Illinois is an amazing state to visit in the USA. With spectacular cities like Chicago, beautiful coastlines, and stunning state parks, it’s the perfect vacation spot. Best of all, Illinois has some of the best locations scattered across the state.
All this means that packing them all into a trip is the toughest task.
So, to make it a little easier for you, I’d like to share my favorite places in Illinois. I traveled all over Illinois and loved it. I’m sure you will too.
Anyway, no more upsets! Here are the best places to visit in Illinois. Have a great trip!
1.) Mississippi Palisades State Park
A favorite spot for those who love the great outdoors, visiting Mississippi Palisades State Park is one of the best things to do in picture-perfect Illinois.
Located at the confluence of the Apple and Mississippi rivers, it’s a region you could spend hours, if not days, exploring. Once here, hike the trails, ski in the winter, or snowshoe through the powder.
Best of all, Mississippi Palisades State Park has nearly 15 miles of rugged trails and trails to explore.In that regard, check out while hiking lookout point for some of the best views.
It’s a real treat to cycle through and through limestone caves, towering hills and wooded canyons. This is especially true if you are traveling by car across the state and want to stretch your legs.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can head to the famous rock climbing formations of Indian Head and Twin Sister. Don’t forget to bring your own gear.
Read more: Things to do in Chicago
2.) Shawnee National Forest
Another great outdoor spot in Illinois is the Shawnee National Forest. Located in the Southwest neighborhood, this hotel is he one of the best places to do in Illinois when heading south to Missouri or Kentucky.
After all, it is located at the southernmost tip of the Illinois forest.
One of the forest’s main attractions is the Garden of the Gods, a magnificent rock formation that is absolutely stunning.
There are short viewing trails around this geological area that can be easily followed by moderate hikers.
Oh, and don’t forget Jackson Falls.
3.) Rockford
Located in northern Illinois, the city of Rockford is the perfect place for a city vacation when you’re on a road trip across the state.
In fact, it’s the third largest city in Illinois and has a lot to do.
When you’re here, be sure to check out the Anderson Japanese Gardens. He is said to be one of the best Japanese gardens in the United States. I am very proud of the title. Open during the summer months from May to October, it’s a great place to spend the day.
To be honest, the scenery in the garden is also wonderful. With ornate bridges, Japanese lanterns, and stunning pagodas, this spot feels very relaxing.
Then, visit the Midway Village Museum to learn about Illinois’ features and history.
Oh, and don’t forget the Burpee Museum of Natural History. With thousands of exhibits, it’s a great place to check out everything from dinosaur skeletons to the local animals that grow in the area. Now, I know that probably sounds like a pretty boring experience, but trust me, it’s not!
4.) Starved Rock State Park
It may be most popular for its gorgeous waterfalls, but visiting Starved Rock State Park is one of the best things to do in Illinois. Its natural beauty draws many visitors from all over the United States and is well worth a visit while you’re here.
The 13-mile Discovery Trail is one of our visitor favourites, but can prove rather daunting if you’re not an avid hiker. If unsure, book a guided tour.
5.) Chicago
We all know about windy cities, right?
Visiting Chicago’s spectacular sites is one of the best ways to spend a vibrant city vacation in Illinois.
retro park, this magnificent ferris wheel, must stop at Navy Pier.surely Reserve these limited express tickets Before you get there because you want to avoid queues.
Here you’ll find several delicious restaurants, spectacular museums, a fairly extensive shopping center, and even a miniature golf course.
You can also watch live shows and take boat rides when you are in the area. Worth a visit at dusk overlooking Chicago. Then be sure to check out Millennium Park, hop on over to the Art Institute, and find Groud Gate. Chicago chickpeas!
Read more: Things to do in Chicago
6.) Alton
Alton is another great place to stop as part of your road trip to some of Illinois’ best sights. It’s a relatively small place but has an amazing amount to offer.
Check out some of the things to do when you’re here. See King’s Pond, Jane Austen House Museum and Alton Gardens. everything is great.
Oh, and don’t forget that the limestone cliffs are also a must-see in Alton. You can see it along the Mississippi River.
Finally, stop by for presents Mississippi Mud PotteryAll their local pottery is locally made and very nice.
7.) Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
The 2,200-acre Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a piece of paradise for history buffs. It feels like the historian isn’t the only one to love this place, but he’s one of the best things to do in Illinois on the border of Missouri and the city of St. Louis.
As you can see, here you can find the archaeological remains of one of the most cultural prehistoric indigenous civilizations in northern Mexico.
About 10,000 to 20,000 people are said to have lived at the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. Many of them were skilled builders. Many remains have been discovered to this day.
Today, you can visit the 800-acre open area, take a guided tour, or explore the area on your own. Don’t miss the Interpretive Center Exhibition Gallery, Monks Mound, Grand Plaza and Mound 72.
8.) Springfield
Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is an easy road trip destination.
Long ago, this was where Abraham Lincoln was born, and there’s a lot of American history to learn about it all.
Most of the buildings and attractions in Springfield are about Lincoln, so if you’re a fan or want to learn more about him, this is the place.
Check out the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Old State Capitol, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. All have very detailed history and home artefacts related to President Lincoln.
You can visit his home, presidential library, and other places named after him.
Read more: Things to do in Chicago
9.) Great River Road
The Great River Road follows the course of the Mississippi River for more than 550 miles along the western edge of the state. If you’re traveling by car through Illinois and you’re totally relaxed, this route is perfect for you.
Along the way, visit small Midwestern towns such as Alton, Galena, and Grafton. These are all perfect little stops.
The Great River Road is so different from Chicago’s gigantic highways and busy streets that you can take your time and enjoy the scenery here.
Don’t forget to plan your road trip playlist! Nobody likes a boring drive.
10.) Elmhurst
Elmhurst, technically part of Chicago, is Chicago’s western suburbs.
If you’re in town, you’ll find museums, parks, and shopping destinations. Great to visit while driving west and well worth a few hours stop.
While you’re here, check out the Elmhurst Art Museum, the Lisadro Jewelery Museum, and Safari Land (to name a few).
Oh and don’t forget to visit Brewpoint Coffee for some of the best beer in the area.
Read more: Things to do in Chicago
10 things to do in Chicago
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