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Highland

Highland, Illinois, United States

Located in southern Illinois, Highland is a charming and inviting town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit. History buffs will appreciate Highland's rich heritage, as it was settl…

#Highland#Illinois#United States#Small town#Rural

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Highland.

Top Hotels in Highland

Top Flights to Highland

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Highland.

Tours

Highland Historical Museum

Explore the rich history of Highland, Illinois, with exhibits detailing the area's development.

Shopping

Main Street Shopping District

Explore local boutiques and shops along Highland's Main Street.

Outdoor

Silver Lake Park

A perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts with trails, picnic areas, and a serene lake.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Highland.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English, Scottish Gaelic

Average weather

Highland

Jan

4°-1°

Feb

5°0°

Mar

7°1°

Apr

10°2°

May

13°5°

Jun

16°8°

Jul

18°10°

Aug

18°10°

Sep

15°8°

Oct

11°5°

Nov

7°2°

Dec

5°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Highland.

What people love

Highland, Illinois, located in the United States, offers several advantages for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Highland include:

Historic Downtown: Highland has a charming and well-preserved historic downtown area with beautiful architecture, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. Visitors can take leisurely strolls down the streets and immerse themselves in the town's rich history.
Outdoor Recreation: The surrounding area of Highland is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating in nearby parks and nature reserves.
Local Events and Festivals: Highland hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the town's culture and community spirit. Visitors can participate in events like the Highland Street Art Festival, Highland Oktoberfest, and the Highland Farmers' Market.
Wineries and Breweries: Highland is located in the heart of Illinois wine country, with several wineries and breweries in the area. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, brewery tours, and delicious local cuisine at these establishments.
Friendly Community: Highland is known for its friendly and welcoming community, making visitors feel right at home. The locals are eager to share their town's history and traditions with visitors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Overall, traveling to Highland, Illinois, offers a unique blend of history, outdoor recreation, local events, and community spirit, making it a delightful destination for visitors.

What to know

Highland, Illinois is a charming small town with many positive aspects, but there are also some cons to consider when traveling there:

Limited Public Transportation: Highland is a small town, and as such, there may be limited options for public transportation within the town and to nearby areas. This could make it more challenging to get around without a car.
Limited Dining and Entertainment Options: While Highland does have some restaurants and shops, the options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide variety of dining and entertainment options may find the offerings in Highland to be limited.
Limited Accommodation Choices: Highland is a smaller town, so the selection of accommodations may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors may have fewer choices when it comes to hotels or other lodging options.
Limited Cultural and Historical Attractions: While Highland does have some historical sites and local attractions, it may not offer as many cultural or historical attractions as larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide range of museums, galleries, or other cultural experiences may find Highland lacking in this regard.

Overall, while Highland, Illinois has its own unique charm and attractions, visitors should be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to the area.

Highland, Illinois, is a city with a rich history located in Madison County, in the southwestern part of the state. Here is a detailed history of Highland, Illinois:

Founding and Early History

Founded: Highland was founded in 1831 by Swiss immigrants from Sursee, Switzerland. They initially named the settlement "Helvetia" after their homeland.
Name Change: The name was changed to Highland, inspired by Highland, New York, which was the hometown of one of the settlers.

Development

Early Economy: The early economy of Highland was primarily based on agriculture, with the fertile lands supporting farming activities. The Swiss settlers brought their skills in farming and cheese-making, which became significant contributors to the local economy.
Industrial Growth: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Highland saw industrial growth with the establishment of factories and businesses. Notably, the Pet Milk plant was a major employer in the area.

Significant Events

Railroad Arrival: The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century was a pivotal moment for Highland, facilitating transportation and commerce, and connecting it to larger markets.
World War II: During World War II, Highland contributed to the war effort, with many residents serving in the military and local factories producing goods for the war.

Historical Figures

While Highland does not have widely recognized historical figures on a national scale, the community has been shaped by its early Swiss settlers and local leaders who contributed to its development.

Important Landmarks

Lindendale Park: This park has been a central part of community life in Highland, hosting numerous events and gatherings.
The Highland Historical Society Museum: This museum preserves the history of Highland and showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the city’s heritage.
St. Paul Catholic Church: Founded in the 19th century, this church is an important religious and historical site in Highland.

Cultural and Community Life

Swiss Heritage: Highland celebrates its Swiss heritage, which is reflected in local festivals and cultural events. The Swiss influence is also evident in the architecture and community traditions.
Annual Events: The city hosts various community events throughout the year, including fairs, parades, and other cultural celebrations that foster a sense of community and preserve its heritage.

Modern-Day Highland

Today, Highland is known for its strong sense of community, quality of life, and blend of rural charm with modern amenities. It has a diversified economy and continues to embrace its historical roots while looking towards the future.

Information not available.