Showing 97-192 of 10,029 items
Egyptian Hills Resort
Egyptian Hills Resort is your passport to the Ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether you are into waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, sport fishing, or pleasure boating; the Lake of Egypt is a boater’s paradise. All within a stone’s throw of your cabin. Within minutes of your cabin, your family can enjoy guided expeditions such as; horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, geo-caching, wildlife photography and many other outdoor activities. Whether planning a single activity or multiple activities for your group, we at Egyptian Hills are your personal concierge in planning your ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether onsite or through one of our partner guides, all activities are tailored for all ages and experience levels.
CITY: Creal Springs
Magic Waters Waterpark
Some of the many fun water attractions include the five-story Abyss (a dark tunnel tube ride), the two-person Splash Blaster water coaster, Tsunami Bay (Illinois' largest wave pool), Splash Magic River, and Little Lagoon for the tykes. The newest ride is the Double Dare Drop speed slides. Each slide drops riders 75 feet, making the thrill ride the steepest speed slide in northern Illinois.
CITY: Cherry Valley
Sep 8
The Book of Mormon
Nine 2011 Tony Awards® say it's the Best Musical of the Year. Vogue says, "It's the best musical of the last 25 years." And The New York Times says, "It's the best musical of this century." It's THE BOOK OF MORMON, the Broadway phenomenon from South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q co-creator Robert Lopez. The Daily Show's Jon Stewart calls it "A crowning achievement. So good, it makes me angry." Contains explicit language.
CITY: Chicago
Tempel Lipizzans
Home of the famous Lipizzan stallions known for their beauty, strength and intelligence. The beautiful rolling hills of Tempel Farms have been home to the Tempel Lipizzan for more than 50 years. For the past 27 years, the farm setting has been backdrop for the 90-minute performances in the tradition of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Performances chronicle the horses’ training from the youngest foals to the most highly trained stallions all performing to musical accompaniment. Performances are held on the one Sunday a month July through September and one Saturday night a month July through September. Saturday night performances include a self-guided tour where complimentary hors d'oeuvres, wine and beer will be served as the sun sets.
CITY: Wadsworth
Celebration River Cruises
Hop aboard the family-owned Celebration Belle riverboat that cruises the mighty Mississippi River. Operating April through October, the 800-passenger riverboat offers a variety of cruises, ranging from sightseeing tours to theme cruises such as Big Band and fall foliage, captain's dinner and dance cruises, and overnight excursions.
CITY: Moline
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
The Adler Planetarium — America's First Planetarium — was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler. The museum is home to three full-size theaters, extensive space science exhibitions, and one of the world's most important antique astronomical instrument collections on display. The Adler is a recognized leader in science education, with a focus on inspiring young people, particularly women and minorities, to pursue careers in science.
CITY: Chicago
Buckingham Fountain
Visitors can enjoy a dazzling music, light and water show at the Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world. Located at Columbus Drive, shows runs from dusk to 11pm every hour and lasts for 20 minutes. Operates April through mid-October.
CITY: Chicago
Aug 4
Boeing, Boeing
Boeing, Boeing was revived in 2007 after an undeniably successful seven-year run in the West End. The Wall Street Journal hailed Boeing-Boeing as one of "the funniest plays to hit Broadway in ages" and The Daily Telegraph said it was "the funniest show on the London stage." This charming revival focuses on Bernard, a jet setting architect living in Paris. He has been successfully juggling three flight attendant fiancés with the help of his reluctant housekeeper who keeps track of everyone's comings and goings. Mayhem follows soon after the arrival of an old college pal as flights are delayed, schedules change and chaos ensues. The laughs come fast and furious when Bernard finds himself struggling to keep up with his overwhelming amorous lies. Audiences will have to fasten their seat belts for a roaring ride that will take them up, up and away!
CITY: Oakbrook Terrace
Chicago Premium Outlets
Welcome to Chicago Premium Outlets®. With 120 stores, it is a true bargain hunter's haven. You'll find impressive savings of 25% to 65% every day from leading designers and name brands including Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein, Coach, DKNY, Elie Tahari, Giorgio Armani, Kate Spade, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, Michael Kors, Nike, OshKosh B'gosh, Reebok, Salvatore Ferragamo, St. John, TAG Heuer, Theory and many more.
