tourist places illinois

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Illinois

Written by Lana Law Updated Feb 7, 2023

Illinois is a great destination in summer, but the state's extensive cultural attractions and great shopping make it a fun place to visit any time of year.

Chicago is the state's most popular destination, drawing travelers from across America and around the world. This is where you'll find some of the state's best retail options, restaurants, museums, and cultural venues. The city is also home to some fantastic buildings designed by architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan.

Springfield , the state capital, is another city with numerous things to see and do, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Dana-Thomas House.

Throughout the state, you will find interesting places to visit, from a prehistoric Indian settlement at Cahokia Mounds to the tranquil Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford . Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Illinois.

1. Millennium Park & Cloud Gate

2. navy pier, 3. wrigley field, 4. art institute of chicago, 5. shedd aquarium, 6. willis tower skydeck, 7. lincoln park, 8. magnificent mile in chicago, 9. starved rock state park, 10. cahokia mounds state historic site, 11. anderson japanese gardens, rockford, 12. ulysses s. grant home state historic site in galena, 13. abraham lincoln presidential library and museum, springfield, 14. dana-thomas house, springfield, map of illinois - top-rated tourist attractions.

Located in downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is part of the much larger Grant Park . Cloud Gate sits at the center of the park, a 110-ton polished steel sculpture. Inspired by liquid mercury, the curved surface reflects the Chicago skyline and the tourists who walk through its arch.

Millennium Park is also home to Crown Fountain , a unique modern interpretation of ancient gargoyles that uses projected images of Chicago citizens.

The Lurie Garden is also in this park, a four-season garden that is open to the public at no charge. There are special events throughout the year at the garden , and outdoor concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion .

The park is centrally located, close to many of Chicago's top tourist attractions and shopping.

Address: 201 East Randolph Street, Chicago, Illinois

Located along Chicago's waterfront, Navy Pier is a great tourist destination with all kinds of things to help entertain people of any age. Museums, restaurants, shopping, movies, and theater are some of the options available.

Highlights include the Centennial Wheel , the Chicago Children's Museum , and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater . Due to the outdoor nature of some of the attractions, the best time to visit Navy Pier is in summer, however you'll always find plenty of things to do here year-round.

During the Christmas holidays, for instance, families flock to Navy Pier for Light up The Lake , an annual indoor lights exhibit featuring fun attractions like a skating rink, Santa visits, and a Winter Wonderland Forest.

Address: 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

Baseball fans won't want to miss a visit to Wrigley Field on Chicago's north side.

One of the top attractions in Chicago, and one of the country's oldest Major League Baseball parks, this historic spot has been home to the Chicago Cubs since 1914. If you're visiting during baseball season, be sure to book tickets to a game.

You can also sign up for a tour of the ballpark , where you'll learn about this venue's 100-year history. Some tours allow visitors to take photos in front of the famous ivy wall. No matter how big a fan you are, you're sure to be impressed, and happily entertained, at Wrigley Field.

Address: 1060 W. Addison Street, Chicago, Illinois

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the city's foremost cultural institutions and known internationally for its collections.

Housed in a late 1800's building, along with other more modern extensions, the institute contains everything from ancient sculpture to Post-Impressionist paintings, and many other areas of interest.

Permanent collections include African art, medieval and Renaissance arms and armor, contemporary art, and textiles.

Address: 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

The Shedd Aquarium is one of the best places to visit in Chicago, especially if you have kids in tow. Set on the banks of Lake Michigan, this large space is home to over 32,000 sea creatures from across the globe.

The Abbott Oceanarium houses animals from the Pacific Northwest. This is where you'll find sea otters, sea lions, and beluga whales. The sharks live in the Wild Reef exhibit, as do spotted rays, Mandarin dragonets, and the white-spotted guitarfish.

The best way to see the Shedd Aquarium is on a guided tour. Known as the " Must See Tour ," these excursions grant tourists an up-close and personal view of the attraction's most famous residents, like turtles, sharks, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and beluga whales. The tours take 75 minutes and take place twice a day. Families with children six and older are welcome to join.

Address: 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

From the top of the Willis Tower Skydeck , tourists can see up to 50 miles over four states and Lake Michigan. The Skydeck stands at 1,353 feet above the ground on the 103rd floor, and The Ledge's glass floor extends from the side of the building to give braver visitors the opportunity to look straight down.

Another great spot where you can admire the city from above is 360 Chicago , located in the John Hancock Building. Tourists can enjoy the glass-walled observation deck or check out the unique view from the "Tilt," a glass enclosure that tips you out for a look down at 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile.

Address: 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Lincoln Park stretches for six miles along the shore of Lake Michigan and is the city's biggest park.

One of its biggest attractions is the Lincoln Park Zoo , one of the oldest zoos in the country . It is home to a wide variety of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Popular residents include lemurs, two-toed sloths, African lions, polar bears, and a red panda.

The Lincoln Park Conservatory is located nearby, home to exotic tropical plants in four huge greenhouses, including palms, ferns, and orchids.

The park is also home to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and the Chicago History Museum , as well as a theater, walking trails, and a beach.

A walk down the Magnificent Mile , a portion of Michigan Avenue, is one of the must-dos for visitors to Chicago . The shopping along here is some of the best in Chicago, with everything from everyday stores to high-end boutiques.

Stop in at any one of the fantastic museums, restaurants, hotels, and other entertainment options along what locals call the Mag Mile. The John Hancock Building, the Wrigley Building, and the Tribune Tower line this street, and it is just a few blocks from Lake Michigan and the famous Navy Pier.

Starved Rock State Park , southwest of Chicago on the Illinois River, is noted for its beautiful canyons and waterfalls.

The park has 13 miles of trails allowing access to some of the most scenic areas, and guided hikes are also available for safe and educational hiking experiences. The park is listed on the Register of National Historic Landmarks , while the buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Starved Rock offers many recreational opportunities in its 18 canyons, including fishing and boating on the river, picnicking, horseback riding, camping, and winter sports. The name of the park comes from a dark story about a group of Illini Indians who took refuge on the rock and were left by their enemies to starve to death.

Address: 2668 East 875th Road, Oglesby, Illinois

Cahokia Mounds is known for being the largest prehistoric Indian settlement north of Mexico and includes the greatest concentration of mounds. In total there are 120, with the 100 foot-high Monks Mound at the center. This is the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas.

The site was occupied from 700 to 1400 CE, primarily by the Mississippian culture. The area encompasses nearly six square miles, and at its peak, around 1100, may have had 10 to 20,000 inhabitants.

Besides being a State Historic Site, Cahokia is also a National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An Interpretive Center tells the story of the site and the people who built it with audiovisual presentations, artifacts, graphics and dioramas, including a life-size village recreation.

Note: The Interpretive Center is closed for renovations with no clear reopening date.

Location: Collinsville, Illinois

Anderson Japanese Gardens , a 10-acre Japanese garden in Rockford, is a splendid retreat with cascading waterfalls, ponds, streams rock formations, winding lanes, a tea house, and guesthouse built in the authentic sukiya style.

When you're ready for a break from sightseeing, this is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy some tranquility. Benches and artfully designed areas allow for reflection and contemplation.

The garden's designer, Hoichi Kurisu, was a famous landscape designer in his native Japan and has designed other notable gardens around the United States, including the wonderful Portland Japanese Gardens.

If you work up an appetite, the on-site restaurant, Fresco at the Gardens, serves innovative and wonderful breakfast and lunch dishes. This is an ideal place to linger with a coffee and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Address: 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Illinois

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Rockford, Illinois

The Grant Home in Galena was presented to Ulysses S. Grant in 1865 upon his return from the Civil War. The house has been fully restored to the 1860s time period and contains many of Grant's personal belongings, as well as original furnishings. Tours are available, enabling you to learn all about this Civil War hero.

Address: 500 Bouthillier Street, Galena, Illinois

Located in Springfield, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum offers a great opportunity for learning, not only about Abraham Lincoln, but also about the history of the state of Illinois.

The facility was opened in 2004 but the collections have been a work in progress for well over a century. This is largely a research facility, containing many significant manuscripts and other materials, although not all of the collection is on display to the public.

Address: 112 North Sixth Street, Springfield, Illinois

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Springfield, Illinois

Built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902, the Dana-Thomas House represents one of his early, large-scale, prairie-style houses, and is particularly well preserved. Today this 35-room structure, located in Springfield, is a house museum, open to the public with guided tours.

The house is large, over 12,000 square feet and has lots of stairs to service the 16 different levels. Be sure to note the spectacular windows and glass doors. Across the street, you'll find the Sumac Shop , where tourists can purchase interesting gifts of all kinds, including model-building kits, books, and bow ties.

Address: 301 East Lawrence Avenue, Springfield, Illinois

More on Illinois

49 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Illinois

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 1, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Also known as “the Prairie State” and “the Land of Lincoln,” Illinois is a vacation destination that’s just bursting with possibility.

From the gleaming metropolis of Chicago to the rolling farmlands of Poplar Grove, you can see all kinds of sights and have all kinds of experiences and adventures.

Nature lovers, for example, will enjoy hitting the mountains and rivers for hiking, climbing, camping and kayaking.

History buffs might be interested in the many museums and landmarks associated with Abraham Lincoln, Native Americans and the Civil War Era.

Shopaholics won’t want to miss the malls, and culture enthusiasts will love the galleries, vineyards, dance halls and botanical gardens.

Illinois also plays host to a number of special events throughout the year, including the world-famous Lollapalooza.

If you’ll be traveling the region at the right time, you can enjoy the festivities with locals and travelers alike!

Are you ready to get started with your vacation plans?

Do you have your notebook on hand?

Let’s talk about the best and most memorable things to do in Illinois.

Table of Contents

1. Millennium Park

f11photo / Shutterstock

Millennium Park is one of the most iconic places to visit in Illinois.

Even if you’ve never been there before, you’ve seen it in countless movies and TV shows.

The giant silver bean is embedded in the public consciousness.

There are other things to do besides sightseeing, of course.

You can take your shoes off and splash around in the Crown Fountain; you can headbang to an outdoor concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion; you can enjoy a moment of zen in the beautiful, colorful Lurie Garden.

You can even go roller blading and rock climbing in the nearby Maggie Daley Park!

It doesn’t matter which season you’re vacationing in, either.

If it’s summer, go biking.

If it’s winter, go figure skating.

This is a destination that never shuts down.

Make time for a trip to Millennium Park.

It’s a must see for anyone traveling through Illinois, especially those with a big bucket list filled with popular tourist destinations!

Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

2. Lollapalooza

Ted Alexander Somerville / Shutterstock

You can’t mention Illinois without mentioning Lollapalooza .

It’s one of the most famous music festivals in the world, so much so that copycats have debuted everywhere from Europe to South America.

It completely takes over the city of Chicago every summer and doesn’t ease its grip for four days.

What can you do at Lollapalooza?

While the rockin’ outdoor concerts are the biggest draw, they’re far from the only attractions.

Art lovers can check out the paintings and sculptures of the Art Market; food lovers can hit Chow Town and its dozens of vendors offering everything from pork dumplings to lobster corn dogs.

There are also games, activities, workshops and tons of other activities for visitors of all ages.

Kids under 10 get in free!

If you’re wondering what to do in the hazy, late summer days of your Illinois vacation, you won’t want to miss Lollapalooza.

More than a quarter of a million people descend on the lakefront every year to eat, drink, dance and generally have the time of their lives.

Address: Chicago, IL, United States

3. Illinois Beach State Park

Donna Ochoa / Shutterstock

You might not think of Illinois as a place with sun-soaked beaches, but when you visit Illinois Beach State Park , you can recline in the sand with a salt-rimmed margarita just like you’re in the Caribbean.

Popular beach sites offer swimming, boating, fishing, scuba diving, volleyball playing and more.

Less crowded areas have breathtaking natural scenery in the form of canyons, sand dunes and wetlands dotted with driftwood trees.

If you’re looking for places to go outside of the water, you can also hit up the black oak savanna for things like hiking, cycling, geocatching and bird watching.

You can camp for days; you can picnic for an afternoon.

It’s up to you.

Put Illinois Beach State Park on your shortlist of vacation destinations.

With so much fun to offer across so many different landscapes, it’s worth its place on the Illinois state map.

Address: 1 Lake Front Dr, Zion, IL 60099, United States

4. Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum

Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum

Route 66 is the kind of destination that conjures up visions of sprawling road trips filled with diners, motels and the wind blowing through your hair from top-down windows.

The good news is that it doesn’t have to be a fantasy when you visit a place like the Route 66 Motorheads Bar in Illinois!

Thoroughly nostalgic, the Motorheads Bar is a blast from the past that incorporates everything from classic cars in its decor to traditional trucker food in its menu.

Every space in the parking lot is filled with automobiles from another era.

Every inch of the walls is covered with faded Ford advertisements and Coca-Cola posters.

There are even ancient but fully functional arcade games for you to play!

It isn’t just a bar and restaurant, and it it isn’t just a museum.

It’s all three combined.

If you’re looking for cool things to see in the Prairie State, you won’t want to miss the famous of Illinois’s attractions, and it doesn’t get more famous than Route 66.

Kill your engine at the Motorheads Bar for an epic pit stop on your cross-country road trip.

Address: 600 Toronto Rd, Springfield, IL 62711, United States

Planning to visit Springfield soon? Why not check out some of the things to do in Springfield, IL ?

5. Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of the most famous places in the Midwest.

Its skyline is printed on countless postcards, and its activities range from dining and shopping to touring glass gardens and hopping on amusement park rides.

What is Navy Pier?

Stretching for more than 3,300 feet, it’s a boardwalk along the shores of Lake Michigan that’s absolutely packed with cool things to see and do.

The most recognized attraction is the Ferris wheel that lights up at night, but there are also games, cruises, carousels, art shows, funhouse mazes, remote control boats and more.

Another nice thing about the pier is that it’s open all year long, so whether you’re headed to Chicago this weekend or three seasons from now, you can count on it being a rock-steady presence in the city.

Don’t miss out on the most famous boardwalk in the country.

Visit Navy Pier while you’re in Illinois and enjoy all of the amazing entertainment to be had there!

Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

6. Art Institute of Chicago

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Welcoming more than 1.5 million visitors per year, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the major points of interest of Illinois.

It’s also among the oldest and largest art museums in the entire country, so it’s usually spoken in the same breath as institutions such as New York City ‘s Metropolitan Museum of Art and Washington DC ‘s National Gallery!

Exhibits at the museum range from ancient textiles to modern art and photography.

There are more than 300,000 pieces in total, and you’re bound to recognize some of them, including Pablo Picasso’s The Old Guitarist and Grant Wood’s American Gothic.

In addition to exploring the art, you can also attend special events at the museum such as workshops, lectures and semi-private tours with artists and curators.

Don’t miss your opportunity to visit one of the most revered art museums of all time.

If you’ll be in Chicago, make time for the Art Institute of Chicago.

Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

7. Leaning Tower of Niles

Thomas Barrat / Shutterstock

Located in Niles, Illinois, the Leaning Tower of Niles is a half-sized replica of the real thing.

Though it wasn’t constructed for any official purpose, it was recognized by the Italian government in 1934, and Niles and Piza were established as sister cities shortly afterwards.

Today, the tower is considered one of the biggest tourist attractions of Niles.

It has four fountains and a pool in addition to a full arrangement of antique, still-ringing bells, so it’s a great place for sightseers.

It’s also something of a beacon for summertime fun; many musicians and buskers camp out in front of the tower when the weather is nice, and it’s a common place for joggers, painters, dog walkers and food vendors.

You might not ever get the chance to travel to Italy, but you can have a little taste of it with a trip to the Leaning Tower of Niles.

Schedule a visit and make sure that your camera is ready for all sorts of selfies!

Address: 6300 W Touhy Ave, Niles, IL 60714, United States

8. Bahá’í House of Worship

Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the glory and rarity of the Bahá’í House of Worship .

It’s the only one of its kind in North America and one of only a handful in the entire world.

Who would expect it to be located in Wilmette, Illinois?

There it sits, however, with its massive spherical architecture that includes dozens of windows encircling a great central dome.

Inside, there are chapels and rooms for prayer; outside, there are nine outdoor gardens filled with fountains and other beautiful and peaceful features designed to invoke feelings of serenity.

Seeing them all will be a challenge just because of the sheer size of the grounds, but it’s doable.

If you aren’t familiar with the Bahá’í religion, it’s based on the teachings of a Persian prophet, and you can learn a lot about its beliefs and origins by visiting its temple.

Visitors are always welcome, and admission is free.

That said, you don’t have to be a follower of Bahá’í to feel spiritual stirrings at the sight of the Bahá’í House of Worship.

It’s one of the grandest places to visit in Illinois, and it can renew your faith in a beautiful world if nothing else.

Address: 100 Linden Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091, United States

9. Six Flags Great America

Located in Gurnee, Illinois, Six Flags Great America is the largest amusement park in the region, and it takes advantage of its location by offering both classic Six Flags fare and uniquely Midwestern rides, events and activities.

For example, Hometown Square is a country-themed area where everything has a boots-and-spurs kind of charm.

There’s also the Southwest Territory, an area modeled after the Wild West, and the County Fair, an area that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of a rural festival.

Another fun fact: If you ride the 300-foot Sky Trek Tower on a clear day, you can see the entire Chicago skyline in the distance, including Lake Michigan.

Sightseeing doesn’t get more epic than that!

If you’re looking for cool vacations spots in Illinois, make time for Six Flags Great America.

It offers all of the roller coasters and cotton candy that you could want, but it’s also undeniable as one of Illinois’s attractions.

Address: 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States

10. The Chocolate Sanctuary

The Chocolate Sanctuary

You’ve heard of truffles, but have you heard of truffle martinis?

You know what chocolate tastes like in a cake, but are you familiar with chocolate-based glazes used on chicken breasts served with nuts, peppers and breadcrumbs?

These are just a few of the ways to experience the signature ingredient of The Chocolate Sanctuary , a gourmet restaurant in Illinois.

It specializes in sweet and savory dishes that put the cacao bean front and center.

Some deploy a chocolately twist on old favorites; others are completely new inventions that will make you say “what?” followed by “oh, yum!”

Dinner at The Chocolate Sanctuary is one of the most decadent things to do in Illinois.

From its smooth silk pies to its crusted barbecue pork chops, every moment of your dining experience will be a self-indulgent one.

Don’t feel guilty, however!

Everyone deserves to pamper themselves every once in awhile!

Address: 5101 Washington St, Gurnee, IL 60031, United States

11. Old Book Barn

Old Book Barn

Do you like oddball vacation destinations?

If so, you’ll have a blast at the Old Book Barn .

It covers 14,000 square feet and is stuffed to the brim with old, rare and used books as well as arts, crafts, games, CDs, DVDs and antiquities.

If this sounds like a trip into an older, more nostalgic world, you’re absolutely right.

Stepping into the barn is like stepping back in time.

Before the days of Amazon and eBay, you had to find buried treasures on your own, and that might mean sifting through all kinds of flea market fare to unearth the gems beneath the junk.

It’s still possible to have that kind of vintage thrifting experience today, but you’ll need to go to places like the Old Book Barn.

With its crowded bookshelves crowded by even more odds and ends, it’s one of the more unique things to see in Illinois, but its individuality is just another part of its charm.

Don’t forget to say hello to the store cats while you’re there!

Address: 126 US-51, Forsyth, IL 62535, United States

12. Superdawg Drive-In

James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

You can’t visit Chicago without trying a Chicago-style hot dog.

It’s a must do.

Thankfully, the Superdawg Drive-In offers a fun and unique vacation experience that’ll leave your belly and your camera roll fit to bursting.

You see, the food isn’t the only reason to visit Superdawg.

Though it offers a tasty hot dog served on a poppy seed bun and topped with piccalilli fries, its real selling point is its 1950s-style carhop service.

You drive up to the neon lights that advertise its glitzy, boxy building, and after you’ve placed your order, an employee will come out and hand it to you.

They’ll even put your straw in your milkshake for you!

The Superdawg Drive-In represents a bygone era in Chicago, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

The menu is top notch, and the service is old-school cool.

You’ll definitely want to post about a place like Superdawg on your socials.

Address: 6363 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646, United States

Planning a trip to Chicago soon? Why not check out some of the things to do in Chicago ?

13. Lincoln Park Zoo

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Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

The Lincoln Park Zoo is home to thousands of animals from hundreds of different species, so it’ll be a great family-friendly destination for anyone visiting Illinois.

As a bonus, it’s one of the last free admission zoos in America, so you won’t have to pay anything to enjoy it.

The critters range from owls to otters to octopi, and their habitats are just as fun as their curious little habits and mannerisms.

You can watch monkeys swinging, birds flying and rhinos stomping and snorting.

Other things to do include petting penguins, exploring gardens, dining at the on-site restaurant and riding various trains and carousels.

Adults can hop right on along with their little ones!

Free tourist attractions don’t come along every day, and even when they do, there’s no guarantee that they’ll be as awesome as the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Take advantage while you can, and make fun and lasting memories on your Illinois vacation while you’re at it.

Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

14. Cave-In-Rock

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Cave-In-Rock is a village located in southern Illinois, but most people aren’t familiar with the tiny clump of homes and shops.

Instead, they know it for its most acclaimed tourist attraction: a literal cave carved out of a rock that sits on the river.

Back in the day, the cave was a hive of scum and villainy.

It was used by pirates who launched attacks on unsuspecting longboats pirating goods down the river; it was used by thieves, murderers and outlaws as a hiding place where the authorities couldn’t find them.

The cave was cleansed in the 1700s when a vigilante group descended on the area and rooted out all of the mischief makers, and for awhile, it was a place of peace.

It even hosted a church for some time!

Today, however, the cave is just a cool tourist attraction.

It’s hidden away from prying eyes, so it’s one of the more obscure things to do in Illinois, but it’s worth the trip.

Its long and colorful history will make for a great story when you get home.

Address: IL 62919, United States

15. Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm

Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm

13 rides. 225 farm animals.

