Illinois

While most visitors will come to Illinois for the vibrant city life in Chicago, renowned for its architecture, cultural attractions, and culinary scene. But it’s worth exploring outsided this major city too: history buffs won’t want to miss a visit to Abraham Lincoln’s home in Springfield or the 19th-century architecture in Galena, while nature lovers should head to Illinois’ scenic Shawnee National Forest or the sandstone canyons in Starved Rock State Park.

The Best State Parks in the Midwest—and How to Visit

Photo by Shutterstock/Owen Weber

Overview

Planning your trip

Use these articles, resources, and guides to plan and inspire your next trip to Illinois.

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HOTELS
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RESOURCES TO HELP PLAN YOUR TRIP
Dine in style with the littles at these Windy City eateries that cater to kids, too.
From Knoxville’s Tennessee Theatre to Pasadena’s Ambassador Auditorium, these concert venues hit just the right note.
With impressive shows featuring glasswork and surrealist art, these are American museums worth traveling to in 2019.
Depending on which neighborhood you want to stay in, there are plenty of options to live like a local in the Windy City. Here’s our guide to the city’s top Airbnb rentals.
Resy’s first Off Menu Week gives you a sneak peek to new dishes before anyone else tries them at top restaurants across the United States, from Los Angeles to New York City.
Dig in on the city’s most celebrated pies, from the deep dish to the pan style to the pot pie inspired.
Graveyards aren’t always spooky—with their history and architecture, sometimes they’re downright delightful.
The Chicago Architecture Center now makes its home in the last skyscraper designed by midcentury modernism pioneer Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. AFAR got a behind-the-scenes tour.
A vibrant ongoing display will decorate 2.5 acres of a landmark building’s exterior in front of downtown Chicago’s riverfront promenade.
These hotels are bringing a fresh vibe to six U.S. cities.