Driving isn’t the only way to reach Illinois destinations. Amtrak offers a convenient alternative thanks to affordable roundtrip routes throughout the state. Visit Amtrak’s Web site for interactive routes and schedules to find one that’s best for you.

Visiting the state’s capital city? Roundtrips from Chicago to Springfield start at just $50.00. And thanks to Amtrak’s downtown Springfield station, you’ll be close to everything the moment you arrive. Indeed, Springfield’s popular attractions are easy to explore by foot since shopping, dining and many historic sites are within walking distance of each other. To learn more, visit the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau and plan a tailored getaway.

Amtrak can also save you money once you arrive at your destination. Thanks to a partnership with Illinois Bed & Breakfast Association (IBBA), Amtrak commuters can receive complimentary travel to and from, as well as promotional rates for, bed and breakfast inns located near Amtrak stations (www.bbonline.com/il/ilbba/). Participating Illinois communities include Alton, Carbondale, Galesburg, Kankakee, Makanda and many others.

When Chicago was named one of the best bicycling cities in the U.S. by Bicycling Magazine (2006), we were honored, but not surprised. After all, Chicago is fun and easy to explore by bike thanks to 315 miles of bikeways and a range of bike-themed events and programs.

For additional information, check out:

• Bike Chicago, Bike Rentals and Guided Tours, www.bikechicago.com
• Chicago Department of Transportation's Bicycle Program, www.chicagobikes.org
• McDonald´s Cycle Center at Millennium Park, www.chicagobikestation.com

Chicago may be large, but it’s also an extremely walker-friendly city. In fact, Chicago—along with Cicero, Naperville, Peoria and Springfield—is ranked among Illinois’ top walkable cities/communities by Prevention Magazine.

So what can you see on foot in Chicago? Popular favorites include architectural walking tours - www.architecture.org and cultural food walking tours - www.chicagofoodplanet.com throughout the city’s ethnic neighborhoods.

And when your feet need a rest? Try out Segway Tours - www.citysegwaytours.com, free trolley rides, water taxis or user-friendly CTA as an excellent, cost-effective alternative to driving around the city.