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Dan Welldon

Chicago dominates the state with its sky-high architecture and superlative museums, restaurants and music clubs. But venturing further afield reveals Oak Park, Hemingway's mannerly hometown, scattered shrines to local hero Abe Lincoln, and a trail of corn dogs, pies and drive-in movie theaters down Route 66. A cypress swamp and a prehistoric World Heritage Site make appearances in Illinois too.

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Must-see attractions.

Wrigley Field

Built in 1914, Wrigley Field – aka the Friendly Confines – is the second-oldest baseball park in the major leagues. It’s home to the Chicago Cubs and…

Museum of Science & Industry

The MSI is the largest science museum in the Western hemisphere and a place to completely geek out. Highlights include a WWII German U-boat nestled in an…

Art Institute of Chicago

The second-largest art museum in the country, the Art Institute houses a treasure trove from around the globe. The collection of impressionist and…

Millennium Park

There's free admission to Millennium Park, the playful heart of the city. It shines with whimsical public art, both permanent and temporary exhibits, and…

Willis Tower

Willis Tower is Chicago's tallest building (and one of the world's loftiest). Breathe deeply during the ear-popping, 70-second elevator ride to the 103rd…

Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum houses some 30 million artifacts and includes everything but the kitchen sink – beetles, mummies, gemstones, Bushman the stuffed ape –…

Half-mile-long Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most-visited attractions, sporting a 196ft Ferris wheel and other carnival rides ($9 to $18 each), an IMAX…

National Museum of Mexican Art

Founded in 1982, this vibrant museum – the largest Latinx arts institution in the US – has become one of the city’s best. The vivid permanent collection…

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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

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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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

MaxyM / Shutterstock

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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23 Best Places to Visit in Illinois

Last Updated By VI on March 18, 2024 in Things to Do in Illinois & Places to Visit

Springfield

Rockford, illinois.

• See the Complete List

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

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.

Located in the Midwest, Illinois is home to Chicago , the third-largest city in the country as well as a major sports and cultural center. Illinois has many smaller industrial cities, bountiful natural resources, and intense agricultural productivity, especially in its central region. Here are the best places to visit in Illinois.

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• 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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Enjoy Illinois recommends things to do, best places to visit for summer road trip season

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) -The kids are counting down the days until summer break which may have some of you planning ahead for fun road trips for the family.

Daniel Thomans, Deputy Director at Enjoy Illinois , offers many recommendations for attractions and destinations only a car ride away including getaways in and around Chicago , the Springfield area (the state capitol), outdoor adventures in the Southeastern part of the state , and outstanding l ocal resources and amenities right here in the Quad Cities.

Travel recommendations featured are Millennium Park, Chicago Architecture Cruise, Morton Arboretum, Six Flags Great America, The Forge: Lemont Quarries, Route 66 Legends Neon Sign Park, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library , Cozy Drive-in, Shawnee Hills Glamping, Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour, Shawnee Hills Lavender, Rendleman Orchard, Celebration Belle, John Deere Pavilion, Lagomarcino’s, Great River Road & Nauvoo, and Quincy.

Also notable is that the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), has announced the release of its spring/summer 2024 issue of Enjoy Illinois--now available in digital and print --as the state’s free travel magazine the best attractions, outdoor activities, events and stays in the state.

To learn more about summer travel, recommended itineraries and road trips, visit EnjoyIllinois.com .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Enjoy Illinois (@enjoyillinois)

Copyright 2024 KWQC. All rights reserved.

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What to know for booking summer travel: Expert tips on airfare, destinations and more

(NEW YORK) — As the surge of summer travel draws near, the race to book a great vacation is on.

“If you’re looking to travel domestically within the U.S., I think you should be booking now for summer travel,” Clint Henderson, travel expert and managing editor of The Points Guy, told ABC News’ Good Morning America .

Earlier this month while reporting quarterly earnings, Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian projected “record advance bookings for the summer,” telling CNBC that the carrier’s credit card data and bookings show customers are highly interested in air travel.

An increase in budget airline routes that has created more competition, paired with an easing of the post-pandemic revenge travel surge, means travelers could see more deals.