More than 100 meals and snacks.

This is just a small sample of what’s available at Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm , a family-friendly destination that’s sure to inspire a love of country living in your little ones!

Activities include everything from hay rides to petting zoos that include cow-milking and goat-feeding experiences.

To get a thrill, hop on the old-fashioned train train or hurl yourself down the towering six-lane slide.

When you get hungry, sit down for a hearty chuckwagon barbecue meal or just munch on yummy treats like kettle corn and apple cider donuts.

Even more unique things to do include pig races and mechanical pumpkin launchers!

Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm is one of the best places to go in Illinois with kids.

Whether you have tiny tots or grumpy teenagers who will pretend not to know you in the haunted barn, everyone will remember the time that they spent here.

Address: 13341 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491, United States

16. Winnetka

Roberto Valz / Shutterstock

Winnetka, Illinois is a small town tucked into the northeastern corner of the state.

However, it’s anything but inconsequential: With a median income of $207,000 per year, it has one of the wealthiest populations in America.

Visitors to the town can gawk at the elaborate and expensive mansions that line the pretty, tree-shaded streets, including the Georgian mansion was that used for the first two Home Alone movies.

There’s also beach access, and thanks to the well-to-do residents, the beaches have some of the cleanest coastlines in the state.

Other attractions include high-quality parks, museums, restaurants and historical societies.

While Winnetka isn’t a big place for tourism, it’s definitely worth checking out if you’ll be in that neck of the woods in Illinois.

If nothing else, it’s a chance to see how the upper echelons of society live, and you can drink their imported coffee and swim in their pristine beach waters while you’re there!

Address: Illinois, United States

17. Shawnee National Forest

Eddie J. Rodriquez / Shutterstock

Illinois might be most famous for its skyscrapers, but there’s plenty of natural phenomena to behold when you leave the cities and hit the wilderness.

Shawnee National Forest isn’t the only such destination, but it’s one of the best.

The Garden of the Gods is home to sandstone rock formations that have remained intact for centuries.

The River to River Trail will take you on an epic journey across hills, cliffs, forests and wetlands.

Jackson Falls has steep bluffs that lead to a picturesque waterfall; Cedar Lake has clear blue waters surrounded by a number of lush green nature trails.

Outdoor activities range from camping and kayaking to hiking and horseback riding.

You can also climb, fish, hunt, windsurf, waterski or rent an ATV/UTV for off-roading.

Basically, if you can dream it, you can probably do it.

With towering trees and thundering waterfalls, Shawnee National Forest is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US .

It isn’t just a wonder of Illinois; it’s a wonder of the entire country.

You’ll definitely want to pay it a visit.

Address: Herod, IL 62947, United States

18. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

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Did you know that Abraham Lincoln served as the Congressman of Illinois?

Most people remember him as the 16th president of the United States, and many have heard about his iconic birth in a log cabin, but the little details of his political career are often overlooked.

This doesn’t apply to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum , however.

Every inch of the building is dedicated to preserving the history of its namesake.

From his birth to his assassination, you can follow the progress of Lincoln’s entire life.

Full-sized dioramas recreate some of the most extraordinary moments in his life.

Photos, letters, documents, maps and videos recreate his journey from poverty to presidency.

Some of the museum’s exhibits are quite grand, including an original copy of the Gettysburg Address; others are more mundane, including a recreation of his glasses and shaving mirror.

If you’re a fan of honest Abe, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is more than worth the price of admission.

It’s a point of pride in terms of Illinois attractions, and it’ll provide amazing insight into one of the country’s most popular leaders.

Address: 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701, United States

19. Funk Prairie Home Museum

Funk Prairie Home Museum

Originally called the “Funk Gem and Mineral Museum,” this museum is dedicated to everything sparkly.

It houses an enormous collection of gems, jewels, minerals, fossils, shells, corals, carvings and more.

The assortment is all the more impressive for the fact that it’s a one-man show.

According to the owner, it’s the largest private collection of minerals in the world.

The museum offers other things to marvel at, too, including elaborate lapidary art and antique farm machinery.

A carefully preserved home from 1864 can also be explored by history buffs.

If you’re wondering what to do that’s off the beaten path in Illinois, you might like the Funk Prairie Home Museum .

It offers a quirky kind of vacation experience that will remain in your memory far longer than other, more generic attractions.

Address: 10875 Prairie Home Ln Funk Prairie Home, Shirley, IL 61772, United States

20. Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park

Room98 / Shutterstock

With a menu that includes everything from ziplining to axe throwing, the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park will definitely satisfy your hunger for adventure.

It’s one of the most exciting places to visit in Illinois for people who like to view the world from on high.

Most activities are in the tree canopies, including the swings, ziplines, rope courses, suspension bridges and bouncy treehouse nets.

A few things like the axe throwing are on the ground.

Things can be booked by the hour or by the course.

There are also adventure packages available that combine multiple site features into one, so if you have an insatiable appetite that wants to try everything, that’s an option as well.

Clear out this weekend’s schedule.

It’s time to embrace your inner monkey and go hurtling through the treetops at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park.

Address: 1100 Ogden Ave, Western Springs, IL 60558, United States

21. Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.

Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.

Founded by two brothers who discovered that “the only way they could get along was to drink whiskey with each other,” the Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. is one of the coolest places to see in Illinois.

It’s also one of the best for getting drunk!

Utterly unpretentious, the company is staffed by a laid-back crew that will welcome you to tour the facility like a friend rather than a customer.

You’ll get to see everything from the distillery to the barrel room to the cocktail bar, and along the way, you’ll be treated to many, many samples of their homemade specialty brews.

Another fun fact: If your name is Gus, you can get a tour for free!

If you’re feeling a thirst in Illinois, consider swinging by the Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. located in Galena .

It’ll offer an authentic brewery experience in an Illinois town known for its beer, but at the same time, it’ll be a no-fuss, no-stress experience for someone who just wants a cold one on vacation.

Address: 9380 US Hwy 20 W, Galena, IL 61036, United States

22. Starved Rock State Park

With a name like Starved Rock State Park , how can you pass up this destination?

The good news is that it’s just as cool and glamorous as its moniker suggests.

The highlight of the park is definitely its collection of waterfalls.

Formed by glacial meltwater flowing ceaselessly across sandstone, the falls range from gentle and peaceful trickles to thundering waves crashing into the rocks below.

Many of them feed into the Illinois River.

Other beautiful sites include mossy rock formations, flower-lined trails and forested hills where you can observe all kinds of wildlife.

If you’re especially lucky, you might spot a bald eagle flying overhead.

Starved Rock State Park is one of the most impressive sites to see in Illinois, and it doesn’t even matter if you’re a nature lover or not.

You’ll become one after a few hours in the park.

It’s that awesome.

Address: 2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348, United States

23. Calumet Fisheries

Calumet Fisheries

Calumet Fisheries isn’t your usual seafood shack.

It’s one of the last remaining restaurants to smoke its fish over wood-burning fires, making it a rare and valuable establishment in the culinary world.

Anthony Bourdain agreed: He scribbled a rave review on the wall when he visited, and that love note is still legible today, though it’s been bleached by the sun and the reverent touch of many hands.

There’s nothing pompous about the restaurant.

The word “shack” is an accurate description, and many people don’t even use its scarce few tables and chairs, opting instead to take their meals on the go.

If you’re a seafood lover, however, you’ve just got to try its menu.

The seafood is brined overnight and smoked for hours over wood logs.

The end result is fatty salmon, stout sturgeon, jumbo shrimp and even the occasional round of smokehouse eel.

Many things to do in Illinois involve eating until you’re stuffed, and if you’re ready to live up to the tradition, swing by Calumet Fisheries.

You literally can’t get this kind of fish anywhere else.

Address: 3259 E 95th St, Chicago, IL 60617, United States

24. Aurora Farmers Market

Aurora Farmers Market

The tables are piled high with produce.

The vendors are hawking everything from artisan cheeses to freshly-baked bread and just-pickled veggies.

Jewelry jingles every time that there’s a breeze.

This is the Aurora Farmers Market , one of the oldest farmer’s markets in Illinois.

It’s a staple of summertime and a great place to stock up on food, spices, crafts, plants, seeds and more.

In addition to the buying and selling action, there’s often live music played for visitors, and the atmosphere is always friendly as people chat with one another.

You might not find the Aurora Farmers Market in a lot of travel guides, but if you’re looking for hidden gems in Illinois, it’s one of the best places to go.

Its history is unparalleled, and its selection is nearly as impressive.

Give it a try if you’ll be in Aurora during your vacation.

Address: 65 Water St, Aurora, IL 60505, United States

25. Henry’s Rabbit Ranch

Jon Rehg / Shutterstock

Roadside attractions are one of the best things about Route 66, especially when they’re as quirky as Henry’s Rabbit Ranch .

Part of the site is dedicated to real-life rabbits, and the other part is dedicated to Volkswagen Rabbits.

Both are represented by all kinds of arts, crafts, posters and tin signs as well as merch for purchase such as t-shirts and key chains.

The real rabbits will be happy to come out of their hutches and see you.

The mechanical Rabbits are available for posing and picture taking.

The owner, a regular guy with a passion project, is always ready to come out and chat with you about your travels.

Another thing worth mentioning is that the “ranch” is actually designed like a vintage gas station complete with red tanks and wooden roof, so it’ll be great for some artfully off-the-wall photos.

Shutterbugs, make sure to bring your camera!

All things considered, Henry’s Rabbit Ranch is a fun and funky destination that should definitely make it on your list of things to do in Illinois.

After all, how many opportunities will you have in your life to explore a place like this?

Address: 1107 Historic Old Rte 66, Staunton, IL 62088, United States

26. Harrah’s

Harrah’s Metropolis

Bring a little of Las Vegas to your vacation with a stay at Harrah’s .

Though its headquarters are in Sin City, it has locations across the country, including Metropolis, Illinois.

The hotel offers luxurious amenities that include high-class suites with river views.

Downstairs, the casino is decked out with literally hundreds of games, including slots, craps, poker, blackjack, roulette and more.

Time will cease to matter when you’re winning big, and you won’t even have to worry about the clock; the casino is only closed for two hours a day from 6AM – 8AM.

When you’re hungry, wander into the restaurant for tasty menu options such as rib eye steaks and grilled fish fillets.

When you’re thirsty, try a signature cocktail in the lush and plush lounge.

In terms of vacations spots, it doesn’t get any more lavish than Harrah’s.

Just consider it icing on the cake that you can experience it in Illinois rather than Nevada.

Address: 100 E Front St, Metropolis, IL 62960, United States

27. Wolff’s Flea Market

Wolff’s Flea Market

Wolff’s Flea Market is one of the more offbeat destinations of Illinois, but if you’re a fan of the quirky and unusual, you should enjoy this sprawling outdoor complex that springs from the grass every Sunday from April to October.

The usual finds include clothes, crafts, furniture, jewelry and trinkets.

The stranger stuff might range from full-body taxidermy animals to old antiques filled with hidden compartments.

Food is another big draw in the market; from vendors hawking locally-sourced honey to food trucks selling pizza bites and ice cream sundaes, you can always satisfy your appetite here.

Bathrooms are also available as an amenity.

All things considered, if you’re looking for nifty places to visit in Illinois, consider Wolff’s Flea Market.

It might not have the gleaming spires of a shopping mall, but its old, authentic and often homemade goods definitely have their own sort of charm.

Address: 6920 N. Mannheim, Rosemont, IL 60018, United States

28. The Viking

Illinois might be the last place that you expect to see a Viking ship , but guess what?

It’s a reality at Good Templar Park in Geneva, Illinois.

Originally commissioned in the late 1800s, this impressive piece of craftsmanship is an exact replica of the Gokstad, a more famous Viking ship from the olden days.

It was built in Norway and sailed to the United States for the Chicago World’s Fair, but even after the fair turned off its lights, the ship remained on land.

Today, it’s one of the niftiest tourist places in Illinois, especially since it’s housed in a glass-topped observation area in the middle of a park.

You can go for the fields, pavilions, bandstands and picnic areas and stay for the old Viking relics!

Hit up the Viking ship if you’re looking for fun and unusual things to do on vacation.

Illinois might be known as Lincoln’s Land, but the Scandinavians can claim a little piece of it as well.

Address: Good Templar Park, 528 East Side Dr, Geneva, IL 60134, United States

29. Belleville Christkindlmarkt

RozenskiP / Shutterstock

Literally translated to “Christmas market,” Belleville Christkindlmarkt is modeled after the picturesque Christmas towns of Germany that date all of the way back to the 16th century.

Rather than heading overseas, however, you can stay in Illinois and have a merry holiday experience with the whole family.

With “market” in its name, you might expect to see lots of shops, and you’d be right.

You can buy all kinds of homemade goodies here.

There are also many food items ranging from spiced butters and jams to colorful gingerbread houses with all of the trimmings.

Other entertainment options include concerts, carols, sleigh rides, wood carving demonstrations and reindeer petting zoos.

You can even sign up for a “gingerbread run” if you’re in the mood for a cold weather marathon!

If you’re feeling the holiday spirit, Belleville Christkindlmarkt is one of the best places to visit in Illinois in the winter.

Not only can you enjoy everything from twinkling lights to steaming mugs of hot cocoa, but since it’s a market, you can also grab souvenirs to take home and remember the experience all year long.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good night!

Address: 30 Public Square, Belleville, IL 62220, United States

30. Mysterious Mineral Springs Hotel

Mysterious Mineral Springs Hotel

Get ready for a ghostly good time at the Mysterious Mineral Springs Hotel .

Though it’s advertised as a place of healing thanks to its crystal-based energies, it’s better known as a site of paranormal hauntings.

The owners have leaned into this reputation in recent years and created a number of tours and events based off local legends.

For example, the Historic Museum of Torture Devices is opened two days per week for those who want to gawk at grisly and gruesome tools from previous centuries.

Haunted Tours are available for those who want to peek into every dark corner of the haunted hotel.

Ghost hunts are also popular, particularly around Halloween when the veil between the living and the dead is said to be at its thinnest.

You don’t have to wait for Halloween, however, to enjoy spooky tidings in Illinois.

At the Mysterious Mineral Springs Hotel, you can enjoy thrills and chills from multiple attractions and activities all conveniently located in the same spot.

Now that’s scary!

Address: 301 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002, United States

31. Anderson Japanese Gardens

Ana S. Chao / Shutterstock

You don’t have to be familiar with Japanese culture to appreciate the Anderson Japanese Gardens .

It’s a vividly beautiful spot for folks from all walks of life, so even if you can’t tell sushi from sakura, you can enjoy the elegance and refinement of its landscapes.

Take a stroll through the gardens with their ponds, streams, flowers and foot bridges.

Gaze deep into the reflecting pools that are surrounded by ferns and sculptures.

Stop by an old-fashioned tea house or hike until you reach a waterfall.

There are many ways to find your inner zen in a place like this.

Additionally, if you are interested in Japanese culture, you’ll have plenty of options for social and cultural exploration.

From tea ceremonies to performances by poets and musicians, you can dive into a world much different from your own.

The Anderson Japanese Gardens is one of the major points of interest in Illinois.

It’s so renowned that it was officially recognized by the Japanese government for its efforts in promoting international friendship.

Stop by the gardens for a fun and enlightening time!

Address: 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, United States

32. Grandview Drive

Joshua Benjamin Francis / Shutterstock

Are you traveling on a budget?

Grandview Drive is a sightseeing opportunity that won’t cost you a dime, and what’s more, you have the option of driving, biking or walking it.

The full route stretches for 2.5 miles in Peoria, Illinois, and there are both roads and sidewalks available for multiple types of travel.

You’ll see everything from glittering bodies of water to gently-swaying trees standing sentry over parks and playgrounds.

In the spring, the flowers bloom in every color; in the fall, the leaves blanket the ground.

When President Theodore Roosevelt visited this route back in the early 1900s, he dubbed it “the world’s most beautiful drive.”

Did we mention that it’s completely free?

There’s no toll, so you can enjoy it at your leisure.

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Illinois, consider a hike or drive through Grandview Drive.

It more than lives up to its name in terms of grand, beautiful sights, and at just two miles long, it’s easy to enjoy while on the way to even bigger tourist attractions.

33. Chicagoland Skydiving Center

Sky Antonio / Shutterstock

If you’re wondering what to see in Illinois, why not see it all?

A skydiving trip will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that also gives you incredible and unforgettable views of the Prairie State.

The Chicagoland Skydiving Center is one of several companies that offers tandem skydiving with professionally trained jumpers.

Despite the name, it isn’t actually located in Chicago; it’s about an hour west in a city called Rochelle.

The remote location allows for safer, less obstructed jumps into wide and sweeping landscapes that are absolutely stunning to view from above.

Another great thing about the center is that it has a “Freefall University” that will teach you how to earn a skydiving license and jump on your own.

This requires a bit of time, but if you’ll be staying in Illinois for awhile, it’s something to consider.

The Chicagoland Skydiving Center is an essential stop for thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies.

Whether you’re jumping with a pro or flying entirely solo, it’s an adventure that you won’t soon forget.

Address: 1207 E Gurler Rd, Rochelle, IL 61068, United States

34. Chestnut Mountain Resort

StelsONe / Shutterstock

Rain doesn’t have to ruin your vacation plans.

In fact, at the Chestnut Mountain Resort , the rain might add to the ambiance of your roaring fireplace and frost-covered windows.

It exists primarily as a ski resort, of course, so there will be plenty of cool places to go whizzing down the slopes.

You can ski, snowboard and even “alpine slide” down the powdery terrain.

When the Illinois weather isn’t cooperating, however, the Chestnut Mountain Resort isn’t any less fun.

Its villa offers everything from restaurants to hotels for an all-inclusive experience on the cliffs.

If you’re thinking about what to do on a rainy day in the Prairie State, consider a trip to the Chestnut Mountain Resort.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Illinois regardless of what the sky is doing, so it should definitely be at the top of your itinerary.

Address: 8700 W Chestnut Mountain Rd, Galena, IL 61036, United States

35. Morton Arboretum

Mark Baldwin / Shutterstock

Located in the city of Lisle, the Morton Arboretum is home to more than 200,000 plants, and it’s quite possible that additional ones have yet to be discovered and catalogued.

It’ll be an absolute mecca for botanists, horticulturalists and anyone else who can appreciate the full splendor of such amazing plant life.

The arboretum covers 1,700 acres in total and contains landscapes that range from prairies and woodlands to marshes and bogs.

Many of the most beautiful places have a remote, rugged quality to them, but there are also well-tended gardens with neat and tidy trails that you can follow for a leisurely afternoon among the flowers.

Other cool places to visit include a library and a visitor’s center, so if you want to learn more about the amazing things that you’re seeing, you can become quite educated on the subject of Illinois’s flora.

Don’t drive past the Morton Arboretum.

It’s a big draw for the city of Lisle, and if you’re a natural history fan, it’ll be one of the best vacation destinations for you as well.

Address: 4100 IL-53, Lisle, IL 60532, United States

36. Fabyan Windmill

The Fabyan Windmill is one of the coolest things to see in America.

Architecturally speaking, it’s also one of the rarest.

You see, the Fabyan Windmill is a painstaking recreation of an authentic Dutch windmill.

Though it’s seen numerous renovations over the years, locals have kept its spirit alive by carefully preserving its foundational elements while also hiring millwrights from the Netherlands who understand what its design is supposed to be like.

The final product is a gloriously vintage windmill that looks like something off a Dutch postcard.

It’s a great landmark for tourists, and in the winter, it’s also a popular site for sledding.

Locals call its slope “the windmill hill.”

If you’re a fan of history, culture or man-made infrastructure, the Fabyan Windmill is a top tourist destination in Illinois.

Address: 1500 Crissey Ave, Batavia, IL 60510, United States

37. SeatGeek Stadium

SeatGeek Stadium

Everyone knows about Wrigley Field in Chicago, but what if you’re more into soccer than baseball?

What if you also want to watch concerts, rugby matches, bike races and the occasional lacrosse game?

Located in Bridgeview, Illinois, SeatGeek Stadium is a mid-sized venue that’s hosted a number of events over the years.

It’s mainly dedicated to soccer, but it’s also accommodated many other types of sporting events as well as rock bands, country singers and more.

The cheap seats stretch all of the way around the field, and VIP suites are available if you like luxurious vacations spots.

You can dine and drink in style as you take in the thrills below.

Ultimately, while SeatGeek Stadium isn’t one of the most well-known places to see in Chicago, it’s still worth visiting.

It fulfills a much-needed niche for soccer fans, and it can provide a good, popcorn-filled time when you’re in northern Illinois.

Address: 7000 S Harlem Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455, United States

38. Discovery Center Museum

Discovery Center Museum

Fun for the whole family, the Discovery Center Museum is a top 10 destination when you’re traveling with kids in Illinois.

Despite calling itself a museum, it’s a far cry from the dull, stuffy mausoleums where your little ones are forced to tiptoe around.

Instead, it’s a bright, happy space where curiosity is encouraged and discovery is rewarded.

Exhibits include things like bubble stations, laser tables, flight simulators and full-sized models of planes, trains and tractors.

Kids can burn off their energy in two-story mazes or explore their creative sides in art studios and career booths.

Outside, there are even more opportunities for playtime in the adjacent Rock River Discovery Park.

Children can enjoy slides, crawl tubes, water wheels and sand pits filled with dinosaur bones just waiting for excavation.

If you’re making a list of what to do in Illinois with kids, put the Discovery Center Museum at the top.

Everyone can enjoy themselves here, including the adults.

You’re never too old to “ooh” and “ahh” at dinosaur fossils!

Address: 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103, United States

39. Galena Cellars Vineyard

Galena Cellars Vineyard

You don’t have to travel to Bordeaux to find high-quality wine.

The Galena Cellars Vineyard is renowned among Illinois attractions for both its delectable vintages and its jaw-dropping scenery in the rolling hills of Galena.

Visitors can tour both the outdoor vineyard and the indoor barrel rooms to see how their favorite reds are made.

