A World-class City with Nearby Adventures
Chicago & Northern Illinois
Chicago may be known as the Second City, but it’s truly first class in all things culture. For globally influential architecture, incomparable museums and theaters, and award-winning restaurants and culinary experiences, there is no city on Earth quite like Chicago—it's voted the best big city in the US for a reason! And the excitement doesn’t stop at the city limits; just outside the city, there’s plenty more outdoor adventures, amusement parks, family-friendly activities and even the start of the historic Route 66.
Chicago
Northern Illinois
Explore the Magnificent Mile’s shopping mecca, take in the festive atmosphere of Navy Pier, do some serious museum hopping and sample cuisine from around the world. Is it any wonder Chicago appears on the short lists of travel mags everywhere?
Rockford
Northern Illinois
Rockford greets visitors with a mix of history, art and natural beauty. Explore a nature museum featuring a T. Rex, stroll through Asian gardens and discover work from David Chihuly and Ansel Adams at at the Rockford Art Museum.
Starved Rock, Utica
Northern Illinois
Starved Rock State Park, with its serene waterfalls and beautiful lodge, offers a quiet retreat for visitors. Explore this lush forest, located just minutes from wineries, quaint shops and restaurants in Utica.
Gurnee
Northern Illinois
Just north of Chicago in Gurnee, you’ll find a nirvana of theme parks and shopping. Race down a roller coaster, splash through a water park and shop the largest outlet mall in Illinois, packed with more than 200 stores.
Travel Inspiration for Chicago & Beyond
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Show more in category of Chicago
Chicago Theatre Scene
If you love a good show, when it comes to amazing theater, Chicago is where you want to be. Your trip to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the city’s... Read more about Chicago Theatre Scene -
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A Guide to Grant Park: Chicago's Front Yard
Sitting on a prime stretch of land along lake Michigan, Grant Park encompasses other notable parks and attractions. And, thanks to Chicagoans who advocated to protect it in 1835, the... Read more about A Guide to Grant Park: Chicago's Front Yard -
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Chicago's Latino Neighborhoods
Explore the vibrant cuisine and authentic culture in Chicago's Latino neighborhoods. From Pilsen to Humboldt Park, here’s a look into what to eat and see. Read more about Chicago's Latino Neighborhoods -
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Instant Childhood Memories
How do you avoid road trip questions? Go down a speeding waterslide. Head to the country to feed adorable animals. Explore captivating museum exhibits. Kids, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles, everyone... Read more about Instant Childhood Memories -
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Pouring On The Charm
A vibrant city surrounded in culture and a romantic charming small town. Read more about Pouring On The Charm -
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Outdoor Adventures in the Heritage Corridor
In the Heritage Corridor, getting your family out in nature and enjoying the fresh air is easy and fun! Take a drive or plan your stay-cation for a weekend of... Read more about Outdoor Adventures in the Heritage Corridor -
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Off the Grid
Uncover the secrets of Starved Rock State Park, from idyllic hiking to paddling on the Illinois River, for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Read more about Off the Grid -
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Splash into Illinois’ Largest Waterpark in Aurora area
Dive in to a weekend getaway in the Aurora Area, where you can visit the largest waterpark in Illinois and round out your stay with epic burgers, outdoor adventure, and... Read more about Splash into Illinois’ Largest Waterpark in Aurora area