“Overall prices are down from where they were when we just had that boom out of the pandemic,” Henderson said. “So things are more reasonable.”

Hopper, the flight booking app, has shown predicted fares for flights to Europe will be down 10% in price from the same time last year.

Google recently announced its top 20 trending summer destinations, which saw a few newcomers on the list and Paris rose to the No. 2 spot.

With the Olympics taking place there from July 26 through Aug. 11, an uptick in airfare and hotel pricing is expected during the Games.

But those willing to wait out the Olympics could find big savings for flights to the host nation.

The Points Guy has featured deals from Atlanta, Dallas and Charlotte to Paris for as low as $515 from August through the fall.

Amsterdam, Prague, Spain and Iceland are among the most reasonably priced European destinations, as seen on Hopper.

Tips for booking summer travel

Don’t forget to stay flexible with travel dates and keep midweek in mind for possibly lower fares.

There’s also a time during the post-summer rush known as “shoulder season,” between September and October, when fares could drop by as much as 30%.

When it comes to airfare purchase timing, the experts at The Points Guy have found prices dip eight to four weeks before the outbound flight, but after the one-month mark, prices will creep back up.

Copyright © 2024, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.

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Vote for Skyview Drive-In

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Best Drive-In Theater

Skyview Drive-In has been part of the Belleville, Illinois, community since 1949. The venue frequently hosts special events like film festivals, live music, and movie nights with Santa. They also have a concession stand on site with hot food like cheeseburgers, fries, hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. 

Photo courtesy of Steve Bloomer

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Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

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USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Leaderboard

• 1. Skyview Drive-In - Belleville, Illinois
• 2. Harvest Moon Twin Drive-In Theatre - Gibson City, Illinois
• 3. The Family Drive-In Theatre - Stephens City, Virginia
• 4. Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre - Orefield, Pennsylvania
• 5. Bengies Drive-In Theatre - Middle River, Maryland
• 6. Hull's Drive-In - Lexington, Virginia
• 7. Evergreen Drive-In Theatre - Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania
• 8. Sunset Drive-In - San Luis Obispo, California
• 9. Four Brothers Drive-In - Amenia, New York
• 10. Park Place Drive-In Theater - Marion, Virginia
• -- Check the Full Leaderboard --

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in the United States

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for U.S. hotels in 2024.

Hotels NYC California Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys

New York City by The MICHELIN Guide

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On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new list of One, Two, and Three Key hotels in the United States. In this first ever announcement of MICHELIN Keys in the United States, hotels in Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington DC were eligible for the distinction. This announcement of the most outstanding hotels in the country comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in the United States includes 11 Three Key hotels, 33 Two Key hotels, and 80 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at SingleThread, the five room inn with Three Keys and Three Stars. Explore the one street in Chicago that leads to seven Key hotels. Or find out more the Cliff House suite at our only Three Key hotel in Big Sur, California. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the United States 2024 Key Hotel List

The Three Key Club in New York City

Expect: The highest luxury and impeccable design in Soho, Midtown, and the Financial District. Within the small club of Three Key hotels in the United States, four make their home in New York City. The Aman New York (Midtown) and Casa Cipriani (the Financial District) both make use of glamorous Beaux Arts buildings, the former a gold-crowned skyscraper in Midtown, the latter a glamorously restored ferry terminal at the very southern tip of Manhattan. Each is a refuge: an elegant, painstakingly designed escape from bustling city life. Meanwhile, two Firmdale hotels round out the list of Three Key hotels in New York City. Each is a quintessential example of the style and execution of the group’s co-owner and interior designer, Kit Kemp. Click the links here to explore the whirl of colors and collage of art that define the Crosby Street (Soho) and the Whitby Hotel (Midtown). Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

Jewels on the Coast: Up and Down California

Its sheer breadth of size and variety means it’s no surprise to announce California as the state with the most Key hotels in America. Here, we’ll point you towards coastal gems like the sublime architectural achievements in Big Sur ( Post Ranch Inn and Ventana ), beachside luxuries in Santa Monica (in particular: the newly opened Georgian ), and wine country favorites like SingleThread and the Madrona . What we love: how each one of these hotels opens the door to the very best of their locations — and gives us a look at each setting through fresh eyes.

