Urbana

Urbana serves as the county seat of Champaign County in Illinois, located in the eastern part of the Midwest. The town spreads across flat terrain with residential neighborhoods, parks, and a large university campus that occupies a considerable portion of the area.

The settlement was designated as the county administrative center in 1833 after local founders donated land for development. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s accelerated growth and integrated the town into regional trade routes.

The university campus shapes much of the town's character and daily rhythm, with students and faculty forming a large part of the population. Sidewalks along the main streets see regular foot traffic year-round, connecting residential blocks with libraries, cafés, and small shops.

Most neighborhoods are easy to reach on foot or by bike, as streets are relatively flat and bike paths are available throughout. Buses connect different parts of town year-round, with routes running more frequently during the university semester.

The town is home to one of the oldest public libraries in the state, operating since 1874 and holding thousands of historical documents. Some neighborhoods feature trees over a century old, planted during the early years of settlement.

Location: Champaign County

Inception: 1833

Elevation above the sea: 222 m

Website: https://urbanaillinois.us

GPS coordinates: 40.10972,-88.20417

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:37