Love where you live - discover new places and revisit your favorites! The local businesses in Washington take great pride in being part of a connected community! If you’re looking to plan a day date or just hanging out with friends, we’ve got you covered. Read to the end for a suggested itinerary.
SHOP LOCAL
Baker Street Boutique // Looking for a gift for that special woman in your life? This women's clothing and accessories boutique, located on Washington's Historic Square, displays beautifully curated classic pieces. The owner has an excellent eye for styling guests. Expect to star in mini fashion shows from the fitting room of Baker Street Boutique.
Brandy’s Bees // At this specialty store, find all beekeeping, garden supplies, and amazing items made from local honey.
Holland's Mercantile // Central Illinois' original old-fashioned candy store, soda fountain, and toy store located on historic Washington Square. Check out Holland’s for the perfect stocking stuffers!
Homespun // Homespun is located on the Washington Square and sells a variety of linens, candles, kitchen items and home décor items. Stop by for some gift or specialty shopping.
Jack of All Collective // You’ll find this charming new shop on the square. With a mission to bring unique, thoughtfully selected items, you’ll find an eclectic mix of home decor and gift items from a variety of sellers and artists.
Lori's Kitchen Store // Located on Washington's Historic Square, Lori's Kitchen Store specializes in kitchenware, cookware, cooking classes and more.
Lucky Charlie // Lucky Charlie provides quality first-on-trend, style, and good vibes for women of all ages. Expect a variety of stylish and unique items at this adorable women's clothing shop.
Sentimental Journey // For over 40 years, Sentimental Journey has been a staple for all-occasion gifts, home decor, jewelry and more! Stop by Washington's Historic Square to shop!
Step Back in Time // Explore 3 floors of over 45 unique dealers offering new and used home decor, furniture, antiques, vintage items, and collectibles.
Zeek’s Comics and Games // Zeek’s specializes in new comics, miniature wargaming, role-playing games, card games, and strives to accommodate all gaming hobbies. A comic or game from Zeek’s makes for a great gift under the tree!
SWEETS + EATS
Aunt Dena’s Bakery // Specializing in delicious cookies, pies, bars, cakes for all occasions, and various lunch and snack items. Everything is made from scratch in the bakery, make this a must-try today.
Bernardi’s Restaurant // For more than 85 years, people have flocked to Bernardi’s to taste their family restaurant’s authentic dishes — especially their famous fried chicken, tortellini, and spaghetti!
Faire Coffee // Come to Faire Coffee for the friendly faces and stay for the welcoming atmosphere. FaireCoffee is full of peppermint treats! Be sure to try their peppermint ice cream, a candy cane latte, the Holly Jolly latte, and the White Christmas.
The Blend // Warm-up this winter season at The Blend with a Wintermint Mocha Latte. This refreshing classic is made entirely from scratch by the team. It very well may turn into your favorite holiday beverage.
The Brickhouse BBQ Burgers & Brew // Offering a menu of BBQ, burgers, pizza and other entrees made from fresh ingredients, this is the perfect spot for families, celebrations or everyday dining. Stop in for some tasty BBQ or American classics!
Yatta Hibachi & Sushi // Try one of their special rolls or keep it classic with a fresh California roll. Order carryout or enjoy a variety of sushi creations and hibachi entrees onsite in their quaint indoor dining area.
Suggested Itinerary // Book a stay-cation at The Cornerstone Inn, where historic charm meets modern luxury. Start your morning at Faire Coffee with a warm drink and sweet treat, just across the street on the historic Washington Square. Stroll through the local shops like The Bent Penny, Jack of All Collective, and Sentimental Journey, to name a few. Enjoy the diverse lunch options, whether that’s at Yatta Hibachi & Sushi, Blue Margarita's or The Brickhouse. Fix your afternoon sweet tooth with a stop by Holland’s Mercantile, established in 1988, where you’ll be transported to a nostalgic time of penny candies and soda fountain. Then go explore a new hobby from cooking classes at Lori’s Kitchen Store to pottery and painting at the Art at the Bodega. Finish the evening with a home-cooked authentic Italian meal at Bernardi’s Restaurant.