CITY: Aurora
Amish Country Tours
A step on guide will accompany your tour of the Amish countryside. The tours will also include meals in Amish homes, and Amish home, buggy shop, dairy farm and woodworking tours. Additional highlights include an Amish museum, local attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.
CITY: Arcola
Shea's Gas Station Museum
Take one look at the guest book and you’ll see that this unique spot attracts visitors from all over the globe. A former Texaco gas station owner, Bill Shea has amassed an impressive collection of Route 66 memorabilia during his more than 50 years on the Mother Road. Shea's is closed during the Illinois State Fair, held every August.
CITY: Springfield
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail features 12 award-winning wineries located along a 25-mile scenic drive along highway 127 and highway 51 in the Shawnee National Forest. Along the way have a picnic, go on a hike, visit a shop, and stay in a cozy B&B or cabin. Many of the wineries host special events throughout the summer and fall.
CITY: Carbondale
Volo Auto Museum
The most under priced attraction in the area! 36 acres of family fun. See 300 classic, antique and muscle cars, including the country's largest display of Hollywood TV and movie cars! Experience the Military Combat Zone, a life-like battle scene with rare military vehicles and weapons. Shop 5 Antique Malls. Take a Haunted Trolley Tour. Enjoy great food in a Betty Boop themed diner and more. All in one location!
CITY: Volo
Chicago Music Tour
Chicago Music Tour, Inc. specializes in guided bus tours of Chicago music history, including jazz, rock, blues, classical & soul. Tours feature a soundtrack of songs for each sight or stop. Open since 2011, the tours have received widespread acclaim. Tours include the Chicago Bound Blues Tour, Chicago Rocks 1980-2005, The Chicago Music Tour, Raised in Chicago Jazz Tour, Michigan Avenue Serenade Soul Tour, & Chicago Rock Stars tour. Tours run on weekends, but are available for private events.
CITY: Chicago
Cantigny Park
Consisting of the Robert McCormick Mansion Museum, the First Division Military Museum, ten acres of gardens and parks, 27-hole championship golf course and nine-hole Cantigny Youth Links.
CITY: Wheaton
Kane County Flea Market
Browse the wares of hundreds of dealers at the Kane County Flea Market in St. Charles, held the first weekend of each month (rain or shine) at the Kane County Fairgrounds.
CITY: St. Charles
Rustic Hideaway Cabins
Private log cabins in a wooded setting. Hot tub on covered back deck. Full kitchen including dishes. TV/VCR. Linens and paper products supplied. Fireplace. Loft.
CITY: Jonesboro
Fort de Chartres State Historic Site
This former French military stronghold has been partially rebuilt and turned into a museum. Regular living history events shed light on colonial life in Illinois, and include 18th-century crafts, food, music, hundreds of historically dressed participants, flintlock rifle and musket contests, cannon and mortar competitions, traders and much more. There are also guided tours of the 1800 Creole House, which was designed in the French-American Transitional Architecture style.
CITY: Prairie du Rocher
Blue Sky Vineyard
Along the majestic Shawnee Hills Wine Trail you’ll find Blue Sky Vineyard—a stunning Tuscan-inspired winery and vineyard. Stroll through the vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and relax on the outdoor terrace with the rolling countryside as your tapestry.
CITY: Makanda
Old State Capitol State Historic Site
The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois' fifth statehouse, the first to be located in Springfield. It is here that Lincoln practiced law, served as a legislator and gave his famed House Divided speech on slavery in 1858. The building served as the seat of state government and a center of Illinois political life from 1839-1876. The current State Capitol Building is the center of state government, where visitors can watch Illinois politics in action when the legislature is in session.
CITY: Springfield
World's Largest Catsup Bottle
This 170-foot-tall bottle that resembles a Brook's Catsup Bottle served as a water tower for the catsup manufacturer after being constructed in 1949. A popular roadside attraction, it makes for a great photo op.
CITY: Collinsville
The Signature Room at the 95th
Enchanted dining experiences await guests at this contemporary American restaurant. Located atop the John Hancock Center, it offers the best view of the city of Chicago. Live jazz, elegant dark wood and marble tiled artdeco interior compliments the mood.
