artists over the span of 5 days in late June and early July of 2018. These murals cover the history of the town, from baseball to glass containers to Disney.
Southern Leg of the Byway
Lewistown
A large scale reproduction of a mural painted by Smithfield native and Fulton County artist, Harold Kee Welch (1905-1972) is on display at the Lewistown and Fulton County Visitors Center.
Lewistown
View the tempera mural “Lewistown Milestones” painted by Ida Abelman and installed in the Lewistown, Illinois post office in 1941.
Havana
Havana has enjoyed a renaissance of new and amazing public art displays all walkable within its revitalized historic downtown. Ten have been completed with more on the way!