There are so many famous people from Illinois, it’s almost like there’s something in the water. While many celebrities hail from bigger cities like Chicago, there’s one charming small town in Illinois that was once home to one of the greatest legends of television and film: Dick Van Dyke.
With a population that hovers around 30,000, Danville may not seem like a small town, but that doesn’t even put it in the top 50 largest cities in Illinois.
David Wilson/Wikimedia To put it in perspective, the largest city in Illinois, Chicago, has about 2.7 million residents. To round out the top three: second place goes to Aurora with 177,000 residents and Naperville getting the bronze with a population of 151,000.
This charming little town right on the Illinois-Indiana border is home to scenic parks, historic buildings, and one very special honor…
Heidi Marie/Google
…it’s where Dick Van Dyke grew up!
CBS Television/Wikimedia
Before he became a household name after being cast as Rob Petrie on the Dick Van Dyke Show, Van Dyke began his entertainment career right here in Danville.
googlemaps.com He actually thought about a career in the ministry, but after taking a drama class in high school, he found his calling. The local high school even named the auditorium after him.
Danville is the perfect town for a casual day trip.
Alex Giles/Google
Nestled in the heart of Vermilion River Country, there’s plenty to do in this historic town.
Gary/Google With about 15,000 acres of parklands to explore plus five miles of bike trails that weave through the city, you’ll certainly never be bored here.
Founded in 1827, you’ll find several historic buildings and museums to explore.
Nyttend/Wikimedia The downtown district features several murals done by local artists, adding a vibrant splash of color to your adventure.
Dick Van Dyke isn’t the only person Illinois can claim as their own. Here are 13 more celebrities from Illinois you might not know about.
David Wilson/Wikimedia
To put it in perspective, the largest city in Illinois, Chicago, has about 2.7 million residents. To round out the top three: second place goes to Aurora with 177,000 residents and Naperville getting the bronze with a population of 151,000.
Heidi Marie/Google
CBS Television/Wikimedia
googlemaps.com
He actually thought about a career in the ministry, but after taking a drama class in high school, he found his calling. The local high school even named the auditorium after him.
Alex Giles/Google
Gary/Google
With about 15,000 acres of parklands to explore plus five miles of bike trails that weave through the city, you’ll certainly never be bored here.
Nyttend/Wikimedia
The downtown district features several murals done by local artists, adding a vibrant splash of color to your adventure.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Danville, IL, USA