CITY: Chicago
20 - 21
Lincoln’s Bloomington Festival and Civil War Days
The McLean County Museum of History, David Davis Mansion, and other sites will host Civil War re-enactors, traditional craft demonstrations, children’s activities, musical performances, talks and tours.
CITY: Bloomington
Galena Girlfriends' Getaway
Get your best girlfriends together for a weekend in Galena they will never forget. Start planning your itinerary now for this fun-filled weekend with amazing food, lodging specials, spa pampering, wine tastings, pub crawl and more. Pre-register for a Girlfriends goody bag and you’ll be entered for the chance to win a $200 Galena shopping spree! Pre-registration saves your spot for the weekend and includes Quartermania, belly dancing classes, a slipper party and Sunday brunch.
CITY: Galena
I & M Canal State Trail
The I&M Canal Trail offers 61 miles of picturesque hiking and biking trails that follow the historic route of the I&M Canal from Channahon to LaSalle. The Trail also boasts Illinois’ longest continuous snowmobile trail, and is a favored route for cross-country skiers.
CITY: Channahon
Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
Journey through time to the age of Chivalry and Knighthood. Feast upon a sumptuous banquet and cheer your own knight to victory in the tournament of games.
CITY: Schaumburg
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Built in 1927, Old Chain of Rocks was the fifth bridge to cross the Mississippi River, which shortened the distance between St. Louis, Missouri, and Edwardsville, Illinois by 15 miles.
CITY: Edwardsville
Downtown Rock Island Arts & Entertainment District
This district is the arts and entertainment destination of the Quad Cities. Located on the Mississippi River, the district ia a revitalized and vibrant area. You'll find art galleries, restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, casino, shops and a hotel.
CITY: Rock Island
Mayan Adventure Indoor Waterpark by The Waverton Hotel
237 newly remodeled guestrooms, Holidome Recreation Center, indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna & fitness room. Two diverse dining establishments - Hang Time Restaurant and Hang Time Bar & Eatery. 3,500 square feet in meeting space.
CITY: Elmhurst
Lou Mitchell's
A Chicago tradition for 83 years. Breakfast all day. Homemade pastries, bread and famous omelettes. Fresh squeezed O.J. Outstanding fresh daily lunch specials. Milk Duds for the ladies! One block west of Union Station. Mon.-Sat. 5:30am-3pm; Sun. 7am-3pm.
CITY: Chicago
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Full-service, 120-unit resort 8 miles southeast of Galena on a wooded palisade overlooking the Mississippi. One of the Midwest's top-rated ski/snowboard resorts: 19 trails, 475-foot vertical drop, half-mile runs, nine lifts, seven-acre terrain park. Indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, miniature golf, Alpine slide, Mississippi cruises, skiing/snowboard programs, on-site restaurants, lounge.
CITY: Galena
Rend Lake
It's all about the water at Rend Lake, where you can swim, boat, water ski and fish. Relax at Rend Lake Resort, tee off at the 27-hole Rend Lake Golf Course or do some target practice at the Rend Lake Shooting Complex. Also located at Rend Lake is the Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, featuring more than 800 artists.
CITY: Benton
Chicago Pedway Tour
The Chicago Pedway Tour will lead you through the Pedway, the backdrop for an amusing and enlightening tour of some of the hot-spots (or a least warm-spots) of downtown Chicago. The tour focuses on interesting anecdotes and tales about some of the great buildings downtown, but it’s also a study of the city underneath the city. The Pedway is a strange and wonderful place and adds so much to the city’s personality. These are great tours for Chicagoans who want to learn more about the city and for tourists who want a full Chicago experience without ever going outside. The tour is 90 minutes and is $20. Monday/Thursday/Saturday at 10:30 am. Please note: the start location for the Monday and Thursday tour is at 40 W. Lake St. in the “Gallery of Shops.” The start location for the Saturday tour is at start at Block 37 – 108 N. State St.
CITY: Chicago
Grafton Canoe & Kayak
Experience the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers up close in a canoe, kayak, or wave runner. Take a speed boat out on the river for tubing or just relax on the waves in a pontoon. For landlubbers, rent a mountain bike for the day and hit the nearby Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail.
