Illinois

Illinois is a Midwestern state in the middle of America’s heartland, bordering the Mississippi River to its west. While the region features vast forests, rolling hills, farms and wetlands, it’s widely known as the birthplace of America’s 21st-century intellectuals and innovations. Illinois represents the essential Middle America that has brought up great leaders and thinkers, including Presidents Lincoln and Obama, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Oprah Winfrey.

The scenic Great River Valley has a countryside dotted with historic towns, while the southern plains of Illinois are home to over 50 state parks. Starved Rock State Park is where you can enjoy spectacular scenery and learn about the US state’s Native American heritage. If you’re planning a city break, Chicago is the place to enjoy live blues and baseball games in Illinois.

Top destinations in Illinois

Where will you go next?

Chicago
Chicago is a city that’ll captivate you with a skyline filled with avant-garde skyscrapers. From these heights, you’ll also be able to enjoy unparalleled views of the urban surroundings. The city’s loftiest attraction is the Skydeck at the world-famous Willis Tower. It promises some thrills as you whiz up to this observation deck on the 103rd floor and take a...
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What to see & do in Illinois

Where & what to eat in Illinois

10 Great Restaurants in Chicago
If you’re looking for great restaurants in Chicago, the city’s state of the art restaurants won’t let you down. Whether you're looking for something fancy or a simple hot dog and fries, Chicago will delight you with some of the...
5 Must Eats in Chicago
Bring your appetite and prepare to loosen your belt because the must-eats in Chicago are deliciously decadent treats that will...
10 Best Places for Deep-Dish Pizzas in Chicago
No food is more synonymous with Chicago cuisine than the deep-dish pizza and we know the best places to get...

Where to shop & what to buy in Illinois

13 Best Places to Go Shopping in Chicago
Chicago is well-known for its world-class shopping, and the best places to go shopping in Chicago offer everything from discount outlet malls to high-end fashion and luxury art and jewelers. You can stroll through charming neighborhoods and browse at specialty...
10 Best Shopping Malls in Chicago
No matter your reason for visiting Chicago, you’ll definitely want to earmark some time to check out the best shopping...
5 Best Markets in Chicago
The best markets in Chicago bring savvy shoppers and food enthusiasts together at weekly meets right across the city. Antique...

Where to go & what to do at night in Illinois

10 Best Chicago Nightlife
For the best Chicago nightlife, the city's vibrant scene offers endless choices, including popular nightclubs, laid-back lounges, theaters, and much more. If you're looking for a great cocktail or craft beer, you can visit one of the many bars that...
12 Best Nightclubs in Chicago
The best nightclubs in Chicago are exciting places to spend a memorable evening out in the “Windy City”. From the...
7 Best Chicago LGBT Bars
The best LGBT bars in Chicago offer a unique glimpse into the Windy City’s lively and inclusive bar scene. You'll...

Useful information

10 Most Popular Streets in Chicago
The most popular streets in Chicago include the city's iconic dining, shopping and nightlife strips. Some of these are unmissable, such as Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile. But there are also scenic roadways, bustling neighborhood boulevards and historic thoroughfares...
10 Mistakes People Make When Visiting Chicago
Chicago, like any major city, has a book of unwritten rules that the locals follow. From faux pas to tourist...
10 Best Festivals in Chicago
Every month is festival month in Chicago, with the city bringing in world-class musicians, culinary leaders, artists, and cultural performances...