Best Places to Visit in Illinois

Illinois is a diverse Midwestern destination with world-class city attractions, historic towns, scenic river roads, state parks, museums, architecture, music heritage, Route 66 landmarks and peaceful countryside. While Chicago is the state’s best-known destination, Illinois offers much more than one great city.

Visitors can explore the skyscrapers and lakefront of Chicago, follow Abraham Lincoln history in Springfield, hike sandstone canyons at Starved Rock, enjoy small-town charm in Galena, drive along the Mississippi River, discover Native American heritage at Cahokia Mounds, and explore the forests, bluffs and rock formations of southern Illinois.

This guide covers the best places to visit in Illinois, including cities, state parks, historic sites, river towns, scenic drives, family attractions and practical travel tips.

Why Visit Illinois?

Illinois is a rewarding destination because it combines big-city culture with small-town character and beautiful natural areas. Chicago offers museums, architecture, food, sports, theatre, music and lakefront scenery, while the rest of the state adds historic routes, rivers, forests, vineyards, parks and relaxed communities.

The state is especially strong for road trips. You can follow Route 66 from Chicago toward St. Louis, drive the Great River Road along the Mississippi River, explore Lincoln heritage in central Illinois or head south to the Shawnee National Forest for hiking and dramatic rock formations.

Illinois is also a good destination for families, history lovers, food travellers, architecture fans and outdoor explorers. Whether you want a weekend city break, a scenic fall drive, a museum-focused holiday or a nature escape, Illinois has plenty to offer.

Best Places to Visit in Illinois

Chicago

Chicago is the biggest and most famous city in Illinois, and it is one of the best city destinations in the United States. Set on Lake Michigan, Chicago is known for its skyline, architecture, museums, neighbourhoods, food, sports, theatre, music and lakefront parks.

Top things to do in Chicago include visiting Millennium Park, seeing Cloud Gate, walking the Chicago Riverwalk, taking an architecture boat tour, visiting the Art Institute of Chicago, exploring Navy Pier and enjoying views from Skydeck Chicago or 360 Chicago. The city’s lakefront trail is also excellent for walking, cycling and views of Lake Michigan.

Chicago is also famous for food. Visitors can try deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, steakhouses, fine dining, neighbourhood restaurants, bakeries and food from many immigrant communities.

Best for: first-time visitors, food lovers, architecture, museums, families, nightlife, shopping and city breaks.

Millennium Park and Grant Park

Millennium Park and Grant Park form one of Chicago’s best-known public spaces. Millennium Park is home to Cloud Gate, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, gardens, public art and seasonal events. Grant Park stretches along the lakefront and is often called Chicago’s front yard.

This area is ideal for first-time visitors because it is close to major museums, downtown hotels, the lakefront and the Chicago River. It is also a great place to start a walking tour of the city.

Best for: photography, first-time visitors, public art, city walks, families and lakefront sightseeing.

Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is one of the best places to experience the city’s architecture and waterfront atmosphere. It follows the Chicago River through the heart of downtown, with restaurants, boat docks, public seating and views of famous buildings.

An architecture river cruise is one of the most popular activities in Chicago and a great way to understand the city’s skyline. The Riverwalk is also enjoyable for a casual stroll, especially in warmer months.

Best for: architecture lovers, couples, city walks, boat tours, dining and photography.

Springfield

Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is one of the most important places in the state for history lovers. It is closely connected with Abraham Lincoln, who lived and worked in the city before becoming the 16th president of the United States.

Top places to visit include Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Old State Capitol, the Illinois State Capitol and Lincoln Tomb. Springfield is also a good stop on a Route 66 road trip through central Illinois.

The city offers a slower pace than Chicago and works well as a one- or two-day history-focused destination.

Best for: history lovers, Lincoln sites, families, museums, Route 66 travellers and educational trips.

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is one of the most popular natural attractions in Illinois. Located along the Illinois River near Utica, the park is known for sandstone canyons, waterfalls, forest trails, river views and scenic overlooks.

Visitors can hike to canyons such as St. Louis Canyon, French Canyon, Wildcat Canyon and LaSalle Canyon when trail access and conditions allow. The park is especially beautiful after rain or snowmelt, when waterfalls may be flowing. Autumn is also a popular time because of the colourful forest scenery.