CITY: Grafton
Fried Green Tomatoes
Enjoy a dinner of rustic Italian dishes (and be sure to try the signature tomatoes) at Fried Green Tomatoes, a romantic restaurant housed in a historic downtown Galena building. The restaurant features an award-winning wine list recognized by Wine Spectator. Reservations recommended.
CITY: Galena
Sep 24
Carousel @ The Annoyance Theatre
Carousel is a revolving door of improv groups, showcasing Annoyance students and performers in their most creative ensembles. Tuesday nights at 8pm. Admission is $8.
CITY: Chicago
Dec 31
To Kill and to Heal: Weapons and Medicine of the Civil War
The exhibit covers Civil War weaponry, its evolution and the adaptation of medicine for the wounds caused by these weapons. Artifacts & vignettes include guns, explosives, diseases, wounds, medical personnel, ambulance corps and anesthetics.
CITY: Springfield
David Davis Mansion
The David Davis Mansion was the home of Judge David Davis, the friend, mentor and campaign manager for Abraham Lincoln. The elegant 36-room Victorian home tells the story of the generation that led the United States through the Civil War and early years of Reconstruction. Take a tour of the lavishly decorated mansion, where you’ll learn about the important friendship between Davis and Lincoln, and get a peek at what life was like for a wealthy Victorian-era family.
CITY: Bloomington
Wildlife Prairie State Park Lodging
Experience our exclusive facilities when planning your next business meeting or social gathering. Let us accommodate you with our exclusive on-site catering and high-speed wireless internet. 10 miles west of Peoria via I-74, exit 82. Also enjoy our unique overnight accommodations located in the park, including a cabin, cottages, cabooses and stables. Children welcome!
CITY: Peoria
Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier
Hands-on exhibits and daily-changing activities make every visit unique for young children and adults, too. Dig deep into the Dinosaur Expedition, try to stay dry in WaterWays, make a masterpiece in the KraftArtabounds Studio, and climb up to the crow's nest on the Kovler Family Climbing Schooner. Toddlers can have fun in Kids Town and Treehouse Trails.
CITY: Chicago
Scovill Zoo
This zoo overlooking Lake Decatur is home to animals from around the world, the Z.O.&O. Express train, the Endangered Species Carousel and the Zootique Gift Shop. Family events and activities are offered regularly.
CITY: Decatur
Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive
The Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Associates invite you to come to Fulton County, Illinois and enjoy the natural wonders of the Spoon River Valley. Spoon River has carved a wide scenic valley through Fulton County as it flows from London Mills to the south and east where it joins the Illinois River near the southeastern corner of the county. The Spoon River became nationally known from the work of Edgar Lee Masters, author of the noted Spoon River Anthology. Come on out the first two full weekends in October. There are over one hundred miles of scenic routes on the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive to be enjoyed on this driving tour with beautiful fall colors. There will be food, arts, crafts, entertainment and flea market. Visit 17 villages and historic sites!
CITY: Canton
Blackberry Farm's Pioneer Village
Go on a one of a kind country adventure you'll never forget! Become pioneers for a day on a real 1800s farm and village. Miniature train rides, pony rides, petting zoo, pioneer craft demonstrations, and special events.
CITY: Aurora
Splashdown at EastSide
The wettest and wildest family water park in Central Illinois. Play in Splashtower Island or ride the lazy river. There's even a splash and play area for the young ones in your family. www.fondulacpark.com
CITY: East Peoria
Jul 21
Music Under the Stars
Enjoy music under the stars while the Freeport Concert Band performs at the Koenig Outdoor Performance Amphitheater in lovely Krape Park. Sunday nights: June 16, 23, 30,July: 7, 14, and 21.
CITY: Freeport
Glen Oak Zoo
Open year-round, the Peoria Zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals from around the world. Come see our newest members of the zoo family in Africa! From giraffes and rhinoceros to spider monkeys and lions, the Zoo is the wildest family place in town. In addition to family recreational resources, educational programming and conservation-based programs are top priorities.