A tasting room is available to sip from different bottles, and quaint, country-style cottages can be rented for everything from romantic getaways to overnight business trips.

Food can be paired with your wine if you’re a fan of artisan cheeses and sausages.

Otherwise, bring your own picnic and recline under the shade of the trees for a beautiful, peaceful experience in nature.

Who needs Bordeaux when you have a place like Galena Cellars Vineyard?

Address: 4746 N Ford Rd, Galena, IL 61036, United States

40. Lake Katherine

photo.eccles / Shutterstock

Lake Katherine is less known than Lake Michigan, but if you ask any Illinois native, it’s still among the best and most beautiful places to see.

The lake itself is a shimmering jewel surrounded by lush grasses and sandy shores.

In the trees, there are waterfalls nestled among rock formations, and wetlands provide ample opportunities for wildlife spotting.

As befitting the Prairie State, there are also plenty of prairies with wide-open skies stretching as far as the eye can see.

Activities at the lake include everything from water-based sports to excursions around the cliffs.

When you feel the need to escape the outdoors, you can check out the visitor’s center with its informative displays on birds, trees, shrubs and other flora and fauna native to Illinois.

You can definitely have fun at Lake Katherine.

The only question is what kind of fun that you’ll decide to indulge in.

41. Strickler Planetarium

Strickler Planetarium

One of only eight planetariums in the entire state of Illinois, the Strickler Planetarium isn’t the biggest or the most technologically advanced, but it has the benefit of being located in a small, picturesque town that’s a charming tourist destination in its own right.

Programs include traditional star-and-planet shows as well as fun specialty shows such as “The Ooky Spooky Light Show” and “Attack of the Space Pirates.”

Many of them take advantage of the planetarium’s dome shape to project 3D images that really bring celestial objects to life.

When you’re done with the planetarium, feel free to venture into the town of Bourbonnais with its red brick buildings and white picket fences.

If you weren’t able to make it to Chicago’s Navy Pier, Bourbonnais has a Ferris wheel as well, so you can cross “ride into the clouds” off your list of things to do in Illinois.

Ultimately, if you want to see the sky, it’s worth a trip to the Strickler Planetarium.

Consider it one of the major places of interest in the state.

Address: 1 University Ave, Bourbonnais, IL 60914, United States

42. Water Works Indoor Water Park

Water Works Indoor Water Park

There are many places to see water slides in Illinois, but the Water Works Indoor Water Park is one of the rare destinations that’s entirely indoors, so you don’t have to worry about cold or rainy weather worrying your trip.

Features of the park include tunnels, whirlpools, playgrounds, diving lanes, rapid water channels and more.

The whole family can splash around; there are designated areas for the littlest swimmers in your family, and adults can hop on the bigger slides just like the kids.

There’s also water-based playground equipment for traditional fun with an aquatic twist.

Have you ever crossed monkey bars over a swimming pool?

Do a butterfly stroke to the Water Works Indoor Water Park if you’re looking for clean, all-ages attractions that everyone in your family can enjoy.

Address: 505 N Springinsguth Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194, United States

43. Woodfield Mall

Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock

With more than 27 million visitors per year, the Woodfield Mall is a must see destination in Illinois.

It’s the largest mall in the entire state, and it offers so many cool things to do that you could spend all day wandering around inside and still not experience everything!

The stores are the biggest draw, of course, and you can find everything from upscale fashion boutiques to cheap phone kiosks within the sparkling, brightly-lit hallways.

There’s much more where that came from, however.

A food court offers a wide range of eats, including fish, steak, sushi, burritos, gyros and gigantic cheese-dipped pretzels.

A bowling alley lets you play in the lanes or enjoy old-fashioned arcade games and laser tag.

There’s even a comedy club that will get you laughing until your sides hurt.

Other events range from book signings to live concerts played right there in the mall.

There’s always something new on the schedule, so it’s definitely worth checking out the agenda in advance.

Are you looking for ways to entertain yourself in Illinois?

Whether you’re headed to the Land of Lincoln this weekend or next summer, you can find something popping off at the Woodfield Mall.

Address: 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL 60173, United States

44. Buffalo Rock State Park

Hank Erdmann / Shutterstock

Though lesser known than some of the other green spaces in Illinois, Buffalo Rock State Park is well worth a visit, especially if you’re a history buff.

This particular park has a strong connection to the Native American tribes that lived in the area before European settlers moved in.

For starters, the very name refers to the fact that tribes used to drive buffalo off the rocks to use them for meat, fur and bone.

There’s also a bluff that used to be an entire island on the Illinois River; today, the waters have receded, so all that remains is the rock and the awe-inspiring view from on top of it.

When you venture out of the rugged wilderness and towards the more developed areas, you’ll find bathrooms, playgrounds, athletic fields and art sculptures dedicated to preserving the legacy of the original Native American inhabitants.

All things considered, Buffalo Rock State Park is one of the best places to visit in Illinois.

It’s packed with culture, history and beauty, so it’s a great destination for travelers everywhere… as long as you aren’t afraid of heights.

Address: 1300 N 27th Rd, Ottawa, IL 61350, United States

45. Granada Theatre

Granada Theatre

Part of the historic district of downtown Mount Vernon, the Granada Theatre is an old and grandiose building that originally housed a movie theater.

Throughout the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s, it showcased vintage films in addition to selling war bonds and serving as a tourist attraction for the city with its vintage-style marquee.

Ticket sales declined over the years, however, and it wasn’t until the theater was renovated into a live performance hall that it regained its former glory.

Today, you can catch all kinds of shows at the theater, including plays, musicals, comedy shows and more.

It’s also a popular spot for hosting wedding receptions and other classy events that could use a touch of glamor.

Check out the Granada Theatre if you’re looking for Illinois attractions that offer more than just cheap entertainment.

At historic sites like this, you’ll get art, theater and high-society culture all rolled into one.

Address: 108 N 9th St, Mt Vernon, IL 62864, United States

46. Poetry Foundation Library

Poetry Foundation Library

This is another destination that you won’t find in many travel guides, but if you have an open mind, you can find lots of hidden gems in Illinois.

One such place is the Poetry Foundation Library .

Established in 1912, this library is among a small number in the world dedicated solely to poetry.

As such, it’s one of the big points of interest of the Midwest, and it’s collected more than 30,000 tomes throughout the years from people seeking to preserve the pretty words of writers gone by.

Other interesting places in the library include archives, exhibits, reading rooms and listening booths if you want to hear recited poetry from the greats.

You might surprise people when you tell them that a library is on your list of “must dos” in Illinois, but the Poetry Foundation Library is no ordinary library.

It’s a place where you can get lost in whole new worlds woven together by nothing but the imaginations of long-lost wordsmiths.

Address: 61 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

47. Warren Dunes State Park

Anne Kitzman / Shutterstock

With its gusty sand dunes sweeping dramatically across the coast, Warren Dunes State Park is definitely among Illinois’s most beautiful places.

Part of the reason for its allure is its proximity to Lake Michigan.

There’s a diverse biological landscape that includes everything from crystal clear beaches to alpine-esque trees and groves, so whether you’re looking for a summer getaway or a fall drive through the changing leaves, you can enjoy it here.

Other activities include hiking, camping, swimming, stargazing and jet skiing.

You can even break out your metal detector and comb the sand for buried treasure at certain areas of the beach!

Do you like nature photography?

Do you want to hop in a postcard and live in nature photography for awhile?

Grab your gear and hit up Warren Dunes State Park.

The sightseeing is amazing, and since campers are always welcome in the park, you can experience the sights both day and night.

Address: 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125, United States

48. Onan’s Gold Pyramid House

Onan’s Gold Pyramid House

Another roadside oddity that has to be seen to be believed, the Onan’s Gold Pyramid House is a gigantic golden pyramid built by two Illinois cultists in the 1970s.

Read that sentence again if you need a minute for everything to sink in.

It’s utterly bizarre, but that’s exactly why it’s irresistible.

Construction began after a married couple, Jim and Linda Onan, started subscribing to the “pyramid power” theory.

They built an entire Egyptian-style pyramid plated in 24 karat gold and surrounded it with a moat guarded by a 50-foot statue of King Tut.

Inside, things are a little less odd; there’s a museum-worthy collection of Egyptian artifacts, so it’ll be genuinely educational to learn about them.

Objects include china, masks, jewelry, statuary, gold pottery and a life-sized replica of King Tut’s throne.

Ultimately, however, if you’re looking for unique things to see and do on vacation, it doesn’t get any stranger than a golden Egyptian pyramid plopped down in the middle of a small Illinois town.

Address: 37921 N Dilleys Rd, Wadsworth, IL 60083, United States

49. Willis Tower

Salvador Maniquiz / Shutterstock

Last but certainly not least, if you’re looking for an epic way to go sightseeing in Illinois, consider climbing the Willis Tower .

It looms above the city of Chicago at a staggering 1,450 feet, and it offers numerous opportunities for thrill seekers to take their breath away.

The Ledge, for example, is a series of glass-bottomed platforms that stretch across the side of the tower and let you stand in the middle of the sky.

There’s also the overall Sky Deck with its floor-to-ceiling views in every direction.

On clear days, you can see four different states on the horizon; on rainy or hazy days, you can marvel at being on top of the clouds.

The Willis Tower is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the entire state of Illinois.

It isn’t just a Chicago thing; it’s an Illinois thing.

You’ll definitely want to make time for it if you’ll be passing through the Midwest!

Address: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Illinois

Whether you’re interested in malls, museums, farms, vineyards or skyscrapers, these are just a few things to do in Illinois that will make for an unforgettable vacation.

Adventure is waiting for you, so reach out and seize it!

Happy travels.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Illinois

If you want to explore the American Midwest, head to Illinois. The Land of Lincoln is home to teeming cities as well as rural farmland. You can relax on the shores of Lake Michigan, and you can also tour small villages with an abundance of history. Illinois is home to the Windy City, Abraham Lincoln and so much more. An overview of the best places to visit in Illinois.

10. Anderson Japanese Gardens

The third largest city in the state is Rockford , which is where you’ll find the Anderson Japanese Gardens. Many declare this site the best Japanese garden in the United States, and it is certainly an incredible place to spend the day. Only open between May and October, the seasonal gardens are perfectly maintained.

More than just plants, the landscaping is carefully and methodically planned, with natural water features, bridges, pagodas and lanterns helping to create a breathtaking masterpiece. Pick up a map from the Visitor Center, and be sure to snap a picture on the Cypress Bridge leading to the Garden of Reflection.

9. Champaign-Urbana

The main campus of the University of Illinois, the state’s largest university, is located in the city of Champaign-Urbana. This destination is a shining example of a college town. Technically, Champaign-Urbana is two distinct cities, but they blend together into one metropolis.

Embrace the spirit of higher education by checking out the Spurlock Museum, an eclectic collection of fascinating artifacts from across the globe. Whether you’re searching for some tasty coffee or you’re doing your weekly shopping, the Market at the Square is a lively, fun place to hang out, particularly on Saturdays.

8. Tunnel Hill State Trail

In the southern tip of the state is the Tunnel Hill State Trail, a lesser known but incredible destination in Illinois worth checking out. The trail is just under five miles, and it passes through a number of long tunnels.

Much of the area that the trail covers is reclaimed strip mines or agricultural land, and there is some terrific scenery. Whether you walk, jog or bike the crushed gravel trail, you will pass through gorgeous ravines and alongside streams and bluffs. To get to the trailhead, begin in the town of Vienna.

7. Lincoln’s New Salem

One of the most influential American Presidents is undoubtedly Abraham Lincoln. Whether you’re an American history buff or a fan of Lincoln’s presidency, pay homage to the great man with a visit to Lincoln’s New Salem.

This national landmark is a perfect reconstruction of the original New Salem, also in Illinois, where Lincoln lived between 1831 and 1837. At Lincoln’s New Salem, you can tour 23 open buildings. Many of them are log cabins, and many contain one or more guides wearing period costumes.

The furniture, outfits and even the horses are accurate to the time period, and this can be a fantastic way to get a feel for Lincoln’s role in Illinois.

6. Shawnee National Forest

When the great outdoors is calling, answer it with a trip to Shawnee National Forest. Located in the southernmost part of the state, this national forest was once completely covered in the Laurentide Ice Sheet. Fortunately, that ice sheet melted millions of years ago, and the Shawnee National Forest is now perfect for hiking, camping, swimming and photography.

The biggest attraction at Shawnee is the Garden of the Gods, a stunning rock formation that you might recognize from the Illinois quarter. A short observation trail surrounds the Garden of the Gods and makes it easy for visitors to take in its beauty from all angles.

5. Cahokia Mounds

Just outside of St. Louis, on the other side of the state border, is Cahokia Mounds State Historic Park. The Cahokia Mounds are a fascinating landmark formed by American Indians who lived there more than 800 years ago. The mounds are believed to signify the largest pre-Columbian city north of Mexico.

There are 69 remaining mounds which are now covered in grass. The largest of these mounds is Monks Mound, and it is more than 100 feet tall. Another interesting part of Cahokia is Woodhenge, a large circle formed by 48 wooden posts that aligns with the solar calendar, which makes it very similar to Stonehenge in England.

4. Starved Rock State Park

On the banks of the Illinois River is Starved Rock State Park. The park is less than 100 miles from Chicago, which means that it receives plenty of city visitors for the day as well as out-of-town travelers. Starved Rock State Park boasts sandstone canyons that are formed because of glacier melting.

Some of the canyons, specifically Wildcat Canyon and French Canyon, even have waterfalls. Hiking is a great way to experience the Starved Rock State Park, and the best view in the park is accessible via a trail that leads to the Lover’s Leap Overlook. As you hike, be on the lookout for deer and migrating birds.

For history lovers, there are few places in Illinois more interesting than the city of Galena . Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, Galena is known as the City That Time Forgot. In the 19th century, Galena was a major port, but now tourism is its major economy.

Strolling down Main Street is the best way to explore Galena, since countless mom and pop stores housed in 19th century buildings line the street. You can also use the pedestrian bridge to cross the Galena River or explore the home of former President Ulysses S. Grant, who lived there before the Civil War.

2. Springfield

The capital of the state is Springfield , another city that once served as the home of Abraham Lincoln. This is the best place to visit in Illinois if you’re interested in all things Lincoln, and there is definitely no shortage of options.

There’s the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where he lived for more than 17 years. Also worth visiting for a few hours is the extensive Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum. Many visitors also make time for the Oak Ridge Cemetery, one of the most visited cemeteries in the world, where Abraham Lincoln and most of his family were laid to rest.

There is no question that Chicago is the most popular destination in Illinois – and even the entire Midwestern United States. This enormous city has so much to explore, but many of the highlights can be found in one area known best as the Loop. Millennium Park is located in the Loop, and it is there that you can spot the reflective sculpture known commonly as The Bean. Also in the Loop is the Chicago Institute of Art, arguably one of the top art museums in the country.

Chicago’s architecture and skyline is world famous, and a walking tour can show you landmarks such as the Aon Center, the curved Chase Tower and the mid-century Federal Center, which was constructed by Mies van der Rohe.

Map of Places to Visit in Illinois

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Illinois (IL) » 16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Illinois by a Local (2023)

16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Illinois by a Local (2023)

Illinois, Land of Lincoln or The Prairie State , is popular and famous for many reasons.  Illinois is a state that is full of natural beauty and stunning landscapes and is bordered by Lake Michigan to the north and the Mississippi River to the west. From rolling hills to pristine lakes and towering waterfalls, the state has plenty of gorgeous spots for nature lovers to explore. Some of the most beautiful places in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, the Shawnee National Forest, and the Garden of the Gods.

Illinois has a rich history, with significant contributions to the arts, politics, and sports. The state is also home to several notable universities, including the University of Illinois, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago. Whether you’re a city dweller or a nature lover, Illinois is well worth a visit.

I’m a Chicago local and in this guide I’ll show you my selection of the most beautiful places to visit in my home state Illinois. I’ve traveled the length and breadth of the state so don’t worry I’m sure you’re gonna be amazed by what you see.

1. Burden Falls

The Shawnee National Forest is one of America’s most famous natural locations and arguably the most beautiful sight it has to offer visitors is Burden Falls. Located in Pope County, Burden Falls is very small compared to some of the great waterfalls of the United States, but it is still one of the tallest in Illinois.

Bird watching and photography are both very popular at the Burden Falls Wilderness, while hunting and fishing are both allowed in the grounds too. The main hiking trail through the forest is 3.5 miles long. Burden Falls itself is a 20-foot waterfall, but the water descends for a further 80 feet in cascades – watching the falls is a captivating experience. The closest nearby town is Eddyville.

2. Great River Road

The Great River Road in Illinois offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a scenic and historic route through the heartland of America. You can enjoy the natural beauty from the comfort of your car or plan ahead to make some stops to explore further.

One must-visit destination I suggest is Galena, a charming town filled with historic buildings and quaint shops. Another highlight is the Pere Marquette State Park, which boasts stunning views of the river and offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. The Nauvoo Historic District, located on the banks of the Mississippi, is a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Mormon pioneers. And for wine lovers, the Great River Road Wine Trail features over a dozen wineries that offer tastings and tours. Whatever your interests may be, the Great River Road in Illinois is a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

3. Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

The Chicago Harbor Lighthouse is one of the most beautiful sights in Chicago . While it can be spotted from the city’s Navy Pier, a boat tour of the harbor might be the best way to get up close to the lighthouse for a perfect photo opportunity. No access is currently permitted to the lighthouse as it remains a navigational aid to this day.

Nearby parks to the lighthouse include Milton Olive Park and Jane Addams Memorial Park and they are both worth exploring during a visit to Illinois too. Lighthouse viewing point Navy Pier itself is Chicago’s number one tourist attraction.

You may also want to read my guide on  some of the best tours in Chicago .

4. Matthiessen State Park

Matthiessen State Park in central LaSalle County is located close to both Oglesby and Utica. The park is famous for its array of unusual and beautiful rock formations and it also combines forest, streams and prairies in a way few other parks in Illinois can. Matthiessen State Park is named after Frederick William Matthiessen, who was a prominent industrialist and philanthropist from LaSalle.

An abundance of plant and animal life can be enjoyed in the park, which has a very large white-tail deer population. The park also boasts a number of stunning picnic spots, the best of which is perhaps at Dells Area, which has a children’s playground to keep the kids entertained.

As Matthiessen State Park is located close to the Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary, bald eagles can also sometimes be spotted within the grounds of the park.

Also see my article on best things to do in Illinois.

5. Holy Name Cathedral

The only cathedral in Chicago, Holy Name Cathedral is among the largest Roman Catholic dioceses in the United States. Thousands of visitors flock to the cathedral from all over the world every week, with the rich history of the site making it well worth making time to see.

Across the street from the cathedral is where North Side Gang member Hymie Weiss was murdered and a major fire damaged the roof and the interior of the church just a few years ago. The Chicago Crime and Mob Tour takes in sites including Holy Name Cathedral, with visitors able to learn all about Chicago’s most notorious criminals on the popular tourist trip.

6. Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is one of the most famous parks in Illinois and it might just be the state’s most beautiful too. There is a huge array of things to see and do at the park, which boasts a lodge with the largest two-sided fireplace in Illinois.

The park, located on the Illinois River bluff in LaSalle County, is superb for all kinds of recreation activities, such as hiking, camping and fishing, while the Starved Rock Visitor Center is open all-year round. The cultural history of Starved Rock State Park can be traced back thousands of years, making it one of the most historic places in Illinois.

Named after a mineral that was mined by Native Americans, Galena retains its historic feel to this day, with over 85 per cent of the town deemed to be a national historic district. Architecture fans should head to the six blocks of Main Street in Galena, with Greek Revival and French Colonial buildings sitting side by side.

Over one million people visit Galena every year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state of Illinois. Among the top attractions drawing tourists are the Old Market House and the Historical Society and Museum, while many also take the chance to go underground into the Vinegar Hill Lead Mine. Among Galena’s rich history is the fact the town was home to no fewer than nine Civil War generals.

8. Starved Rock canyons

The canyons at Starved Rock State Park are one of the top attractions of this beautiful spot. Within its 2,630 acres there are 18 canyons to explore, while visitors can also walk through some 13 miles of trails around the park too. If you’re up for a walk I recommend at least one of the shorter trails.

The Wildcat Canyon bridge is one of the most stunning locations within the grounds of the park, which was named by the Illinois Bureau of Tourism as one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois in 2007. Waterfall enthusiasts will find plenty to love at the park too, with French, LaSalle, Ottawa and St. Louis Canyons the best places to go to see the falls.

The spring is arguably the best time of the year to visit the canyons at Starved Rock State Park, but the wonderful array of colors provided by autumn are well worth checking out too.

9. Grosse Pointe Lighthouse

The beautiful Grosse Point Lighthouse is one of Illinois’ most beautiful buildings, while it is also on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark too. The site of the Grosse Point Lighthouse site is also famous for being reputedly where Father Jacques Marquette landed in 1674 when he came to visit Native American tribes, but there is little firm proof of this happening.

While the lighthouse grounds are open to the public free of charge year-round, tours are held seasonally due to weather conditions. To get to the top of the tower, visitors must climb the 141 steps to the summit of the lighthouse.

10. Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is the idea of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and is set to become one of the most important tourist destinations in the whole of Illinois in the coming years. The heart of the Riverwalk is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza, which commemorates those who have given their lives fighting in wars.

Floating gardens, a bridge and fishing piers are among the additions being made to the Chicago Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is worth visiting at any time of day or year, with the stunning architecture lit up at night to make it a special place to go.

The River Theater, the Cove and the Swimming Hole are among the highlights of the Riverwalk, which features a zero-depth fountain, while there is a great deal of restaurants, retail space and public seating too.

11. Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park is a hidden gem tucked away in the rolling hills of southern Illinois. With its towering rock formations, lush forests, and scenic trails, the park offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Giant City State Park spans over 4,000 acres and is renowned for its unique geological features, including giant sandstone bluffs and rock formations that are millions of years old. Visitors can explore over 80 miles of hiking trails. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing, horseback riding, camping, fishing, and picnicking. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or an extended stay, I’m sure you’re gonna love it at Giant City State Park.

