Normally treated as one city, the Champaign-Urbana metropolitan area is comprised of the cities of Champaign, Urbana and Savoy. It is home to the University of Illinois, one of the top universities in the nation and home to some of the biggest industrial names like Kraft Foods. Champaign is regarded as more of the big city type while Urbana has a more rural and rustic feel to it.
Life in Champaign and Urbana is ideal for small city living and have a relatively lower cost of living than the nearby metropolitan areas. For residents of the city, the University of Illinois is not just the center of education, but the focal point of all entertainment and cultural activities in the area. South of downtown lies the Willard Airport, from where there are flights to and from Chicago and Dallas. Champaign-Urbana is served by the Amtrak system providing easy access to Chicago.
There are lots of things to do in Champaign and Urbana; whether you're into exploring the history of the area or you want to enjoy some of its modern recreational facilities. Five museums including Champaign County Historical Museum, Krannert Art Museum and Spurlock Museum attract a lot of out-of-towners as well as local residents. You can enjoy a live concert at the Virginia Theatre or a 3D movie at the Carmike Beverly Cinema. The Prairie Cycling Club provides local cyclists the opportunity to explore the countryside. Festivals and events in the area include the Champaign County Fair, Annual International Beer Tasting and Chili Cook-off and the Annual Sweet Corn Festival. There are lots of bars and restaurants across Champaign and Urbana for food connoisseurs to enjoy.
Many people are attracted to the vibrant cities of Champaign and Urbana in search of a better lifestyle and perhaps a change from the busy urban setting to a smaller, friendlier one. The search for a house takes trip after trip to the realtor's office, as well as numerous visits to properties you might or might not like. An easier and more fun way to go home shopping is to visit NewHomeSource and find your house of choice without ever leaving your study. Narrow down your choices by looking through local home listings and go for visits only after you've made your selection.
