State historic sites re-opened back in April and say this summer business has been better than ever.

On Saturday, thousands flocked to Bishop Hill for the town's annual antique show. Many of them say they have a renewed appreciation for their favorite destinations after some were nearly closed due to budget cuts.

Shop owners tell TV6 all that bad news about the possible closings has actually helped make this summer one of the best they've had in recent memory.

"It's always fun to come here," says visitor Doris Friend. "It's like going into a different world."

It's a sound that has become quite common in this sleepy community. Cars driving into town, many stopping to shop or enjoy one of the town's museums.

"Business has been good," says Jim Campbell who owns a bakery in town. "It's been real good and we're very fortunate and feel very pleased he took the steps necessary to open it up."

Three months after Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn re-opened those historic sites, Campbell says business has been better than ever.

He credits that partially to the threat of those beloved places being closed forever.

"There was a lot of support from people who are fearful of what the state might do, so it was comforting, it was nice to see people be supportive of our community," he says.

"They had to bring it back," Doris Friend adds. "There's just too many historic buildings and sites here."

Many choosing to speak with their wallets this weekend to show the Governor how much this place means to them.

Parking spots a difficult find as hundreds headed for the Colony School Building.

"I had trouble driving in," Friend says. "I had to back up and let a few people through because the cars were on both sides."

And while there may be more budget cuts in the future, Campbell says he's optimistic that places like Bishop Hill will be spared because of what they add to the state.

"Quality of life issues are important and I think we're a big part of that," he says.

Campbell says the town is hoping to host a music festival the first week of August, but it's something they're going to need state money for and they've yet to learn whether they'll be receiving that.

He says they expect to find that out early next week.