One must-visit destination I would recommend is Giant City Lodge, a historic lodge and restaurant nestled in the heart of the park. It’s an excellent spot to grab a bite to eat, relax, and take in the beautiful surroundings.

12. Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest, the biggest publicly owned body of land in the state of Illinois, spans  approximately 280,000 acres of land. As the only national forest in Illinois, Shawnee attracts many people who want to enjoy special places such as the stunning Cedar Lake, which can be found south of Carbondale.

There are 10 Research Natural Areas within the grounds of the forest, as well as four heritage resource sites that are on the National Register of Historic Places. As far as places to connect with the natural world go, there are few better spots in Illinois than Shawnee.

13. Rockford

Rockford , the third biggest city in the state of Illinois, is often called the Forest City due to its 20,000 acres of green space and it is home to a number of important cultural sites too.

The oldest music club in the nation can be found in Rockford – the Mendelssohn Club – while other places to visit include Anderson Japanese Gardens, Tinker Swiss Cottage and Klehm Arboretum.

Seeing Jane the T-Rex, found at the Burpee Museum of Natural History, is a must for anyone visiting Rockford, while Midway Village and Museum Center are worth making time for as well. Families will also love a day out at Magic Waters, which is conveniently located just off Interstate 90/39.

14. Leaning Tower

The Leaning Tower of Niles is one of the most characterful tourist spots in Illinois, with the building a half-size replica of Italy’s famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. A great photo spot, the tower is currently in need of extensive repairs, but it remains popular.

With facilities including four fountains and a 30-foot pool, the Leaning Tower of Niles is a must for anyone visiting the village, which hosts the annual open-air Leaning Tower Concert Series in the summer. While Pisa’s tower is leaning more over the years, the Leaning Tower of Niles is anchored in concrete to keep it steady.

In the 1990s, Niles became a sister city to Pisa as a result of the presence of the Leaning Tower. I guess you’ll probably want to take photo of you trying to push over the building.

15. Central Illinois

Away from the busy cities of Rockford and Chicago, exploring Central Illinois is a great way to learn what this state is all about. Consisting mostly of flat prairie, Central Illinois is one of the most peaceful places in the whole country.

Man-made lakes such as Lake Shelbyville and Lake Springfield can be found in Central Illinois, which has a number of important historical sites relating to President Abraham Lincoln, such as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.

The superb Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge is well worth a visit for nature lovers.

16. Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods is an amazing beautiful natural wonder located in the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois. The park is home to a stunning array of unique rock formations that have been shaped over millions of years by the forces of wind and water.

The park’s towering sandstone cliffs and breathtaking vistas offer visitors a glimpse into the natural beauty of Illinois, and the park’s hiking trails provide ample opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness. For those wanting to take a relaxing walk I would suggest the Oberservation Trail and for those that want to embark on a more challenging hike I’d suggest the River to River Trail.

16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Illinois by a Local (2023):

• Burden Falls
• Great River Road
• Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
• Matthiessen State Park
• Holy Name Cathedral
• Starved Rock State Park
• Starved Rock canyons
• Grosse Pointe Lighthouse
• Chicago Riverwalk
• Shawnee National Forest
• Leaning Tower
• Central Illinois
• Garden of the Gods

• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Exciting Cities
• Food And Drink
• Outdoor Adventures
• Where To Stay
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10 Best Attractions in Illinois for Your Bucket List

October 14, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

If you are planning a trip to Illinois and looking for the best attractions in Illinois to include in your itinerary, then you have come to the right place!

In this article, I will share some of the best places to visit in Illinois for the ultimate vacation experience.

Popularly known as the Land of Lincoln, Illinois is one of the top places to visit in the Midwest .

The Prairie State is famous for a lot of reasons. Bordering Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River, Illinois is home to gorgeous landscapes and natural sights.

From rolling hills to pristine lakes, the state has the most amazing places that nature lovers are bound to enjoy. 

There are plenty of stunning Midwest state parks to explore here. This includes the Starved Rock State Park, the Shawnee National Forest, and more.

Apart from being a haven for nature lovers, Illinois also has a rich history and culture. 

Whether you choose to learn the history of the state at the museums or marvel at the gorgeous architecture, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Illinois for everyone.

Are you confused about what to do in Illinois?

Well, then keep reading our list of the 10 best attractions in Illinois for your bucket list to take inspiration!

Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford

One of the best places to visit in Illinois is the Anderson Japanese Gardens which is the top attraction in Rockford that you must visit.

This is one of the best attractions in Illinois for couples as it offers a romantic ambiance with its cascading falls, rock formations, ponds, a tea house, and more.

The best thing about this attraction is that the garden is built in an authentic Japanese style. 

When you are exploring one of the best Illinois destinations, Rockford, do take some time to relax in this garden as well. 

Visitors can make use of the benches and the beautifully designed areas for sitting and relaxing in this Japanese garden.

Another interesting thing to know about this garden is that it was built by Hoichi Kurisu, a famous Japanese landscape designer. He has designed other Japanese gardens in the USA as well.

It is one of the unique Illinois attractions where you can indulge in the Japanese tea ceremony, learn calligraphy, attend a cultural program, or simply enjoy the beautiful setting. 

Recommended Hotel:  Baymont by Wyndham Rockford  

Check Prices:  Booking.com

Millenium Park & Cloud Gate

One of the top tourist attractions in Illinois, Millennium Park & Cloud Gate are the most popular attractions in Chicago that you cannot miss.

The park is one of the most famous Illinois tourist attractions that was built to celebrate the turn of the 21st century.

One of the main attractions in this park is the Cloud Gate, also known as the Bean. This is a 110-ton stainless steel sculpture that sits in the heart of the park. 

The curved surface of this structure reflects the Chicago skyline and anyone who walks through the arch.

Visitors can also admire the Crown Fountain next to the Cloud Gate. The two clear towers with video screen displays the projected image of Chicago citizens.

There is also a garden, a skating rink, and a pedestrian bridge that can be found here.

Trust me, if you are looking for the best Illinois attractions to explore, then do visit Millennium Park & Cloud Gate in Chicago.

Recommended Hotel:  Hotel Blake, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member  

Shawnee National Forest

If you are looking for fun things to do in Illinois, then don’t forget the Shawnee National Forest in Harrisburg. 

Spanning over an area of 280,000 acres, this national park is one of the top places in Illinois for adventure lovers. 

It started out as an agricultural land but is now a combination of unique geological marvels and forest. 

The forest is made up of 10 Research Natural areas that feature springs, waterfalls, and sandstone formations that visitors can climb upon and explore.

 One of the most unique attractions in Illinois is the Garden of the Gods at Shawnee National Park.

This is a stunning rock formation that has a trail surrounding it and offers beautiful vantage points to the hikers. 

Recommended Hotel:  Home2 Suites By Hilton Carbondale  

Matthiessen State Park

Are you looking for fun attractions in Illinois for families to explore together? Do you want to enjoy the best hiking trails in Illinois ?

Well, then Matthiessen State Park is one of the top places to go in Illinois that you cannot skip. This park is known for its unique rock formations and is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the five miles of hiking trails throughout the park that will take you through canyons, streams, waterfalls, and prairie land.

It is one of the best Illinois tourist attractions for nature and wildlife lovers as there is an abundance of plants and wildlife found here. 

You can find white-tailed deer, foxes, and more here. 

Plus, the park is home to plenty of picnic parks, especially near the Dells area, where you also have a playground for kids to enjoy.

Overall, Matthiessen State Park is one of the best attractions in Illinois that you cannot miss.

Recommended Hotel:   Best Western Oglesby Inn

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Springfield

Are you a history buff or a Lincoln fan? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, then you should visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

There are so many more interesting things to do in Springfield IL.

What’s more, the museum is located in his hometown and is a great way to learn about his life.

One of the best Illinois attractions, the Abraham Lincoln Museum features artifacts from notable events in his life. This includes the noteworthy Emancipation Proclamation which ended slavery in the country.

There are several artifacts of Lincoln’s wife displayed here as well. You can also see the exhibits that feature a replica of Lincoln’s childhood home and the box seat at Ford Theatre.  

So, if you are curious about Abraham Lincoln’s life, then one of the most interesting things to see in Illinois is the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

Recommended Hotel:  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Springfield, IL  

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville

One of the top tourist attractions in Illinois, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a must-visit place in Collinsville.

This Collinsville attraction is said to be the largest prehistoric American Indian settlement found north of Mexico.

It is one of the best places to go in Illinois to witness the largest concentration of mounds. Out of the 120 mounds, the Monk Mound is the largest at 100 feet in height.

According to the historians, the site is said to have been home to 10 to 20 thousands of people between the peak years of 1050 and 1150.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the 800 acres of land that is open to the public.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site also features an Interpretive Center where you can learn the site’s history through audiovisual presentations, artifacts, and more. 

There are also several hiking trails at the site that you can explore. 

If you are looking for fun attractions in Illinois for families, then the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a good choice. 

Recommended Hotel:  Drury Inn and Suites St Louis Collinsville

For history lovers, one of the best places to visit in Illinois is the charming town of Galena.

There are many attractions in Galena that visitors can explore including the famous Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site.

This home was presented to the United States’ 18th President, Ulysses S. Grant, upon his return from the Civil War. Visitors can take a tour of this house to learn about this hero.

If you are an architecture fan, then one of the best places in Illinois, especially Galena, is Main Street. Here, you can marvel at the French Colonial and Greek Revival buildings sitting close together.

Apart from this, there are other popular attractions here such as Old Market House, Vinegar Hill Lead Mine, and so on. All of these attractions make Galena one of the top Illinois destinations for history lovers.

So, if you are looking for the best attractions in Illinois for couples, then do check out Galena.

Recommended Hotel:  Goldmoor Inn & Resort  

One Of The Historic Attractions In Illinois Is Dana-Thomas House

If you are an architecture lover, then one of the top things to see in Illinois is the Dana-Thomas House in Springfield.

Built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902, this is one of the best attractions in Springfield for Lloyd fans. 

This is an early Prairie-styled house by Frank Lloyd that remains well preserved to this date. The house was used by socialite-activist Susan Lawrence Dana for hosting educational gatherings.

The house features 35 rooms on different levels, 100 pieces of original Wright furniture, plenty of art-glass doors and windows, and more.

Visitors can take a guided tour of Dana-Thomas House, one of the unique attractions in Illinois, to learn more about this place. 

If you are an architecture lover or history buff, then this is one of the top Illinois tourist attractions to visit.

Recommended Hotel:  Ramada by Wyndham Springfield North  

Illinois Beach State Park Is One Of The Fin Attractions In Illinois k

Are you a beach lover? If yes, then one of the most fun things to do in Illinois is to spend a day at the Illinois Beach State Park.

This state park, located on the banks of Lake Michigan, is one of the top attractions in Zion.

Plus, this is the only beach ridge shoreline in Illinois where you can find marshes, dunes, oak forests, and more.

The 4,160-acre park is one of the top attractions in Illinois for families as visitors can hike, bike, boat, fish, swim, and so on.

Biking enthusiasts can use the Zion Bike Trail to cover the North and South Units of this state park.

This is also one of the best places in Illinois for nature lovers as over 650 species of plants can be found here. 

Trust me, if you are looking for a fun beach day, then Illinois Beach State Park is one of the top places to visit.

Recommended Hotel:  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gurnee, IL  

Starved Rock State Par Is One Of The Best Attractions In Illinois

One of the best places to visit in Illinois for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, Starved Rock State Park is a must-visit in Illinois.

Located southwest of Chicago, this state park is famous for its beautiful canyons and waterfalls and is one of the top attractions in Oglesby.

The park is listed on the Register of National Historic Landmarks and is one of the best attractions in Illinois for families.

There are 13 miles of trails to explore in the park that lead to some scenic views. Plus, visitors can enjoy guided hikes for a safe hiking experience here.

Apart from that, visitors have lots of recreational activities to experience in the 18 canyons found here. 

Plus, a few canyons like Fresh Canyon and Wildcat Canyon are also home to the most beautiful waterfalls in Illinois . 

In this park, you can enjoy many activities such as fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, boating, camping, and more.

So, if you are looking for unique attractions in Illinois to enjoy with your family, then do plan a visit to the Starved Rock State Park.

Recommended Hotel:  Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ottawa Starved Rock Area

Packing List When Visiting Attractions In Illinois

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Illinois, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when looking for Illinois attractions.

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during your London activities.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc…. No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

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23 Best Places to Visit in Illinois

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 18, 2024

Springfield

The Dana-Thomas House is widely visited, as it is the most complete example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture. The city is set on the plains near the winding Sangamon River, and the Adams Wildlife Center allows residents and visitors to get in touch with Springfield’s natural surroundings with its 40 wooded acres. Springfield is a stop on the famous Route 66, and there are diners along it in retro style. The Hoogland Center for the Arts is a popular venue, and it presents programs of ballet, theater, symphony, and orchestra.

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Chicago

Rockford, Illinois

The Burpee Museum of Natural History is dedicated to an even earlier regional history, and it has a terrific dinosaur exhibit that includes a complete T-Rex skeleton. Things to do in Rockford

The lighthouse was put in place in the aftermath of several shipwrecks by water craft running onto the shallow shoals of Lake Michigan en route to Chicago. It was, for its working life, the brightest and lead lighthouse in the area. On a sunny day, take the kids to Lighthouse Park, a green space with a children’s playground and a beach with picnicking sites.

Bloomington

Outdoorsy people love its forty-four different parks and its three golf courses. Lovers of the arts can enjoy theater, the symphony orchestra, and the city’s ballet corps. The area has a small but fascinating zoo, which has some of the rarest wild cats in existence: the Amur Leopard and the Sumatran Tiger. A huge indoor rock climbing park is a great favorite amongst both visitors and locals.

Settlers continued to mine, and for the sake of commerce, Galena became a major steamboat port on the Mississippi River. Now visited for its history and its beautiful homes, Galena has a stunning main street featuring six blocks of French Colonial, Greek Revival, and Italianate homes, one of which belonged to Ulysses S. Grant , the 14th president of the United States. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush valleys, Galena is a wonderful place to visit or live.

Quincy, Illinois is situated on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Dogwood-lined streets and fine architecture, much of it in traditional German style, make this city a lovely place to visit. Quincy has a rich history; it was a safe haven for Mormons leaving behind the persecution they faced in the eastern states and was a major stopping point on the Underground Railway, which helped African American people flee the south and slavery. Like many cities on the Mississippi, Quincy has a heritage of blues music, but it also has an annual film festival, an excellent opera company, and a fine theater.

Alton is the hometown of jazz musician Miles Davis, and it was the site of the final debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas in 1858. From its humble beginnings as a Mississippi ferry-crossing, Alton has grown to be an important center for the arts, particularly theater.

The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art draws many visitors; its focus is on cutting and polishing stones and displaying them as works of art. The city of Elmhurst is a terrific place to go shopping with a downtown core offering nearly three hundred unique merchants. Plenty of family fun can be had at the indoor trampoline park in town.

Lincoln’s Tomb

Abraham Lincoln was elected President on November 6, 1860 and led the country through the Civil War. On April 14, 1865, he was assassinated by a Confederate sympathizer in a Washington, D.C. theater, and his body was brought home by train to Springfield at the request of his wife. Lincoln’s Tomb is in Oakridge Cemetery and is open to visitors year-round.

Anderson Gardens

Considered the finest Japanese garden in the United States, it is designed in the fashion of a 13th century strolling garden with numerous water features, winding paths, rock formations, and a bevy of Japanese maples, cloud pines, rhododendrons, azaleas, and magnolias. Fish, ducks, and minks are part of the background of the garden, which is now a not-for-profit organization with all funds going towards charitable works. It is a perfect place to leave the stress of the world behind and where you can return to serenity and peace.

Naperville Riverwalk

A café with an outdoor patio overlooking the river serves pub-style food and ice cream. Many retail shops are located along the Riverwalk, as is the popular Centennial Beach and Centennial Park’s skateboarding/inline skating facility. Visitors may rent kayaks and paddleboats or take children to the Jaycee playground. Midway along the Riverwalk is a bell tower, the carillon of which lyrically chimes every hour on the hour. Things to do in Naperville

Morton Arboretum for Couples

A children’s garden helps introduce youngsters to arboreal conservation. Morton Arboretum has extensive educational programming for people of all ages, including cooperative programs with local colleges and universities. The Sterling Morton Library has over 27,000 works about trees, botany, and nature. The gardens have a gift shop and a café, and visitors can rent bicycles to explore the paved trails.

Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

Illinois Holocaust Museum, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie, IL 60077, Phone: 847 967 4800

Shawnee National Forest

Over its 268,000 acres are miles upon miles of hiking trails that welcome leashed dogs and horseback riders. Primitive campgrounds are available, as are simple cabins. Visitors to the park can enjoy trail walking, picnicking, fishing, or spotting wildlife, which includes large herds of deer. There is a Visitor Center and extensive educational programming for all ages.

Visitors to the city often head directly to the Caterpillar Visitor’s Center, which shows examples of its giant earth-moving equipment and has excellent hands-on simulators. Other visitors are drawn to the Peoria Zoo, which has a remarkable African Savannah section or to the annual art fair that takes place along the waterfront. Things to Do in Peoria

Fabyan Forest Preserve, Illinois

In the 1920s, the Colonel had a large Dutch windmill moved from its original site and onto his land; one of the few wind-powered windmills in the United States, it is built from cypress wood and dates back to the 1850s. Around the windmill is park land ideal for picnics. The entire Fabyan estate is on the banks of the Fox River and adjacent to the Fox River Trail, and so it is a wonderful destination for fishing, walking, and cycling.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

At its peak in the mid-1200s, Cahokia was home to more than 40,000 people, a population greater than mid-1200s London, England. The site is characterized by huge mounds that had significance to the people who lived here; a life-size village replica can be explored, and the excellent museum has an informative video, original artifacts, and information about the daily lives of the inhabitants of Cahokia. A self-guided audio tour of the site is available, and there are walking trails and a gift shop.

Mississippi Palisades State Park

There are waterfowl, shore birds, wild turkeys, and pileated woodpeckers; fishermen generally catch crappie, carp, and bass. On the fifteen miles of trails, visitors may run into white-tailed deer, badgers, woodchucks, squirrels, minx, and foxes. The park is dotted with colorful wildflowers and has picnic sites, and opportunities for rock climbing. It is also a seasonal favorite of cross-country skiers.

Matthiessen State Park

Colorful sandstone walls, tall bluffs, and forests of bluffs and cedar make this destination popular with hikers who wish to enjoy nature’s bounty. Frogs, toads, and salamanders populate the streams, and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, indigo buntings, cliff swallows, and red-tailed hawks are in large number throughout the park. There are five miles of hiking trails with extensive stairs, which make them inadvisable for those with mobility issues. There is another nine miles of mountain biking and equestrian trails. Near the park entrance there are restrooms and picnic tables.

In the park’s center stands one of the largest fountains in the world, the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain, which has water displays and a light show. Home to many music and food festivals, Grant Park also has an ice skating trail, wall climbing facilities, several play areas for children, two marinas, and a skate park designed for use by skateboarders, inline skaters, and BMX bikers. Baseball diamonds and tennis courts round out the park’s many attractions. More info

Tunnel Hill State Trail, Illinois

The forty-five mile trail takes riders from Harrisburg to Karnak and is very scenic, offering colorful wildflowers, Illinois prairie, oak forests, and a variety of wildlife, including red foxes, cottontail rabbits, raccoons, deer, and opossums. A bounty of songbirds makes for pleasant listening as you cycle. The trail has no services, so visitors are advised to bring in their own food and water.

Starved Rock State Park

The park has a guest lodge and a campground while a small camp store serves the needs of overnight visitors. Day visitors may use the picnicking areas, which have several shelters, drinking water, picnic tables, and restroom facilities. From late December until March, Starved Rock State Park becomes a center for viewing migratory bald eagles; thousands of them flock to the park each year.

• 1. Springfield
• 3. Rockford, Illinois
• 4. Evanston
• 5. Bloomington
• 9. Elmhurst
• 10. Lincoln’s Tomb
• 11. Anderson Gardens
• 12. Naperville Riverwalk
• 13. Morton Arboretum for Couples
• 14. Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
• 15. Shawnee National Forest
• 17. Fabyan Forest Preserve, Illinois
• 18. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
• 19. Mississippi Palisades State Park
• 20. Matthiessen State Park
• 21. Grant Park
• 22. Tunnel Hill State Trail, Illinois
• 23. Starved Rock State Park

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16 Things to Do in Illinois (Not Just in Chicago!)

09/22/2022 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

This post was written by Emily Becker, a Chicago native freelance writer for BMTM.

Illinois is my home state, and although I feel more like a Chicagoan than an Illinoisian, I still think there are many underrated places to visit and things to do in the state. Far too many people only stick to Chicago and miss out on all the charming small towns, stellar state parks, and fascinating historical landmarks. Illinois is much more than just cornfields — though we have plenty of those, too.

These are some of my favorite places in Illinois, along with the very best things to do in each:

Table of Contents

Since Chicago is the most obvious, let’s start here. If you’re visiting Illinois from far away, you’ll fly into the city, so make sure to spend at least a couple of days exploring it. If you’re considering taking a road trip through the state, starting in Chicago, find a rental car here .

Chicago is the biggest city in the state by a landslide (the third largest in the nation), and I think it’s understandable that so many Illinois visitors stay here and don’t venture outside of it. After all, there’s so much to do there, so it’s an incredible vacation destination all on its own.

These are my must-stop places in Chicago:

1. The Art Institute of Chicago

Even if you don’t have a lot of time to explore the city, the Art Institute of Chicago is an absolute must. It’s one of my favorite places in town, and even after four years of visiting almost weekly when I was in college, I never got tired of it. There are new exhibits every couple of months, and thousands of permanent art pieces to see as well.