Because Starved Rock is very popular, especially on weekends and holidays, it is wise to arrive early, stay on marked trails and check current trail conditions before visiting.

Best for: hiking, waterfalls, families, photographers, nature lovers and weekend escapes from Chicago.

Matthiessen State Park

Matthiessen State Park is located near Starved Rock and offers a quieter but equally scenic outdoor experience. The park features canyons, streams, bridges, forest trails and interesting rock formations.

Many travellers visit Matthiessen and Starved Rock on the same trip. Matthiessen is especially good for hikers who enjoy wooded trails and canyon scenery but want an alternative to the busiest areas of Starved Rock.

Best for: hiking, canyon scenery, nature photography, families and outdoor day trips.

Galena

Galena is one of the prettiest small towns in Illinois. Located in the northwest corner of the state, it is known for its preserved 19th-century buildings, historic Main Street, boutique shops, restaurants, bed and breakfasts and rolling hill scenery.

Visitors can explore the Ulysses S. Grant Home, browse antique stores, enjoy local restaurants, take a trolley tour or drive through the surrounding countryside. Galena is especially popular for romantic weekends, fall foliage trips and relaxed small-town getaways.

The area around Galena feels different from much of Illinois because of its hills, historic architecture and river valley scenery.

Best for: couples, history, shopping, small-town charm, fall colour and weekend escapes.

Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest is one of the best places in Illinois for outdoor adventure. Located in southern Illinois, it features forests, bluffs, rock formations, scenic drives, lakes, hiking trails and quiet natural areas.

The forest is large, so visitors should choose a few key areas rather than trying to see everything in one day. Popular places include Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock, Pounds Hollow, Bell Smith Springs and the Little Grand Canyon Trail.

Southern Illinois is also known for wineries, small towns and scenic country roads, making Shawnee National Forest a strong anchor for a longer road trip.

Best for: hiking, rock formations, scenic drives, camping, nature lovers and southern Illinois road trips.

Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

Garden of the Gods is one of the most photographed places in Illinois. Located within Shawnee National Forest, it is known for dramatic sandstone rock formations, forest views and short scenic trails.

The Observation Trail is a popular walk that provides views of unusual rock formations and the surrounding wilderness. Sunrise and sunset can be especially beautiful, but visitors should be cautious near cliffs and stay on marked paths.

Best for: photography, hiking, scenic views, families, couples and outdoor adventure.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is one of the most significant historic and archaeological sites in Illinois. Located near Collinsville, it preserves the remains of a major pre-Columbian Native American city that was once one of the largest urban centres north of Mexico.

Visitors can see large earthen mounds, walk trails, climb Monks Mound when access is open and learn about the Mississippian culture that shaped the region. Cahokia Mounds is an essential stop for travellers interested in Indigenous history and ancient North American cities.

Best for: history lovers, archaeology, families, educational travel and road trips near St. Louis.

Great River Road

The Illinois Great River Road follows the Mississippi River along the western edge of the state. It is one of the best scenic drives in Illinois, passing river towns, bluffs, historic sites, parks, wildlife areas and viewpoints.

Popular stops include Galena, Nauvoo, Quincy, Alton, Grafton and Pere Marquette State Park. The route is especially beautiful in autumn and can be enjoyed as a weekend trip or a longer slow road journey.

Best for: scenic drives, river views, small towns, history, fall colour and relaxed road trips.

Alton and Grafton

Alton and Grafton are two of the best river towns along the Illinois side of the Mississippi. Alton has historic architecture, riverfront views and interesting local stories, while Grafton offers a relaxed riverside atmosphere, wineries, restaurants and access to nearby Pere Marquette State Park.

The drive between Alton and Grafton is one of the most scenic stretches of river road in Illinois, with limestone bluffs and Mississippi River views.

Best for: river drives, couples, wineries, history, scenic views and weekend trips.

Pere Marquette State Park

Pere Marquette State Park is one of the largest and most scenic state parks in Illinois. Located near Grafton, it offers hiking, overlooks, forested hills, river views, birdwatching and a historic lodge.

The park is especially popular in autumn and during eagle-watching season in winter. It is a great stop on a Great River Road itinerary and pairs well with Alton, Grafton and nearby wineries.

Best for: hiking, river views, birdwatching, lodges, scenic drives and nature escapes.

