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When you need to cool off on a hot summer day, Decatur, IL has some great ice cream venues that you'll want to visit. The list below shows some options to get you started the next time you crave a cold treat. Drive on Down: 3 Favorite Ice Cream Places Near Decatur, IL 1. Krekel's Custard This establishment has been around since 1949 and continues to be a favorite among locals. Don't let the appearance fool you. This old-fashioned walk-up shop serves excellent cups, cones, floats, and malts. Try the strawberry or lemon twist in a cup or a cone, or enjoy a large butterscotch or chocolate shake. We also recommend the fudge brownie sundae, the root beer float, or the banana split.You can even take home a pint or a quart or your favorite cold delight if you feel like sharing. The portions are large and you'll appreciate the affordable prices. If you're hungry, they also have juicy cheeseburgers and chili fries. Krekel's is located at 801 E. Wood St., and they are open every day except Sunday. 2. Over the Top When you're looking for a large variety of flavors and lots of options to choose from, visit Over the Top. They offer all of the traditional favorites as well as flavors like Oregon strawberry, caramel swirl, peaches and cream, birthday cake, chocolate chip cookie dough, and mint chocolate chip. We also recommend the brownie, banana, donut, or shortcake split, which comes with three scoops, two toppings of your choice, and whipped cream.We also love their waffle tacos with a single, double, or triple scoop. If you have the whole family with you, the flight makes a great choice. Select from four, six, or 12 scoops of your favorite flavors. Over the Top is open Thursday through Sunday and is located at S. Nelson Blvd. more 3. Krekel's Dairy Maid Another walk-up joint, Krekel's Dairy Maid serves great cones and shakes. Their lemon selections are very popular. We suggest the strawberry lemon twist cone or the lemon and strawberry shake, which is made with fresh strawberries. The cones, especially popular with the kids, are piled high with fresh, creamy treats. They come in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or lemon. Krekel's also has a great banana split and root beer float.Find this venue at 2320 E. Main St. They are open every day except Monday.You could be driving a brand new 2023 Chevrolet Colorado WT to get your next cold treat. Visit us at Jackson Family of Dealerships today and see our wide selection of new and used vehicles. Take a test drive and ask about our specials. We are conveniently located at 455 E. Pershing Rd.

Whether you're planning a picnic or you just want to go somewhere to enjoy fresh air, there are many parks in Decatur, IL to visit. These outdoor spaces offer scenic views and great entertainment opportunities. When you're ready to load up your family and friends into your spacious 2020 Ford Escape, check out some of the best park grounds in the area. Just Down the Road: Four Parks Near Decatur, IL 1. Fairview Park Fairview Park is essentially an oasis in the middle of Decatur. Located at 2095 W. Eldorado St., this park has a variety of attractions for all visitors, including a pond to feed ducks, a winding bike trail, a full-size tennis court, a skate park, and an outdoor swimming pool for the warmer months. As one of the best-kept outdoor spaces in the city, the beauty of this park is second to none. It's also dog-friendly if you want to bring your companion with you! Fido Fields in Fairview Park is a fenced two-acre area that gives dog owners the chance to play with their pet companions in an off-leash area. There is even an area for small dogs and large dogs for safer recreation. 2. Nelson Park Nelson Park at 2475 Pavilion Drive is another city park packed full of interesting amenities. Nestled right on the lake shore, the covered pavilion at this park gives you a great opportunity to enjoy a lakeside picnic date with your loved ones. This park also gives visitors access to the Scovill Zoo and the Children's Museum of Illinois. more 3. Cresthaven Park Cresthaven Park, found at 660 Arthur Ct., is a lovely neighborhood park. With cozy walking trails and an easily accessible children's playground, this outdoor area is a perfect place to spend a few hours. Cresthaven Park covers 32.2 acres of land and features the Stevens Creek Bike Trail. You can even enjoy one of the pickleball courts at the park if you want to get a bit of exercise. 4. Scovill Sculpture Park Located right between the Children's Museum of Illinois and Scovill Zoo, Scovill Sculpture Park is a dedication to sculpture art right in the heart of Decatur. While small, this sculpture park features many beautiful sculptures along the walkways between the museum and the zoo. This park is open year-round, and you do not have to be a visitor to the zoo or museum to visit this public park. You can find Scovill Sculpture Park at 495-1325 S. Country Club Rd. Outdoor spaces in urban areas are great places to get a break from the hustle and bustle of life. Before you visit one of the playgrounds and recreation areas in the city, drop by the Jackson Family of Dealerships for a quick oil change.