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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Resources to help plan your trip
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.
Slip into a secret garden. Climb to a rooftop oasis. Stroll an elevated park. To get a fresh angle on a city, take a walk on its green side.
Tales of the Cocktail just turned New Orleans’s always buzzy nightlife up to 11 as the drinks industry celebrated itself and looked to the future.
While the retro kitsch alone is worth embarking on the 2,000-mile drive, these convienently placed distilleries and bars are sure to get you in the American spirit. Grab a friend—or a designated driver—and hit the road.
A new program at the Lincoln Park Zoo takes you inside the penguin exhibit.
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It spotlights the country’s rich literature history.
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For that old-country feeling, right here at home.
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Food critic Peter Meehan goes on a food pilgrimage in Chicago and chows down on the city’s best Italian beef sandwich.
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