Illinois’ shining star is Chicago. The third-largest city in the United States, Chicago is a blockbuster metropolis with record-breaking skyscrapers, world-renowned museums, and eclectic neighborhoods, all offset by the glimmering sweep of Lake Michigan. But there are many things to do in Illinois beyond that undeniably major attraction, from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield to the dramatic scenery of Starved Rock State Park and the Prairie-style homes that dot the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail.
After the frigid, snowy winter months, it’s little wonder that summer feels like one long celebration in Illinois. In Chicago, that means the arrival of outdoor festival season, major events like Pride and the Fourth of July, and reasons to hit Lake Michigan’s beaches (it isn’t called the inland sea for nothing). Fall brings harvest celebrations and Halloween festivities to the state, as well as events like the Hyde Park Jazz Festival, making it another great time of year to visit.
O’Hare and Midway Airports make flying into Chicago simple. The major hub that it is, Chicago itself is served by numerous subway (or “L”) lines, buses, commuter trains, and even water taxis, making it easy to get out and explore. Amtrak train services also connect the city with other Illinois destinations, including Peoria, Bloomington, and Springfield, while Greyhound buses provide an affordable way to travel around the state.
The Mississippi River forms Illinois’ western border, running for 575 miles (925 kilometers)—more distance than in any other state. Discover the famed waterway on a road trip along the Great River Road, while exploring green spaces like Mississippi Palisades State Park or visiting historic riverside towns like Galena.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone CDT (UTC -6) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 65 | Tours 483 | Reviews 42,243 |
Illinois is known for being “the Land of Lincoln” and the site of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library. It’s known for Chicago: its largest city and an international cultural hub. And it’s also known for Lake Michigan, one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes which happens to border the state.
...MoreThere are so many ways to have fun in Illinois, from hiking in natural beauty spots like Shawnee National Forest to boating on Lake Michigan. And Chicago—with its skyscrapers and museums, its restaurants and shopping streets, its sports stadiums and parks—offers a whole world of discovery and exploration.
...MoreThe prettiest place in Illinois might well be Starved Rock State Park, which is one of the state’s most popular outdoor destinations. Celebrated for its waterfalls, canyons, caverns, and other dramatic features, it offers a spectacular natural escape—and is still within day-trip distance of Chicago.
...MoreChicago is the third-largest city in the US. It’s famous for skyscrapers like the Willis Tower, for its architecture, for Wrigley Field and the Cubs, and for dishes like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. It’s also known for its proximity to Lake Michigan and for its parks, public artworks, and museums.
...MoreThe best month to visit Illinois is September, when the sun and warmth of summer are still around, but the high-season crowds are heading back home. In Chicago, events like the Hyde Park Jazz Festival come to town. Elsewhere in the state, the leaves are just starting to change color.
...MoreYes, Illinois does have nice beaches. Though it’s far from the coasts, the state benefits from its proximity to Lake Michigan, the “inland sea” and one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes. The Chicago area is home to numerous sandy stretches that offer a scenic and relaxing way to unwind.
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