CITY: Peoria
23
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Kick off the holiday season and create your special memories on The Magnificent Mile in 2013! The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, the nation’s largest evening holiday celebration, jump starts the holiday season on Saturday, November 23 with a full day of family friendly activities, concerts by top musical artists and the best holiday shopping. The day’s excitement culminates with a grand evening parade down Michigan Avenue marshaled by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, illuminating one million lights on 200 trees. The parade concludes with a grand finale fireworks show over the Chicago River.
CITY: Chicago
Makanda Boardwalk
This historic boardwalk dates back to the 1890s. Today it offers galleries featuring quality handcrafts created by local artisans and a country store.
CITY: Makanda
6 - 7
Kane County Flea Market - July 2013
Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day.
CITY: St. Charles
Mercury, Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline
Mercury, Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline offers 90-minute tours for the whole family that include lake and river cruises, fireworks cruises, canine cruises and wacky pirate cruises, all departing from the landscaped dock on Chicago’s Riverwalk at the Michigan Avenue Bridge.
CITY: Chicago
Sep 24
TNT (Tuesday Night Thing)
An Explosion of Improv Talent! You want to see some of the best of the best improvisers in the city of Chicago, in one night, in one place in one show?? THIS IS IT. Seriously. You don't get much better than these folks... Tuesday nights at 9:30pm. Admission is $8.
CITY: Chicago
Feb 23
"Jersey Boys" Peoria Civic Center
The 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30! Jersey Boys, winner of the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album and most recently, the 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.
CITY: Peoria
Laser Force Lazer Tag Zone
A 5,000 sq. ft. laser tag arena and a 2,500 sq. ft. game arcade is conveniently located by hotels and restaurants off I-64.
CITY: Caseyville
24 - 25
Sweet Corn Blues Festival
Sidewalk sales, arts, crafts, flea market vendors and over 50,000 ears of sweet corn fill the streets of Uptown Normal each August to welcome back the students at Illinois State University. Come out and enjoy the fun, food and some of the best blues music around!
CITY: Normal
Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio
This landmark structure in suburban Oak Park served as Wright's private residence and studio from 1889 to 1909—the first 20 years of his career. Wright used his home as an architectural laboratory, trying out design concepts before sharing them with clients. With 25 Wright-designed buildings in the neighborhood surrounding the Home & Studio, Oak Park is an outdoor museum of architecture.
CITY: Oak Park
William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Discover the universe at the second largest planetarium in Illinois, the William M. Staerkel Planetarium, located on the campus of Parkland College. With a state-of-the-art digital projection system, visitors can learn about the stars, planets and more in this cutting-edge environment. At the planetarium website, you will learn of special programs and features coinciding with the many events in our universe. Public shows are on most Friday and Saturday nights, as well as summer matinees.
CITY: Champaign
Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site
One of the best-preserved examples of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie design, this 35-room mansion contains some 100 pieces of original Wright-designed furniture and stunning art glass. Photo copyright Doug Carr, courtesy of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.
CITY: Springfield
Lake Shelbyville
The 11,000-acre Lake Shelbyville offers plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, biking and swimming. Sun yourself on one of the public beaches or dock your boat at one of three marinas located around the lake.
CITY: Shelbyville
21 - 23
Long Grove's Annual Strawberry Festival
The pleasures of summer are celebrated with “berry” wonderful strawberry-inspired treats. Strawberry lovers of all ages flock to Long Grove’s renown fest to enjoy chocolate covered strawberries, fruit smoothies, and other strawberry drinks, ice creams, strawberry donuts, baked goods and, of course, the farm-fresh berries themselves. There is free live entertainment all three days at venues all over town and most of Long Grove’s many shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants offer variations of strawberry-themed foods, drinks, and merchandise. Fun for All Ages Strawberry Fest features plenty of activities and fun for children, including a variety of kiddie rides, face painting and outdoor activities and tents full of family and education-oriented products.
CITY: Long Grove
Bank of America Theatre
The Bank of America Theatre opened in 1906 originally as the Majestic Theatre in downtown Chicago. The theater has gone through a couple of different name changes including recently the LaSalle Bank Theatre, and the Sam Shubert Theatre before that. The Bank of America Theatre box office has been host to many traveling Broadway shows and events since it's most recent renovation in 2006.
