Mattoon is a sprawling city with plenty to offer, including a charming downtown district lined with local restaurants, bars, and shops. An Amtrak station sits in the heart of the city as well, helping residents get to neighboring communities. Mattoon is somewhat secluded from big cities, and residents appreciate the peace and quiet that comes with living in the suburbs of the city. Apartments in Mattoon are very affordable, and the city’s neighborhoods are lined with towering trees. Community parks, popular restaurants, and a movie theater can all be found in the city. Mattoon sits approximately 50 miles south of Champaign, another large city in central Illinois with museums, college campuses, restaurants, theaters, and more.