Explore Illinois
From urban excitement and outdoor adventures to delicious food and fascinating history, Illinois is an iconic destination with something for everyone. Scroll through the regions to explore the diversity of experiences in the Middle of Everything.
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Scenic Views & Small Town Charm
Great Rivers Country
Take a scenic drive on the Great River Road that follows the Mississippi River along the entire western border of Illinois, framed by gorgeous limestone river bluffs. Relax in charming towns nestled by the river for beautiful views, outdoor adventures, great food and fascinating history.
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Not to be Missed Outdoor Adventures
Trails to Adventure
Get outdoors and explore! Whether you're looking for ziplining, golfing, hiking, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding or kayaking, you can find it here in Southern Illinois. Relax at wineries and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and vistas of Shawnee National Forest.
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An Iconic City with Nearby Adventures
Chicago & Beyond
Voted the best big city in the US, Chicago sets the scene with its iconic skyline and world-class museums, architecture, food and cultural scene. Discover the city's diverse neighborhoods or explore just beyond the city for picturesque outdoor escapes, family-friendly adventures and great shopping.
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History & Roadside Nostalgia
Land of Lincoln
Presidential history meets classic Americana in Central Illinois. Visit the state capital, Springfield, and discover Abraham Lincoln's incredible legacy. Throughout the region, immerse yourself in museums, festivals and American-sized helpings of roadside nostalgia.
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Travel Inspiration
Discover the Middle of Everything
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Show more in category of Regional Getaways
Dog Friendly Hotel Stays in Illinois
On your next getaway, pack the pooch! As more vacationers travel with their furry friends, hotels are leaning into the trend and offering first-rate amenities and services.
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Show more in category of Arts, Culture & History
Lost in the Anderson Japanese Gardens
Escape to Rockford’s Anderson Japanese Gardens, one of the state’s unexpected oases. Read more about Lost in the Anderson Japanese Gardens -
Show more in category of Arts, Culture & History
Hometown Pride: Chicago's LGBTQIA+ Leaders on Their Favorite Summer Activities
You don't want to miss these LGBTQIA+ leaders share their favorite things to do in Chicago during the summer! Read more about Hometown Pride: Chicago's LGBTQIA+ Leaders on Their Favorite Summer Activities -
Show more in category of Family Fun
Spring Break Starts Here
Illinois offers so many ways to have a fun spring break. From city staycations to road trips to outdoor adventures, all you have to do is pick a destination and... Read more about Spring Break Starts Here -
Show more in category of Activities
The History of Chicago River Dyeing
If you visit Chicago during St. Patrick's Day, your eye will inevitably be caught by the bright emerald green Chicago River running through the city. 40 pounds of environmentally friendly... Read more about The History of Chicago River Dyeing -
Show more in category of Regional Getaways
Casey Illinois: The Little Town That Made It Big Â
Make a detour off Interstate-70 to Casey to grab a few selfies every bit as epic as the giant objects that fill the town. Read more about Casey Illinois: The Little Town That Made It Big  -
Show more in category of Arts, Culture & History
The Birthplace of the Road Trip
It's the things you see along the way that you remember most. The giant statue of the guy holding a hot dog. The drive-in where it’s not a day past... Read more about The Birthplace of the Road Trip -
Show more in category of Outdoors & Regional
Zero Emissions on the Great River Road
Great River Road Illinois, where zero emissions meet breathtaking beauty. Explore our curated guide to zero emissions. Read more about Zero Emissions on the Great River Road
Real People. Real Stories. Real Outdoors.
Featured
70 state parks and recreation areas, 2,900 lakes, 7 scenic byways. When it comes to Illinois, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure.
Plan Your Illinois Adventure
What are you interested in?
Local Stories
Hewn Bakery
Using a species of wheat that hadn’t been sown in the Midwest since the early 20th Century, baker Ellen King crafts artisanal bread with old-fashioned techniques.
Crown Brew Coffee Co
After spending years doing nonprofit work, Josh started his own community-minded business almost by accident.
Rock Island's Handcrafted Canoes
When Bruce and Sue Peterson relaunched one of America's most revered handcrafted canoe companies, they found the perfect spot in Rock Island, Illinois.
Tuscola's Famous Candy Kitchen
In Tuscola, two sisters inherited their grandfather's candy recipes—and carried on a family tradition.
Galena Cellars
When Robert and Joyce Lawlor followed their gut to a winemaking class in the early 1970s, they had no idea that their passion would eventually add something special to the historically charming patchwork of Galena, Illinois.
John Boos & Co.
The world’s most celebrated chefs do their best carving and chopping on hardwood boards handcrafted in Effingham, IL.
Discover Chicago
THE BEST BIG CITY IN THE U.S.
Plan your trip to one of the world's greatest cities, Chicago. Discover incredible food, architecture, attractions and cultural experiences. There's no city quite like it.
Explore Illinois by EV
ECO-FRIENDLY ROAD TRIPS
Illinois has over 1,200 public electric vehicle charging stations throughout the state which allow you to embark on unforgettable eco-friendly road trips, exploring scenic routes and hidden gems across the state.
Lack of Love in the Sunshine State? Come to Illinois!
We're proud to welcome all visitors all year round. Since some states are removing LGBTQIA+ sections from their websites, we've decided to make it even easier to find more information about how Illinois embraces inclusivity.
