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Review Decatur
Please Don't Move Here [Tales from a Local]
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Attractions1/10
Community1/10
Nightlife2/10
Dining2/10
Shopping2/10
I've lived here most of my life; Born at Decatur Memorial Hospital. I used to think this town and the surrounding areas were great growing up, but the town has gone to shit. We left in 2011 because of taxes and living issues, moved to Phoenix, AZ for 4 years, then came back. A lot changed in that time for the worst. Crime shot up, Lots of people got laid off, The Mall is dying, and most of the people in central Illinois are easily irritable for no reason. I live on one of the better sides of town, but crime has crept closer and closer to the more prosperous areas. The thing is, is that if you get stuck in the lower middle class, its a pain in the dick to get out. If you visit, I recommend seeing downtown and the historial district; Stay away from Eldorado and the east end. Visiting, it's a great place. Living? Nuh-uh. I do not recommend.
Anonymous
Jun 26, 2018
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Stay on I-72...try Springfield or Champaign...
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Attractions4/10
Community4/10
Nightlife6/10
Dining6/10
Shopping5/10
When the wind blows from the north a pall hangs over not only Decatur, but the entire southern area of Macon County in Central Illinois. This being the byproduct of what is called the savior of humanity, converting soy beans and corn into a myriad of other products. Some say the smell is similar to McDonald's fries, but I have to opt for something akin to rotten eggs and vinegar.
Decatur was named for Commodore Stephen Decatur, a military hero of the early 1890's, who was fortunate not to have any real connection with the city. In fact, history tells us that he may never had set foot in the town that bears his name. In this fact he is one of the fortunate ones. As one passes through Decatur they are struck by the vast number of churches in town, only to be equally impressed by the number of drinking establishments. It's as if the Good Lord, whatever denomination he or she might be, is constantly trying to establish some type of temperance, but failing.
There is the popular Lake Decatur, actually a bulge in what exits its southern boundary as the Sangamon River, where many resident enjoy aquatic recreation. From its banks, Lake Decatur appears dirty, but as many mid-west bodies of water, its only muddy. It's too thick to drink and too thin to plow and not at all appealing for swimming, as one has to dodge the many snakes and other water animals who call it home.
There are a few nice placed to eat in Decatur, namely, Porter's on Merchant, The Lincoln Lounge, Coney McKane's, The Beach House (just don't look at the lake), Tuscany's Steak and Pasta House. and some chain restaurants at the Hickory Point Mall, but check the wind direction lest a whiff of the soy bean / corn manufacture ruins what may have been a great dining experience.
The only lodging establishment worth considering in town is the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel. Once there one really doesn't have need to leave. The rooms are, while not extravagant, are clean and well lighted. There is a choice of three restaurants, one being a sports bar. The food in all three is delightful. There are a wide choice of meeting rooms of all sizes, a heated indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna, and suites with large jacuzzi tubs.
All in all, stay on I-72 if you have a choice. You'll find Springfield or Champaign more conducive to a stay.
skipw171
Jun 01, 2011
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Decatur, IL - A Historic Destination
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Attractions9/10
Community8/10
Nightlife5/10
Dining5/10
Shopping8/10
I enjoyed a daytrip with friends to the Decatur, IL. area in the summer of 2009. The city of Decatur features many outdoor activities and historical attractions.
We spent the day exploring the Lake Decatur area. The lovely lake offers many water recreation opportunities. Those with their own boat will especially enjoy the lake. There is a marina and two lakeside restaurants. We ate lunch at the Beachside Restaurant and really enjoyed the fresh seafood and beautiful lake views. The lake also has batting cages and a miniature golf course available to entertain kids and those young at heart.
The Mari-Mann Herb Farm is advertised as one of the largest herb gardens in the Midwest and as a gardener myself, I really enjoyed touring the farm. We spent a relaxing few hours touring the gardens and greenhouse plus browsing the gift shop and health food store. Although we didn't eat there, they also feature a gourmet restaurant with expert chefs.
Decatur also offers a lot of Abraham Lincoln historic sites and museums. The Macon County Museum Complex, which is home to the courthouse where Lincoln practiced law; Richard J. Oglesby Mansion; Millikin Homestead; and Homestead Prairie Farm are just a few of the local historic sites.
Decatur is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Anonymous
Jul 23, 2010
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Source: The Decatur, IL data and statistics displayed above are derived from the 2016 United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).
