From Rockford to Chicago to all of the quaint towns in between, Illinois continuously proves to be a destination spot for those traveling to the midwest. The big cities provide all you could want in the realm of tours and entertainment. In Chicago, you will find Millennium Park, Art Institute, and the beautifully thriving zoo! Stop by Springfield to visit the home site of Abraham Lincoln. And as you roll through Rockford, make sure to visit the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens to relax in the organic beauty. With so many cities and such a variety of activities in each, you should keep reading to find the best things to do in Illinois.
1. Tour the remarkable Ulysses S. Grant Home
This beautiful brick home located in Galena, Illinois, belonged to the former president and Civil War general, Ulysses S. Grant. Built in 1860, the home was gifted to Grant in 1865 and became his and his family’s home until his election to the presidency in 1868 when he could only occasionally return. The house belonged to the family until 1931 when it was turned over to the state. Today, guests can walk through the renovated house and see much of the original furniture which belonged to the Grant family, as well as learn the vital history of such an American icon.
Ulysses S. Grant Home
Address: 500 Bouthillier St, Galena, IL 61036
Website: U.S. Grant Home State Historic Site
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 9am - 4:45pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 5 USD
2. Marvel at the artworks at Art Institute of Chicago
Whether you’re planning a middle school field trip or just want to wander the halls alone without keeping track of the time, the Art Institute of Chicago provides something for everyone. Take in the Impressionist painting, wonder at the contemporary exhibits, and gain inspiration from the photographs. The museum also offers tours throughout the day to further educate their guests, as well as holds classes for children and teens alike, so there’s no way for anyone to get bored here!
Art Institute of Chicago
Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Website: Art Institute of Chicago
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 10:30am - 5pm; Thu: 10:30am - 8pm; Fri - Sun: 10:30am - 5pm
Price: 25 USD
3. Camp at Giant City State Park
Giant City State Park is a natural wonderland with nearly 80 different types of trees, hundreds of various wildflowers, and impressive sandstone structures, some of which are over 12,000 years old. Plan your cozy stay in one of the cabins at the Giant City Lodge, or pitch your tent for an adventurous night under the stars. From fishing to hiking, to rappelling cliffs, to horseback riding, Giant City State Park is nothing short of an outdoor lover’s dream!
Giant City State Park
Address: 235 Giant City Rd, Makanda, IL 62958
Website: Giant City State Park
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
Price: Approx 20 USD per night
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Have a photoshoot at Millennium Park
Known for the iconic mirror bean, Millennium Park has become one of the top tourist hot spots in Chicago! But the bean isn’t the only exciting thing here (even though you should definitely snap a photo, particularly with that impressive skyline behind you!). Millennium Park displays all kinds of architectural phenomena you won’t want to miss, plus festivals, art shows, exhibits, and concerts throughout the year, so you’ll always be well entertained!
Millennium Park
Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
Website: Millennium Park
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
5. Visit the amazing Dana Thomas House
The Dana-Thomas House will be open its regular hours, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last tour leaves at 3:45 PM) on Sunday, April 21. Bring your guests and tour this local gem!
Posted by Dana-Thomas House Springfield, IL on Friday, 19 April 2019
Located in Springfield, the Dana Thomas House is significant not only because of its incredible design by the architect Frank Lloyd Wright but because of the many things which Susan Lawrence Dana, its original owner, used it for. The home, with its 35 rooms, was widely used for entertaining. It began as a place for the arts, but as time went on, turned into more of a political hub. Today, guests can see all these magnificent rooms and marvel at the largest collection (over 400 pieces) of Frank Lloyd Wrights glass art pieces in the U.S.
Dana Thomas House
Address: 300 E Lawrence Ave, Springfield, IL 62703
Website: Dana Thomas House
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 10am - 2pm; Wed - Sun: 9am - 5pm
Price: 10 USD (suggested donation)
6. Jog at Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens
Did you know native plants are perfect for pollinators because they are adapted to the local climate and soils and provide the pollinator insects with everything they need?
Posted by Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens on Wednesday, 19 June 2019
Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is a treasure trove of ecosystems, featuring wetlands, prairie, and of course a 10-acre (4 hectares) lake on which, during certain months, you can take your canoe or kayaks out for a dip! Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the lake, maybe seeing some wildlife along the way! And if you have little explorers with you, visit the nature center where they can encounter reptiles and animals and learn from the interactive exhibits.
Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens
Address: 7402 Lake Katherine Dr, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Website: Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
7. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a fun family outing
What better way to spend a sunny Chicago day than roaming through the world of animals without leaving the city? Lincoln Park Zoo offers you just that opportunity with its wide array of creatures from Asia to Africa to South America’s rainforest. Not only are the animals wildly entertaining, but Lincoln Park Zoo is continuously offering interactive opportunities, from animal feedings to meet and greets and even an occasional concert! So come in and experience the animals up and close!
Lincoln Park Zoo
Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Website: Lincoln Park Zoo
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6:30pm
Price: Free
8. Admire the Leaning Tower of Niles
The Leaning Tower of Niles is a must-see regardless of whether you’re driving through Niles, on a road trip to see America’s weirdest roadside attractions, or are simply needing some Italian vibes added to your stay! Based on the internationally famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, this half-sized replica was built nearly 70 years ago and dedicated to astronomer Galileo. Unlike its Italian relative, however, this tower was designed with an intentional leaning structure, a unique manipulation of steel and concrete, that provides an experience both entertaining and educating.
The Leaning Tower of Niles
Address: 6300 W Touhy Ave, Niles, IL 60714
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5am - 10pm; Sat: 5am - 7pm Sun: 6am - 5pm
9. Enjoy the city views from 360 Chicago
Tucked in the John Hancock building, 1000 feet (304.8 meters) above the city streets of Chicago, you will find 360 Chicago. This observation deck gives you an incredible bird’s-eye view of the city and Lake Michigan. Relax in the bar and café and enjoy the scenery from way above the hustle of the streets. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, try out Tilt, an interactive ride which literally tilts you over the city for a view both beautiful and thrilling!
360 Chicago
Address: 875 N Michigan Ave 94th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
Website: 360 Chicago
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 8am - 11:30pm; Sun: 8am - 11pm
Price: 25 USD
10. See the Apollo 8 spacecraft at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
The Museum of Science and Industry is dedicated to the constant curiosity of its visitors, so if you have questions, this place is dying to answer them! From rockets to robots to outer space to glaciers, this museum gives you a chance to explore and learn in a hands-on environment. Wander through all the fascinating exhibits, and be sure to set aside extra time in Space, where you can see both the real Apollo 8 module and the Aurora 7 capsule.
Museum of Science and Industry
Address: 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637
Website: Museum of Science and Industry
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 21.95 USD
11. Check out exhibits at the Chicago Cultural Center
Known for the gorgeous stained glass domes masterfully built into this architectural phenomena, the Chicago Cultural Center sits close to Millennium Park on Washington Street in the heart of Chicago. Stop in to see some of the exhibitions of visual and contemporary art and culture, many of which have been done by local artists. Or, plan a time to go during one of their many dances, theatre, or musical performances for a truly enriching experience!
Chicago Cultural Center
Address: 78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
Website: Chicago Cultural Center
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Mon - Fri: 10am - 7pm
Price: Free
12. Bring your kids to Discovery Center Museum
Posted by Discovery Center Museum on Tuesday, 11 June 2019
Your little ones will love the chance to explore and get their hands dirty at the creative Discovery Center Museum! Learn about the night sky at a Planetarium show and pick out your favorite constellation. Take your mini artists to do some finger painting in the Art Shop. Play with gears and pulleys in the Simple Machines room. With so many things to learn and see, even the parents will be tempted to join in the interactive fun!
Discovery Center Museum
Address: 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103
Website: Discovery Center Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD
13. Get in touch with history at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
This attraction is split between two different buildings – the museum and the library – situated directly across the street from each other. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum gives guests the opportunity to stroll through immersive exhibits featuring wax figures of Lincoln and his colleagues, friends, and family. Additionally, the museum displays artifacts used during Lincoln’s life in the days of the Civil War. And after you’ve toured the museum, stop by the stunning library for some extra literature on our president.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library/Museum
Address: 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701
Website: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library/Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
14. Explore Buffalo Rock State Park
Situated on a bluff on the north side of the Illinois River approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) west of Ottawa is Buffalo Rock State Park. This park constantly attracts those nature lovers who are looking for a little break from reality amid the peace of the environment. Camp out for a while at one of the park’s campsites and enjoy the spectacle of the clear sky. Whether you spend your day hiking, hunting, skiing, or even geocaching, Buffalo Rock is a great pick for some time away!
Buffalo Rock State Park
Address: 1300 N 27th Rd, Ottawa, IL 61350
Website: Buffalo Rock State Park
15. Check out the complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil at The Field Museum
Meet Sue, the complete T-rex fossil who calls Chicago’s Field Museum her home. But Sue isn’t the only jaw-dropping exhibit here! The Field Museum’s mission is dedicated to educating and inspiring its visitors with science and natural history! Journey back to Ancient Egypt via the room of artifacts; encounter creepy crawlies in the bug room, and go bird watching through Audubon’s stunning Birds of America exhibit. A trip to this museum will certainly leave you and your little ones in deeper awe of the world around you!
