Lawrenceville offers small-town charm with historic roots
Tucked away in the rural reaches of southeastern Illinois, Lawrenceville is a slice of small-town America. Historic storefronts and a century-old courthouse on State Street are surrounded by leafy residential blocks and homes dating back to the early and mid-20th century. Home to around 4,600 residents, it’s perched along the southern bank of the Embarras River and surrounded by miles of forests and farmland. “It’s a nice, quiet place to live,” says John Supinie, an administrative assistant at Lawrenceville City Hall and a longtime resident.
Lawrenceville traces its origins back to the early 1800s and rose to prominence in the early 20th century as an oil boomtown. Today, the oil wells are gone, and those jobs have been replaced by farming and manufacturing work. “We lost our oil refinery a while back, and that was our biggest employer. So that was tough, but we’re seeing a bit of a rebirth these days,” Supinie says. “We’ve got a Toyota manufacturing plant, and the agriculture industry is really booming right now. It’s brought a lot of new jobs.”
Tree-lined streets with early 20th-century homes and porches
Homes in Lawrenceville are situated on tree-lined streets showcasing a mix of ranch-style homes, cozy bungalows and American Foursquares — many dating back to the early 20th century. Spacious lots are common, offering generous yards for gardens, play or outdoor gatherings, and many homes feature inviting front porches. The residential neighborhoods are peaceful, with sidewalks shaded by mature maples and oaks, some blocks with alleys running behind homes. Home prices range from around $20,000 to $300,000, depending on their size and condition.
Historic downtown offers local shops and casual dining spots
Downtown Lawrenceville is the city’s primary shopping and dining destination, where historic brick storefronts preserve a sense of history. Locally owned shops offer everything from unique gifts to home goods, while the century-old courthouse stands as the district’s stately centerpiece. Coco’s Café and Wine Bar is a favorite for American fare and patio dining, while Bobe’s Pizza offers Italian classics and takeout. Lawrenceville Drive In is a long-running staple known for its hot dogs, burgers and fries. Groceries and everyday essentials are found at Walmart and Dollar General.
Fall festival brings parades, music and food to downtown
Each autumn, the Lawrence County Fall Festival transforms Lawrenceville into a lively center of celebration. Residents and visitors alike flock to the heart of town for colorful parades, live music and an array of local food vendors. Artisans showcase handmade crafts, while families enjoy games and seasonal activities. The festival is a longtime tradition that highlights the area’s small-town spirit and brings the entire community together. “It’s something everyone looks forward to all year long,” Supinie says. “It brings the whole town out.”
Lawrenceville offers local parks and nearby outdoor recreation
Outdoor recreation is within easy reach for locals. Lawrenceville City Park, the town’s only public green, features shaded picnic areas, sports courts, playgrounds and a walking trail popular with joggers and families. The Embarras River is a favorite for fishing, canoeing and scenic riverside strolls. Nearby, Red Hills State Park draws outdoor enthusiasts from across the county for its hiking, camping, boating, and equestrian trails amid rolling forests and serene lakes. The area’s climate is characteristic of the Midwest, with hot, humid summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters.
Students attend local schools with average Niche ratings
Students may start their education close to home at Parkside Elementary School, which gets a Niche rating of B-minus. The next step is C-rated Parkview Junior High School, followed by C-plus-rated Lawrenceville High School. The city is known for its passionate support of the Lawrenceville Indians basketball team, which captured statewide attention by winning multiple state championships in the 1970s and 1980s.
Walkable streets and limited public transit
Lawrenceville’s streets are quiet and walkable for residents who live near the city's downtown district. Public transportation options are limited, however, so having a car is essential for commuting to work or exploring beyond city limits. For regional travel, Lawrenceville is conveniently situated near US Route 50, which connects to Vincennes, Indiana, about 13 miles away. Lawrence County Memorial Hospital offers easy access to medical care.
