Where is Canton, Illinois

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: August 5, 2026

Canton is a city in central Illinois and the county seat of Fulton County. It is about 25 miles west of Peoria and 150 miles southwest of Chicago. The city is known for its coal-mining history, historic downtown, and nearby natural areas along the Illinois River and Spoon River.

Location Map of Canton, Fulton County, Illinois

Where is Canton Located in Fulton County, Illinois

About Map: The map shows the location of Canton in Fulton County, in the U.S. state of Illinois.

Canton Map, Illinois

About Canton Map: The Google Map highlights the location of Canton in Fulton County, Illinois. Use the zoom, satellite, and street-view options to explore the city's neighborhoods, roads, and nearby places.

Where is Canton Located?

Canton is a city located in Fulton County, Illinois, the United States. It is about 25 miles west of Peoria and 150 miles southwest of Chicago. Canton is located at approximately 40.5581° North latitude and 90.0351° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 13,242 residents, and the city covers about 8.92 square miles (23.10 sq km). The Spoon River is a notable geographic feature near the city, while the Illinois River lies to the east. Canton was founded in 1825 and incorporated in 1837. The community developed as a regional center for agriculture, manufacturing, and coal mining, and its historic downtown reflects its long industrial and commercial history.

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Canton City Facts

FactDetails
CityCanton
StateIllinois
CountyFulton County
CountryUnited States
RegionCentral Illinois
Incorporated1837
Founded1825
Total Area8.92 sq mi (23.10 sq km)
Land Area8.83 sq mi (22.88 sq km)
Water Area0.09 sq mi (0.22 sq km)
ElevationAbout 650 ft (198 m)
Population (2023 estimate)12,900
Population (2020 Census)13,242
Population Density1,500 people per sq mi
Time ZoneCentral Standard Time (CST); Central Daylight Time (CDT)
ZIP Codes61520
Area Code309
Major HighwaysU.S. Route 24, Illinois Route 78, Illinois Route 9
Public TransitCityLink and regional transportation services
Major AttractionsCanton Area Historical Society, Wallace Park, Canton Historic District, Spoon River
Official Websitehttps://www.cantonillinois.org/

Distance from Canton, IL to Nearby Cities

  • Farmington, IL – 10 miles (16 km)
  • Lewistown, IL – 15 miles (24 km)
  • Peoria, IL – 25 miles (40 km)
  • East Peoria, IL – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Morton, IL – 30 miles (48 km)
  • Galesburg, IL – 30 miles (48 km)
  • Macomb, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Pekin, IL – 30 miles (48 km)
  • Washington, IL – 30 miles (48 km)
  • Monmouth, IL – 40 miles (64 km)
  • Bloomington, IL – 65 miles (105 km)
  • Normal, IL – 65 miles (105 km)
  • Quincy, IL – 85 miles (137 km)
  • Springfield, IL – 75 miles (121 km)
  • Champaign, IL – 110 miles (177 km)
  • Chicago, IL – 150 miles (241 km)

Top Attractions in Canton

  • Canton Area Historical Society – Local museum and historical organization preserving the community's past.
  • Wallace Park – Community park offering open space, recreation facilities, and outdoor activities.
  • Canton Historic District – Downtown area with historic buildings and architecture reflecting the city's development.
  • Spoon River – Regional waterway providing scenic landscapes and wildlife habitat near Canton.
  • Fulton County Courthouse – Historic civic landmark serving as an important part of the county seat.
  • Dickson Mounds State Museum – Nearby archaeological site and museum highlighting Native American history in central Illinois.
  • Jubilee College State Park – Large nearby park with hiking trails, camping, forests, and historic sites.
  • Illinois River – Major regional waterway offering fishing, boating, birdwatching, and scenic views.

Airports Near Canton

  • General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) – 30 miles
  • Galesburg Municipal Airport (GBG) – 35 miles
  • Macomb Municipal Airport (MQB) – 40 miles
  • Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) – 70 miles
  • Quincy Regional Airport (UIN) – 90 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official City of Canton website and local government records.

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