fun things to do in illinois
Illinois, a state in the heart of the American Midwest, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Here are some fun things to do in Illinois:
- Visit Chicago: The state’s largest city is known for its iconic skyscrapers, museums, and attractions like:
- Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and Skydeck Chicago
- Navy Pier and Lake Michigan cruises
- Millennium Park, including the famous "Cloud Gate" sculpture (also known as "The Bean")
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Shedd Aquarium and Lincoln Park Zoo
- Explore Illinois State Parks: Illinois has many beautiful state parks, including:
- Starved Rock State Park, featuring canyons, hiking trails, and waterfalls
- Illinois Caverns State Park, with guided cave tours
- Shawnee State Forest, offering hiking, horseback riding, and scenic drives
- Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: Located in Springfield, this museum honors the life and legacy of the 16th U.S. President.
- Take a brewery tour: Illinois is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with notable breweries like:
- Lagunitas Brewing Company in Chicago
- Goose Island Beer Company in Chicago
- Half Acre Beer Company in Chicago
- Attend a sports event: Illinois is passionate about its sports teams, including:
- Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field
- Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field
- Chicago Bears at Soldier Field
- Chicago Bulls at the United Center
- Visit the Cozy Dog Drive In: A Springfield institution since 1959, this casual eatery serves up a unique Illinois specialty: the Cozy Dog (a hot dog on a stick, dipped in a secret batter).
- Go wine tasting: The Illinois wine industry is growing, with many vineyards and wineries offering tours and tastings, such as:
- Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery
- Kankakee River Valley Wine Trail
- Shawnee Hills Wine Country
- Take a scenic drive: Illinois has several scenic byways, including:
- Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway, which passes through several charming towns and villages
- Ohio River Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of the Ohio River
- Visit the historical town of Galena: This picturesque town, nestled in the northwest part of the state, features many well-preserved buildings from the mid-19th century.
- Experience the Illinois State Fair: Held annually in Springfield, the fair showcases the state’s agricultural heritage, live music, and great food.
These are just a few examples of the many fun things to do in Illinois. Depending on your interests, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to explore!
