Urbana, Illinois

Urbana has always had a strong commitment to culture. The Urbana Free Library is one of the oldest public libraries in Illinois. Founded in 1874, it has continually ranked in the top 1% of public libraries in America, and after an extensive addition in 2005, the library is sure to continue its high ranking well into the future.

After you've read a few books, why not check out how they were adapted into a movie. Boardman's Art Theatre is an independent film house that screens a mixture of Hollywood, independent, and foreign releases, offers the convenience of reserved seating, and staunchly commercial free. But Boardman's is not the only cinema in town, there is another Cinema – of a different kind.

The Cinema Gallery opened in 2001 in the former Princess Theatre. Preserving the art deco exterior, the building now displays the work of 45 local artists in various media. With such a variety of artist, and new exhibits every month, the box office is always packed at this Cinema.

Those into thespians will be happy to know that Urbana caters to your tastes too. The Celebration Company at Station Theatre is an independent company that since the early 70s has been staging variety of plays both new and old.

But in Urbana, you don't have to enter a building to come in contact with great art – it's right there on the street! The Wandell Sculpture Garden in Meadowbrook Park is a prime example. Opened in 1998, the Garden showcases over 20 sculptures, out in the open, ready to be viewed and reviewed by anyone.

After all that enriching of the mind, your spirit will be itching for attention. Fortunately, Urbana is as dedicated to mental wellbeing as physical. Every year since 1976, the city has been recognized as Tree City USA by the USDA Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters; and has even established a program that offers residents incentives to plan more trees. Not surprisingly, 95% of the city's parkways are covered in trees, and the city boasts 22 parks and various recreational facilities.

For those looking to enlighten their mind and their spirits Urbana, Illinois is the place.

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