Rockford

Rockford is a northern Illinois city with gardens, museums, parks and family attractions. It is a good destination for travellers who want a quieter city break outside Chicago.

Top attractions include Anderson Japanese Gardens, the Burpee Museum of Natural History, Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens and the Rock River waterfront. Anderson Japanese Gardens is one of the most peaceful and beautiful garden attractions in the state.

Best for: gardens, families, museums, relaxed city breaks and northern Illinois road trips.

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford is one of the most beautiful garden experiences in Illinois. The gardens feature water, bridges, stone paths, carefully designed plantings and peaceful scenery inspired by Japanese landscape traditions.

It is a lovely stop for couples, photographers, garden lovers and travellers looking for a calm break from busy sightseeing.

Best for: garden lovers, photography, couples, peaceful walks and cultural scenery.

Champaign-Urbana

Champaign-Urbana is a lively university destination in central Illinois, home to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. It offers museums, restaurants, live music, sports, public art and a youthful atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the university campus, visit the Krannert Art Museum, enjoy local dining and breweries, or attend a sporting or cultural event. The area is a good stop on a central Illinois road trip.

Best for: university-town energy, food, arts, sports, museums and central Illinois travel.

Peoria

Peoria sits along the Illinois River and offers riverfront attractions, museums, parks and scenic drives. It is one of the main cities in central Illinois and works well as a stop between Chicago, Springfield and western Illinois.

Popular attractions include the Peoria Riverfront Museum, Wildlife Prairie Park, Grandview Drive and the riverfront area. Grandview Drive is especially known for scenic views over the Illinois River Valley.

Best for: families, river views, museums, scenic drives and central Illinois road trips.

Oak Park

Oak Park is a suburb just west of Chicago and an important destination for architecture and literature lovers. It is closely associated with architect Frank Lloyd Wright and writer Ernest Hemingway.

Visitors can tour the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, see several Wright-designed homes in the neighbourhood and visit the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum. Oak Park is easy to reach from downtown Chicago, making it a strong day trip.

Best for: architecture, literature, history, walking tours and day trips from Chicago.

Naperville

Naperville is one of Illinois’s most pleasant suburban destinations, known for its Riverwalk, shops, restaurants, parks and family-friendly atmosphere.

The Naperville Riverwalk is the highlight, with paths, bridges, fountains and green spaces along the DuPage River. The city also has a lively downtown with dining and shopping, making it a nice day trip or relaxed stop near Chicago.

Best for: families, river walks, shopping, dining, relaxed day trips and suburban charm.

Illinois Beach State Park

Illinois Beach State Park protects a rare stretch of natural shoreline along Lake Michigan in northeastern Illinois. It offers beaches, dunes, wetlands, trails, birdwatching and lake views.

This is a good destination for travellers who want a beach and nature experience without leaving Illinois. It feels very different from Chicago’s urban beaches and is especially appealing for walking, birding and quiet lakefront scenery.

Best for: beaches, nature walks, birdwatching, families, Lake Michigan views and peaceful outdoor escapes.

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Mississippi Palisades State Park is a scenic park in northwestern Illinois near the Mississippi River. It features bluffs, wooded trails, river overlooks, wildlife and rugged scenery.

The park is especially good for hikers and travellers following the Great River Road. Autumn is a beautiful time to visit when the forested bluffs show seasonal colour.

Best for: hiking, river views, photography, scenic drives, camping and nature lovers.

New Salem State Historic Site

Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site near Petersburg is a reconstructed village that helps tell the story of Abraham Lincoln’s early adult life in Illinois. Visitors can walk through log buildings, learn about frontier life and understand the setting where Lincoln lived before his political career developed.

It pairs well with Springfield for travellers following a Lincoln history itinerary.

Best for: history lovers, families, Lincoln sites, educational travel and central Illinois road trips.

Nauvoo

Nauvoo is a historic town on the Mississippi River with religious history, preserved buildings, river views and a quiet small-town atmosphere. It is especially significant in Latter-day Saint history, but it also appeals to travellers interested in historic towns and the Great River Road.

Visitors can explore historic sites, walk along the river and enjoy the peaceful setting. Nauvoo is a useful stop on a western Illinois itinerary.

Best for: history, religious heritage, river views, small-town travel and scenic road trips.

