Welcome to Champaign-Urbana!
As you get ready for iPRES 2023, let us introduce you to the host cities. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus sits in Urbana, and puts the city first in the name, but the surrounding area is more commonly referred to as Champaign-Urbana. We hope that you enjoy your time here as much as we do.
Most of the conference will take place at the iHotel, conveniently located on the UIUC campus, and provides a great homebase for exploring the university and cities. Campus is beautiful, with fine examples of Georgian Revival architecture style. The main quad is home to some of the most iconic UIUC buildings, and the Alma Mater statue. South of the main quad, you will be able to see (and hear) the McFarland Carillon with its 48 bells. School will be in session, so be aware that passing periods can get busy!
McFarland Carillon
William R. and Clarice V. Spurlock Museum
UIUC is also home to two fantastic museums. The Spurlock Museum of World Cultures (pictured on the left) has nine permanent exhibits featuring items from around the world. The Spurlock also has some fantastic temporary exhibits. The Krannart Art Museum is also on campus, and is a must see for any art lovers. During iPRES, there will be an exhibition on ink wash paintings done by artist, author, Japan House founder, and Professor Emeritus Shozo Sato. Both museums are free, though a small donation would be appreciated.
When you’re ready to explore Champaign-Urbana, you catch a free bus on campus. More information will be coming soon about the buses to help you navigate!
If you have access to a car while you are here, September is great for apple picking. Apple picking is a much loved fall tradition in the Midwest, and the area has some great places to do it. Most places with apple picking will also have apple pie, apple cider, apple cider donuts, and of course, apples!
If you are looking for something to do or eat after the conference wraps up for the day, downtown Champaign offers it all. There are many restaurants to choose from, from barbecue, pizza, Indian food, and much more. There are also breweries, bookstores, and even ax throwing. Also, if you enjoy live music, you can find performances almost everyday of the week. If the weather is nice, nothing beats enjoying downtown on an outdoor patio.
This is just a taste of what Champaign-Urbana has to offer. It is a busy college town and has many things to do and see. While most of your time here will be spent at the conference and events, we hope you will explore the UIUC campus and Champaign-Urbana. See you in September!
Eden Irwin
Local Arrangements Committee Member
Campustown on Green and South Neil St.