Arthur is home to a population of Amish who live much the same way their ancestors did when they established the community in 1865. Horse-drawn, black carriages transport families around town, women hang wet laundry to dry in the wind, and bearded men plow fields. It is these peaceful scenes that attract visitors to this central-Illinois community. You can buy a pie at an Amish bake sale, choose a handmade quilt at a farmhouse or order a few pieces of custom-made Amish furniture.
Located 175 mi/280 km south of Chicago, Arthur's overnight lodging is limited to small inns such as Marsha's Vineyard Bed & Breakfast. This saltbox cottage was built by the Amish for innkeeper Marsha Herschberger, and guests are welcomed with a cup of sparkling cider and a plate of Amish cheeses.
