Overview

Illinois offers a perfect balance of iconic city experiences and scenic rural escapes. Known as the Land of Lincoln, the state is home to the vibrant metropolis of Chicago, historic small towns, rolling farmland, and important landmarks in American history. From architecture and museums to Route 66 road trips and charming riverfronts, Illinois is rich in culture, diversity, and discovery.

  • Capital: Springfield
  • Largest Cities: Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Rockford
  • Population: ~12.5 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6) / CDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid continental — cold winters and hot, humid summers

Top Destinations in Illinois

Chicago

The largest city in the Midwest and a global hub for architecture, deep-dish pizza, jazz, and sports. Explore the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and world-class museums.

Springfield

The state capital and a must-visit for Abraham Lincoln history, including his home, law office, and presidential library.

Galena

A charming 19th-century town in northwest Illinois known for its historic main street, art galleries, and river views.

Shawnee National Forest

Located in southern Illinois, this natural area features sandstone canyons, forest trails, and the iconic Garden of the Gods rock formations.

Rockford

A family-friendly city with top-notch gardens, museums, and access to outdoor recreation.

Must-See Attractions

  • Millennium Park (Chicago) – Home to Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) and outdoor concerts
  • Willis Tower Skydeck (Chicago) – Glass ledge views from 1,353 feet above the city
  • Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Springfield)
  • Route 66 attractions – From quirky diners to classic road trip landmarks
  • Navy Pier (Chicago) – A lakefront entertainment destination with rides, shops, and events

Things to Do

  • Take an architecture boat tour on the Chicago River
  • Catch a Cubs, White Sox, Bears, or Bulls game
  • Sample Chicago’s food scene — deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, and Michelin-starred dining
  • Explore state parks and wine trails in southern Illinois
  • Visit art museums, gardens, and zoos in Chicago and Rockford

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • O’Hare International (ORD), Midway (MDW), Chicago Rockford (RFD), and regional airports in Springfield and Peoria

Transport

  • CTA trains and buses cover the Chicago metro
  • Amtrak and Metra connect major cities and suburbs
  • Rental cars are best for rural areas, wine trails, and national forests

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–Jun): Mild weather and blooming gardens
  • Summer (Jul–Aug): Festivals, beach days, and lakefront activities
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Vibrant foliage, harvest festivals, and scenic drives
  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Holiday lights, ice skating, and museums (snow likely in northern Illinois)

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Known for comfort food classics and multicultural flavor
  • Specialties: Deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, Garrett’s popcorn
  • Drinks: Illinois wines, craft beers, Malört (a local spirit), and old-school milkshakes
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Taste of Chicago – A massive food festival in Grant Park
  • Chicago Blues Festival – The largest free blues fest in the world
  • Illinois State Fair (Springfield)
  • Galena Halloween Parade
  • Magnificent Mile Lights Festival (Chicago)

Souvenirs from Illinois

  • Chicago sports apparel (Bulls, Cubs, Bears, Sox)
  • Deep-dish pizza kits or popcorn tins
  • Abraham Lincoln-themed gifts and books
  • Handmade crafts from Galena shops
  • Illinois-themed posters, mugs, or art prints

Fun Facts

  • Illinois is known as the “Land of Lincoln,” and you can visit more Lincoln-related sites here than anywhere else
  • Chicago is home to the first skyscraper — built in 1885
  • The Illinois River played a key role in connecting the Great Lakes to the Mississippi
  • The Ferris Wheel was invented for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair
  • Route 66 starts in downtown Chicago, marked by the iconic “Begin” sign

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Chicago Highlights Trip

  • Day 1: Millennium Park, Art Institute, and architectural boat tour
  • Day 2: Museum Campus (Shedd, Field, Adler) + Navy Pier
  • Day 3: Explore neighborhoods like Wicker Park or Hyde Park

5-Day Illinois Explorer

  • Day 1: Chicago – landmarks and deep-dish dinner
  • Day 2: Drive to Springfield – Lincoln sites and Route 66 stops
  • Day 3: Explore southern Illinois – Shawnee National Forest
  • Day 4: Galena – historic town shopping and wine tasting
  • Day 5: Return to Chicago via small towns or Rockford

Cities

  • Chicago