Route 66 in Illinois

Illinois is where historic Route 66 begins, making it a major destination for road-trip enthusiasts. The route starts in Chicago and travels southwest through towns and roadside attractions before crossing toward St. Louis.

Popular Illinois Route 66 stops include Chicago, Joliet, Pontiac, Bloomington-Normal, Springfield, Litchfield and Collinsville. Travellers can find murals, museums, diners, old service stations, neon signs and classic Americana along the way.

Best for: road trippers, nostalgia, diners, photography, history and classic American travel.

Pontiac

Pontiac is one of the best Route 66 towns in Illinois. It is known for murals, museums, historic buildings and a friendly small-town atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum, photograph colourful murals and walk through the downtown area. Pontiac is a fun and easy stop between Chicago and Springfield.

Best for: Route 66 travellers, murals, small-town charm, families and road-trip stops.

Bloomington-Normal

Bloomington-Normal is a central Illinois destination with universities, museums, historic homes, restaurants and Route 66 connections. Normal is home to Illinois State University, while Bloomington offers heritage attractions and a pleasant downtown.

Visitors can explore local museums, historic sites and the Constitution Trail. It is a useful stop on a Route 66 or central Illinois itinerary.

Best for: road trips, university-town atmosphere, history, families and central Illinois travel.

Quad Cities

The Quad Cities region sits along the Mississippi River and includes communities in both Illinois and Iowa. On the Illinois side, Moline, Rock Island and East Moline offer riverfront attractions, museums, bridges, restaurants and access to the wider Mississippi River region.

Visitors can enjoy riverfront walks, boat cruises, local breweries, museums and nearby parks. The Quad Cities are a practical and interesting stop on a Great River Road itinerary.

Best for: riverfront travel, museums, food, road trips, families and Mississippi River scenery.

Cache River State Natural Area

Cache River State Natural Area in southern Illinois protects wetlands, cypress-tupelo swamps, ancient trees and wildlife habitat. It is one of the most distinctive natural landscapes in the state.

Visitors can walk boardwalks, paddle in suitable areas, watch birds and experience scenery that feels very different from northern and central Illinois. It pairs well with Shawnee National Forest and other southern Illinois attractions.

Best for: birdwatching, paddling, nature photography, wetlands, quiet travel and southern Illinois road trips.

Best Places in Illinois for History Lovers

Illinois is rich in American history, with important sites connected to Abraham Lincoln, Indigenous cultures, Route 66, architecture, industry, immigration and the Mississippi River.

• Springfield: Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln museum, Old State Capitol and Lincoln Tomb.
• Cahokia Mounds: One of the most important Indigenous heritage sites in the United States.
• Chicago: Architecture, immigration history, museums, labour history and neighbourhood culture.
• Oak Park: Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and Ernest Hemingway connections.
• New Salem: A reconstructed village connected to Abraham Lincoln’s early life.
• Nauvoo: A historic Mississippi River town with religious and pioneer heritage.
• Route 66 towns: Pontiac, Springfield, Joliet and other communities preserve classic road-trip history.

Best Outdoor Adventures in Illinois

Illinois offers more outdoor variety than many visitors expect. The state has canyons, waterfalls, forests, wetlands, river bluffs, lakefront beaches and scenic trails.

• Hike Starved Rock: Explore sandstone canyons, waterfalls and Illinois River overlooks.
• Visit Matthiessen State Park: Enjoy canyon trails, streams and wooded scenery.
• Explore Shawnee National Forest: Hike rock formations, forest trails and scenic overlooks.
• See Garden of the Gods: Walk among dramatic sandstone formations in southern Illinois.
• Drive the Great River Road: Follow the Mississippi River through bluffs, towns and parks.
• Walk the Chicago Lakefront Trail: Enjoy Lake Michigan views, beaches and skyline scenery.
• Visit Illinois Beach State Park: Explore dunes, beaches and natural Lake Michigan shoreline.
• Explore Cache River wetlands: See cypress swamps, wildlife and quiet southern Illinois scenery.

Best Small Towns to Visit in Illinois

Illinois has many small towns that are ideal for weekend breaks, scenic drives and relaxed road trips.