CITY: Chicago
Oct 18
Daley Plaza Farmers Market
The Daley Plaza Farmers Market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods and other items every Thursday from May 24th until October 18th. Every Thursday, 7 am - 3 pm.
CITY: Chicago
Alto Vineyards - Alto Pass
This award-winning winery's original Shawnee Hills Wine Trail location (Alto also has a Champaign outpost) offers free wine tasting and a gift shop, in addition to spring, summer and fall festivals with music and food.
CITY: Alto Pass
Coronado Performing Arts Center
See a play or musical performance at the wonderfully ornate Coronado Performing Arts Center, which was once a 1920s movie palace and vaudeville hall. The Coronado still features its original whimsical details, such as gilded Spanish castles, Chinese dragons in relief on the walls and a faux starry sky. Coronado Performing Arts Center is the venue for many performing arts groups and traveling shows.
CITY: Rockford
30
Chicago Pride Parade
The Chicago 44th Annual Pride Parade will showcase GLBT Pride with over 850,000 participants and spectators.The parade contains over 200 registered entries that includes floats, decorated vehicles, marching bands and walking groups.
CITY: Chicago
Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center
The Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center has several interactive displays, free videos on the park, hiking maps, and more. Trailheads Concessions & Gifts, also located here, is a great place to buy gifts, souvenirs, and snacks (fresh fudge, too)! The Visitor Center and Trailheads are open year-round.
CITY: Utica
27 - 29
Quad Cities Hot Air Balloon Fest
Red, yellow and orange-hued leaves aren’t the only colors to view in Western Illinois’ skies this fall. At Moline’s annual Quad Cities Hot Air Balloon Fest, a myriad of hot air balloons take off throughout the weekend and glow high above the town after dark.
CITY: Moline
Super Museum
The Super Museum houses the mythical caped hero from the big green planet. The museum is filled with a $2.5 billion collection spanning 60 years, honoring the most famous hero of all time.
CITY: Metropolis
The Inn at Irish Hollow
Called “deliciously rustic” by the New York Times, Irish Hollow is located on 500 rolling acres in the Galena countryside on the site of a former whistle stop. The accommodations include rooms at the historic inn, as well as private English-style cottages with beautiful gardens. Indulge in a massage or hike the miles of trails that pass by a 1,300-acre nature preserve. Irish Hollow is known for its gourmet country breakfasts and dinners made with seasonal ingredients from its own organic gardens.
CITY: Galena
Gemini Giant
Located in Wilmington, this converted Muffler Man beckons travelers on historic Route 66 to stop for a burger at the Launching Pad Drive-In. The Launching Pad Drive-in first opened in 1960 as a Dari Delite, and sold only hot dogs and ice cream. Since then, the menu has expanded. In 2000, the Launching Pad Drive-In was inducted into the Route 66 Hall of Fame.
CITY: Wilmington
Quad City Botanical Center
Rock Island's Quad City Botanical Center houses exotic tropical flowers, a 14-foot waterfall and reflecting pools with koi. Seasonal attractions include a butterfly garden and the Garden Train Railway exhibit. The Botanical Center also regularly hosts art exhibitions and special events for families.
CITY: Rock Island
Tanger Outlet Center
Factory outlet mall with over 40 brand name outlets. Shop Coach, Harry and David, Reebok, Nike, Gap, Bass, Polo Ralph Lauren, Old Navy, Bath and Body Works and much more! Check out our monthly special events, coupons and sales. Tanger Outlet Center is conveniently located off of I-57, exit 212 in Tuscola. Locations nearby include Champaign and Amish Country.
CITY: Tuscola
Children's Museum of Illinois
Kids can shimmy up Luckey's Climber, make a giant bubble and pretend to be whatever they can imagine, from a pilot to a scientist. The museum's permanent exhibits complement temporary exhibits and projects.
CITY: Decatur
World's Largest Covered Wagon
The Railsplitter Covered Wagon, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest covered wagon in the world, is located on the front lawn of the Best Western Lincoln Inn, near historic Route 66. A statue of Abe Lincoln reading a law book sits in the huge wooden wagon, which stands 24 feet tall.
CITY: Lincoln
Chicago White Sox
The South Side championship baseball team plays at U.S. Cellular Field, and features fireworks when the home team makes a home run.
