It will be summer again in a few months, and this is the best time to visit Illinois. The state’s incredible shopping destinations and cultural attractions make it an ideal place for an American vacation.
Known as the “Prairie State,” Illinois has everything one looks for in a perfect holiday. You will never get bored here from its historic landmarks, epic guided tours, drive-in cinema theatres along Route 66, and Chicago’s skyscrapers.
There is something for everyone in Illinois. If you’re a history buff, you can enjoy the world-class museums, especially the notorious Ferris Bueller Museum. And, if you like nature, you’ll find plenty of wildlife spots to sit and unwind.
Chicago is the most popular destination in Illinois, bringing tourists from the United States and all parts of the world. You can also take a day trip to the state capital, Springfield, where you’ll find the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library.
10 Best Places To Visit In Illinois
Throughout the state of Illinois, there are exciting destinations to visit. To make your travel itinerary easier, we have compiled a list of Illinois’ best things to do. Happy Touring!
1. The Art Institute Of Chicago
Remember the iconic scene from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off? It was shot right here, in the Art Institute of Chicago. A world-class museum, the Art Institute is among the city’s best cultural attractions. It is known internationally for its vast collection, including a wide range of art from ancient sculpture to post-Impressionist era paintings. The place is also known for hosting interesting exhibitions all year long.
2. The Leaning Tower Of Niles
The Leaning Tower of Niles is a miniature impersonation of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. It was erected in 1934, and it is an extended part of the 22-acre amusement park. Visitors can come here free of charge, take photos, or enjoy a quiet little family picnic on the surrounding landscaped grounds. If you visit at the right time, you can catch an open-air music concert usually hosted by the city.
3. Magnificent Mile In Chicago
If you’re coming to Chicago to take advantage of the city’s shopping locations, you’re not the only one! A trip down Chicago’s Magnificent Mile which also forms a portion of Michigan Avenue will take you through some of the best luxury boutiques. Once you’re done shopping, you can stop at one of the museums or restaurants.
4. Navy Pier
Situated along Chicago’s waterfront, Navy Pier is an Illinois tourist location with activities for people of all ages. If you’re traveling with kids, this place is a must-visit! Here you’ll find world-class museums, restaurants serving Chicago delicacies, movie theatres, stores, gift shops, etc.
Make sure you take a trip to the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Ferris Wheel, the Crystal Garden, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. Although the best time to visit Navy Pier is in the summers, there are activities that you can enjoy all year round!
5. Par-A-Dice Hotel And Casino
Located in East Peoria, Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino is Illinois’ favorite. This place is known for its grand casino and four restaurants. Visitors receive the luxury treatment as they indulge in casino games. With more than 200 rooms available, the amenities are endless. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Illinois, this is a top choice!
As Louisiana State and Illinois state are working towards legalizing online gambling, the community has shown a vested interest. Therefore, soon you’ll be able to gamble from the comfort of your rooms with a new law coming into place in a few months!
Illinois has many fun activities for the outdoors type of person or more of an insider. Playing games online can be quite entertaining and in Illinois, you have the option to use the caesars betting app.
The US is one of the fastest-growing countries for the online gambling industry. Online casinos have been legalized in six states, and soon the provisions will be extended to other states.
6. Gangsters And Ghosts Tour In Chicago
If you want to enjoy the true Chicago experience, buy Chicago’s Gangsters and Ghosts Tour tickets. This is a guided tour that combines supernatural tales with historical lessons. You will be taken back in time in the roaring 1920s when the city attracted the biggest gangsters like Al Capone. It is a two-hour-long tour with tickets available online.
7. Wolff’s Flea Market
Open on Sundays from 6 AM to 3 PM, the Wolff’s Flea Market has unique vendors selling something for all interests. Usually, family-owned stores sell everything ranging from fresh produce, vintage apparel, home decor, musical instruments, toys, books, and more. If you don’t find anything you’d like to buy, you can still check out the food stands serving breakfast and lunch!
8. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library And Museum
To immerse yourself in Illinois’ history, make sure you take a trip to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. This place provides an incredible opportunity for learning about Abe Lincoln and America’s presidential history.
Here you’ll find old manuscripts, guided tours, and theatre shows. Since its opening in 2005, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has become one of the most-visited places in Springfield.
9. Dana Thomas House
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902, the Dana Thomas House in Springfield is one of the finest creations in the United States. The architecture represents the peculiar Praire-style houses, and it has 35 rooms, a museum, and a guided tour. If you want to witness Illinois-style architecture, this is the best place to go.
10. Writers Theatre
The Writers Theatre is one of America’s most acclaimed theatre companies, and it attracts visitors worldwide and has also been lauded by international publications, including the Wall Street Journal. Since 2016, they have had a permanent theatrical house located in downtown Glencoe which the Studio Gang Architects specially designed.
Here you can catch some of the finest theatre productions like Twelfth Night and Next To Normal. Even though there are shows throughout the year, tickets sell out fast! Make sure you book your tickets in advance and take many Instagram pictures!