Catherine - Savvy Family TravelWho doesn’t enjoy stepping into a place where everything is larger than life? Welcome to Casey, Illinois—a quirky small town of BIG things.
Things to Do in Casey, Illinois
In this article, we’ll take you on a guided tour of Casey’s most iconic spots and provide practical tips for making the most of your visit.
BIG Things to do in Casey, Illinois
Navigate Your Way with the Big Things Map
To make the most of your visit, be sure to grab a copy of the Big Things map, available on their website. The map will help you locate all of Casey’s famous attractions and ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Plan your route and enjoy a leisurely walk through the town’s easily navigable loop with only a few outliers worth a short drive, which I’ll share below.
Mouse Trap and Golf Club
A great place to start is at the Welcome Center, and just out front you’ll find one of our favorite installations – the giant Mouse Trap. Immediately next to it you’ll spot the gigantic golf club.
Mail a Letter from the World’s Largest Mailbox
USPS maintains the maildrop at the top of this massive, climbable mailbox. As a postcard collecting family, we thought this was a fun way to send our souvenir home.
The Gigantic Teeter Totter
On Saturdays, visitors can ride the gentle teeter totter throughout tourism season.
Located within walking distance of the rocking chair, this enormous plaything will thrill the kids.
Climb aboard and feel like a kid again as you soar up and down on this record setting structure.
The World’s Largest Rocking Chair
The pride of Casey, Illinois, is its claim to fame—the world’s largest rocking chair. Standing at an impressive height, this colossal chair is not only a marvel of engineering but also a symbol of the town’s spirit and creativity. Visitors flock from far and wide to witness this incredible piece of art, and it never disappoints.
Swinging by the Giant Wind Chime
For another fun interactive monument, make your way to the giant wind chime. A ring of the chime creates such beautiful serene sounds you can feel to your bones.
The Colossal Baseball Bat and Golf Tee
These two are just outside the city center, so you’ll want to take the car to seek them out.
Sports enthusiasts won’t want to miss the chance to see Casey’s giant baseball bat and giant golf tee.
Once you’ve snapped your pictures, consider exploring the local sports-themed shops and eateries nearby. With its rich history and vibrant community, Casey offers plenty of opportunities to learn more about the town’s love for sports and recreation.
Tour by Trolley
A unique way to tour the Big Things and learn a lot about Casey, IL is on one of the Trolley Tours operated by Model Tees. The narration is entertaining for adults and kids.
Fire in the Hole Miniature Golf
This creative installation of an indoor mini golf course is the perfect spot to play as a family especially if the weather is gloomy. It’s brand new, since 2024, and they did a great job with the motif.
Where to Eat in Casey, Illinois
Searching for big things can really build up an appetite. Here are some great spots to find savory or sweet food.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Tetzel Prime
Head over to Tetzel Prime and indulge in their famous S’more Pretzel—a decadent delight that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Dine in or enjoy some yard games in the courtyard while you have your snack.
No sweet tooth? Try one of their savory pretzel flavors instead.
Coffee Shops
Find delicious pastries and specialty lattes at Casey Coffee Company or The Traveling Mug. You can find a giant Minion at the latter.
Cilantros Grill & Cantina
Cilantros Grill is the perfect spot for a meal the whole family will agree on. Their Mexican food is delicious as well as their craft beer list and Margaritas.
Richard’s Farm Restaurant
Four minutes outside downtown Casey is Richard’s Farm Restaurant. Absolutely check them out if you’re looking for a more upscale menu.
Where to Shop in Casey, Illinois
Unearth Treasures at Rock Hound Rocks
For families traveling with kids, a visit to Rock Hound Rocks is a must. We thoroughly enjoyed perusing the store of glittering minerals each well labels and described to satisfy our curious family. Our finds made for great souvenirs from our visit to Casey.
Kids can even pick out a free rock as a keepsake from their visit!
Discover Hidden Gems and Unique Shops
Beyond the famous “big things,” Casey is home to a variety of locally owned unique shops and boutiques with one-of-a-kind finds.
Take the time to wander through these charming establishments and discover handmade crafts, vintage items, and locally sourced products. Our favorite was Olive Tree Marketplace.
Engage with the friendly shop owners and learn about the stories behind their creations. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the community and support local businesses while enjoying your time in Casey.
Shop Amish
This is a bit outside of town, but its worth putting on your radar in case it fits well into your road trip journey.
About an hour north west of Casey, you’ll find Arthur, IL, a popular place to shop Amish goods and learn more about the culture and customs of the Amish community.
Chat with A Local
One of the highlights of visiting Casey is experiencing the genuine warmth of its residents. Throughout your visit, you’ll encounter friendly faces and welcoming smiles that make you feel like part of the community.
You know how you visit some places where you feel like they scoff at their rise as a tourist destination? Not in Casey. Here, the locals embrace it and all partake in adding to the collection of big things, usually related to their type of business.
The sense of community is what makes Casey truly special.
Where to Stay in Casey, Illinois
Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover
Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover is in a beautifully repurposed building that is impeccably clean and central to all the BIG Things to do in Casey, Illinois.
Casey KOA Journey
If you are traveling with an RV or trailer, check out Casey’s KOA Journey location. All KOAs are Dog Friendly, have Wi-Fi throughout, and great recreation options.
Road Tripping Through Casey, Illinois
If a longer road trip is bringing you through Casey, Illinois, consider checking out our road trip guides taking you to Florida, Myrtle Beach, or through Arkansas’ unexpected gems.
It’s also a great place to explore as a day trip from Chicago.
Save “Things to do in Casey, Illinois” for Later
Whether you make it a destination of its own or a stop on your road trip, Casey’s whimsical charm and warm hospitality make it a must-visit stop on your itinerary.