CITY: Chicago
Zipline Canopy Tour Chicago
Looking for that perfect daring escape for you, your friends or family? Zip Chicago Canopy Tours provides an experience you will not soon forget. It will create memories that last a life time. The tour is completely guided and contains no motorized machines for propulsion. All you have to do is enjoy your flight! Our guests can reach speeds of up to 45 mph. The platforms and suspension bridges are surrounded by an assortment of native trees. Check out our different tours to see which adventure is the right one for you!
CITY: Marseilles
Mar 2
Eagle Watching at Starved Rock State Park
You don’t have to travel north to see these majestic birds of prey. Thousands of eagles migrate south from Canada during the winter and Illinois is one of the homes of the greatest population of wintering bald eagles. The Starved Rock Lodge in Utica offers a “Bald Eagle Trolley Tour” in January and February on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Viewing birds from the Veranda at the Starved Rock Lodge is good as well. Dress warmly though. This great viewing spot is right outside the doors of the Great Room. If you’d like some exercise, take a hike on one of the trails at the Starved Rock State Park. One trail begins right at the Veranda. For a birds eye view, hike to the top of the Rock. Another popular event is "Eagle Watch Weekend" with activites both at the Starved Rock Lodge and the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center.
CITY: Oglesby
Mississippi Explorer Cruises at Chestnut Mountain Resort
Jump aboard Mississippi Explorer's latest 1.5-hour cruise. Experience the magical splendor of Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge.
CITY: Galena
National Great Rivers Museum
Located adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, this museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Mississippi River, from its colorful history to its modern-day role as a major transportation corridor. The museum features kid-friendly, interactive and computer animated exhibits. Steer a towboat through the locks and dam via simulator, measure your water consumption or come face-to-face with river fish in the aquarium.
CITY: Alton
Annoyance Theatre & Bar
For 25 years, The Annoyance Theatre has created some of Chicago's finest comedy. Home of the longest running musical Co-ed Prison Sluts, The Annoyance uses improvisation to create new and original plays, musicals, sketch-comedy and more, in a vibrant, uncensored atmosphere.
CITY: Chicago
Seadog Speedboat Rides
The largest speedboats in the country, the 70-foot-long, bright yellow Seadog boats carry up to 149 passengers and offer 30-minute speedboat rides along the lakefront. Seadog rides depart from Navy Pier.
CITY: Chicago
Belle of the Rock
The Belle of the Rock paddle boat tours are located at historic Starved Rock state park in Utica, Illinois (just 80 miles west of Chicago). In addition to the river tours, we provide canoes and kayaks. Call us today at 815-434-9200 to make your reservation.
CITY: Utica
Chicago Riverwalk
Experience the magnificence of the city from a different perspective. The city’s Riverwalk features walkways and seating areas along the water's edge, where visitors can enjoy views of architecture, and watch the Chicago’s historic bridges rise for boats heading out to Lake Michigan. With attractions such as cafes, boat cruises, bike rentals and more, there’s plenty to do. (Chicago Riverwalk runs along the south bank of the Chicago River, from Lake Shore Drive to Franklin Street.)
CITY: Chicago
Mar 2
Eagle Watching in Alton
Illinois boasts the largest concentration of wintering American bald eagles in the continental U.S., and the Alton area is a great place to see them. Mingle with a live eagle at the National Great Rivers Museum. Get a bird’s-eye view from eight stories high as majestic eagles soar along the Mississippi River at the adjacent Melvin Price Locks & Dam. Or drive along on an exciting eagle-watching expedition with a nature expert at Pere Marquette State Park during Bald Eagle Days, held from late December through early March.
CITY: Alton
Frank Lloyd Wright's Frederick C. Robie House
Recognized as an architectural masterpiece, Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House is located in Hyde Park on the University of Chicago campus. The Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust offers guided tours of this quintessential Prairie-style home, which the American Institute of Architects named one of the 10 most significant buildings of the 20th century.
CITY: Chicago
The Champagne Lodge & Luxury Suites
The Champagne Lodge is an independent boutique hotel featuring luxury spa suites that offer seclusion and privacy while pampering you with all of the contemporary conveniences of modern design. Private, irresistibly convenient, yet a world away from the everyday.
