Antioch, Illinois, situated in Lake County, has roots stretching back to the early 19th century. The land was originally inhabited by the Pottawatomi people before European settlers arrived in the 1830s. The village’s name was inspired by the biblical city of Antioch, reflecting the religious beliefs of its early residents. The first settlers, primarily from New York and Vermont, established farms, churches, and businesses, shaping the foundation of the village. The population is now a robust 14,800.
One of Antioch’s most notable contributions to American craftsmanship is Pickard China. Founded in 1893, the company originally operated in Wisconsin before relocating to Antioch in 1937. Pickard China is world-renowned for its hand-decorated fine China, supplying prestigious clients, including the U.S. State Department, international embassies, and even Air Force One. The company’s elegant designs have been used in settings such as Camp David and the Ritz-Carlton hotels.
One of Antioch’s most accomplished athletes is Felicia Stancil, a professional BMX racer born in 1995. Stancil has represented the United States in multiple international competitions, including the Olympic Games and UCI BMX World Championships. Her success has inspired young athletes in Antioch to pursue cycling and extreme sports.
The Taste of Summer Festival, held in late July, is a four-day celebration featuring live music, local food vendors, a carnival, and arts and crafts booths. Visitors can experience everything from classic fair favorites like funnel cakes to local specialties, with performances by regional bands providing entertainment throughout the event.
Another major seasonal attraction is Dickens Holiday Village, a Victorian-themed display that transforms downtown Antioch from late November to early January. Handmade, life-sized Dickens characters, dressed in 19th-century attire, are positioned throughout the streets, recreating scenes from A Christmas Carol. The village also hosts horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday markets, and theatrical performances, creating a nostalgic winter wonderland.
Chain O’Lakes State Park, a short drive from downtown, is one of Illinois’ most popular destinations for outdoor activities. Covering 6,000 acres of interconnected lakes, rivers, and trails, it is ideal for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. With over 200 miles of shoreline, the park is a haven for water enthusiasts. In the winter, the area transforms into a hotspot for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
For those looking for a more relaxed setting within the village, Sequoit Creek Park offers a scenic walking path, picnic areas, and an open-air amphitheater that hosts live performances and community events. The park is a local favorite for weekend strolls and small gatherings.
The Antioch Theatre, which opened in 1924, is a beloved landmark. Despite its age, the theater has been renovated with state-of-the-art digital projection and luxury seating while maintaining its old-school aesthetic. It screens both mainstream blockbusters and independent films, providing a mix of entertainment for cinephiles.
The Antioch Fine Arts Foundation serves as the village’s cultural epicenter, featuring rotating exhibitions, art classes, and community workshops. Local and regional artists display their work here, and visitors can browse paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted jewelry. The foundation also hosts poetry readings and live music performances to foster artistic expression in the community.
Rustic and Reclaimed Market is a treasure trove for lovers of handcrafted furniture, vintage decor, and artisan goods. The store specializes in repurposed wood furnishings and locally made home accents, making it a go-to destination for one-of-a-kind pieces. Ms. Peddler’s Boutique is another standout, offering hand-painted furniture, American-made artisan gifts, and custom décor. Shoppers can find locally designed jewelry, textiles, and seasonal decorations, all with a rustic charm. For those searching for unique gifts, Vintage Mercantile curates an assortment of candles, T-shirts, handmade soaps, and small-batch gourmet foods sourced from local businesses across the country.
The Vegas Café is a beloved breakfast joint known for its Vegas Eggs Benedict, fluffy pancakes, and homemade chicken dumpling soup. Regulars praise the hearty portions and friendly atmosphere, making it a staple for morning meals. For a taste of the Caribbean, Queens Caribbean Kitchen serves authentic jerk chicken, plantains, and curry goat. Their pineapple upside-down cake has gained a loyal following, and the restaurant is praised for its bold, flavorful dishes. Ron and Pat’s Pizza Shack has been a favorite among locals for decades. Their Chicago-style stuffed pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and homemade marinara sauce keep customers coming back.
The Downtown Ghost Tours take visitors through some of the village’s most mysterious spots, where paranormal activity has been reported. Participants hear firsthand accounts of strange noises, shadowy figures, and inexplicable events from local historians and ghost hunters.
One of the most talked-about haunted spots is The Lodge of Antioch, where guests and staff have reported doors opening on their own, flickering lights, and ghostly apparitions. Similarly, the Rustic and Reclaimed Market has been featured in ghost tours due to reports of unexplained voices and objects moving without explanation.
Whether you believe in the paranormal or not, there's no denying the history and character found throughout Antioch. Just as the past leaves its mark on these storied buildings, B&G Remodeling can help you leave your mark on your own home. Whether you're planning a modern update or restoring classic charm, our team is committed to craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Contact us today to bring your vision to life.