Macomb quality of life/WIU (appointed, houses, living in)

[stoptherideimayhurl]

Hello,
I am trying to get a realistic sense of Macomb,IL. which is harder to do as an outsider. I have been accepted into a specialized music program at WIU. I don’t mind small town living but admittedly was a bit disappointed with the seemingly limited local culture and commerce when I research the area. I need more information as from the outside it doesn’t look like there’s much to do there. Obviously I will be here to learn and not on vacation, but I still like to have the option for some dining and entertainment choices if I feel like it. Just wondering if any locals or alumni at WIU know more about the area than the websites let on. To be more specific, I am not a shopping mall or Applebee’s person. I prefer to support local or family run business such as bakeries,coffee houses,etc. Sometimes these are the things that make small towns great. Also interested in learning of nearby cities you’d recommend living in to commute to WIU.
Looking for honest answers and not people who want to rant or complain,thanks!