CITY: Willowbrook
Sep 22
Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity
Were the Impressionists fashionistas? At a time in France when designers like Charles Frederick Worth changed how clothing was made and marketed into the first manifestations of the modern fashion industry, artists were using fashion to communicate modernity as an idea. The Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity exhibit at The Art Institute of Chicago covers this period between the 1860s and 1880s that saw not only the rise of the department store and the proliferation of fashion magazines but also serious interests among an artistic and literary elite in the ephemeral and constantly innovative qualities of fashion as a means of discovering new visual and verbal expressions.
CITY: Chicago
Henry's Ra66it Ranch
This quirky must-see Route 66 attraction, information center and souvenir gift shop is home to rabbits of all kinds, bunny and VW, as well as Mother Road memorabilia.
CITY: Staunton
Raging Waves Waterpark
Illinois' largest Waterpark offers 45 acres of family fun! 17 water slides, wave pool, lazy river, huge kiddie play structures, sandy beach area and a 2000 foot long 4 course zip line.
CITY: Yorkville
Timber Lake Resort
Seven cabins open year round. Relax at the cabin, or enjoy the views of scenic Northwestern Illinois. New one and two bedroom cabins, sleep six, full bath, kitchenette, AC, TV, porches.
CITY: Mount Carroll
Big Creek Cabins
Big Creek Cabins is the perfect place for a romantic weekend or quick getaway from the busy rush of daily life. The moment you check-in to our fully furnished luxury log cabin, you can’t help but to slow down and relax. Unwind and get chin deep in the hot tub on the large cover decks overlooking a private pond all situated on 20 very secluded acres. Perhaps enjoy a game a pool on the executive pool table by the fireplace with family or good friends. There are many reasons why Big Creek Cabins is quickly becoming the most popular cabin retreat in Southern Illinois, but we want to personally invite you to a place where memories are made and experience them first hand.
CITY: Dongola
Midway Village Museum
The museum campus consists of a Victorian village with 26 historical buildings filled with artifacts of the era as well as several beautiful 19th century gardens that depict life in northern Illinois from 1890 to 1910. Interpreters in authentic period dress are available seasonally for guided tours. The main museum building holds large group meeting rooms and exhibit space with a number of permanent exhibits reflecting Rockford's history and culture that include The Girls of Summer: Rockford Peaches of the AAGPBL, Queen City of the Prairies: Rockford's First 20 Years and The Missing Link: Socks, Monkeys and Rockford's Industrial Past. Special events throughout the year include a World War II re-enatment, Sock Monkey and Scarecrow Harvest Festivals, and more. Free recreational path located on property.
CITY: Rockford
The Science Center of Southern Illinois
This center was designed for children ages 3-13 and their families. The science museum features several interactive hands-on exhibits dealing with a variety of basic concepts of science, as well as special events and programs.
CITY: Carbondale
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
At Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa go golfing on one of four championship courses, horseback riding along hilly wooded trails, boating on the sapphire waters of Lake Galena, or soaring over the countryside in a hot air balloon with Galena on the Fly. Relax in the luxury of the resort’s Stonedrift Spa with a pampering massage. Eagle Ridge offers a wide variety of lodging that ranges from traditional inn rooms to golf villas and distinctive homes.
CITY: Galena
12 - 13
Candlelight Tour of New Salem
Bring the family to experience New Salem village after dark. Interpreters in period clothing will welcome you into the reconstructed log homes of the historic village where Abraham Lincoln lived for six years.
CITY: Petersburg
Odyssey Fun World
Out of this world family fun featuring a four-level exploration playland, tag team laser trek, interactive video/prize redemption/games and outdoor amusement park. Caters to groups.
CITY: Naperville
Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower
The Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower is dedicated to the duo's history-making journey, and serves as a gateway to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. The Corps of Discovery voyage began here on May 14, 1804, at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Take the elevator up to the top of the 180-foot-tall tower, where you’ll step out to panoramic views of the swirling river waters (the view is particularly stunning at sunset). On platforms located at 50, 100 and 150 feet visitors learn about the early days of Hartford, as well as Lewis and Clark's journey.
CITY: Hartford













