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.

Common space at Cherry Tree Inn B&B in Woodstock, Illinois (photo courtesy of Cherry Tree Inn B&B)

Plan a couples getaway to this charming bed-and-breakfast in Woodstock, Illinois, that had a starring role in the 1993 film “Groundhog Day.”

This , attraction in Belleville, Illinois, hosts a drive-through Christmas display that tells the story the “Journey to Bethlehem.”

Period-appropriate table at Richard D. Driehaus Museum in Chicago, lllinois (photo by Steve Hall)

This historic home turned museum in Chicago, Illinois, provides an opportunity to explore the rich architectural details of the Nickerson Mansion, which was completed in 1883.

Several sock monkeys at The Sock Monkey Museum in Long Grove, Illinois (photo courtesy of The Sock Monkey Museum)

This quirky museum in Long Grove, Illinois, celebrates the stuffed animals that generations of mothers created for their children using a pair of easy-to-acquire socks.

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.