• Galena: Historic Main Street, shops, restaurants, inns and rolling hill scenery.
• Pontiac: Route 66 murals, museums and small-town road-trip charm.
• Grafton: River views, wineries, restaurants and access to Pere Marquette State Park.
• Nauvoo: Mississippi River history and quiet preserved streets.
• Utica: A useful base for Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Park.
• Long Grove: Historic village atmosphere, shops and seasonal events near Chicago.
• Woodstock: A charming town square, historic buildings and film-location appeal.
• Arthur: A small central Illinois town known for Amish country nearby.

Best Scenic Drives in Illinois

Illinois is a good state for scenic drives, especially along rivers, historic highways and rural landscapes.

• Great River Road: The best scenic drive in Illinois for Mississippi River views, bluffs and historic towns.
• Route 66: A classic road trip from Chicago through central Illinois toward St. Louis.
• Illinois River Road: A scenic route through river towns, wildlife areas and central Illinois landscapes.
• Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway: A beautiful stretch near Alton, Grafton and the Mississippi River bluffs.
• Shawnee Hills Wine Trail: A southern Illinois route linking wineries, countryside and forest scenery.
• Galena countryside drives: Rolling hills, historic farms, river views and autumn colour in northwest Illinois.

Best Places in Illinois for Families

Illinois is a strong family destination because it combines major museums, parks, zoos, historic sites, beaches and easy road trips.

• Chicago: Museums, lakefront parks, Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo, Shedd Aquarium and family-friendly attractions.
• Springfield: Lincoln history, museums and educational sightseeing.
• Starved Rock State Park: Hiking, waterfalls, visitor centre and nature experiences.
• Rockford: Gardens, museums and family-friendly attractions.
• Peoria: Riverfront museums, Wildlife Prairie Park and scenic drives.
• Galena: Trolley tours, shops, history and countryside scenery.
• Pontiac: Route 66 murals and museums.
• Illinois Beach State Park: Lake Michigan beach time and nature walks.

Best Time to Visit Illinois

Illinois can be visited year-round, but the best season depends on the region and style of trip.

• Spring: A good time for city breaks, gardens, museums, state parks and waterfall hikes after rain.
• Summer: Best for Chicago lakefront activities, festivals, outdoor dining, beaches, river towns and family holidays.
• Autumn: Excellent for Galena, Great River Road, Starved Rock, Shawnee National Forest and fall foliage drives.
• Winter: Good for Chicago museums, theatre, holiday events, cosy small-town stays and eagle watching along rivers.

For Chicago, late spring, summer and early autumn are especially popular. For Starved Rock and Galena, autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit. For southern Illinois hiking, spring and autumn are often more comfortable than the hottest summer months.

Suggested 7-Day Illinois Road Trip Itinerary

This 7-day Illinois itinerary gives a good first-time overview of the state, combining Chicago, history, state parks, Route 66 and river scenery.

Day 1: Chicago

Start in Chicago. Visit Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Chicago Riverwalk and the lakefront. Enjoy dinner in one of the city’s neighbourhoods.

Day 2: More Chicago and Oak Park

Take an architecture river cruise, visit a museum or explore the lakefront. In the afternoon, consider a trip to Oak Park for Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and Hemingway history.

Day 3: Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Park

Drive to the Illinois River Valley. Hike at Starved Rock State Park and, if time allows, visit nearby Matthiessen State Park. Stay near Utica, Ottawa or LaSalle.

Day 4: Route 66 to Springfield

Follow sections of historic Route 66 through towns such as Pontiac and Bloomington-Normal before arriving in Springfield. Visit Route 66 attractions and enjoy a central Illinois evening.

Day 5: Springfield and Lincoln History

Spend the day exploring Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Old State Capitol and Lincoln Tomb.

Day 6: Great River Road, Alton and Grafton

Drive west toward the Mississippi River. Visit Alton, Grafton and Pere Marquette State Park. Enjoy river views, scenic bluffs and a relaxed riverside stay.

Day 7: Cahokia Mounds or Galena Extension

Choose between visiting Cahokia Mounds near Collinsville for Indigenous history or extending your trip north toward Galena for historic streets, shops and rolling countryside.

Longer 10-Day Illinois Itinerary

If you have more time, add southern Illinois and the Mississippi River region for a fuller state experience.