Across America: The Golden Age of Celebrity

Our French Keys bask in the tradition of ancient vineyards, stone chateaus, and historic palaces. In the United States, we see a different tradition. In Los Angeles, places like Chateau Marmont , the Paramour Estate , Sunset Tower , and the Charlie date back to guests and residents as illustrious as Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. These are spaces that play ingeniously with their history, even as they forge ahead with cutting-edge amenities and experiences. But it’s not just California. New York’s historic artist hotspot, the Hotel Chelsea , once hosted Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol. Today, it decorates every space with art donated by former residents. Look too to the Chicago Athletic Association , a former member’s club for 20th century business magnates and athletes — now among the city’s most impressive and vibrant hotels. Also read: Hollywood Glamor at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills):  The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection California (Big Sur): Post Ranch Inn California (Healdsburg): SingleThread Inn California (Los Angeles):  Hotel Bel-Air, Dorchester Collection California (Rutherford):  Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection California (St. Helena):  Meadowood Napa Valley California (Woodside):  Canyon Ranch Woodside New York (NYC):  Aman New York New York (NYC):  Casa Cipriani New York New York (NYC):  Crosby Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels New York (NYC):  The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels

NEW: New York by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills): L'Ermitage Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Maybourne Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Peninsula Beverly Hills California (Carmel Valley): Bernardus Lodge & Spa California (Big Sur): Ventana Big Sur California (Guerneville): The Stavrand California (Healdsburg): Montage Healdsburg California (Healdsburg): The Madrona California (Laguna Beach): Montage Laguna Beach California (Montecito): Rosewood Miramar Beach California (Napa):  Milliken Creek Inn & Spa California (San Francisco):  Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero California (San Francisco):  The Battery California (Sausalito):  Cavallo Point Lodge California (West Hollywood): Chateau Marmont California (West Hollywood):  Pendry West Hollywood California (Yountville):  Bardessono California (Yountville):  North Block Washington D.C.:  Rosewood Washington, D.C.   Washington D.C.:  The Jefferson Florida (Miami):  Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Florida (Miami Beach):  Faena Hotel Miami Beach Florida (Miami Beach):  Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Florida (Miami Beach):  The Setai Miami Beach   Illinois (Chicago): Pendry Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Langham, Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Peninsula Chicago New York (NYC): Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York New York (NYC):  Nine Orchard  New York (NYC):  Pendry Manhattan West New York (NYC): The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel New York (NYC): The Fifth Avenue Hotel New York (NYC):  The Mark Hotel

The One Key Hotels

Washington D.C.

Hero Image: Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection — Aspen, Colorado

In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in New York City

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

The Most Outrageous Design Hotel In Miami

The Faena Miami Beach is a Two Key hotel with a $15 million gilded woolly mammoth.

A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

Inside the Top Suite of the Only Three Key Hotel in Big Sur

The so-called "Cliff House" has the views you're looking for.

SingleThread: The 5-Room Inn with Three Keys and Three Stars

Revered for its Three MICHELIN Star restaurant and biodynamic farm, the SingleThread Inn earns Three Keys for its tiny, food-driven hotel.

Inside the Top Suite of 3-Key Aman New York

The Aman Suite — among the most impressive suites in New York — brings the city to you.

The Guilty Pleasures of the Chicago Athletic Association

The 1-Key Chicago Athletic Association has had an illustrious and sometimes sordid history that dates back to 1893, when it wasn’t quite a hotel. A lot has changed since then, but the ghosts of the past are never far away.

Eaton DC Is a Launchpad for Progress

Katherine Lo’s Eaton DC isn’t just one of the best hotels in the United States capital. It’s also a headquarters for activism, community, social justice, and sustainability. And it’s not shy about it.

Key Street: Michigan Ave. Leads to 7 Key Hotels in Chicago

A brief guide to all the MICHELIN Key hotels in Chicago.

Hollywood Glamor at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

A brief guide to all the Key hotels in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills.

Chef Rob Rubba's Indefatigable Commitment to Sustainability

A Glass Act.

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