Illinois is a state with adventures for everyone. From the bustling city of Chicago to historic Springfield and incredible outdoor adventures in Southern and Western Illinois, our state welcomes travelers of all interests to discover unforgettable experiences that'll only leave you wanting more.
Something for Everyone
Explore Regions in Illinois
![The Chicago skyline and Lincoln park at sunrise](/assets/Images/Landscapes-+Gardens-+-State-Parks/Spring/Summer/Lincoln-Park-Chicago-Skyline-Sunrise__FocusFillWyItMC4wOSIsIi0wLjQ4Iiw0NDAsNTUwXQ.jpeg)
Chicago & Beyond
![Overhead view of fall colors on the Great River Road next to the Mississippi river](/assets/Images/Landscapes-+Gardens-+-State-Parks/Fall/Mississippi-River-Great-River-Road__FocusFillWyIwLjAwIiwiMC4wMCIsNDQwLDU1MF0.jpg)
Great Rivers Country
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Land of Lincoln
![A woman on a zipline in Shawnee National Forest](/assets/Images/Outdoor-Activities/Spring/Summer/Woman-on-Zipline-Shawnee-Bluffs__FocusFillWyIwLjAwIiwiMC4wMCIsNDQwLDU1MF0.jpg)
Trails to Adventure
![The Chicago skyline and Lincoln park at sunrise](/assets/Images/Landscapes-+Gardens-+-State-Parks/Spring/Summer/Lincoln-Park-Chicago-Skyline-Sunrise__FocusFillWyItMC4wOSIsIi0wLjQ4Iiw2NDAsMzYwXQ.jpeg)
Chicago & Beyond
NORTHERN ILLINOIS
Voted the best big city in the US, Chicago is known for its iconic skyline and world-class museums, architecture, food and cultural scene. Enjoy sandy beaches, lakefront trails and discover the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with something new to offer. Explore just beyond the city for stunning outdoor escapes, family-friendly adventures and great shopping.
Highlights
![Overhead view of fall colors on the Great River Road next to the Mississippi river](/assets/Images/Landscapes-+Gardens-+-State-Parks/Fall/Mississippi-River-Great-River-Road__FocusFillWyIwLjAwIiwiMC4wMCIsNjQwLDM2MF0.jpg)
Great Rivers Country
WESTERN ILLINOIS
Take a scenic drive on the Great River Road that follows the Mississippi River along the western border of Illinois, framed by gorgeous limestone river bluffs. Relax in charming towns nestled by the river for beautiful views, outdoor adventures, great food and fascinating history.
Highlights
![The sunrise shining over water and a car driving down road beside it](/assets/Images/Scenic-Drives-+-Roadside-Attractions/Road-Great-River-Road-Hartford-to-Grafton__FocusFillWyIwLjQ5IiwiMC4zNyIsNDQwLDU1MF0.jpeg)
Cruise the Great River Road
This gorgeous river drive offers everything from outdoor adventure and quiet charm, to presidential and colonial history.
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Land of Lincoln
CENTRAL ILLINOIS
Presidential history meets classic Americana in Central Illinois. Visit the state capital, Springfield, and discover Abraham Lincoln's incredible legacy. Throughout the region, immerse yourself in museums, festivals and American-sized helpings of roadside nostalgia.
Highlights
![People visiting the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum](/assets/Images/Arts-+-Culture/Interior-Abraham-Lincoln-Presidential-Library-and-Museum-Springfield__FocusFillWyIwLjI2IiwiMC4yOCIsNDQwLDU1MF0.jpeg)
Abraham Lincoln Historic Sites
Illinois has more Lincoln historic sites than anywhere in the country! Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum and explore the many other Lincoln attractions in the region.
![A large old styled building](/assets/Images/Historic/Old-State-Capitol-Building-Springfield__FocusFillWyIwLjAxIiwiLTAuNDQiLDQ0MCw1NTBd.jpeg)
Old State Capitol, Springfield
The Old State Capitol is a reconstruction of Illinois' fifth statehouse. It was here Lincoln spoke the immortal words, “A house divided against itself cannot stand…” as the threat of a Civil War loomed.
![A woman on a zipline in Shawnee National Forest](/assets/Images/Outdoor-Activities/Spring/Summer/Woman-on-Zipline-Shawnee-Bluffs__FocusFillWyIwLjAwIiwiMC4wMCIsNjQwLDM2MF0.jpg)
Trails to Adventure
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Get outdoors and explore! Whether you're looking for ziplining, golfing, hiking, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding or kayaking, you can find it here in Southern Illinois. Relax at wineries and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and vistas of Shawnee National Forest.
Highlights
![Woman standing on a large rock overlooking the forest below](/assets/Images/Outdoor-Activities/Spring/Summer/Shawnee-National-Forest-Herdo-v3__FocusFillWyIwLjM1IiwiLTAuNjAiLDQ0MCw1NTBd.jpeg)
Shawnee National Forest & Garden of the Gods
Shawnee National Forest is a must-visit for lovers of the outdoors. Explore Garden of the Gods, famous rock formations that provide panoramic views of the ancient forest.
While You're on the Road
Top Road Trips
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Show more in category of Family Fun
Instant Childhood Memories
How do you avoid road trip questions? Go down a speeding waterslide. Head to the country to feed adorable animals. Explore captivating museum exhibits. Kids, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles, everyone... Read more about Instant Childhood Memories -
Show more in category of Architecture
Enter the Architectural Revolution
Explore some of the best architecture in Illinois on this road trip. See majestic skyscrapers to some of Frank Lloyd Wright's best work. Read more about Enter the Architectural Revolution -
Show more in category of Outdoors & Regional
Zero Emissions on the Great River Road
Great River Road Illinois, where zero emissions meet breathtaking beauty. Explore our curated guide to zero emissions. Read more about Zero Emissions on the Great River Road -
Show more in category of Offbeat Illinois
Roadside Distractions
Things can get a little unusual in Illinois. White squirrels, pink elephants, sasquatches, giants, supermen—they all call our state home. So if you’re the type of traveler who thinks normal... Read more about Roadside Distractions -
Show more in category of From Local Experts
Fresh Family Fun on Chicago's North Shore
Beaches, bowling, biking and being together are ingredients for a perfect family getaway in Chicago's North Shore. Read more about Fresh Family Fun on Chicago's North Shore -
Show more in category of Arts, Culture & History
Illinois African American History & Heritage
Experience a wealth of African American culture throughout the Land of Lincoln. Read more about Illinois African American History & Heritage