Condos for Sale in Charleston, IL

Charleston is a small town in rural Illinois known for its university, locally-owned restaurants, and historic attractions. Eastern Illinois University, the largest employer, significantly influences the town's culture and activities. Housing options range from late 1800s bungalows and cottages to midcentury ranch-style homes and newer Craftsman styles, though inventory is currently low. The Charleston Parks and Recreation Department manages 13 parks, including the popular Lake Charleston and Fox Ridge State Park. The Lincoln Prairie Grass Trail, a 12-mile path, connects Charleston to Mattoon, making biking a common activity. Lincoln Avenue, lined with big-box stores and local eateries like Roc's Blackfront Tavern & Grill and Pagliai's Pizza, is a central hub. Courthouse Square, the downtown area, features boutiques, shops, and a farmers market. Eastern Illinois University hosts community events at the Dounda Fine Arts Center and Tarble Arts Center. Charleston's crime rates are lower than the national average, contributing to its reputation as a low-crime town. The town experiences warm summers and cold winters, with an average of 18 inches of snowfall annually. Flood mitigation efforts have been implemented, and an Outdoor Warning Siren System is in place for emergencies. Major thoroughfares include Illinois State Routes 130 and 16, connecting to Interstate 57 for a 188-mile drive to Chicago and Interstate 70 for a 121-mile drive to Indianapolis.