The Best Things To Do In Illinois

A long pier by Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers a great stroll with views of Chicago's skyline and the lake. It's free and also hosts many cultural events, celebrations, and activities, making it perfect for a budget-friendly outing.

There's art to see, fireworks to watch, and fishing at the North Dock. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the lively atmosphere and beauty of this iconic spot. Strolling through this place is one of the best things to do in IL.

Nestled within a bustling urban landscape, Millennium Park is a vibrant oasis that offers a plethora of free attractions and events. Highlights include the renowned Cloud Gate, "The Bean," the interactive Crown Fountain, and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

Visitors can enjoy complimentary concerts, outdoor fitness sessions, and ice skating in winter. The tranquil Lurie Garden and McCormick Tribune Ice Rink add to the charm. Don't miss the Summer Music Series, Summer Film Series, and annual festivals.

Located along the shores of Lake Michigan from Waukegan to the Wisconsin state line, Illinois Beach State Park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. With two separate areas, it features the only remaining beach ridge shoreline in the state.

Visitors can enjoy six miles of beaches, dunes, marshes, forests, and diverse wildlife. Amenities include campgrounds, a resort, picnic areas, trails, and a visitor's center. Additionally, the park hosts free educational activities at its nature center.

An intriguing replica of Italy's Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Leaning Tower of Niles stands in Illinoi. Built in 1934, it's about half the size, reaching 94 feet tall with a noticeable lean. Industrialist Robert Ilg constructed it as part of a recreational park, hiding water filtration tanks within.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the tower's historic charm and capture memorable photographs. Situated in a plaza with four fountains, a reflecting pool, and a vintage "telefono" booth, it's a popular roadside attraction in Illinois.

A serene and architecturally significant destination, the Baháʼí House of Worship embodies principles of unity and spirituality. Completed in 1953, it's the second ever built and the oldest surviving Baháʼí House of Worship.

With its nine-sided structure, gardens, and decorative elements, it reflects the Baháʼí belief in religious harmony. Open to all, it's celebrated as one of Illinois' Seven Wonders. Visitors can enjoy its tranquility and the message of unity and peace it represents.

In Gurnee, Six Flags Great America covers 304 acres, offering 46 rides, including 15 roller coasters and 3 water rides. It's known as the "Thrill Capital of the Midwest" and is open seasonally. The park hosts annual events like Fright Fest and Kids Boo Fest.

Adjacent to the park is Hurricane Harbor Chicago, a 20-acre water park with 25 slides and attractions. With its variety of entertainment, this amusement park guarantees a fun experience for everyone.

Space enthusiasts can immerse themselves in an educational adventure at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago. Highlights include the historic Atwood Sphere, showcasing the 1913 Chicago night sky, and the Space Visualization Lab, where experts create virtual universe explorations.

Sky shows cover topics like the Moon, the search for a ninth planet, and solar system tours. Special events like "Adler at Night" feature hands-on activities and state-of-the-art theaters, making the visit one of the most amazing things in Illinois.

Offering a variety of activities for visitors, Winnetka is known for its forest preserve land, parks, and historical sites. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, birdwatching, picnicking, and hiking in the forest preserve and parks. The Winnetka Historical Society provides insights into the area's history through interactive exhibits, documentaries, and virtual tours.

Additionally, the village boasts a rich cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Whether exploring nature or delving into the area's history and culture, Winnetka has something to offer for every visitor.

Discover the natural wonders of Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, a haven of rolling hills, lakes, creeks, and rugged bluffs. Highlights include the Garden of the Gods with its unique geological formations and the Rim Rock Recreational Trail offering spectacular views.

Don't miss attractions like the Observation Trail, Rim Rock Hike, and Ox-Lot Cave. Discover historical sites linked to the Trail of Tears and the Underground Railroad. Seeking solitude? Explore one of the forest's seven wilderness areas.

A beautiful public garden and outdoor museum in Illinois, the Morton Arboretum boasts over 4,100 types of trees. Visitors can explore the grounds, and engage in exhibitions, classes, and special events suitable for all ages. It's a tranquil place to stroll and immerse oneself in nature.

Additionally, its Herbarium houses a vast collection of plant specimens, aiding researchers in various fields. Conveniently situated in Chicago's western suburb, it's easily accessible for visitors.

Renowned for hiking and exploration, Starved Rock State Park beckons visitors with its 13 miles of well-marked trails open year-round. Dogs are welcome on leashes, allowing families to enjoy the park's 18 canyons carved by glaciers and fascinating rock formations, primarily St. Peter sandstone.

Among its trails, the Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook Trail is a favorite, while the River Trail, Bluff Trail, and Illinois Canyon Loop offer the longest trek. Conveniently located less than 100 miles from downtown Chicago, it's a perfect day trip destination.

An authentic Dutch windmill situated in Geneva, within the Fabyan Forest Preserve, the Fabyan Windmill is a five-story wooden smock mill standing at 68 feet tall. Managed by the Kane County Forest Preserve District, this historic site dates back to the 1850s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors can enjoy tours of this unique attraction on weekends, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history. With no admission fee, it's a perfect stop for those intrigued by historic and cultural landmarks.

A renowned museum in downtown Illinois, the Art Institute Of Chicago offers a diverse collection spanning centuries and continents. It's an accessible and engaging destination for families and art enthusiasts. So, if you are looking for the best things to do and see in Illinois, this museum is something that you cannot miss.

The museum features a variety of exhibitions, including a Picasso show. Visitors can enjoy a range of dining options, from casual fare to light bites, and purchase souvenirs at the on-site shops.

A 319-acre public park along Lake Michigan, Grant Park hosts many cultural landmarks such as Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute of Chicago, and a portion of the Museum Campus that includes the Field Museum and the Shedd Aquarium.

Visitors can stroll along the 18-mile Lakefront Trail or rent a bike. The park also hosts many events and festivals, including The Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Chicago.

Offering an array of innovative and educational events and programs, the Garfield Park Conservatory presents an enriching experience. Its diverse offerings encompass nature, arts, and educational programs, cultural performances, hands-on classes, unique fundraisers, and educational demonstrations.

There are also activities for kids, such as Budding Botanists and Art After Dark. Located in Chicago, the conservatory is a great place to see and learn about nature.

Spanning 12 acres in Rockford, the Anderson Japanese Gardens offers a serene escape inspired by Japanese tranquility. Visitors can stroll along winding paths, admire koi-filled ponds, and enjoy cascading waterfalls.

Hosting cultural events like tea ceremonies and bonsai displays, it's a true cultural treasure. Open seasonally, the garden offers amenities such as a gift shop and dining options. It's a place where visitors can lose themselves in natural beauty and serenity, promising a memorable experience.

In the heart of Chicago, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a free attraction dating back to 1868. It's home to hundreds of animals from around the world and offers top-notch habitats. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters while prioritizing animal welfare.

Interactive programs like Groom the Goats and Feed the Chickens add to the experience. With free parking and dining options, it's perfect for families and animal lovers. Plus, the zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation and education.

Visitors in Illinois can discover a diverse array of marine animals at Shedd Aquarium. From saltwater fishes and beluga whales to sea lions and penguins, there's a lot to see. The aquarium is committed to conservation, using its animals to support these efforts.

Known for its humane treatment of animals, it prioritizes education and conservation over entertainment. Guests can explore educational exhibits, interact with animals, and attend shows that emphasize the importance of marine life and conservation efforts.