30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Illinois | Dec 2025
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.title}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.description | description_string_length}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.combinedAverageRating.toFixed(2)}} ({{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.totalReviews}} reviews)
From {{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
Save {{(best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount - best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice).toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
What activities can I do in Illinois?
1. Explore Chicago: Visit iconic landmarks like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Willis Tower Skydeck. Enjoy the city's vibrant food scene, catch a show at the Chicago Theatre, or take a boat tour along the Chicago River. 2. Discover Route 66: Drive along the historic Route 66 and explore the quirky roadside attractions, charming small towns, and nostalgic diners along the way. Don't miss the Gemini Giant in Wilmington or the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Madison. 3. Visit Springfield: Explore the capital city of Illinois and learn about the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Visit the Old State Capitol and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. 4. Explore Starved Rock State Park: Located along the Illinois River, Starved Rock State Park offers stunning views, hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing. Don't miss the iconic Starved Rock and French Canyon. 5. Experience Galena: Step back in time in the charming town of Galena, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Explore Main Street, visit historic sites like the Ulysses S. Grant Home, and enjoy boutique shopping and dining. 6. Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Shawnee National Forest: Discover the beauty of southern Illinois at Shawnee National Forest. Hike through the Garden of the Gods, explore the unique rock formations at Giant City State Park, or go canoeing in the Cache River State Natural Area. 7. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago: Explore one of the largest science museums in the world, featuring interactive exhibits, a coal mine replica, a U-505 submarine, and a full-scale replica of a Boeing 727. 8. Tour the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio: Located in Oak Park, just outside of Chicago, this is where the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright lived and worked. Take a guided tour to see his innovative designs and learn about his life. 9. Discover the Anderson Japanese Gardens: Located in Rockford, these stunning gardens offer a peaceful retreat with traditional Japanese landscaping, water features, and beautiful flora. Take a stroll, participate in a tea ceremony, or attend a cultural event. 10. Attend a Festival: Illinois hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Taste of Chicago, Lollapalooza music festival, Chicago Air and Water Show, and the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. Check the event calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
When is the best time to travel to Illinois?
The best time to travel to Illinois, USA, largely depends on your preferences and what you plan to do while you're there. However, the most popular time to visit Illinois is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) seasons. During spring, the weather starts to warm up, and you can enjoy pleasant temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10 to 25 degrees Celsius). This is a great time to explore outdoor attractions like the beautiful gardens in Chicago, such as the Garfield Park Conservatory or the Chicago Botanic Garden. Additionally, you can also attend various festivals and events happening throughout the state during this time. Fall is another excellent time to visit Illinois, as the weather cools down, and the foliage starts changing colors. The temperatures range from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10 to 25 degrees Celsius), making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and visiting state parks such as Starved Rock State Park or Shawnee National Forest. The fall season also offers opportunities to enjoy apple picking, corn mazes, and other seasonal attractions. If you prefer warmer weather and want to experience the summer activities, visiting Illinois during the summer months (June to August) is a good choice. The temperatures can reach the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (25 to 35 degrees Celsius), making it perfect for beach visits along Lake Michigan or attending outdoor music festivals like Lollapalooza in Chicago. Winter (December to February) in Illinois can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from the 20s to 40s Fahrenheit (-5 to 5 degrees Celsius). However, if you enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, you can head to the ski resorts in Galena or the Shawnee National Forest. Overall, the best time to visit Illinois depends on your interests and what activities you want to engage in. Spring and fall tend to be the most pleasant and vibrant seasons, while summer offers a wide range of outdoor events and activities. Winter can be a great time for winter sports enthusiasts.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Illinois
Illinois, located in the Midwest region of the United States, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant cities. Here are some key aspects of the travel culture in Illinois: 1. Chicago: As the largest city in Illinois and the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago is a major cultural hub. The city is renowned for its architecture, world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, and iconic landmarks such as Millennium Park and Navy Pier. Chicago is also famous for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and diverse culinary scene. 2. Music and Arts: Illinois has a strong music and arts scene, particularly in Chicago. The city is known for its jazz and blues heritage, with numerous clubs and festivals dedicated to these genres. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Lyric Opera are also highly regarded. Additionally, the city hosts various cultural events, including the Chicago International Film Festival and the Taste of Chicago food festival. 3. Sports: Sports play a significant role in Illinois' travel culture. Chicago is home to several professional sports teams, including the Chicago Cubs (baseball), Chicago White Sox (baseball), Chicago Bears (football), Chicago Bulls (basketball), and Chicago Blackhawks (hockey). Attending a game or exploring sports-related attractions like Wrigley Field or Soldier Field can be a popular activity for visitors. 