• Days 1 to 2: Chicago, Oak Park and Lake Michigan attractions.
• Day 3: Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Park.
• Days 4 to 5: Springfield, Lincoln sites and Route 66 towns.
• Day 6: Cahokia Mounds, Alton, Grafton and Pere Marquette State Park.
• Days 7 to 8: Shawnee National Forest, Garden of the Gods and southern Illinois wineries.
• Day 9: Cache River State Natural Area or Giant City State Park.
• Day 10: Return north or continue along the Great River Road.

Travel Tips for Visiting Illinois

• Use public transport in Chicago: You may not need a car in the city, but a car is useful for state parks, small towns and road trips.
• Check trail conditions: Starved Rock, Matthiessen and other parks may have temporary trail closures or seasonal hazards.
• Book Chicago stays early: Hotels can be expensive during major events, festivals and summer weekends.
• Plan for weather changes: Illinois summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
• Allow time for driving: Illinois is long from north to south, so a full-state road trip takes careful planning.
• Try local food: Look for Chicago deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, Chicago-style hot dogs, local diners, farm-to-table restaurants and regional barbecue.
• Visit popular parks early: Starved Rock and Garden of the Gods can be busy on weekends and holidays.
• Mix city and nature: A good Illinois itinerary includes Chicago plus at least one state park, river town or historic route.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Illinois

Illinois is a state of strong contrasts. Chicago offers world-class culture, food, architecture and lakefront beauty, while the rest of the state adds historic highways, river towns, forests, canyons, waterfalls, small towns and important historic sites.

For a first visit, Chicago, Springfield, Starved Rock State Park, Galena, Route 66 and the Great River Road make a strong itinerary. Travellers with more time should add Shawnee National Forest, Garden of the Gods, Cahokia Mounds, Rockford, Peoria, Oak Park, Matthiessen State Park and the river towns around Alton and Grafton.

Whether you are planning a city break, family holiday, scenic road trip, history-focused journey or outdoor escape, Illinois has far more to discover than many travellers expect.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Illinois

What is the prettiest place in Illinois?

Some of the prettiest places in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Garden of the Gods, Galena, Mississippi Palisades State Park, Pere Marquette State Park, Matthiessen State Park and the Great River Road. For urban beauty, Chicago’s lakefront and river architecture are outstanding.

What is Illinois best known for?

Illinois is best known for Chicago, Lake Michigan, deep-dish pizza, architecture, Abraham Lincoln history, Route 66, the Great River Road, state parks, museums, sports and Midwestern road trips.

Is Illinois good for a family holiday?

Yes, Illinois is a good family holiday destination. Families can visit Chicago museums, Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, Springfield’s Lincoln sites, Starved Rock State Park, Rockford attractions, Peoria’s riverfront and Route 66 towns.

How many days do you need to visit Illinois?

You can enjoy Chicago in 3 to 4 days, but a broader Illinois trip covering Chicago, Springfield, Starved Rock, Galena and the Great River Road is better with 7 to 10 days.

What is the best time of year to visit Illinois?

Late spring, summer and autumn are the best times for most Illinois trips. Summer is great for Chicago’s lakefront and festivals, while autumn is excellent for Galena, Starved Rock, river drives and southern Illinois hiking.

Is Illinois good for a road trip?

Yes, Illinois is excellent for road trips. Popular routes include Route 66, the Great River Road, the Illinois River Road, the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and scenic drives through Galena and southern Illinois.

Where should first-time visitors go in Illinois?

First-time visitors should consider Chicago, Springfield, Starved Rock State Park, Galena, Oak Park, Route 66 towns, the Great River Road and Cahokia Mounds. These places give a strong mix of city culture, history, scenery and road-trip appeal.

Does Illinois have good hiking?

Yes, Illinois has good hiking, especially at Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, Shawnee National Forest, Garden of the Gods, Giant City State Park, Mississippi Palisades State Park and Pere Marquette State Park.

What are the best small towns in Illinois?

Some of the best small towns in Illinois include Galena, Pontiac, Grafton, Nauvoo, Utica, Long Grove, Woodstock and Arthur. These towns are popular for history, shopping, scenery, food and relaxed road trips.

What should I pack for an Illinois trip?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, a refillable water bottle and weather-appropriate clothing. For Chicago, bring city walking shoes. For state parks, bring hiking shoes, insect repellent and clothes suitable for changing trail conditions.