Admission is $25 for non-Chicago residents; although the ticket price may seem pricey, you could easily spend an entire morning or afternoon here because there’s so much to see. There’s also a café in the museum where you can take a quick coffee and snack break, so you could potentially spend an entire day here.

But wait! There’s still so much more to see in Chicago, so don’t get totally lost at the Art Institute.

2. The Garfield Park Conservatory

If you’re on a budget, Garfield Park Conservatory is another incredible free place to visit in Chicago . Just a few stops away from downtown on the L train, this conservatory feels like a well-kept secret, because it’s not as much of a tourist attraction as other places downtown and on the North Side. It’s the largest conservatory in the city, and one of the best in the US. Here you’ll find a spectacular variety of plants, all within a beautiful setting, making for an enchanting visit.

3. 360 Chicago

Whether you’re just passing through Chicago on your way to one of the other epic places on this list, or decide to stay a little longer, don’t pass up the opportunity to see the city from above. On the 95th floor of the iconic John Hancock Building, you’ll find 360 Chicago, where you can stand on a glass platform and see downtown beneath you. Even as a native, I love this activity, because it gives you one of the most impressive views of the city. Get your tickets to 360 Chicago here.

Craving more ideas for what to do in the city? Find your guide to Chicago here .

Only about 30 minutes away from the bustling city of Chicago is the quieter, more laid-back city of Wilmette. Though it’s a suburb of Chicago, it has a vibe that is completely its own. Wilmette is known for its rich cultural diversity, robust history, and lakeside views. If you’re planning to keep your Illinois adventure to the Chicago area, this is a great day trip that you can do with or without a vehicle, as Wilmette is accessible via train from the city.

4. Bahá’í House of Worship

You might be surprised to see such an ornate building in a suburb of Chicago, but the Bahá’í House of Worship serves as a reminder of the beautiful diversity of Illinois and the United States at large. It is the only temple of its kind in the US and attracts people of all faiths.

The Bahá’í faith itself draws from all of the major religions: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. The  basic teachings of Bahá’ísm  include the oneness of humanity and racial and social justice, among other important pillars.

This was one of my absolute favorite destinations on the weekends when I lived in Chicago, as it’s only a train ride away. It’s an incredibly peaceful place to visit, even if you just pop in for a quick meditation or to admire the architecture.

5. Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

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By far one of my favorite museums in Illinois, you have to visit the Mitchell Museum while passing through the North Chicago suburbs. Featuring art, artifacts, movie screenings, and more, this unique museum focuses on telling the stories of Native Americans from the region. Too many people get lost in the glitz and glamour of Chicago and forget about what the region was like before the colonization and exploitation of native people. This museum serves as a reminder to the true heritage of Chicagoland, and is a fantastic place to gain valuable perspective on Illinois and its people.

In the top northwest corner of Illinois lies one of the most historically rich small cities in Illinois: Galena. Visiting Galena is always a treat, and I have fond memories of traveling there with my grandma, who loves finding antiques there. Beyond perusing the cute shops in downtown, this charming city has so much to offer anyone who wants to dive into the history of the region, spend time outdoors, or simply cozy up in a quiet Midwestern haven.

These are my favorite places in Galena:

6. Stonehouse Pottery & Gallery

For a taste of Galena’s crafty spirit, check out Stonehouse Pottery & Gallery . This quaint studio was once a thriving brewery, from 1876 to 1971. From there it was converted into an art gallery, pottery studio, and bed & breakfast.

Not only can you browse the gallery and see artwork by local artists, but you can also join one of the Glaze & Graze events. Combining the creative spirit of pottery and gastronomy, this fun event will allow you to make your own pottery piece, glaze and fire it, and then use it the next day for dinner. That’s right, you can make your own plate and then eat on it. How’s that for a full-circle event? Find your Glaze & Graze event here .

7. Apple River Fort Historic Site

Just 20 minutes from Galena’s historic downtown lies Apple River Fort Historic Site. Featuring original structures from the 1832 Blackhawk War, this is an ideal activity for history buffs or anyone who is curious about Native American stories from the area. I grew up learning about the various conflicts between early settlers and colonizers and Native American groups and even visited Apple River a few times for field trips. I would definitely go back as an adult, because it’s such an interesting place to visit.

8. Fergedaboudit Winery

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Pronounced “forget about it,” with a nod to a typical Midwestern accent, this winery in Galena is an Illinois must-visit. Featuring the lovely rolling green hills of the northwestern part of the state, Fergedaboudit Winery ‘s prime location might fool you into thinking you’re in Tuscany. All right, maybe not entirely, but the scenery is beautiful nonetheless.

Although Illinois isn’t exactly famous for its wine, this location is actually perfect for growing and harvesting wine grapes. If you’re curious enough to try it for yourself, plan a visit to try one of Fergedaboudit’s wine flights.

Springfield

As Illinois’ capitol, it’s no surprise that Springfield is its historic hub. The state’s nickname is “Land of Lincoln,” and although Abraham Lincoln wasn’t born here, he spent many years of his childhood in Illinois and later got his start in politics here. That’s why Springfield and the rest of Illinois holds the former US president in such high regard.

Springfield is another great place for history lovers to spend sometime exploring the museums and sites that it has to offer (and another often-visited childhood destination).

9. Washington Park Botanical Garden

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One of the many free things to do in Illinois, visiting the gorgeous Washington Park Botanical Garden is a great addition to your Springfield itinerary. Here you’ll find over 1,800 species of plants in numerous gardens. There’s a cactus garden, an impressive collection of peonies and roses, and even a Roman Cultural Garden to explore.

Since most of Springfield’s attractions are history related, visiting the Washington Park Botanical Garden is a great way to break up back-to-back historical sites. I think it’s essential to have at least one green space like this one in the itinerary or else it gets overwhelming.

10. Abraham Lincoln’s Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery

Did you know that Abraham Lincoln is buried in Springfield? You can visit the final resting place of the 16th president at the Oak Ridge Cemetery, which is a National Historic Landmark. The cemetery itself is an interesting place to visit, with beautiful landscaping and statues throughout.

When you visit the Lincoln Tomb, it’s customary to rub the nose of the giant Abraham Lincoln statue for good luck. You can see how the tip of his nose is a different color due to so many people rubbing it.

11. 1908 Race Riots Walking Tour

In 1908 there was a large riot in Springfield due to racial tensions between the white and African American populations. There’s an extensive story about the details of why it happened, which are fascinating to read, especially considering the current social and political climate in the US.

The 1908 Race Riots Walking Tour is self-guided tour and takes you from the Springfield Visitors Center to some of the prominent landmarks relating to the riot, ending at the 1908 Race Riot Mural. Along the way you’ll see photos and other artifacts from the devastating event. You can download the guide here .

State Parks & Forests

12. garden of the gods in the shawnee national forest.

The Garden of the Gods is one of the best places to visit in southern Illinois. Forget about the miles of flat landscapes full of cornfields — this wilderness area is truly spectacular and serves to show off some of the brilliant scenery that Illinois has to offer.

Featuring rock formations that look like stacks of boulders, the Garden of the Gods is one of the most popular hikes in the Shawnee National Forest. The trail is mostly uphill, with a huge payoff at the end, where you’ll be able see over the rocks to the surrounding forested hills. This is a spectacular hike for a clear summer day, but is also great in the fall, when you can see the spectrum of autumn hues all the way to the horizon.

13. Apple River Canyon State Park

In northwestern Illinois, just a few miles away from the Wisconsin border, you’ll find Apple River Canyon State Park , which is a bit of a hidden gem. The park encompasses 1,900 acres, with several miles of hiking trails through the woods, towering limestone bluffs, quaint streams, and plunging ravines, all offering some of Illinois’ most interesting landscapes. This quiet oasis is just a 40-minute drive from Galena, making it an ideal day trip from there.

14. Starved Rock State Park

I’m a bit partial to Starved Rock State Park , because it’s just minutes away from where I lived most of my childhood. It’s a severely underrated park, with many points of interest, including stunning observation decks over the Illinois River and canyons with caves that you can climb into. Some of my fondest memories took place here, so of course I want to let you in on one of Illinois’ best-kept secrets.

Starved Rock is a 5-minute drive from the tiny historic town of Utica. Start your adventure at the Starved Rock Lodge , where you can find several trailheads leading to over 13 miles of trails. The lodge itself is fun to visit, too, and you can find excellent views of the river there as well. Check the lodge’s events calendar to see if you can catch a free guided tour of the trails, a live music show, a river cruise, and more.

15. Matthiessen State Park

Just a few minutes from Starved Rock is another great spot for nature lovers: Matthiessen State Park . This one is smaller and only has five miles of trails, but there’s plenty to see here. There are a few waterfalls, all of which are all worth visiting. The largest in the lower dells area is the most impressive, and there are small caves near it that you can easily climb into. The upper dells area is worth hiking through as well, as you’ll find beautiful views of the canyons below.

If you are looking for things to do in Illinois from mid-July to the beginning of August, head to Matthiessen. Can you imagine a more beautiful photo op than its famous sunflower field?

16. Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park

You probably didn’t think of beaches when you thought of landlocked Illinois, did you? Sure, Chicago has some great lakefront beaches, but if you want to experience Lake Michigan without the hustle and bustle of the city, consider heading to Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park just north of the city, in Zion .

Here you’ll find 6.5 miles of sandy coastline along the lake, with bike paths and plenty of space to hang out on the sand. This is the ultimate Illinois beach to beat the crowds and go for a swim. I think it’s a much better choice than those in Chicago, because the water is cleaner, there are fewer people, and there are some sweet sand dunes to explore.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Illinois

Pin me for later:

Illinois is one of the best places to start on a road trip through the Midwest , but you can also stick to just these things to do in the state and have a great time.

What will be your first stop in the Land of Lincoln?

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

16 Best Places to Visit in Illinois — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

If you want to experience many things in one place, Illinois is the state to go to.

Must-visit destinations in this midwestern state include towering skyscrapers and sprawling farmlands.

You can go exploring the forests and lands by day and party in the cities at night.

With the many vacation spots to check out, you won’t get bored in Prairie State.

Ready to start your trip? Here are the best places to visit in Illinois.

The 16 Best Places to Visit in Illinois for 2024

These are our favorite vacation ideas in Illinois. In other words, the top destinations and places to go in IL.

Starting with…

1. Anderson Japanese Gardens — Rockford

318 Spring Creek Road Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 229-9390

The Anderson Japanese Gardens is a 12-acre botanical garden well-known for being among the highest quality Japanese gardens in the country.

Why You Should Visit This Place

This garden is a must-add to your list of beautiful places near you while you’re staying at Rockford.

Its peaceful grounds are decorated with colorful flowers and trees, koi-filled ponds, and wooden bridges.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

The garden houses a restaurant inside that serves delicious brunch dishes.

If you have the time, try eating here so you can enjoy yummy food and beautiful views at the same time.

Related: Best Things to Do in Rockford, IL

Related: Rockford Restaurants

2. Champaign-Urbana — Champaign

Champaign, IL 61820 (217) 403-8700

Champaign-Urbana is a metropolitan area in central Illinois composed of three counties, Champaign , Ford and Piatt.

This area is most notable for being the location of the massive University of Illinois, but that’s not all there is to see here.

Downtown is a great place for sightseeings as it houses historic 1900s Art Deco buildings.

Fans or architecture are sure to enjoy checking out the urban designs here.

A stop that you shouldn’t miss while you’re in the area is the Krannert Museum.

Art lovers will be treated to a huge space devoted to all kinds of art, from classic to contemporary.

Besides the beautiful exhibits inside, you should also check out the Gelvin sculpture garden if you’re feeling up for a stroll.

Related: Best Places to Eat in Champaign

Related: Best Restaurants in Urbana

Related: Best Things to Do in Illinois

3. Tunnel Hill State Trail — Various Locations

400 E. Vine Street Vienna, IL 62995 (618) 658-2168

Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 45-mile concrete/crushed stone trail that starts at downtown Harrisburg and ends at Karnak.

Looking for an out-of-the-way fun experience during your trip?

This trail crosses ravines, farmlands, former strip mines, and more.

You’ll even cross through dark tunnels and a few ghost towns.

Suffice to say, the rural scenery on this trail will make you feel as if you’ve been transported in a different place.

Choose a part of the trail that you’re comfortable doing.

If you’re just in it for a leisurely sightseeing ride or if you’re a beginner biker, the route from The Tunnel to Breeden Trestle is a good choice.

The trip starts downhill but is fairly easy as it’s relatively flat after that.

The trip back up might require a bit more effort as it will be slightly uphill.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Harrah’s Metropolis Hotel & Casino

Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 744-5000

Chicago is known for being among the largest cities in the whole country, with an iconic urban skyline.

It is located along Lake Michigan.

Chicago is a top option when choosing the best cities to visit in Illinois because there’s so much to see and do.

You can try out Chicago delicacies, like deep-dish pizzas and Chicago-style hot dogs.

Their many fascinating museums like the Shedd Aquarium and Art Institute of Chicago are also popular sites.

If you’re traveling with kids and looking for what to do in Illinois, Lincoln Park Zoo is a lovely stop.

It houses over 200 species of animals like birds, bears, lions, and more.

Even adults are sure to have fun checking out the zoo habitats.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Viceroy Chicago

Related: Restaurants in Chicago, Illinois

5. Springfield

Springfield, IL 62701 (800) 545-7300

Springfield is the state capital of Illinois and is most known for its historical landmarks.

Add this city to your list of places to see in Illinois if you’re after learning more about culture and history.

You’ll be able to visit sites like President Lincoln’s home, the beautiful Old State Capitol, and many more.

Take your time exploring the city.

Because there are so many historical landmarks here, you should plan ahead which you’d want to see so that you won’t waste time.

A must on any list will be the Abraham Presidential Library and Museum and the State Capital.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: State House Inn

Related: Best Places to Eat in Springfield

Galena, IL 61036 (815) 776-9200

Galena , Illinois, is a small town located in northwestern Illinois. It is famous for its incredibly preserved 1800s vibes.

Feel like you’ve been blasted to the past when you go around this town.

Most of its buildings still look like they came from the 19th century.

For places to travel in Illinois, this small town is an excellent addition because of its beautiful old architecture.

Stay at a place downtown to be near all the fun.

From here, you have top notch choices for dining and shopping.

It’s also easy to go to different attractions when you stay on Main Street.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Galena, IL

Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Illinois

7. Shawnee National Forest — Harrisburg

50 Highway 145 S Harrisburg, IL 62946 (618) 253-7114

Shawnee National Forest is located in southern Illinois between two rivers, the Mississippi and Ohio.

It is about 265,600 acres big and near Harrisburg.

The natural beauty of this forest’s rugged bluffs, rolling hills, and glittering lakes is every outdoorsy person’s dream.

There’s a ton of cool and unique places to visit in Illinois, and this forest includes many of them, like Jackson Falls and Garden of the Gods.

Wear comfortable clothes and durable hiking shoes during your trip.

Make sure to pack an extra shirt, light jacket, and a water bottle.

This forest is known for its mild weather, so you can visit it year-round.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Marion

8. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum — Springfield

212 N 6th Street Springfield, IL 62701 (217) 558-8844

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum focuses on the life and career of the country’s 16th president.

It was founded in 2005.

This museum is among the top places to visit in Illinois because it’s all about one of the country’s most favorite presidents.

The library and museum hold historical artifacts from the president’s personal life and term of office that history lovers would want to see.

When in the museum, do the exhibits in chronological order to feel as immersed in the life of President Lincoln as possible.

Start from The Journey, Part I, and continue on The Journey, Part II.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: President Abraham Lincoln – A Doubletree by Hilton Hotel

9. Starved Rock State Park — Oglesby

2678 E 875th Road Oglesby, IL 61348 (815) 667-4726

Starved Rock State Park is a 2,600-acre wilderness area in La Salle County.

It was established in 1911.

If you’re an avid hiker looking for where to go in Illinois, this state park is an excellent choice for its incredible scenic overlooks and iconic bluffs.

You might get distracted by the many beautiful sights to see in the park, but there is one thing you shouldn’t forget to check out.

The St. Peter sandstone formations are the most iconic landmark here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Ottawa – Starved Rock Area

10. Lincoln Park — Chicago

2001 N Clark Street Chicago, IL 60614 (312) 742-2000

Lincoln Park is the largest park in Chicago, located along Lake Michigan in a neighborhood of the same name as the park.

It is about 1,208 acres big.

The park’s sprawling green grounds are the perfect place to relax on after activity-packed days during your vacation.

But if you can’t sit still, there are famous Illinois tourist attractions inside the park like the park zoo and conservatory.

If you have the time, head on over to the conservatory and gardens to enjoy some peace and quiet surrounded by fragrant flowers.

You’ll be able to see tropical palms and bending ferns during your stroll.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Lincoln, part of JdV by Hyatt

11. Willis Tower Skydeck — Chicago

233 S Wacker Drive Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 875-9447

The Willis Tower Skydeck is found on the 103rd floor of what was formerly known as the Sears Tower.

When in Chicago, this tower has always been included in its places of interest because of the observation deck.

When you go up to the 103rd floor, you’ll be treated to unobstructed views of the entire city, thanks to its transparent walls.

Adventurous souls looking for thrills should try out the Ledge while on the observation deck.

When you step out, it’ll feel like you’re floating 1,450 feet above the city because the walls on each side, the ceiling, and even the floor are made from clear glass.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Langham Chicago

12. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — Collinsville

30 Ramey Street Collinsville, IL 62234 (618) 346-5160

Cahokia Mounds State Park is a 2,200-acre big city park in St. Clair County famous for being a World Heritage Site.

The state park is a historic landmark because this is where the largest Pre-Colombian North American settlement north of Mexico used to be.

There are over 72 ancient mounds all over the park today.

Going around the park to visit the mounds is fun but not the only thing you can do.

If you want to learn more about the Cahokia Mounds and the people who made them, visit the Interpretive Center.

They have incredible exhibits and displays that depict life in the ancient village.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn and Suites St Louis Collinsville

Related: Best Restaurants in Collinsville, IL

13. Giant City State Park — Makanda

235 Giant City Road Makanda, IL 62958 (618) 457-4836

Giant City State Park is a 4,000-acre park in the middle of Jackson and Union Counties.

It is located inside the Shawnee National Forest.

The enormous sandstone formations in this park make it seem like you are smack in the middle of a giant’s village.

It leaves a unique impression on any avid hiker who walks around and enjoys being surrounded by nature.

Different trails inside the park offer various kinds of scenery.

Beginner hikers should try Post Oak Trail as it is an easy walk to do.

If you want an incredible vista of the park’s bluffs, it’s better to take Trillium Trail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Carbondale – Conference Center, an IHG Hotel

14. Illinois State Capitol — Springfield

401 S 2nd Street Springfield, IL 62701 (217) 782-2099

The Illinois State Capitol is where the legislative and executive branches of the state sit in office.

It was built from 1868 to 1888.

A trip to the state capital isn’t complete if you don’t make a stop at the beautiful Renaissance Revival-style capitol.

You don’t even have to go inside for a tour as the capitol’s 405-foot dome and impressive facade are already worth the trip.

The current capitol is the sixth building to be used as the state’s government’s center.

After visiting here, you should also go over to the Old State Capitol for a more well-rounded trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Carpenter Street Hotel

15. Illinois Route 66 — Various Locations

Route 66, IL (217) 414-9331

Illinois Route 66 is a scenic byway that crosses the state from Chicago to East Saint Louis.

It is part of the historic US Route 66, one of the country’s first continuous highways, making it one of the best places to visit in Illinois.

It’s not every day that you can ride on a historic highway, so that’s reason enough to travel on this stretch of road.

Besides that, it’s a great way to see the best of Illinois since it passes through many cities.

Make sure to do stops in different attractions around the state like Pontiac’s Route 66 Hall of Fame, Staunton’s Country Classic Cars, and Chicago’s Navy Pier.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Litchfield

16. Great River Road — Various Locations

Great River Rd, IL (877) 477-7007

Great River Road is a 3,300-kilometer byway that follows the Mississippi River across ten US states.

A cheap yet fun way to enjoy the scenery in Illinois is to go on a road trip on this long road.

The scenic route passes along the waters of the Mississippi River beside tall cliffs covered in mossy green trees.

You can also use this road to get to places to go in Illinois for an amazing vacation, like Quincy, Grafton, and Nauvoo.

When on the road, make sure to do stops at places that you find interesting along the way.

It doesn’t have to be all in Illinois as well.

You can also visit the neighboring states like Iowa and Wisconsin.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Pontoon Beach

Map of The Best Illinois Places to Visit

• Anderson Japanese Gardens — Rockford
• Champaign-Urbana — Champaign
• Tunnel Hill State Trail — Various Locations
• Springfield
• Shawnee National Forest — Harrisburg
• Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum — Springfield
• Starved Rock State Park — Oglesby
• Lincoln Park — Chicago
• Willis Tower Skydeck — Chicago
• Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — Collinsville
• Giant City State Park — Makanda
• Illinois State Capitol — Springfield
• Illinois Route 66 — Various Locations
• Great River Road — Various Locations

Chicago   Travel Guide

Courtesy of jaskoomerovic | Getty Images

28 Fun Things to Do in Chicago

Chicago shines for its world-class museums, various shopping districts, vibrant neighborhoods and lively nightlife venues. Explore the city's innovative roots at the Museum of Science and Industry, where you can walk inside the U-505 submarine.

• All Things To Do
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Millennium Park and Cloud Gate Millennium Park and Cloud Gate free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Construction around the Cloud Gate sculpture will limit the public's access to this top tourist attraction until spring 2024. While you might not be able to snag a selfie with "The Bean," many other attractions are available within the park. – Cortney Fries

A first-time visit to Chicago isn't complete without a stop at Millennium Park. Situated in the Loop just north of the Art Institute of Chicago , this 25-acre space is used to showcase cutting-edge art, architecture and landscaping; it also acts as a backdrop for concerts and festivals. Most visitors come to Millennium Park to see the Crown Fountain and Cloud Gate, better known as "The Bean." Designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the Crown Fountain features two 50-foot towers that face each other at opposite ends of a shallow reflecting pool. The towers' LED screens project the faces of 1,000 different Chicago residents, which are perfectly aligned with spouts so that it appears they are spitting water on passersby. The water flows mid-spring through mid-fall, while the faces are projected year-round. Cloud Gate – created by British-Indian artist Anish Kapoor – is a 110-ton bean-shaped sculpture forged from stainless steel. The Bean's elliptical shape reflects the Chicago skyline. A quintessential Chicago souvenir is a photo of your reflection in The Bean.

Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting Chicago Sept. 8 through 10, head to Grant Park early – around 11 a.m. to avoid the lines – for the Taste of Chicago. Enjoy the park and eat the best cuisine the city has to offer. Admission is free. – Sarah Estime

Often referred to as "Chicago's front yard," Grant Park is an approximately 313-acre swath of green space that starts at the eastern edge of the Loop and stretches down to the northern fringes of the Near South Side. First-time visitors should plan on spending a fair amount of time in Grant Park: This is where you'll find several of Chicago's most popular things to do, including The Field Museum , the Art Institute of Chicago and Shedd Aquarium . ( Millennium Park also rubs elbows with the northwest corner of Grant Park.) Baseball diamonds, flower gardens, walking paths and wide-open grassy terrain are available as well.

Art Institute of Chicago Art Institute of Chicago

Home to one of the country's most impressive collections of impressionist and post-impressionist art (plus works from numerous other genres), the expansive Art Institute of Chicago features nearly 300,000 works from all over the world in its permanent collection. You'll find pieces created in the Byzantine era, as well as paintings completed just a few decades ago. Highlights include Jacob Lawrence's "The Wedding," Georgia O'Keeffe's "Sky above Clouds IV" and Grant Wood's "American Gothic." The Art Institute's exhibits also include all sorts of intriguing artifacts, from European armor to the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which showcase interior design and furnishings in Europe and America from the late 13th to early 20th centuries. In addition to the permanent collection, the Art Institute hosts traveling exhibitions covering a variety of subjects and showcasing a diverse array of artists and genres.

The Art Institute of Chicago earns high praise from recent visitors, thanks in part to its impressive collection. Art enthusiasts particularly commend the museum's impressionist collection, which features pieces from famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and Renoir.

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U.S. News Insider Tip: The Magnificent Mile, known for its world-class shopping, also has plenty to offer architecture buffs. Book a walking tour with the Chicago Architecture Center and hear the untold stories of North Michigan Avenue's architectural icons. Tours start at $30. – Sarah Estime

For shopping at more than 450 retailers within walking distance in downtown Chicago, make your way to The Magnificent Mile. This portion of Michigan Avenue – which stretches between Lake Shore Drive and the Chicago River – beckons to shopaholics with department stores and luxury retailers like Bloomingdale's, Marcus, Macy's, Tory Burch and Nordstrom. Additionally, The Magnificent Mile is home to several top-notch eateries and luxury hotels, including The Drake , the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile and the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile .

Navy Pier Navy Pier free

Extending out onto Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers plenty in the way of family-friendly entertainment. The first thing you'll spot once you set foot on the pier is the towering Ferris wheel (which stands 196 feet tall); you'll also find a drop tower and a carousel. Once the kids have had their fill of thrill rides, you can spend some time cruising the Chicago River on a sightseeing or speedboat tour or spend a few hours exploring the Chicago Children's Museum , with hands-on exhibits ranging from treehouses to fire trucks.

But you don't have to be a kid to enjoy a visit to Navy Pier. Grown-ups can catch a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, flex some credit card muscle at a variety of shops or grab a drink at the Navy Pier Beer Garden. And be sure to check Navy Pier's website for a list of events: Concerts are often held here, and from Memorial Day to Labor Day (as well as New Year's Eve), impressive fireworks displays light up the skies on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Many of the city's top Segway tours offer special summer evening tours to the pier to catch the semiweekly fireworks show.

Lincoln Park Zoo Lincoln Park Zoo free

U.S. News Insider Tip: North Avenue Beach is a short walk over the North Avenue Bridge when you park at the southern end of the Lincoln Park Zoo lot. Explore the zoo, then stroll over to the beach for an afternoon in the sand. – Cortney Fries

Located 2 miles north of the Loop in the North Side neighborhood of Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo is home to nearly 200 species, such as zebras, sloths and hippos. Visitors can view the zoo's furry (or scaly) friends in their natural habitats: Check out the gorillas in the sprawling, award-winning Regenstein Center for African Apes, or head to the Kovler Seal Pool to get up close and personal with harbor seals. Seal training and feeding occurs daily at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

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360 CHICAGO Observation Deck 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

One of Chicago's most notable attractions is its skyline, and one of the best places to experience it is at the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck. Formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory, 360 CHICAGO towers 1,000 feet over The Magnificent Mile from its location on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center (or 875 North Michigan Avenue as its more formally known). Encased by floor-to-ceiling windows, 360 CHICAGO boasts expansive views of the city; on a clear day, you can see four states. Meanwhile, the interactive screens will help you identify different landmarks that appear in your panorama.

For a different point of view (and an adrenaline rush), test out 360 CHICAGO's TILT. In this mechanized room, visitors hold on to handlebars as the top of the room's windows extend outward, tilting you toward bustling North Michigan Avenue down below. For another memorable way to immerse yourself in the views, try ClouldWalk, a 3D art experience introduced in 2022. Mural artist Nate Baranowski created an optical illusion on the observation deck that makes visitors feel as though they are standing on a crane platform in the clouds.  Should you prefer to experience the view without feeling your heart skip a beat, grab a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or a snack at the cafe and bar, or look for souvenirs in the gift shop.

The Field Museum The Field Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: After hours of museum hopping, grab a kid-approved lunch at Kim & Carlo's Hot Dog Cart. The no-frills stand offers everything from vegan dogs to the traditional Chicago hotdog. Enjoy your lunch on the water. – Sarah Estime

This extensive natural history museum occupies half an acre of Grant Park 's Museum Campus and houses exhibits that showcase artifacts from multiple eras and destinations, making it a must-see for kids (as well as any fans of the "Indiana Jones" movies). Some of the most popular parts of the museum include the "Inside Ancient Egypt" exhibit, which features a reconstruction of a three-story replica of an Egyptian tomb, one of the largest collections of mummies in the United States and interactive representations of life on the Nile. There's also the Restoring Earth area in the Abbott Hall of Conservation, where visitors can learn more about sustainability through hands-on activities. But no visit to The Field Museum would be complete without some quality time with SUE, the facility's T. rex who just happens to be the largest, most complete T. rex ever discovered. SUE is 40 feet long from nose to tail and boasts 55 terrifying teeth.

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Chicago Architecture River Cruise Chicago Architecture River Cruise

A visit to 360 CHICAGO or Skydeck Chicago will give you a good overview of the city's layout. But if you want to learn more about Chicago's sky-high buildings, tag along on an architecture river cruise. During a river cruise, you'll gain great views and historical insight about well-known structures like the Wrigley Building, the Leo Burnett Building and the Fulton House.

Though several companies, including Wendella Sightseeing Co. and Chicago Line Cruises, offer architecture river cruises, most travelers recommend climbing aboard a Chicago's First Lady Cruises boat with a Chicago Architecture Center docent. You'll learn tons of information about the area's architecture, plus catch superb skyline photo-ops.

Maggie Daley Park Maggie Daley Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: There are many restaurant options around the park, but Wildberry Pancakes & Café is a satisfying brunch spot. Choose from creative pancake options, a variety of omelets, crepes, sandwiches and salads. Go hungry and leave happy. – Cortney Fries

Opened in 2014, Maggie Daley Park is an expansive property located just east of Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. The 20-acre green space offers numerous activities for both kids and adults alike, including a climbing wall, a mini-golf course, a 3-acre playground, a public garden, an ice-skating skating "ribbon" during the winter and scooter and rollerblade rentals in the summer, not to mention a tennis facility. Whatever you choose to do, you'll get to enjoy fantastic views of the Chicago skyline. Recent visitors loved that the park is free to access, and they noted that the attraction is excellent for family fun.

Museum of Science and Industry Museum of Science and Industry

U.S. News Insider Tip: Mid-November through the first week of January, experience the annual "Christmas Around the World" and "Holidays of Light" exhibits. Volunteers decorate more than 50 trees in celebration of holiday traditions from around the globe. – Cortney Fries

Chicago's extensive Museum of Science and Industry is the Western Hemisphere's largest science museum, showcasing more than 35,000 artifacts and a variety of hands-on exhibits meant to inspire creativity. The museum resides in the 14-acre former Palace of Fine Arts, which hosted the famous World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. The fair brought together some of the world's greatest scientific minds, including Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla, who at the time were competing to prove which type of electricity – direct current or alternating current – was more effective. 

Wrigley Field Wrigley Field

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting during the holiday season, don't miss Winterland at Gallagher Way for family-friendly rides and games inside and around the ballpark. Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville is free to enter. Enjoy festive shopping and international food and beverage selections. – Cortney Fries

Chicagoans take their love of sports very seriously. So, for a real taste of Chicago culture, head north of the Loop to Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs play ball at the Friendly Confines. History buffs will also appreciate this sports treasure, which first opened in 1914 and holds the honor of being the second-oldest Major League Baseball stadium in the country (after Fenway Park in Boston ).

Shedd Aquarium Shedd Aquarium

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting in the summer (June through August), check out Jazzin' at the Shedd. You can enjoy jazz music and drinks with incredible views from the terrace. Plus, the lights dim in the aquarium for a unique experience. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Shedd Aquarium is one of the world's largest indoor aquariums, housing around 32,000 creatures. While you're here, you can feel stingrays float beneath your fingers, listen to sea lions bark and learn all about a variety of turtles. A visit to Shedd Aquarium will lead you through a cornucopia of habitats, where you'll find additional animals like penguins, piranhas, sharks and beluga whales. Or, for an additional fee, you can participate in specialty experiences like animal encounters, feeding experiences and virtual reality.

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The Chicago Riverwalk The Chicago Riverwalk free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer, there is nothing better than watching the boats go by as you relax at City Winery Riverwalk Wine Garden. Rent a retro boat from Chicago Electric Boat Company and cruise the river yourself. – Cortney Fries

When the weather warms up in Chicago, there are few better places to enjoy the outdoors than the Chicago Riverwalk. The 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway on the south bank of the Chicago River is the perfect place to take a stroll and observe the city skyline. Plus, there are numerous activity options to enjoy directly on the water, such as a boat or kayak tour . If you prefer to explore on your own two feet, visit the public gardens and art displays, or grab a meal at a popular restaurant or bar overlooking the Chicago River. And if you want to learn more about the river's unique history, check out the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which celebrates the city's famous movable bridges. What's more, Art on theMART – a massive digital art projection on the facade of theMART (formerly The Merchandise Mart) – is best viewed from the Riverwalk.

Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower

More than 1.7 million people make their way to Willis Tower's Skydeck Chicago each year, and it's easy to see why. Occupying the 103rd floor – that's nine floors higher than 360 CHICAGO – of the 110-story Willis Tower (the third-tallest building in North America after One World Trade Center and Central Park Tower), Skydeck Chicago boasts breathtaking views of the city. Visit on a sunny day and you may be able to see far beyond Chicago's borders to Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and other parts of Illinois.

The highlight for most visitors is the Ledge. Extending 4.3 feet beyond the building's exterior, this platform is made entirely of glass – even the floor. Travelers also liked the video screens that show what it would be like to stand 103 floors above other Chicago attractions, including Wrigley Field and Millennium Park . However, long lines quickly form for Skydeck Chicago, so plan on arriving early or purchasing a Chicago CityPASS, which covers expedited admission into the attraction. Or, simply pay extra for expedited entry, which features an express line to the elevators. For the best views, it's advised that you visit just after opening or after sunset. If you'd like to enjoy the sunset from the tower, plan on arriving 30 to 45 minutes before sunset to ensure you have enough time to get through the elevator line and up to the top.

North Avenue Beach North Avenue Beach free

Located in Lincoln Park directly on Lake Michigan, North Avenue Beach is one of the most popular swimming spots in Chicago. The sandy beach has volleyball courts, plenty of space for visitors to stretch out and multiple things to do near nearby. Plus, it offers spectacular views of the city skyline. Beachgoers can also find restaurants, sports rental companies, restrooms and more inside a 22,000-square-foot beach house adjacent to the shore.

Recent visitors said the beach is a nice spot that is perfect for relaxing, biking and running, but they warned that it can get busy on warm summer days.

The Second City The Second City

If you've seen a sketch comedy show or hilarious movie in the last 40 years, it's likely that someone from The Second City appeared in it. The Second City is one of the world's most iconic improvisational comedy theaters, and it has helped launch the careers of numerous famous comedians, including Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert. If you're in the mood for a laugh, check out a live show on any night of the week at any number of The Second City's seven stages (which are all housed in its facility at the northwest corner of North Avenue and Wells Street in Old Town). 

Recent reviewers said that everyone in their group could not stop laughing during the shows, which typically last 90 minutes to two hours. Ticket prices vary by the show and date, but run anywhere from $30 to $100.

The Chicago Theatre The Chicago Theatre

Aside from Cloud Gate and Buckingham Fountain , The Chicago Theatre's red and yellow marquee is perhaps one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Illuminating North State Street at the northern edge of the Loop, The Chicago Theatre first opened its doors in 1921 as an extravagant movie theater and performance venue. Throughout its history, the theater has hosted such big names as Duke Ellington, Diana Ross and Prince, in addition to screening blockbuster flicks. Though the theater fell into disuse in the 1970s, new management and a full renovation in the 1980s helped return the venue to its former glory. Today, the theater is still used for a variety of comedic, theatrical and musical performances.

According to past patrons, the theater's historic appearance enhances the overall experience of catching an event here. Just remember, cameras and video cameras, including those on cell phones, cannot be used during tours or performances. If you're not in town for a show, consider signing up for one of the venue's guided tours. Tour tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for kids ages 12 and younger. Tours are available Monday and Tuesday at noon and 2 p.m. and last about an hour.

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Located at Navy Pier , the Chicago Children's Museum offers temporary and permanent play-based exhibits for babies, toddlers and kids ages 4 and older. Founded in 1982 by the Junior League of Chicago as a response to cuts in arts programming, the museum was originally housed in two hallways of what is now called the Chicago Cultural Center . Today, children can dig for "teeth" and "bones" in "Dinosaur Expedition," climb through tunnels of "Cloud Buster," test their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) skills in the Tinkering Lab and paint, draw or sew in the art studio.

Recent visitors appreciated the interactive, hands-on exhibits, which they recommend for young children.

American Writers Museum American Writers Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across the street from the museum, you will find the first Nutella Café, where you can savor French and Italian dishes featuring the heavenly hazelnut spread. The gelato is roll-your-eyes-to-the-back-of-your-head good. – Cortney Fries

The first museum in the United States dedicated to celebrating the diverse voices and influence of American authors, the American Writers Museum is an interactive journey through more than five centuries of written and spoken word. This relatively small museum, which opened in 2017, features thoughtful and reflective exhibits that you can touch, smell, hear and see. 

DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: If driving in Chicago isn’t your thing, consider taking the No. 55 bus to the museum. The bus drops you off within just a five-minute walk of the museum. – Sarah Estime

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, named for Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable, the entrepreneur who is credited with founding Chicago, is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about African American history in the city of Chicago and America. It celebrates its 62nd anniversary in 2023, and is full of thought-provoking exhibits, including those that showcase fine art created by influential African American artists and historical materials. Note that visitors hoping to enjoy “The March” exhibit, an immersive experience depicting the historic March on Washington and Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech, can go in groups of no more than four at a time.

Adler Planetarium Adler Planetarium

The first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, the Adler offers unrivaled insights into our solar system. Indeed, "Our Solar System" is one of its permanent exhibits, along with "Mission Moon," "The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time," "Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass" and "Astronomy in Culture," among others. Its facilities include the Doane Observatory, which has the largest telescope available to the public in the Chicago area, through which visitors can glimpse celestial objects trillions of miles away. The Adler also has three full-size theaters – the 3D Universe Theater, the Definiti Space Theater and the Grainger Sky Theater – in which it screens programs like "Destination Solar System," "Planet Nine" and "One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure."

Space enthusiasts invariably find the Adler's presentations both informative and entertaining, if somewhat pricey. Most visitors suggest setting aside a few hours to explore the various exhibits and shows. Travelers recommend maximizing your parking expenses by also visiting the Shedd Aquarium or The Field Museum , which also sit on the Museum Campus. Reviewers also appreciated the Lake Michigan and skyline views as seen from the planetarium.

Offbeat Street Art Tour Offbeat Street Art Tour

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re looking for unique souvenirs from your Chicago trip, consider The Goddess & Grocer for its gift baskets. – Sarah Estime

In Chicago, you can find eye-catching street art nearly everywhere. As you sightsee, you’ll be greeted with unique, thought-provoking art on the sides of buildings and underneath bridges. If you’re looking for an experience that walks you through the history and cultural significance of Chicago's street art scene, look no further than the Offbeat Street Art Tour. On this two-hour tour, you’ll discover new artists and learn the inspiration behind their colorful works, along with some interesting neighborhood history. You’ll also be able to take great photos along the way.

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The Green Mill The Green Mill

U.S. News Insider Tip: For visitors looking for a bite to eat after a night of jazz music, head across the street to Damera for an authentic Ethiopian meal, or down the block to the Fat Cat for a burger. – Sarah Estime

Best known for serving gangsters during its speakeasy days, the Green Mill invites travelers to step back in time. The long bar that runs along the club's left side sits in front of smokey mirrors and is peppered with decor reminiscent of the Prohibition era. The entire place is cast in a warm reddish glow while old-time jazz plays from the jukebox. The bar – one of Al Capone’s favorites – has no set menu; order whatever cocktails you like (though the chocolate martinis are delicious). There is also a selection of beer and wine.

Garfield Park Conservatory Garfield Park Conservatory free

One of the biggest botanical conservatories in the United States, the Garfield Park Conservatory houses thousands of plant species in eight indoor gardens, as well as 10 acres of outdoor gardens.

Each indoor space has a distinct focus. The Aroid House features varieties of its namesake, which are among the most popular houseplants; it also features sculptures by the world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly made specifically for the Aroid House. As its name suggests, the Desert House boasts cacti and succulents, while the Fern Room arranges ferns around an indoor lagoon. The Palm House, the conservatory's largest structure, recreates a tropical landscape complete with more than 70 palm trees. Meanwhile, the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children's Garden aims to educate little ones about plants. Horticulture Hall displays a range of flowers and plants and also has tables where visitors can take a seat and have a rest.

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum The Richard H. Driehaus Museum

Occupying a restored mansion built in 1883, the Richard H. Driehaus Museum presents exhibitions relating to architecture, art and design from the 19th century to the present day.

The Nickerson Mansion containing the museum boasts an entrance hall made with so much marble that the building was nicknamed "the Marble Palace." (The museum takes its current name from the philanthropist who founded it in 2003.) Its reception room features intricate woodwork as well as items from the museum's permanent collection, such as a Tiffany Studios lamp that dates back to the early 1900s. Meanwhile, the front parlor displays Renaissance Revival furniture original to the Nickerson Mansion. The dining room, fitted with elaborately carved oak, houses a silver punch bowl first exhibited at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Other highlights from the permanent collection include a gem-encrusted inkstand, a ceramic clock, multiple chandeliers, paintings, sculptures and an array of decorative items.

Chicago Cultural Center Chicago Cultural Center free

The "People’s Palace," a popular destination occupying a full city block in the downtown Loop neighborhood, is a stunning architectural marvel as well as a venue for a great deal of cultural programming, including art exhibits and concerts. Among its features are one of the largest Tiffany stained-glass domes in the world (made with around 30,000 individual pieces of glass) and a marble lobby adorned with mosaics made of gold, glass and precious stones.

Visitors invariably rave about the impressive structure and its elaborate decorations, saying it’s worth it to pop in for free to see the ornate ceiling.

University of Chicago University of Chicago free

Founded in 1890 by John D. Rockefeller, the University of Chicago is an urban research university in the city's Hyde Park neighborhood close to Lake Michigan. Currently, it has more than 7,000 undergraduate students and more than 10,000 graduate, professional or other students as well as nearly 2,400 full-time faculty members.

Impressive as those statistics may be, they aren't reasons to visit. But the university's 217-acre campus, which was designated a botanic garden in 1997, and its mixture of English Gothic and modern architecture are. Some of the newer structures were designed by celebrated architects like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Eero Saarinen, while some of the older ones are adorned with gargoyles that date back to the 1893 World Columbian Exposition. The university welcomes visitors to explore its campus, and provides information about its architecture on its website. Those who've visited before routinely call the buildings diverse and beautiful, and many recommend stopping by in the spring when flowers bloom across campus, or fall when amber leaves transform the grounds.

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Jasmine Vieau

Hello! I was born and raised in Toronto, lived in Miami for a decade, attended the Miami International University of Art & Design, and have resided in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, for the past 15+ years. I enjoy traveling all over the United States, Canada, and Europe - though I have a great appreciation and love for the southeastern parts of the US in particular. My past expertise lay in hospitality in the restaurant and retail world. Aside from writing, I now run an Airbnb in my home and sling vintage, so I'd like to think this all helps me with what it takes to find the best restaurants, lodging, and fun things to do and see in your state. I am an avid reader, love exploring the arts, and discovering the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Nice to meet you!

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Illinois, a state with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty, offers an array of must-see destinations recommended by locals. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a visitor eager to explore the Prairie State, insights from those who call it home reveal 15 tourist attractions that capture the essence of Illinois. From iconic landmarks in Chicago to hidden gems nestled in scenic landscapes, these recommendations promise an authentic and enriching experience. Let’s check out the best tourist attractions in Illinois!