4. Historical Sites: Illinois has a rich history, and there are several historical sites to explore. The state played a significant role in the development of the United States, including being the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, which preserves the remains of an ancient Native American city. 5. Outdoor Recreation: Illinois offers various outdoor recreational activities. The state has beautiful parks, such as Starved Rock State Park, offering hiking trails and waterfalls. The Great River Road along the Mississippi River provides scenic drives and opportunities for boating and fishing. Additionally, Lake Michigan offers beaches, sailing, and other water-based activities. 6. Festivals and Events: Illinois hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Taste of Chicago, Chicago Air and Water Show, Chicago Blues Festival, and Lollapalooza music festival are just a few examples. These events showcase the diverse music, food, and cultural traditions of the region, attracting both locals and tourists. Overall, Illinois offers a blend of urban attractions, cultural experiences, historical sites, and outdoor adventures, making it an exciting destination for travelers.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Illinois
When visiting Illinois, there are several shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home. Here are some suggestions: 1. Chicago-themed Merchandise: Look for souvenirs that represent the city of Chicago, such as t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, magnets, keychains, or hats with the Chicago skyline, the iconic ""Bean"" sculpture, or the Chicago Cubs or Chicago Bulls logos. 2. Deep Dish Pizza: Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, so consider bringing back a frozen pizza or pizza-making kit from popular pizzerias like Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, or Gino's East. 3. Garrett Popcorn: Garrett Popcorn Shops, with its signature mix of caramel and cheese popcorn, is a Chicago institution. Their popcorn tins make for a delicious and portable souvenir. 4. Craft Beer: Illinois has a thriving craft beer scene, so grab a few bottles or cans of locally brewed beer from breweries like Revolution Brewing, Half Acre Beer Company, or Three Floyds Brewing Co. 5. Art and Crafts: Explore local art galleries and boutiques in cities like Chicago, Springfield, or Galena, and pick up unique artwork, handmade jewelry, pottery, or other crafts made by local artisans. 6. Route 66 Memorabilia: Illinois is the starting point of the famous Route 66. Look for vintage signs, postcards, or other memorabilia related to this iconic highway. 7. Abraham Lincoln Souvenirs: Illinois is the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, so you can find various souvenirs related to the 16th president, such as books, posters, t-shirts, or figurines. 8. Sports Memorabilia: If you're a sports fan, consider getting merchandise or memorabilia from Illinois-based sports teams like the Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Blackhawks (NHL), Chicago White Sox (MLB), or Chicago Sky (WNBA). 9. Gourmet Foods: Illinois is known for its gourmet food offerings, such as locally produced honey, jams, chocolates, or specialty snacks. Look for these items in farmers' markets or specialty food stores. 10. Antique Finds: Visit antique shops or flea markets in towns like Galena or Alton, where you can find unique vintage items, including furniture, clothing, books, or collectibles. Remember to check local regulations and restrictions when it comes to bringing back food or agricultural products, especially if you are traveling internationally.
Illinois travel review
Illinois: A Journey through the Heart of America Located in the heart of the United States, Illinois is a state that offers a diverse range of experiences and attractions for travelers. From the bustling city of Chicago to the tranquil beauty of its countryside, Illinois has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, this state has it all. One cannot talk about Illinois without mentioning its iconic city, Chicago. Known as the ""Windy City,"" Chicago is a vibrant metropolis that never fails to impress. The city's skyline is dominated by architectural marvels such as the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) and the iconic Tribune Tower. Visitors can take a stroll along the Magnificent Mile, a stretch of Michigan Avenue known for its luxury shopping, or explore the city's many museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Chicago also boasts a thriving food scene, with a wide variety of culinary delights to suit every palate. From deep-dish pizza to mouthwatering hot dogs, you can indulge in the city's famous comfort food. For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Chicago is home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants that offer innovative and exquisite cuisine. Beyond the city limits, Illinois offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The Shawnee National Forest, located in the southern part of the state, is a paradise for nature lovers. Here, you can explore stunning rock formations, hike through scenic trails, or go camping and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the wilderness. History buffs will also find plenty to explore in Illinois. The state played a pivotal role in the development of the United States, and its rich historical heritage is evident in its many landmarks and museums. In Springfield, the capital of Illinois, you can visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, where you can learn about the life and legacy of one of America's greatest presidents. For art enthusiasts, Illinois is home to numerous galleries and cultural institutions. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago showcases cutting-edge contemporary art from around the world, while the Art Institute of Chicago houses an extensive collection of artworks spanning thousands of years. The city's vibrant street art scene is also worth exploring, with colorful murals adorning buildings in various neighborhoods. In addition to its urban attractions, Illinois is also known for its charming small towns and picturesque countryside. The town of Galena, nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, is a popular destination for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and quaint shops. The Amish country in central Illinois offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life, where horse-drawn carriages and peaceful farmlands dominate the landscape. No matter where your interests lie, Illinois is a state that promises to captivate and inspire. Its unique blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey through the heart of America in the beautiful state of Illinois.