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Northern Illinois

Chicago & Beyond

Northern Illinois is home to Chicago, one of the world's great cities...

Chicago & Northern Illinois

... but the adventure and excitement in Northern Illinois continues beyond the city limits. Explore the best things to do in Chicago in our comprehensive guide, and read on for everything else you'll find in Northern Illinois.

Enjoy wine tasting in picturesque vineyards, before exploring stunning state park canyons and waterfalls. Relax on the beaches of Lake Michigan, and get warm welcomes from charming small towns. Culture and history await, too, along with family fun and adventure. There's no shortage of excitement in Northern Illinois.

Northern Illinois Towns & Cities

There are plenty of great towns and cities to explore in Northern Illinois! Rockford offers lush parks and a vibrant arts scene. Starved Rock, near Utica, features stunning waterfalls, canyons, and bluffs, with  hiking trails aplenty. Gurnee provides family-friendly entertainment and adventure with theme parks, water parks, and shopping. Elgin has a winning historic charm, alongside great shopping, dining, and cultural activities.

Aerial shot of the city of Rockford

Rockford

Things to do in Rockford
Three people staring up at a waterfall

Starved Rock & Utica

Things to do near Starved Rock, Utica
Rollercoaster

Gurnee

Things to do near Gurnee
Family outside walking on a sunny day.

Elgin

Things to do near Elgin
Exterior of the Woodstock Opera House in Woodstock

Other Northern Illinois towns

There's more to explore! Crystal Lake is known for its beaches and outdoor recreation areas. In DeKalb, you can tour a historic mansion or enjoy Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area. Evanston sits right on Lake Michigan and is home to Northwestern University. Woodstock's quaint town square and historic opera house are right out of a movie. In Naperville, enjoy the riverwalk, or step back in time at the Naper Settlement. Explore Winthrop Harbor's marina on Lake Michigan, or the Fox River from McHenry.

Looking for Galena?

It's in Northern Illinois, but we cover that over in neighboring Great Rivers Country! Explore our guide to Galena, and while you're there, learn what else you can explore along the rivers and roads of western Illinois.

Northern Illinois Road Trips

Northern Illinois is a wonderful place to explore by car! Follow one of our Northern Illinois road trip itineraries to plan your perfect vacation or long weekend. Whether you're uncovering historic towns, enjoying local wines, exploring natural beauty, or having fun with the family, each itinerary will give you experiences to remember.

Explore the outdoors on a drive along Fox River or the Lake Michigan coast, experience culture and adventure along the Heritage Corridor, discover breathtaking scenery at state parks, and enjoy friendly welcomes from our Northern Illinois communities. Let's drive!

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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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    Spellbound in the Suburbs

    Explore the beautiful fall colors in Illinois with this 3-day itinerary. Go past the city limits during fall, the skyscrapers give way to apple orchards and pumpkin patches. Read more about Spellbound in the Suburbs

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    Tour of Spookiness & Charm

    Every fall icon has its spooky counterpart. Take a trip that embraces both sides of Fall. Stroll through a Japanese Garden, then go on a walking ghost tour. Hike with... Read more about Tour of Spookiness & Charm

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    Adventure in the Fox River Valley

    On the western outskirts of Chicago, between the cities of Elgin and Aurora, is a scenic stretch of Fox River that might be one of the best-kept secrets in Illinois. Read more about Adventure in the Fox River Valley

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    Experience Geneva, IL

    Adorned in historic charm, this scenic community offers an array of unique attractions, quality entertainment and affordable accommodations. Located 45 miles west of Chicago, Geneva is a quick getaway from... Read more about Experience Geneva, IL

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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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    Meet the Masters of their Craft

    Illinois makers in south Chicagoland are crafting some pretty wonderful things. There are handmade guitars, glass art made with ancient techniques, and sparkling wine from Illinois grapes. So grab a... Read more about Meet the Masters of their Craft

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    Homegrown Artisanal Tour

    Illinois makers in the Chicagoland area are crafting some pretty wonderful things to drink. Read more about Homegrown Artisanal Tour

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    Heritage Corridor Adventure

    Heritage Corridor adventure awaits you! Appreciate the history, nature and food on this road trip. Read more about Heritage Corridor Adventure

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    The Wright Stuff

    Illinois is a larger than life gallery filled with many of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces. Take the self-guided tour through 13 of his most renowned buildings, including two UNESCO... Read more about The Wright Stuff

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    Immersed in Hispanic Cultural Heritage

    Enjoy authentic Mexican food, experience world-class public art and support local Latino-owned businesses during this exciting three-day getaway. Read more about Immersed in Hispanic Cultural Heritage

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    Explore The Lake Michigan Coast in Lake County

    Take a coastal road trip along Lake Michigan taking in beaches, harbors, birdwatching and a little shopping. Created by the local experts at Lake County Illinois. Read more about Explore The Lake Michigan Coast in Lake County

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    DeKalb County is Calling All Couples

    More than just a sandwich in Sandwich... from golfing to award-winning whiskey tasting, the south end of DeKalb County is a great couples destination. Read more about DeKalb County is Calling All Couples

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    Gal Pal Escape to Northwest Illinois

    Tired of taking care of everyone but you? Then gather your gal pals for this three-day getaway to Northwest Illinois to give you a break from your routine! Lunch on... Read more about Gal Pal Escape to Northwest Illinois

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    Family Fun Never Stops in the Rockford Region

    If you’re looking for a family trip experience filled with just the right amount of adventure, thrill, learning and all-around fun, then you’ve come to the right place. The Rockford... Read more about Family Fun Never Stops in the Rockford Region

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    A Family Getaway to the Elgin Area

    Summer is a great time to escape with the family. Visit the Elgin area to relax, have fun, unwind and enjoy the season with your loved ones. We’ve already done... Read more about A Family Getaway to the Elgin Area

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    Girlfriend Getaway! Relax. Reconnect. Rejuvenate in Dupage.

    Time for that over-due girlfriend getaway! Relax and reconnect with the girls. Read more about Girlfriend Getaway! Relax. Reconnect. Rejuvenate in Dupage.

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    The Illinois River Runs Through It

    Take a trip along the banks of the Illinois and discover natural beauties along the way. Historic homes, breweries, cozy cabins and wineries along the way! Read more about The Illinois River Runs Through It

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    Beauty just Beyond Chicago

    Though it’s more famous for its cultural attractions, Chicago and Beyond is also a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the changing seasons. Read more about Beauty just Beyond Chicago

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    Beauty Beyond The Bean

    Dive into winter activities at Starved Rock & Matthiessen State Parks. Go ice climbing on spectacular ice waterfalls, eagle watching or cross-country skiing. Read more about Beauty Beyond The Bean

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    Wind, Water, Art & Spirits Adventure in NW Illinois

    Our region of NW Illinois is an easy two-hour drive from Chicago and this two-day day adventure has no shortage of thrills. Read more about Wind, Water, Art & Spirits Adventure in NW Illinois

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    A Dose of Nature in DuPage

    Safely tucked away just 20 miles west of Chicago, enjoy picturesque main streets, experience legendary names in arts and culture, carve your path along 500 miles of trails and indulge... Read more about A Dose of Nature in DuPage

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    Road Trip To Rosemont

    Road trip ideas in Rosemont! Recommendations from the local experts of Rosemont to ensure you have the best experience. Read more about Road Trip To Rosemont

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    A real. Original. Experience in the Rockford Region

    Explore museums, visit unique shops, find outdoor adventures, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, take in some arts and culture, or relax at one of... Read more about A real. Original. Experience in the Rockford Region

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    Kankakee County and the Great Outdoors!

    Whether your trip includes hiking, biking or horseback riding your way through the Kankakee River State Park, a kayak trip with friends or a deep sea (scuba) dive, you're sure... Read more about Kankakee County and the Great Outdoors!

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    A Weekend Stay in St. Charles

    Come stay in St. Charles, a thriving, cultural town located along the scenic Fox River. Find a variety of fun, memory-making activities that will have you ready to come visit... Read more about A Weekend Stay in St. Charles

    Illinois Made: Northern Illinois' Best Local Products

    In the towns and communities of Northern Illinois, people are brewing, baking, distilling, and making some amazing things. Be sure to stop by on your visit!

    Browse all Northern Illinois makers

    The exterior of the building covered in orange leaves during the fall

    Northern Illinois Wineries

    Northern Illinois is famed for its wineries. The climate and soils produce unique, delicious wines, from a range of beautiful wineries. They range from family-owned estates, to newer boutique vineyards.

    Discover Northern Illinois' wineries
    A bridge crosses a pond surrounded by fall foliage

    Rockford

    Places to Visit in Northern Illinois

    Rockford is a great Northern Illinois choice if you're looking to immerse yourself in both natural beauty and cultural experiences. Get in touch with yourself and the world around you by wandering the peaceful Anderson Japanese Gardens, or by taking in the vibrant art at the Rockford Art Museum. Expand your mind by visiting a T. Rex at the Burpee Museum or catching a live performance at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Stretch yourself and enjoy the outdoors by hiking, biking, or fishing at Rock Cut State Park.

    The exterior of a lit house
    Laurent House, Rockford
    Inside of museum
    Burpee Museum of Natural History - Rockford
    Aerial shot of the city of Rockford
    City of Rockford
    Person pouring coffee
    Coffee - Roasting18 - Rockford

    Explore more things to do in Rockford

    Three people staring up at a waterfall

    Starved Rock and Utica

    Places to Visit in Northern Illinois

    Explore Starved Rock State Park to take in some of Illinois' best scenery. Take a hike through the woods, check out the sandstone cliffs, marvel at the waterfalls, and keep an eye out for the eagles! When you're done exploring, Utica's just down the road with comfy places to stay, local shops, artisan makers, and good eats. The Northern Illinois combo of Starved Rock State Park and Utica is a beautiful mix of outdoor fun and small-town charm, all in one trip.

    Wine glasses and bottles on a table
    Winery - August Hill - Utica
    Pair of Bison Buffalo Rock State Park Utica
    A waterfall
    State Park - Matthiessen - Utica
    A bridge stretching between two wooded areas, beneath a blue sky
    Bridge between trees - Matthiessen State Park - Utica

    Discover more things to do near Starved Rock and Utica

    A person wake boarding sunset
    Wakeboarding - Quarry Cable Park - Crystal Lake
    Line of storefronts down a main street in downtown DeKalb
    Line of storefronts - Downtown DeKalb - DeKalb
    Overhead shot of downtown Geneva.
    Overhead shot of Geneva
    An old cabin house
    Naper Settlement - Naperville
    Beach
    Beach - Evanston
    Gear next to a river
    Fox River Valley - Aurora
    Family outside walking on a sunny day.
    Family Walking - Elgin
    Old Joliet Prison
    Old Prison - Joliet

    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.

    Travel Inspiration for Chicago & Beyond

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      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

    • Show more in category of Inspiration

      Pouring On The Charm

      A vibrant city surrounded in culture and a romantic charming small town. Read more about Pouring On The Charm

    • Show more in category of Inspiration

      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

    • Show more in category of Inspiration

      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

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