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.

Starved Rock State Park in Oglesbay, Illinois (photo courtesy of destination)

See canyons, waterfalls, natural springs, sandstone overhangs and breathtaking views along 13 miles of trails in Oglesby, Illinois.

Pizza City, USA Tours in Chicago, Illinois (Labriola Chicago pizza photo courtesy of Pizza City, USA Tours)

James Beard Award-winning journalist Steve Dolinsky’s food tours show Chicago has much more to offer than deep-dish pies. 

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, Illinois (photo courtesy of destination)

Located 150 miles west of Chicago and 6 miles south of the historic town of Galena, Illinois, this destination makes for a great winter escape. 

It’s a breeze finding fun things to do in the Windy City, from an architectural river tour to taking in a game at one of baseball’s most famous fields. 

From the place where Harland Sanders perfected his fried chicken to an examination of West Virginia’s famous cryptid, these unusual museums offer a perfect pit stop.

The World’s Largest Mailbox in Casey, Illinois (photo courtesy of Casey Chamber of Commerce)

Creativity comes in all shapes and sizes, and these quirky, clever and insightful destinations explore inspiration in a variety of ways. 

From a living-history site that shares the lives of the state’s early settlers to an attraction housing artifacts from our nation’s 16th president, here are ways to explore the Prairie State’s past.

From a supernaturally infused Detroit restaurant to a Kentucky trail of paranormal discovery, these spots should make your spooky season to-do list.