Since opening its doors on 7th Street in 1986, the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Springfield has provided thousands of families with a pl…
When it comes to history, there are names and stories many people may never know — unless someone takes the time to preserve them. That’s the …
Known as the Mother Road, Route 66 is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and one local museum is making sure its history — and its c…
This year brought viewers a brand-new way to explore Central Illinois with WAND’s original series Around the 217, highlighting the people, pla…
A family-owned winery just west of Springfield is gaining attention across central Illinois — not only for its award-winning wines, but for it…
The Children’s Museum of Illinois in Decatur, recognized as one of the top children’s museums in the country, is celebrating 30 years of learn…
Ice sheets, tropical forests and sea creatures all existed long before us in the state we now call home. A treasure trove of Illinois' living …
This week, Around the 217 is taking a closer look at one of the hidden gems of Illinois: Allerton Park and Retreat Center.