I come from a town where your neighbor is a cornfield, the class with the most students is an agriculture class, and you could name every kid you went to high school with, no matter what grade they were in (Small Town, USA, if you will). Thankfully, though, there was never a dull place to shop, eat, or just hangout at for the day. Here are some of the MUST GO-TO places in central Illinois:

1. Guzzardo's Italian Villa, Lincoln, IL

Make sure you're hungry before going here, because if you ask for a steak, they will probably give you the whole cow and you'll be good for dinner for the next week and a half. The pizza is homemade and probably some of the best pizza I've ever had in my young adult life. It's located in downtown Lincoln and has decor that makes you feel like you're eating in Italy.

2. By The Bean, Lincoln, IL

Also located in the heart of downtown Lincoln, By The Bean is one of the best coffee shops you could go to in central Illinois. It's locally owned, has reasonable pricing, and has coffee that probably tastes better than half of the items you order at a Starbucks. It's the perfect place for students to sit and work, or to just sit and catch up with friends.

3. Abraham Lincoln Museum, Springfield, IL

Okay, I know what you're thinking. History museum? Really? Yes, really. This place is one of the coolest places I've ever been. You walk through rooms that replicate where Honest Abe himself had been throughout his life. Courtrooms, homes, extracurricular activities, you name it. There's even a theater with a hologram of Abe. Yeah, it's pretty sweet, and you can make a whole day of it.

4. Black Sheep Cafe, Springfield, IL

If you like music, and all types of it, you'll thoroughly enjoy the Black Sheep Cafe. This little venue hosts new and up-and-coming bands, and it's just a really cool atmosphere to be in. It's also located right next to a record shop, which is really awesome for all you music lovers out there.

5. Lincoln Grand 8, Lincoln, IL

And we're back to downtown Lincoln, but let's be real; there are so many cool spots located here. If you like movies and popcorn and all that good stuff, you'll love the movie theater downtown. I may be a bit biased from spending the summer working there, but let me tell you that it's run by some great people and is extremely family oriented. Plus, they have slushie machines, and who doesn't love slushies?

6. Darcy's Pint, Springfield, IL

Alright, so if you've never eaten a horseshoe, you're missing out. And before you ask, no, it's not what horses wear on their hooves. A horseshoe (the food kind) starts off with bread, topped with hamburger meat, french fries, and smothered in cheese sauce. Yes, these are real, and yes, they're amazing. The best place to get one of these bad boys? Darcy's Pint. You can mix up the way you get your horseshoe by changing what meat is on it and so much more.

7. Route 66 Drive-In, Springfield, IL

Springfield is the capitol of Illinois, so it's only fair it has some of the coolest places. Drive-in movies are so underrated, and the Route 66 Drive-In is just as fun as a drive-in theater should be. Drive up, snuggle up, and enjoy the show while also feeling like you're in Grease.

8. New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg, IL

For all you outdoors-y folks, this place is perfect for camping and doing some historic exploring. This is where Abraham Lincoln lived from 1831 to 1836. And yes, Illinois is extremely obsessed with Abe. Our slogan is even "Land of Lincoln".

9. Clinton Beach, Clinton, IL

The closest thing to a beach you'll find. Clinton Beach is on Clinton Lake and fun for all. Camping, trail exploring, grilling, swimming; this place is perfect for those who love the outdoors and having that "beach feel" even when you're no where near an ocean.

10. Weldon Springs. Clinton, IL

I spent many field trips at this place, and it never disappointed. So many different insects, flowers, trees, waters, everything your nature-loving heart desires. It's a great place for a walk, picnic, or exploring.

Though the towns seem small and the list of exciting places looks short, there are many hidden gems around the area I grew up. I was lucky enough to experience these places with my best friends by my side, and I recommend you do the same. So the next time you swing through Illinois, remember there's always a cool place to venture to, even if that means looking in some unexpected places for them.