1. The Art Institute of Chicago

2. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

3. Anderson Japanese Gardens

4. Grandview Drive

5. Giant City State Park

6. U.S. Grant Home State Historic Site

7. The Morton Arboretum

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8. illinois railway museum.

9. Garden of the Gods

10. Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site

11. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

12. Fabyan Forest Preserve

13. Wrigley Field

14. Matthiessen State Park

15. Cantigny Park

Have you been to any of these tourist destinations in Illinois? Think they’re some of the  best things to do in Illinois ? I love the look of the gorgeous sculptures at The Morton Arboretum – how about you? Let me know!

And if you’re you’re taking a road trip to visit some of these spots and are planning to spend a night or two, be sure to check out these  cozy vacation rentals ! 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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17 Interesting Things to Do in Illinois (That Aren't in Chicago)

People tend to associate Illinois with the Windy City of Chicago, but it has a lot more to offer. Here are some awesome things to do there!

Read update

17 Interesting Things To Do In Illinois (That Aren't In Chicago)

• Illinois offers a wide range of attractions outside of Chicago, including historic sites, botanical gardens, living history museums, and water parks.
• Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby is a must-visit with its hiking trails, waterfalls, canyons, and winter ice fishing opportunities.
• Galena, a small town in northwestern Illinois, is a charming destination with surrounding nature and outdoor activities, along with spa resorts for relaxation.

It can be tough to name a city in Illinois that isn't Chicago. While the Windy City has bucket loads to be proud of , from its diverse foodie scene to its diehard sports fan and eclectic arts culture, it certainly doesn't deserve all the attention. The Chicago spotlight tends to sweep the rest of the gems scattered across the remainder of the state under the rug, but that's about to change.

Many people are looking for Illinois attractions outside of Chicago to visit on vacation, and there are more than one would think. Luckily, Illinois features plenty of fun things to see and do besides Chicago, which will be revealed in this article.

In Illinois, there are picturesque natural parks, unique museums, novelty roadside attractions that one can't help but chuckle at, and much more waiting to be explored. So, let's forget about Chicago for a minute and explore a little more of the great Midwestern state of Illinois.

UPDATE: 2023/11/22 22:02 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Chicago, indeed, is one of the biggest cities in Illinois, yet it is not the only entertaining attraction in the state. Therefore, this list was updated to include additional interesting things to do in Illinois, not Chicago. Have fun!

Related: 10 Things To Do In Peoria: Complete Guide To The Illinois River's Biggest City

17 Apple River Fort Historic Site, Elizabeth

Apple River Fort Historic Site is located within 20 minutes from Galena's historic center. This is a great place for history buffs or anybody interested in local Native American legends to learn about authentic structures from the 1832 Blackhawk War. Tourists can go on excursions to Apple River and will mostly return because it's such an interesting place to see in Illinois.

• Address: 311E Myrtle Street, Elizabeth, IL 61028
• Hours: May through October: From Wednesday to Sunday - 9 am to 5 pm; November through April: From Thursday to Saturday - 9 am to 4 pm
• Price: Free of charge

16 Washington Park Botanical Garden, Springfield

Visiting the stunning Washington Park Botanical Garden is a fantastic addition to Springfield’s bucket list and is one of the many interesting things to do in Illinois, not in Chicago. More than 1,800 different plant species may be found in these gardens. Tourists will explore the Roman Cultural Garden, the cactus garden, and the magnificent peony and rose collection. A wonderful way to break up back-to-back historical monuments in Springfield is to visit the Washington Park Botanical Garden, as most of the city's attractions are tied to history.

• Address: 1740W Fayette Avenue, Springfield, IL 62704
• Hours: Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 4 pm; Saturday and Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm

15 Blackberry Farm, Aurora

Visiting Blackberry Farm in Aurora is a fun thing to do outside of Chicago in Illinois. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a living history museum where pioneer life is re-created through educational demonstrations and hands-on fun. For people curious about how others lived centuries ago, this is a great way to spend the day. Additionally, Blackberry Farm is open Monday-Saturday from 9:30 AM to 2 PM and on Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM.

Visiting Blackberry Farm in Aurora is a great way to learn and have fun at once. Many families rate this attraction highly, as it's open daily and offers various learning opportunities for guests.

• Address : 100 Barnes Rd, Aurora, IL 60506
• Hours : Mon: 9:30 am - 3 pm; Tue - Fri: 9:30 am - 3:30 pm; Sat: 9:30 am - 5 pm; Sun: 11 am - 5 pm
• Price : General admission: $10; Seniors (65+): $9; Children under 1: Free

14 Raging Waves Water Park, Yorkville

The next non-Chicago spot to check out while in Illinois is Raging Waves Water Park . This water park is in Yorkville and offers guests fun in the sun. Furthermore, this park is the largest of its kind in Illinois, adding to the excitement. Guests can spend the entire day here, especially during hot summer weather.

Tickets to Raging Waves cost $29.99 for "Pick Your Day" tickets and $54.99 for "Any Day" flexible date tickets. Compared to other theme and water parks in the US, Raging Waves is lower-price, making it perfect for families or large groups. The park also runs deals during holidays and throughout the year, so keeping an eye on their website is a good idea.

For people wanting to save money on tickets, purchasing "Pick Your Day" scheduled water park tickets are around $30 less than the non-scheduled options. The park's website also mentions that planning ahead is the best way to save money for this attraction.

• Address : 4000 N Bridge St, Yorkville, IL 60560
• Hours : 10 am - 6 pm (daily)
• Price : From $35 per ticket

13 Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby

Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon might receive the brunt of the attention when it comes to USA’s national parks , but there are a few hidden gems scattered across Illinois as well. One park that stands above the rest is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock State Park . With its plentiful hiking trails, flowing waterfalls, picturesque canyons, and winter ice fishing opportunities, Starved Rock has been voted the number one thing to do in Illinois. Starved Rock is located right next to the town of Utica, which is only about an hour and a half drive from the land of deep-dish.

• Address : 2668 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
• Hours : Wed - Fri: 10 am - 4 pm; Sat & Sun: 12 pm - 4 pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Of all the words that come to mind when thinking of Illinois, ‘quaint’ and ‘charming’ aren’t usually among the front-runners. However, the 19th-century tiny 3,500-person town of Galena at the northwestern tip of the state is doing its best to change that. Not only is Galena a welcomed slice of Midwestern mountain-town character, but with its abundance of surrounding forestry and nature, it’s also a gateway to several local outdoor and adventure activities. After hiking through the nearby mountains, visitors can take an easy stroll down the charming Main Street before putting their feet up at one of its many spa resorts.

• Population : 3,500
• Distance to Chicago : 2:45 minutes

Related: Skip Chicago And Check Out These Other Towns And Cities In Illinois (They're Worth It)

11 Bahá'í Temple, Wilmette

Over in the city of Wilmette, which is easily accessible for anyone basing themselves out of Chicago (only about 20 miles north of the Windy City), visitors will discover the largest Bahá’í temple in the world. Its size isn’t the only impressive feature about it - the design and architecture are stunning, and it holds the title of the world’s oldest surviving Bahá’í temple as well, having been constructed back in 1953. Thanks to its majestic dome, white-clad exterior, and nine stunning gardens, the unique location has received plenty of design awards, and it’s not too hard to see why.

• Address : 100 Linden Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091
• Hours : 6 am - 8 pm (daily)

10 Garden of the Gods (Shawnee National Forest)

Situated in the southern part of the state, the Shawnee National Forest is a welcomed change from the manic go-go-go lifestyles of the Windy City. Spanning almost 300,000 acres, Shawnee offers beautiful woodlands, picturesque hills, and sparkling lakes. Don’t forget the camera because among the list of potential posing wildlife includes the nation’s icon: bald eagles. With a name like Garden of the Gods, the expectations for this place are going to be set pretty high - but it certainly delivers. With waterfalls, sandstone formations, and a solid amount of walking tracks, it’s a literal breath of fresh air.

• Address : 50 Highway 145 S, Harrisburg, IL 62946
• Hours : 6 am - 10 pm (daily)

9 Riverfront Museum Park, Rockford

For the next Illinois POI, stop in the vibrant city of Rockford, the 5th largest city in the state. About an hour and a half drive northwest of Chicago, Rockford has a bustling art and cultural scene, which can be fully appreciated at the Riverfront Museum Park, a parkway area that houses the Rockford Art Museum , Discovery Center Museum , Symphony Orchestra office, Rockford Dance Company and the Burpee Museum of Natural History , all with a scenic view of the river. It's an art lover's dream.

• Address : 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103
• Hours : Mon-Sat: 10 am - 5 pm; Sun: 12 pm - 5 pm

Related: Here's What Else Is There To Do In Illinois (Other Than Occasionally Overrated Chicago)

8 Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford

One of the highlights of Rockford, this majestic garden is an underrated gem of Illinois. Here, visitors will come across the sprawling elegance that is the Anderson Japanese Gardens . The setting is as relaxing as it is serene, with plenty of Japanese culture on display , and the options for calligraphy lessons and traditional Japanese tea ceremonies make it all the more worthwhile.

• Address : 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107
• Hours : Mon - Fri: 8 am - 2 pm; Sat & Sun: 8 am - 3 pm
• Price : Guided group tours: Adult: $14, Senior: $12 (per person)

7 Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Springfield

For travelers venturing through America’s Midwest and suddenly have the urge to learn everything there is to learn about the 16th President of the United States, then the town of Springfield has got them covered. Not only Lincoln’s hometown, but Springfield is also the site of the fascinating Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum .

History buffs will go nuts for the signed copy of the Emancipation Proclamation, as well as the original copy of the Gettysburg Address. Aside from the countless intriguing artifacts, it’s also an immersive experience museum, combining history with innovation and interaction. The Oak Ridge Cemetery is another one of the unique places in Illinois to visit, which is where the President's tomb remains.

• Address : 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701
• Hours : 9 am - 5 pm (daily)

6 The Soul Asylum, Alton

Sitting smack bang in the middle of the Mississippi River, just north of St Louis, Missouri, is the little town of Alton, which sports a population of just under 30,000. For anyone who’s venturing through the area, there’s a rather odd collection of bizarre and ouch-worthy items waiting to be checked out at the place formerly known as the Historic Museum of Torture Devices, which has now officially changed its name to The Soul Asylum. There are plenty of stabby, murderous, and punishing torture devices from all corners of the globe on display on its shelves to satisfy fans of dark tourism . Thankfully, the entry fee isn’t too painful.

• Address : 301 E Broadway, Alton, IL 62002
• Hours : Fri: 12 pm - 6 pm; Sat: 11 am - 6 pm; Sun: 12 pm - 4 pm (closed from Mon - Thu)

5 The Ghost Town of Cairo

Nestled deep in the southern part of the state, on the intersection of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, Cairo, Illinois, is the antithesis of the fast-paced life of a metropolis like Chicago. Back in the day, when the Mississippi River was used as a common ship route, Cairo acted as a port town and was booming as a result. These days, however, it’s nothing more than an eerie ghost town . It’s a rather surreal experience to see a fully functional locale completely abandoned, and it is a worthwhile stop if driving through the region.

• Population : 1,659
• Distance to Chicago : 5:35 minutes

Related: Visiting Kiel Ranch: Nevada's Lesser-Known Tragic Ghost Town

4 Dave's Down to Earth Rock Shop, Evanston

Not too far from the Bahá'í Temple, travelers can step into a quaint little storefront that boasts much more than meets the eye. Located in the Evanstown area, Dave's Down to Earth Rock Shop has been around for over 40 years, providing a quirky mix of materials of geological materials such as gemstones, fossils, and crystals, with friendly information via books or Dave himself on offer to explain it all. What tends to take visitors by (pleasant) surprise is the dinosaur-themed museum hidden down in the basement. It offers informative fun for all ages and is touted as a worthy stop for anyone looking to get out of the chaos of Chicago and venture into other areas.

• Address : 711 Main St, Evanston, IL 60202
• Hours : Mon, Tue & Fri: 10:30 am - 5:30 pm; Thu: 10:30 am - 7 pm; Sat: 10 am - 5 pm (closed on Wed & Sun)

3 World’s Largest Ketchup Bottle, Collinsville

This is, perhaps, the most interesting tourist attraction in Illinois, not Chicago. Sure, seeing the Cubs play at Wrigley Field might be a hoot, and exploring the Shawnee National Forest offers up some stunning photo ops, but do they compare to a 170ft-tall bottle of Ketchup?

It’s not just some tacky roadside attraction either - the locals are incredibly proud of their oversized condiment , and even through an annual World’s Largest Catsup Bottle Festival . Plus, it’s earned its spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Does one need to sell it more? C’mon, it’s a giant Ketchup bottle! Check it out just south of the town of Collinsville.

• Address : 800 S Morrison Ave, Collinsville, IL 62234
• Hours : Mon - Fri: 9 am - 5 pm; Sun: 10 am - 3 pm (closed on Sat)

2 Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville

Venture into the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site , a prehistoric Native American city from the Mississippian culture. This ancient site, once the most populous city in North America, is dotted with 80 mounds built by hand from earth, the largest of which is the Monks Mound. Visitors can climb to the top of Monks Mound for a panoramic view of the St. Louis skyline or tour the Interpretive Center to learn about the city's history through interactive exhibits.

• Address : 30 Ramey St, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States
• Hours : Thu - Sun: 9 am - 5 pm (closed from Mon & Wed)
• Cost : Free

1 Matthiessen State Park, Oglesby

Matthiessen State Park is known for its fascinating rock formations and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike the five miles of trails that wind through the park, passing by canyons, streams, and a lake. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. For those interested in geology, the park offers a unique opportunity to see exposed bedrock and fossil remains.

• Address : 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348, United States
• Hours : Sunrise to Sunset (daily)
• Cost : Free entry

Things To Do

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Roadside Attractions of Illinois

Jul 19, 2022 • Offbeat Illinois

When it comes to planning an unforgettable road trip adventure, Illinois' scenic byways are the place to start.

Itineraries for the outdoor enthusiast, culture hound or history buff are all possible. With so many sites and stories, the Illinois Scenic Byways provide plenty of detours and distractions sure to make a lasting impression.

A Super Time Awaits along the Ohio River Scenic Byway

The   Ohio River Scenic Byway   meanders along another famous American River and the Southeastern most border of Illinois. Be sure to make a stop at   Cave-in-Rock State Park . The park is famous for its eponymous landmark, a cavern steeped in the history of a time when river pirates threatened those transporting goods along the waterway. A lodge perched atop the overhanging bluffs offers spectacular views of the river, and cabins and camping areas make it a great spot for an overnight detour.

Farther along the byway, in the city of   Metropolis , Superman fans will want to stop for a photo with the   15-foot-tall statue of the superhero   located in Superman Square — an ode to the city's claim as the Hometown of Superman. Across the street, the   Super Museum   showcases rare Superman memorabilia and various superhero souvenirs.

Don't miss...

The  Superman Celebration , an annual event in Metropolis that attracts Superman fans from all over the world to show off their costumes and meet celebrities from comics, movies and television. Read more about the Superman Celebration and more in  11 Amazing Festivals You'll Only Find in Illinois

Route 66 – Where the Journey is More than Half the Fun

Route 66 was built in 1926 and connects the heartland of the Midwest with the beaches of the Pacific. Businesses erected quirky attractions along the route to attract drivers to local towns, ranging from quirky landmarks to restaurants and even a rabbit ranch.

Relive history at the many historical landmarks along Route 66. The   Standard Oil Gas Station   in Odell was built in 1932 and represents the classic architectural style of its era. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an Edward Hopper painting. If you’re a classic car buff, you’ll want to check out the   Oakland Automobile Museum   in Pontiac, showcasing Pontiac car models from the turn of the 20 th   Century.

In Collinsville, you’ll discover the   Brooks Catsup Bottle . This giant bottle once served as a water tower for the catsup maker and a prime example of roadside American kitsch.

Stop in the state’s capital to admire the two Springfield big boys, the   Abe Rail Splitter Statue   depicting a clean-shaven, young Lincoln wielding an axe, and the patriotic   Lauterbach Tire Man   waving his flag. Also   South of Springfield in Girard ,   Doc's Soda Fountain   is sure to charm history buffs and vintage enthusiasts alike. A drugstore built in the late 19 th  century, you can enjoy a sweet, ice cream treat while examining pharmacy artifacts dating back to 1884.

Don’t miss Route 66’s iconic Muffler men. The  Gemini Giant  stands outside the Launching Pad restaurant in Wilmington, south of Joliet. And in Atlanta, is the towering  Paul Bunyon Hot Dog Statue .

The Road that Built the Nation

The   Historic National Road Scenic Byway , which extends 164 miles from Marshall to East St. Louis, was the first road completely built using federal funds, setting a precedent by which the country’s highway system was eventually mapped out. For this reason it is often dubbed “The Road that Built the Nation.”

Built in 1806, the original path of the road brought it to Vandalia, the state capital of Illinois from 1819 until 1839. Enjoy guided tours of the statehouse and walk the same halls once occupied by Abraham Lincoln, during his time serving in the Illinois House of Representatives.

The Lincoln Highway – Combining Culture and History

Running east-to-west across Illinois from Lynwood to Fulton, the   Lincoln Highway   was among the first, successful transcontinental highways in the country. To commemorate its legacy, the Lincoln Highway Coalition created 35 beautiful, interpretive murals along the road. Each mural is 10 feet by 20 feet and designed to convey – both visually and through text – the fascinating true stories of Lincoln Highway history. The murals serve to educate, inspire, and offer a great backdrop for photos!

In Joliet, we step back in time to the 1920s at the   Rialto Square Theatre . This Jazz Age gem known as the Jewel of Joliet, is considered to be one of the most beautiful theaters in the nation and an architectural masterpiece. It premiered as a vaudeville theatre and continues to host a variety of performances today.

Just before the Lincoln Highway terminus in Fulton, road trippers will want to snap a photo in front of the impressive   De Immigrant Dutch Windmill . The windmill was prefabricated in the Netherlands and erected in the U.S. by Dutch craftsmen. It sits on the flood control dike in the heart of Fulton.

An Adventure Along the Mighty Mississippi

The   Great River Road   in Illinois parallels the Mississippi River, beginning in Galena, one of Illinois’ most charming, historic towns. Before setting off on a journey south, it is worth taking the time to shop along Main Street and admire the well-preserved 19 th   century buildings that line the road.

The history of famed frontiersmen Lewis & Clark can be experienced all along the Great River Road. The   Lewis & Clark State Historic Site   in Hartford is the first landmark along the National Lewis and Clark Heritage Trail. Exhibitions include a 55-foot, full scale replica of the keel boat used by the pair as they journeyed westward, among other artifacts.

Close to where the highway crosses state line lies one of Illinois’ most awe-inspiring landmarks and the state’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site – the  Cahokia Mounds . In A.D. 1250, the city of Cahokia was one of the greatest in the world and larger than London. Today, the Mounds are a preserved, 2,200-acre historic site that pays homage to Cahokia’s sophisticated prehistoric culture. Annual events throughout the year celebrate the Native American culture.

Road-Trip Reads:

This scenic drive along the Mississippi is worth a week-long getaway all its own. Set your itinerary with  6 Days Along Illinois' Great River Road , our guide to a leisurely road trip from Galena to Alton.

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15 Best Places to Retire in Illinois

T his article takes a look at the 15 best places to retire in Illinois. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis on navigating retirement living in the US, you may go to 5 Best Places to Retire in Illinois .

America and the Senior Citizen: A Troubled Story?

According to the Pew Research Center , America currently houses 62 million senior citizens who account for 18% of the country's total population. Projections indicate an upward trajectory, with senior citizen numbers projected to reach 84 million by 2054, constituting 23% of the population. In fact, it's not just senior citizens as a whole that are witnessing growth, but the centenarian population within this group is also on an upward trend. United States Census numbers depict a mere 2,300 Americans aged 100 and above in 1950. This has now grown to 101,000 in 2024 and is expected to quadruple to 422,000 by 2054. With senior citizens accounting for such a large portion of America's population, what relationship does the country hold with this significant section of its citizens? 

For one, it is expensive to be a senior citizen in America - more so than many, many countries across the world. A study by the Social Science Research Network revealed that the number of senior Americans filing for bankruptcy has more than doubled from the figures of 25 years ago. Social scientists who are studying the Consumer Bankruptcy Project attribute this rise in senior citizen bankruptcy to high healthcare costs, low incomes, and declining pensions. When all of this adds up, the equation reveals an unfavorable answer. 

Deborah Thorne, an author behind the Social Science Research Network 's bankruptcy study, says that Medicare and the problems that riddle this system are in large part accountable for the financial struggles that America's senior citizen class is facing. 

" My bankruptcy started with back surgery. I had several medical tests that my insurance did not cover. This caused me to fall behind in my medical payments. The next thing I knew, the bills began piling up. I got to the point I owed more than I was making on Social Security" -US Senior Citizen who filed for bankruptcy talking to Deborah Thorne, author of Social Science Research Network 's bankruptcy study

Registered Nursing estimates annual healthcare costs to be around $11,300 for senior citizens in America. Breaking it down, this comes out to $942 per month. For senior citizens who are surviving solely on Social Security checks - a monthly amount of $1,909 according to 2024 Social Security payouts - this leaves behind a mere $967 to cover necessities such as rent, groceries, transport, utilities, and more. 

Faced with such circumstances, America's retiring class often grapples to find the best possible living situation - one that fits within their limited budget and delivers a certain standard of living. To make this a reality, senior citizens often move for retirement, either to some of the best places to retire around the world or to the best states for retirement in the US . Here, one particularly favorable retirement state is that of Illinois which ranks 9th. Not only does Illinois' state average cost of living sit at 7.9% below the national average , but the state is also tax-friendly toward retirees as it doesn't tax nearly all forms of retirement income. 

