Discovering Illinois: Your Ultimate Travel Guide For 2024

Are you looking for a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, cultural immersion, and adventure? Look no further than Illinois, one of the most fascinating states in the US. With its diverse landscape, vibrant cities, and charming towns, Illinois has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you on an unforgettable journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Illinois has to offer.

Top Attractions

Illinois is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the US. Here are some of the must-sees:

The Bean

This iconic sculpture, officially known as the Cloud Gate, is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Located in Millennium Park in Chicago, The Bean is a must-visit spot for any tourist.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. It is one of the most visited attractions in the Midwest and offers a variety of entertainment, dining, and shopping options.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

This museum in Springfield is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 16th President of the US. It features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that provide a glimpse into the life and times of Abraham Lincoln.

Hidden Gems

Illinois is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Here are some of our favorites:

Starved Rock State Park

This stunning park is a paradise for nature lovers. Located in Utica, Starved Rock State Park boasts 18 canyons, waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

This pre-Columbian Native American city is located in Collinsville and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features the remains of the largest and most complex native civilization north of Mexico.

Anderson Japanese Gardens

This serene garden in Rockford is a true oasis of tranquility. It features a variety of Japanese-inspired landscapes, waterfalls, and a tea house.

Food Scene

Illinois is a foodie’s paradise. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs, here are some of the must-try dishes:

Deep-Dish Pizza

This iconic dish, invented in Chicago, is a must-try for any pizza lover. The thick crust, overflowing with cheese and toppings, is a true culinary delight.

Chicago-style Hot Dog

This classic street food is a staple of Chicago’s food scene. The hot dog is served on a poppy seed bun and topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, pickles, and peppers.

Italian Beef Sandwich

This delicious sandwich, also a Chicago favorite, features thinly sliced beef, served on a roll, and topped with peppers and onions.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Illinois can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Here are some budget-friendly tips:

Free Attractions

Many attractions in Illinois are free, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Public Transportation

Chicago has an extensive public transportation system that is easy to use and affordable. Consider purchasing a Ventra card for access to buses and trains.

Food Trucks

Food trucks are a great way to try delicious food at a fraction of the cost of a sit-down restaurant. Check out the food truck scene in Chicago for some tasty options.

Outdoor Adventures

Illinois offers a variety of outdoor adventures for nature lovers. Here are some of our top picks:

Hiking

Illinois has plenty of hiking trails, including the 165-mile long Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, the 26-mile long Des Plaines River Trail, and the aforementioned Starved Rock State Park.

Biking

Illinois has a number of bike trails that offer beautiful scenery, including the 61-mile long Great River Trail, the 18.5-mile long Fox River Trail, and the 8-mile long Lakefront Trail in Chicago.

Water Sports

Illinois is home to several lakes and rivers that offer opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Consider a trip to Lake Michigan, the Mississippi River, or the Illinois River for some water fun.

Family-Friendly Activities

Illinois is a great destination for families with children. Here are some activities that the whole family will enjoy:

Chicago Children’s Museum

This museum, located on Navy Pier, offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.

Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo in Chicago that features a variety of animals from around the world.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

This attraction, located in Schaumburg, is a paradise for LEGO lovers. It features a variety of LEGO-themed exhibits and activities.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, Illinois has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Here are some of our top picks:

Garden of the Gods

This stunning natural area in Shawnee National Forest features sandstone cliffs, rock formations, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Ghost Tours

Illinois has a number of ghost tours that offer a spooky glimpse into the state’s haunted history. Consider a trip to the Haunted Hometowns Tour in Alton or the Chicago Hauntings Tour.

Airplane Graveyard

This unusual attraction in Southern Illinois features a collection of abandoned airplanes that have been left to rust in a field.

Natural Wonders

Illinois has several natural wonders that are worth a visit. Here are some of our favorites:

Shawnee National Forest

This stunning forest, located in Southern Illinois, features miles of hiking trails, rock formations, and waterfalls.

Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the US and offers beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing.

Starved Rock State Park

As mentioned earlier, Starved Rock State Park is a true natural wonder, with 18 canyons and stunning waterfalls.

Vibrant Nightlife

If you’re looking for a night out on the town, Illinois has plenty to offer. Here are some of the top nightlife destinations:

Chicago’s River North

This neighborhood in downtown Chicago is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

Wrigleyville

This neighborhood, located near Wrigley Field in Chicago, is a popular destination for sports fans and bar hoppers alike.

Champaign-Urbana

This college town is home to the University of Illinois and offers a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues.

Local Markets

Illinois is home to a variety of local markets that offer unique shopping experiences. Here are some of our favorites:

Maxwell Street Market

This market in Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood offers a variety of food and merchandise from around the world.

Galesburg Farmers Market

This market, located in Galesburg, offers a variety of locally grown produce and handmade crafts.

Peoria Riverfront Market

This market, located in Peoria, offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Beaches and Mountains

Illinois may not be known for its beaches and mountains, but it has plenty to offer in both categories. Here are some of our top picks:

Lake Michigan Beaches

Illinois is home to several beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan, including North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach in Chicago.

Shawnee National Forest

As mentioned earlier, Shawnee National Forest features stunning rock formations and miles of hiking trails.

Galena

This charming town in Northern Illinois is surrounded by rolling hills and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventure.