Illinois

Travelers flock to the shores of Lake Michigan to explore all that Chicago has to offer, whether it’s a baseball pilgrimage to Wrigley Field, a shopping trip on the Magnificent Mile or the chance to see some of world’s most famous paintings at Art Institute of Chicago. But there is much more to Illinois, whether you want to spend time in Springfield, where Abraham Lincoln spent most of his adult life and is remembered at a world-class museum bearing his name, or explore outdoor recreation destinations across the state.

Clock Tower at Pullman National Historical Park in Chicago, Illinois (photo by National Park Service / Daniel Pels)

Opened on Chicago, Illinois’ south side in 1880, the site of The Pullman Co.’s railcar factory and planned community shares the story of this historic neighborhood. 

Dad and son at John Deere Pavilion in Moline, Illinois (photo courtesy of John Deere)

Explore a collection of this iconic company’s farm equipment, from vintage tractors to electric-powered machinery, in Moline, Illinois.

Bison and elk at Wildlife Prairie Park in Hanna City, Illinois (photo by Brielle Kuchinski)

Encounter over 180 animals at this Hanna City, Illinois, destination that is home to coyotes, cougars, black bears, bison and more.

Apple River Fort State Historic Site in Elizabeth, Illinois (photo by Matt Haas)

Explore life on the Midwestern frontier in Elizabeth, Illinois, at this living-history destination with activities, costumed reenactors and special events. 

Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois (photo courtesy of Visit Hendricks County)

Explore marine life in Chicago, Illinois, at this 422,000-square-foot aquarium that is the third-largest attraction of its kind in the Western Hemisphere.

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in Chicago Illinois (photo by Marcin Cymmer)

Once a jazz club, this Chicago, Illinois, spot elevates the steakhouse experience with prime beef, great cocktails and shareable desserts. 

Candlelit Roman bath at Aire Ancient Baths in Chicago, Illinois (photo courtesy of Aire Ancient Baths)

Enjoy the ancient Roman practice of “taking to the waters” at this luxurious space in Chicago, Illinois, that is dedicated to tranquility and relaxation. 

People swimming in giant sprinkle pool at Museum Of Ice Cream in Chicago, Illinois (photo courtesy of Museum Of Ice Cream)

This attraction housed in Chicago, Illinois’ historic Tribune Tower offers 14 installations, including the chance to swim in a pool of giant sprinkles. 

People standing on train platform next to red trolley car at Fox River Trolley Museum in South Elgin, Illinois (photo courtesy of Fox River Trolley Museum)

Go for train rides and explore a collection of antique rail cars at this South Elgin, Illinois, museum. 

Torture instruments at the Medieval Torture Museum in Chicago, Illinois (photo courtesy of Medieval Torture Museum)

This macabre museum in Chicago showcases more than 100 torture devices — 30% of which are original to their time, while the rest are replicas that give visitors an idea of their craft and use.