We invite you to come visit the only Illinois community named as one of The "100 Best Small Towns In America" (1996 book by Norman Crampton). Located in the heart of Central Illinois, Carlinville is proud of its extensive historic district which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

The elegance and architectural variety of the many homes, churches, and businesses within the historic district have attracted numerous visitors. Some of the highlights include the majestic "Million Dollar" Macoupin County Courthouse, the 1869 County Jail, Blackburn College, the Macoupin County Historical Society Museum, and the largest collection of Sears & Roebuck Mail Order Catalog Homes in the U.S.

The historic beauty of the community is only a part of the attraction of Carlinville. Situated in the center of the Victorian city square, the postage-stamp sized city park is crowned by a picturesque gazebo. All around the square there are a variety of fine shops and boutiques.

We invite you to visit our many fine businesses and attend some of our festivals and events held throughout the year. While you are here, enjoy one or more of Carlinville's restaurants, offering everything from fine dining to fast food. Overnight accommodations are also available for those who wish to relax and spend some time in our friendly community.

Contact the Carlinville Community Chamber of Commerce, 854-2141 for more information and to reserve your tour.

Retail

Carlinville businesses offer friendly personal service, quality and selection for both visitors and residents. Take a walk around the historic square in downtown Carlinville and experience a rich past brought up to date. Here, in carefully preserved buildings from the nineteenth century, are sophisticated boutiques, craft and gift shops, antique stores, cozy restaurants, clothiers, florists, jewelers, art galleries, and professional services.

Restaurants

Deciding where to eat out in Carlinville can be a difficult choice. The City's array of dining establishments suits nearly every taste and budget, in diverse settings from formal dining rooms to casual dining, and with cuisine that will excite nearly every palate. Restaurant choices include cafés, diners, family dining, fast-food chains and a number of upscale dining establishments in and near town.

Agriculture

Agriculture makes a significant contribution to the local economy. The Macoupin County Farm Bureau is located in Carlinville and can be contacted at 217-854-2571. The University of Illinois Extension office also provides a wide array of educational programs and research-based information and can be contacted at 217-854-9604.

General Business and Professional Services

Carlinville is proud to be home to some familiar corporate names. The internationally-known computer software company, Karmak, is a major employer, along with Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc., whose corporate headquarters are located on the north end of Carlinville. Other large employers include Monterey Coal Company, Cisco Steel, Carlinville School District, Blackburn College, Carlinville Area Hospital, H&H Construction, VH Builders and Hays Trucking.
Scores of professional service companies provide a wide range of services to Carlinville residents, in addition to four banks (Carlinville National Bank, Citizen's National Bank, US Bank and Bank and Trust), two grocery stores and several gas stations and convenience stores.

Chamber of Commerce

The Carlinville Community Chamber of Commerce, a volunteer organization that works to foster an improved business climate, also presents annual awards to businesses, including those for outstanding service, outstanding improvement, and outstanding civic leadership. CCCC membership is open to every business, organization,or individual interested in the community. This is the only organization with the purpose of promoting Carlinville, not only for tourism and special events, but also for business growth and retention. Member benefits include a monthly newsletter, business referrals, free or discounted participation in group marketing projects, along with opportunities to network with others and take an active role in projects that help stimulate civic pride and hometown spirit. Carlinville is open for business and ready to welcome business owners, employees and their families and support services. Discover the city where history, location and economic health equal growth.