Top 10 Things to Do in Illinois
Greetings, fellow travelers! Welcome to the land of Abraham Lincoln and deep-dish pizza. As a proud Illinoisan, I’m excited to share with you my personal list of the top 10 things to do in my home state. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Illinois. So buckle up and let’s get started!
1. Visit Chicago
No trip to Illinois is complete without a visit to the Windy City. Chicago is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural scene, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower and Navy Pier. I recommend taking a stroll along the Magnificent Mile, checking out the Art Institute of Chicago, and indulging in some deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s.
2. Explore Starved Rock State Park
If you’re a nature lover, you won’t want to miss Starved Rock State Park. Located in Utica, Illinois, this park boasts stunning waterfalls, canyons, and hiking trails. I’ve personally hiked to the top of Starved Rock and the view is absolutely breathtaking.
3. Tour the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, Illinois. This is where the famous architect lived and worked for the first 20 years of his career. You can take a guided tour of the home and see some of Wright’s early designs.
4. See the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
No visit to Illinois is complete without paying homage to our most famous resident, Abraham Lincoln. The Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield is a must-see for history buffs. You can see artifacts from Lincoln’s life and presidency, including the original Gettysburg Address.
5. Indulge in Some Illinois Wine
Did you know that Illinois has a thriving wine industry? The state is home to over 100 wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours. I recommend checking out the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Southern Illinois. The scenery is beautiful and the wine is delicious.
6. Take in the View from the Willis Tower
If you’re not afraid of heights, I highly recommend a visit to the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) in Chicago. The Skydeck on the 103rd floor offers stunning views of the city and beyond. Just be prepared for long lines and crowded elevators.
7. Visit the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
History buffs should also check out the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville, Illinois. This is the site of an ancient Native American city that flourished from 700 to 1400 AD. You can see the remains of earthen mounds and learn about the culture of the Mississippian people.
8. Try Some Famous Illinois Hot Dogs
Chicago may be known for its pizza, but it’s also famous for its hot dogs. The classic Chicago-style hot dog is topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, a pickle spear, and celery salt. You can find them at hot dog stands all over the city.
9. Take a Road Trip on Route 66
Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in America, and a large portion of it runs through Illinois. Take a road trip and see some of the quirky roadside attractions along the way, like the Gemini Giant in Wilmington or the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville.
10. Go to a Cubs Game at Wrigley Field
Last but not least, sports fans won’t want to miss a Cubs game at Wrigley Field in Chicago. This historic ballpark has been around since 1914 and is the second-oldest stadium in the country. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, the atmosphere is electric and the hot dogs are delicious.
Interesting Facts About Illinois
- Illinois is known as the Land of Lincoln because Abraham Lincoln lived here for most of his adult life.
- Illinois is the 6th most populous state in the US, with over 12 million residents.
- Chicago is the third-largest city in the US, after New York City and Los Angeles.
- The Chicago River is dyed green every year for St. Patrick’s Day.
- The world’s first Ferris wheel was built in Chicago for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Illinois?
The best time to visit Illinois depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to experience the outdoors, spring and fall are the best times to visit. If you’re more interested in Chicago’s cultural scene, summer is the best time to visit.
What is the weather like in Illinois?
Illinois has a continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions depending on the time of year.
What is the food like in Illinois?
Illinois is known for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and popcorn. But there’s more to the state’s cuisine than just those iconic dishes. You can find everything from farm-to-table restaurants to ethnic eateries in Illinois.
What are some other attractions in Illinois?
There are plenty of other attractions in Illinois that didn’t make this list, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the John Hancock Center, and the Illinois State Capitol. Do some research and find what interests you!
Thanks for reading! I hope this article has inspired you to visit my home state of Illinois. Happy travels!