this may be the single most beautiful place in central illinois. if you ever have the chance as a student, faculty, or staff member to stay overnight in the mansion...DO NOT PASS THIS UP. the mansion is said to be haunted by the ghost of robert allerton and his female companion. there is a lot of history behind their relationship. there is nothing more fun (in CU) than sitting around in your pajamas with a bunch of other uofi folk eating popcorn (locally grown, of course) and listening to ghost stories about robert allerton while sitting in his library and then walking up the stairs to your room where he is said to float around in female costume. intrigued yet? then figure out a way to snag yourself an invitation to sleep in the mansion. if you are not that resourceful you can still enjoy the amazing acres upon acres of grassy knolls, wooded trails, and manicured gardens. been to two weddings in the sunken garden...pretty spectacular...