The housing market in Illinois is also favorable with figures being significantly below the national median. According to Redfin Corporation (NASDAQ: RDFN ), the median price of a home in the state is $266,300. For seniors who manage living on smaller Social Security checks, there are various discounts that can be availed. One of the most prominent examples of this is Kohl's Corporation (NYSE: KSS ), which has over 60 outlets in the state of Illinois. At Kohl's Corporation (NYSE:KSS), shoppers aged 60 and above can benefit from a weekly 15% Wednesday-only discount on their selected range of brands. All in all, the state aims to make retirement living more comfortable, making Illinois a good state to retire . 

To facilitate present and potential retirees in navigating the move to Illinois state, we have compiled a list of the 15 best places to retire in Illinois .

Methodology

To compile this list of the 15 best places to retire in Illinois , we consulted several sources including our lists of 30 Cheapest Places Across America Where You Will Want to Retire , 25 Best US Cities Where You Can Retire on $2500 a Month , 25 Most Affordable Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2024 , 25 Cheap and Beautiful Places to Retire in the US , 15 Best Cities to Retire in the Midwest , 20 Safest Places to Retire in the US , 20 Best Cities to Retire on a Budget of $1,800 a Month , 20 Best Places to Retire in the US , and Niche , NewHomeSource , Movoto , and WorldAtlas .  

Once a list of places was compiled using these sources, we then ranked them across multiple factors, namely, their cost of living, their livability scores, and their median house price. For this article, cost of living indexes were taken from Best Places , livability scores were taken from Area Vibes , and median house prices were taken from Redfin Corporation (NASDAQ:RDFN). To ensure that the recommended places were of a suitable living standard, we removed any places with a livability score of below 60. A cumulative score was then assigned to each place, with the 15 highest-scoring places making our list of the 15 best places to retire in Illinois . For places that gained an equal score, their cost of living index was used as a tie-breaker. The resulting list is presented in ascending order, with the highest-ranked place being presented last. 

It is important to remember that personal preference plays a big part. The best course of action is to visit the place you plan to move to, converse with locals, take advice from a financial consultant, and only then make your final decision. 

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders. 

Here are the 15 best places to retire in Illinois :

15. Granite City

Insider Monkey Score: 62

Livability: 65

Cost of Living Index: 82.5

Median House Price: $117,000

Located in Madison County, Granite City is one of the best places to live in Illinois . The city is situated on the Mississippi River, giving residents access to water views and a range of nature-related activities. Senior citizens can visit the Granite City Park District, the Granite City Cinema, and the Alfresco Performing Arts Center for a fun day out on the town. 

Livability: 63

Cost of Living Index: 73.2

Median House Price: $187,000

Our next pick for the best places to retire in Illinois is the dual-county city of Casey. Located in the counties of Cumberland and Clarke, Casey is best known for hosting a series of certified world's largest items. These include a massive rocking chair, wooden shoes, a key, and a mailbox - among others. Residents can also indulge in a range of delectable eats at some of Casey's best food establishments including Richards Farm Restaurant and Wildflour Bakery & Candy Co. 

Insider Monkey Score: 63

Livability: 80

Cost of Living Index: 95.4

Median House Price: $375,000

With a cost of living that is 4.6% lower than the national average, Geneva is a great retirement destination for senior citizens who are in search of peaceful yet affordable living. A Chicago suburb, Geneva residents have the benefit of having a big city nearby where they can travel for a fun day out. Within Geneva itself, senior citizens can visit the Geneva History Museum, the Penrose Brewing Company, and Stone Creek Miniature Golf.

12. Kankakee

Insider Monkey Score: 66

Livability: 62

Cost of Living Index: 80.6

Median House Price: $104,250

Many senior citizens dream of being retirement-time homeowners, and there's no better spot for this category of retirees than Kankakee. With a low median home price of $104,250, interested retirees will be saving upwards of $280,000 as compared to the national median house price. Not only does this make many financially lower-end retirees into homeowners, but it also does so without emptying their banks. Of course, the city also has much more to offer including a host of indoor and outdoor activities and highly-rated eateries. 

Insider Monkey Score: 70

Livability: 69

Cost of Living Index: 76.4

Median House Price: $163,000

Aledo's winning feature is its low cost of living -  a whole 23.6% lower than the national average. This small town acts as a retirement gateway for the financially struggling senior citizen. Located in Mercer County and with a population of under 4,000 as per the last United States Census, Aledo is one of the best small towns in Illinois to live . Residents can partake in the town's many festivals including the Rhubarb Festival, the Mercer County Fair, and the Antique Days celebration. 

Insider Monkey Score: 71

Livability: 74

Cost of Living Index: 82.2

Median House Price: $155,000

The tenth spot on our list of best places to retire in Illinois goes to the Ogle County city of Oregon. Despite being small, the city has much to offer. Residents can visit the Conover Square Mall, the Oregon Park East, and Cin's Treasures Ceramics & Art Studio for a day out on the town. To finish the day, they can enjoy a meal at Breakers Saloon & Eatery or the Spring Valley Restaurant. 

Insider Monkey Score: 72

Cost of Living Index: 82.8

Median House Price: $280,000

Galena's distinctive quality is its intact 19th-century architecture which dots the town, one of the most prominent of which is Dowling House from 1826. Located in Illinois' Northwest region, Galena is a historic small town that is perfect for senior citizens who are in search of a slower retirement period. Residents can take a trip around town with the Galena Trolley Tours sightseeing agency, visit Grant Park for a nature break, and go to the River Bend Gallery to delight their artistic side. 

Insider Monkey Score: 74

Livability: 68

Cost of Living Index: 77.1

Median House Price: $132,000

Quincy is regarded as one of the best cities to retire on a budget of $1,800 a month , making it a great pick for retirees who are living off of a Social Security income. One of the larger cities on our list of best places to retire in Illinois, Quincy offers residents a suburban feel. Residents can visit the Quincy Community Theatre, the Quincy Brewing Company, and the Gardner Museum of Architecture & Design, among other attractions. 

7. Rock Island

Insider Monkey Score: 83

Livability: 73

Cost of Living Index: 75.7

Median House Price: $136,000

Located in a county of the same name, Rock Island is famously known for its bridge-building history. All in all, the city boasts everything that a retiree could need. Residents can access healthcare at the Community Health Care Rock Island Clinic, catch a bite at the Riverfront Grille, or spend a happening day out at the Quad City Botanical Garden and the Hauberg Museum. 

6. Litchfield

Livability: 66

Cost of Living Index: 70.9

Median House Price: $95,950

With a cost of living that is 29.1% lower than the national average, Litchfield is one of the best places to retire in Illinois on a budget . A wishful homeowner's dream, Litchfield offers a remarkably low median house price, helping financially struggling retirees get a more stable grip on life. Home to the famous Route 66, the city is also known for its diverse nature offerings. 

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Places to Retire in Illinois . 

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Disclosure: none. 15 Best Places to Retire in Illinois is originally published on Insider Monkey.

Chicago Solar Eclipse 2024: Where and when to see path of totality on April 8

CHICAGO - The upcoming total solar eclipse , set to illuminate the skies from Texas to Maine on April 8, promises a spectacular display, with southern Illinois emerging as a prime location to witness the celestial event.

While Chicago won't be in the path of totality, the eclipse is expected to offer a breathtaking show in the city. Chicago and the surrounding suburbs will experience a partial eclipse, with an estimated 94% totality.

During the eclipse, the moon will appear to block most of the sun in Chicagoland. The sky will become noticeably darker, similar to what you would see at twilight.

The partial eclipse will be visible in Chicago from 12:51 p.m. to 3:22 p.m., reaching peak totality at 2:07 p.m. Since Chicagoland is not in the path of totality, it will not be safe to view the eclipse without eclipse glasses or other tools.

The last time Chicagoland was this close to the path of totality for a total solar eclipse was in 2017, when the totality reached 90% — and before that the area hadn't seen one since 1869!

Where to View in Chicago Suburbs

• Aurora: 93% totality at 2:06 p.m.
• Elgin: 92% totality at 2:06 p.m.
• Crystal Lake: 91% totality at 2:06 p.m.
• Joliet: 94% totality at 2:06 p.m.
• Naperville: 94% totality at 2:06 p.m.
• Schaumburg: 93% totality at 2:07 p.m.
• Waukegan: 92% totality at 2:07 p.m.
• Kankakee: 96% totality at 2:06 p.m.

Chicago Eclipse Events

The Adler Planetarium on April 8 is hosting a free public event from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. to showcase the solar eclipse. Telescopes will be set up around the Planetarium grounds and attendees are encouraged to observe the sky.

The Pullman National Historic Park has its "A Partial Eclipse in the Park" event from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Family-friendly activities and snacks will be provided.

The Museum of Science and Industry has its solar eclipse event from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. There will be several actives and attendees can view the eclipse through a telescope.

The Chicago Public Library is also hosting events at some of its branches, including at the Legler Regional and Budlong Woods locations.

Additionally, the East Dundee Library in Chicago's northwest suburbs will be hosting a solar eclipse event. The Skokie and Elmhurst park districts, as well as Triton College , will also host events.

What is a Total Solar Eclipse?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, completely obscuring the Sun's face for several minutes. The process, from partial eclipse through totality, spans several hours and features phenomena such as Baily's Beads and the Diamond Ring caused by the Moon's pockmarked surface.

Tips for viewing the last total solar eclipse for 20 years

Mother Nature is putting together quite a show for all to see on April 8. It’s going to be the last total solar eclipse that we will see for the next 20 years and Illinois has some of the best seats to offer.

Baily's Beads is named after British astronomer Francis Baily, who discovered the eclipse phenomenon. This effect looks like beads of light poking out from around the Moon's shadow. It happens because the Moon's rugged terrain allows sunlight to pass through before totality.

Eventually, the beads disappear and become one bright spot of sunlight resembling a giant diamond in the sky, with the Sun's atmosphere forming the ring's band. Seeing the Diamond Ring is a sign that totality is almost there.

During Baily's Beads and Diamond Ring, you still need to keep your eclipse glasses on. Only during the few minutes of totality is it safe to remove your glasses.

What does Totality mean?

Totality in an eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, allowing observers within the path of the moon's shadow to witness it. When totality occurs, the corona (the sun's outer atmosphere) becomes visible as a halo surrounding the moon. The day is plunged into twilight, stars and planets may become visible in the sky, and the temperature drops as much as 10 degrees. This period of totality is typically quite short – a few minutes, tops – but it can have a profound impact on those who experience it.

A composite image of eight pictures shows the phases of the total eclipse as the moon passes from left to right in front of the sun during a solar eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, near Perryville, Mo. Shot with an equivalent of an 800mm lens, the pa

Where to View in Illinois

Numerous cities and towns in southern Illinois will lie in the path of totality.

The eclipse's trajectory, moving from southwest to northeast, will encompass cities like Cairo, Olive Branch, Grand Tower, Red Bud, Carbondale, Mount Vernon, Harrisburg, and Fairfield before reaching communities near the Indiana border such as Olney and Robinson. They all lie in the path of totality and will be plunged into darkness for up to a few minutes.

Total solar eclipse path for Illinois on April 8, 2024. (FOX Weather)

Timing of the Eclipse

The total solar eclipse is an event lasting several hours, with totality lasting from a few seconds to over four minutes, contingent upon one's location within the 115-mile path of totality.

In Grand Tower, the eclipse will commence at 12:42 p.m. CDT, with totality beginning at 1:58 p.m. and lasting until 2:02 p.m., concluding at 3:17 p.m.

Carbondale will experience the eclipse starting at 12:43 p.m. CDT, with totality commencing at 1:59 p.m., lasting for 4 minutes and 9 seconds until 2:03 p.m., and ending at 3:18 p.m.

Robinson will witness the eclipse beginning at 12:47 p.m. CDT, with totality starting at 2:03 p.m. and lasting for 3 minutes and 39 seconds until 2:06 p.m., concluding at 3:20 p.m.

The total eclipse times in Carbondale, Illinois, on April 8, 2024. (FOX Weather)

What Will I See During the Eclipse?

If you are in the path of totality:.

The moon will appear to completely block the sun for as long as seven and a half minutes. Daytime will turn into near night during that time and the sun’s corona – the outer rays – may be visible.

If you are not far from the path of totality:

The moon will appear to block most of the sun. It will still become noticeably darker; daylight will become more like twilight.

If you are well outside the path of totality:

You’ll notice a chunk of the sun is being blocked. The farther away you are, the smaller the moon’s bite will appear to be. In Seattle and Portland, Oregon, about as far away as you can get in the continental U.S., one-third of the sun will be swallowed.

The length of totality in southern Illinois is shown in orange | NASA

Weather Forecast

Clear skies are crucial for observing a total solar eclipse. Some cloud cover is in the forecast on April 8, but we will have a better idea of how things are looking as we get closer to Monday.

Check back with FOX 32 Chicago for weather updates, and download our apps for the latest news and forecasts.

The eclipse cloud cover forecast from FOX Weather.

Traveling to Illinois for the Eclipse

This marks the second total solar eclipse in southern Illinois within seven years, with Carbondale positioned in the path of totality once again.

"For a location to be in the path of two eclipses in a seven-year time span is literally unheard of," said Sarah Vanvooren, director of events and outreach at Southern Illinois University (SIU).

SIU is preparing to host the Southern Illinois Eclipse Crossroads of America Festival from April 5-8. NASA also launched a website with other events taking place in Illinois leading up to, and on the day of, the eclipse.

Meanwhile, various agencies are warning that anyone who is traveling to see the eclipse should plan ahead, allow extra time for travel, and be patient with the influx of traffic that's expected. There may also be limited parking at whichever viewing area you settle on.

IDOT: Expect heavy traffic for solar eclipse

Additionally, over 70 schools will be closed.

Where Can I Get Eclipse Glasses?

Solar eclipse glasses are essential if you want to look at the eclipse itself. Even with the moon partially blocking it, the sun will still be strong enough to damage your eyes.

Many businesses are giving away glasses for free; you can find a list HERE .

If you can’t get eclipse glasses, welder’s glasses can work but only if they are rated with the darkest shade level of 14.

An eclipse viewing box, which projects a shadow of the eclipse, may be a safer option for young children. Here’s how to make one .

The great April eclipse: All you need to know

How can you tell if eclipse glasses are safe? What's the best place to watch the eclipse? Why is this eclipse special? We've got answers.

How to Know if Your Eclipse Glasses are Safe

Solar filters are used in eclipse glasses and handheld viewers and meet a very specific worldwide standard known as ISO 12312-2.

For a list of verified eclipse glasses and viewers, click HERE .

Solar eclipse countdown underway across the country

More than 31 million people, from Texas to Maine, will be in a prime location to witness a total solar eclipse. In Chicago, well still be able to see a partial eclipse. The eclipse will occur at different times in each state on Monday.

Protecting Pets during the Eclipse

While we all need to protect our eyes with a pair of glasses, what about our pets? They'll need to be protected as well. But doctors say: don't try to put glasses on your cat or dog. The best advice is to just bring them indoors and keep them away from windows. Looking at the sun without those special glasses, for even a short time, can cause permanent damage for humans and our pets.

Where else will the total solar eclipse occur?

According to Eclipse2024.org , the unincorporated village of Eidson Road, near the U.S.-Mexico border will be the first to see the phenomenon. Here's the timing of each state's total solar eclipse:

• Dallas, Texas around 1:40 p.m. (CDT)
• Idabel, Oklahoma around 1:45 p.m. (CDT)
• Little Rock, Arkansas around 1:51 p.m. (CDT)
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri around 1:56 p.m. (CDT)
• Carbondale, Illinois at 1:59 p.m. (CDT)
• Paducah, Kentucky around 2 p.m. (CDT)
• Evansville, Indiana at 2:02 p.m. (CDT)
• Cleveland, Ohio at 3:13 p.m. (EDT)
• Erie, Pennsylvania at 3:16 p.m. (EDT)
• Buffalo, New York at 3:18 p.m. (EDT)
• Burlington, Vermont at 3:26 p.m. (EDT)
• Lancaster, New Hampshire at 3:27 p.m. (EDT)
• Caribou, Maine at 3:32 p.m. (EDT)

Path of solar eclipse | NASA

Future Total Solar Eclipses

Following the April 8, 2024, event, the next total solar eclipse in parts of the U.S. won't occur until 2044 . Subsequently, an eclipse in August 2045 will cover a more extensive portion of the U.S.

RELATED LINKS

• 2024 Total Eclipse: Where & When
• Illinois Eclipse Events
• 16 of the coolest places to watch the solar eclipse
• Where to find free solar eclipse glasses before April 8
• What an eclipse looks like from space, and why you should see one (from Earth)

FOX Weather contributed to this report.

‘The Greatest Hits': Music turns on the time travel in charming love story

Story of a woman torn between two lovers — one of them dead — lands in just the right place..

Any time Harriet (Lucy Boynton) hears a song she shared with her late boyfriend, she time-travels back to that moment in “The Greatest Hits.”

Searchlight Pictures

The first rule of time-travel movies is there are no plausible rules of time-travel movies. Whether it’s “Slaughterhouse-Five” or “Back to the Future,” “Time After Time” or “Looper,” “Somewhere in Time” or “The Terminator,” it doesn’t matter how much exposition we get, or whether there’s some kind of geeky “flux capacitor” explanation. We just have to go with it and see where the story takes us. If we care enough about the characters and their journey, we buy into it.

So it goes with writer-director Ned Benson’s sun-dappled Los Angeles time-travel romance “The Greatest Hits,” which takes a big pretty swing in the genre with a sentimental premise that might have you rolling your eyes — but only if you’re a COLD-HEARTED CYNIC WHO DOESN’T BELIEVE IN LOVE. (Just kidding. As far as you know.)

When we meet Lucy Boynton’s Harriet in present day, she’s a troubled soul who is still in deep mourning two years after her movie-star handsome boyfriend Max (David Corenswet, star of next year's "Superman") was killed in a car accident. Thing is, Harriet can’t really move on, because every time she hears a song attached to a memory of Max, she’s rocketed back in time to that moment and can stay there only as long as the duration of the tune. (Where’s the uncut version of “Autobahn” by Kraftwerk when you need it!)

Harriet’s apartment is filled with albums marked “Tested” and “Untested.” Sometimes she travels back in time by choice and tries to manipulate events; on other occasions, when she’s out in public and a time-triggering song plays on a car radio or in a coffee shop, well, that’s problematic, as it sends Harriet into spasms and causes her to pass out. Harriet wears noise-canceling headphones, and she works in a library to minimize the risk of an unplanned journey, but you can’t control the music everywhere you go.

With needle drops from an eclectic mix that includes Jamie xx, Roxy Music, Nelly Furtado and Technotronic setting the pace, “The Greatest Hits” introduces a number of familiar character tropes, including Austin Crute’s Morris, who is Harriet’s gay best friend and exists mainly to advise and support her and happens to be a DJ, which feels almost too on point, and Retta as the wise and caring group therapy leader, Dr. Evelyn Bartlett.

The sensitive and cutely awkward David (Justin H. Min), who recently lost both his parents and manages their charmingly dusty antiques store, develops a real crush on Harriet, though when she tells him about the Hunky Dead Boyfriend and the time-travel thing, he has his doubts. (Boynton infuses Harriet with such loveliness and charm that we believe David might stick around despite her crazy story.)

The script from writer-director Benson takes some interesting turns. We want Harriet to be reunited with Max, but dang it, what about David?

Just when you think “The Greatest Hits” has painted itself into a corner, the script finds a way and the story lands in just the right place. I could see myself going back and watching it again, even though I know exactly how it will all play out. Hey! Sort of like in a time travel movie.

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• solar eclipse

Carbondale, Illinois will see total solar eclipse for 2nd time in less than 10 years on Monday

SIU hosts second eclipse watch party in 7 years

CARBONDALE, Ill. (WLS) -- The total solar eclipse strikes back for a swath of southern Illinois.

"It's our second solar eclipse in seven years," said Sara Vanvooren, Director of Events and Outreach at Southern Illinois University in Carbdondale. "I can't put into a category how rare this is."

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Try once every 300-plus years. But somehow, the stars aligned-or in this case just one star, the earth, and the moon aligned. SIU will once again find itself in the path of totality on April 8, 2024. The last time was Aug. 21, 2017.

"This truly is your second-in-a-lifetime chance to have the opportunity to see a total solar eclipse," said Vanvooren.

RELATED: How to protect your eyes with solar eclipse glasses during 2024 event as IL is in path of totality

SIU is making a weekend out of it with a host of mostly free activities leading up to the main event.

"A lot of people who are locals think that total eclipses are normal," said Vanvooren. "We're excited for the event, we're excited for visitors but the nice thing is we've done this before, so we're prepared."

On eclipse day, Saluki Stadium is once again hosting a watch party and the university said it's prepared for an influx of 100,000 people.

READ MORE: Solar eclipse school closings: Over 60 IL schools to close so students can witness eclipse

"We do work with local hotels to try and keep their pricing down and reasonable for visitors," said Vanvooren. "But inevitably, it's up to those hotels to set their rates."

At last check, the average price for a one-night stay was about $500 dollars. But there are other more affordable ways to enjoy the show.

"There's also ample camping available," Vanvooren said.

There are at least 31 state parks, along with Shawnee National Park, in the path of totality.

RELATED : Illinois in path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse; what to expect in Chicago

But you'll have lots company on the roads on your drive back home.

"We have found from past experience that people are just going to hop on the road. People just need to be prepared. The only way around that is to delay your travel a day or plan to leave later on Monday the 8th." said Vanvooren.

Last month, the Illinois Department of Transportation held a media briefing to make sure eclipse travelers were prepared on the roads.

"We are making every effort under our capabilities to minimize the impacts to travelling public," said Robert Graeff, IDOT's Bureau Chief of Operations for District 9.

Graeff said he's hoping the traveling public will come down ahead time and stay a while because traffic will be slow,.

"The biggest thing that I can stress is patience." "It's similar to a snow event. Have a full tank of gas. Have some water in the car," stressed Graeff.

ABC7s eclipse coverage begins Sunday night before the eclipse with meteorologists Larry Mowry in Carbondale, Greg Dutra in Indianapolis and Cheryl Scott at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. 

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

When does the solar eclipse start and end?

The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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