The Field Museum
Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Website: The Field Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 24 - 38 USD
16. Relax on a peaceful evening at Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicago Botanic Garden is more than just a bunch of flower beds. The perfectly manicured flower gardens, trees, and shrubs provide a stunning backdrop to a leisurely nighttime stroll, but also for the many events held here. Enjoy an evening cocktail while chatting with a gardener about differences in perennials and annuals. Listen to a live jazz band as you breathe in the fresh air. And always be sure to check the website for details on their changing seasonal events!
Chicago Botanic Garden
Address: 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022
Website: Chicago Botanic Garden
Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
17. Explore The Richard H. Driehaus Museum
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum gains its name from Richard H. Driehaus who sponsored the 2003 remodeling/renovations of the Nickerson Mansion. The Mansion, once belonging to the Nickerson family in the 19th century, is today open to guests to see what life of an upper-class family would have looked like. Marvel at the artifacts still housed in the giant rooms, from the Chickering and Sons Grand Piano to the small but stunning gem-set inkstand with a royal history all its own.
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum
Address: 40 E Erie St, Chicago, IL 60611
Website: The Richard H. Driehaus Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 20 USD
18. Solve puzzles at Escape Artistry
Ya’ll ever tried out one of those Escape Things?
Posted by Escape Artistry on Wednesday, 28 March 2018
This wickedly fun new trend of escape rooms meets a whole new level of technique at Escape Artistry. Choose from six different rooms each with a unique theme and race the 60 minutes on the clock to break out before certain doom strikes! Avoid the dollhouse murderer, bring down a 1930’s mob, or stop the railcar to save Chicago! Each game is designed for specific levels of experience, so be sure to read the game descriptions before choosing so you and your friends have a chance at optimum success!
Escape Artistry
Address: 1342 N Milwaukee Ave F2, Chicago, IL 60622
Website: Escape Artistry
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10:30am - 10:30pm; Fri - Sat: 10:30am - 11:30pm; Sun: 10:30am - 9pm
Price: 31.18 USD
19. Have fun at Navy Pier
Navy Pier would probably rank as one of the top places to see during your time in Chicago. Over the years it has become a hub of entertainment. On the schedule, you will find everything from live music events to theatrical performances to art shows. Spend the day shopping at a pop-up market. Enjoy sitting on the lake during dinner at one of the restaurants. Or marvel at the lake itself from one of the cruises which depart daily from the Pier, and wrap up this fantastic day with a firework spectacular you won’t forget soon!
Navy Pier
Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Website: Navy Pier
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 12pm
Price: Free
20. Go shopping at Magnificent Mile
You can find Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. it is a vertical shopping hub with three different malls scattered down the street. It has certainly become one of the most popular shopping destinations in Illinois and possibly the entire U.S. From small name brands to department stores to elegant boutiques, this is a one-stop-shop for any kind of gift buying need! Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to see it all and then a little extra to treat yourself to something at one of the nice restaurants in the area.
Magnificent Mile
Address: Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Website: Magnificent Mile
21. Learn about President Lincoln's roots at Lincoln Home
This beautifully restored home was lived in by Abraham Lincoln and his family for many years, from 1844 - 1861. Today it remains a popular destination for history buffs and curious visitors alike, wanting to learn more about their nation’s history. Pick up your ticket (free, but provided on a first-come-first-serve basis) at the Visitor’s Center and then proceed to the house at your scheduled tour time. And as you enter, check out the replica original nameplate which once decorated the threshold.
Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Address: 413 S 8th St, Springfield, IL 62701
Website: Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
22. Dive down into the ocean at Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium is home to a wide array of underwater beauties, from sea otters to stingrays to reef sharks. During your time there, you will be able to learn all about these aquatic animals as well as the efforts which are being made to conserve their ecosystem and save endangered species. Guests also have the chance to experience sharks, beluga whales, penguins, and otters in interactive tours! See the website for further details on booking!
Shedd Aquarium
Address: 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Website: Shedd Aquarium
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 9am - 6pm; Wed: 9am - 10pm
Price: 40 USD
23. Take a trip down the yellow brick road at Oz Park
Dedicated to the timeless classic “The Wizard of Oz,” Oz Park in the Lincoln Park community of Chicago is home to characters you know and love from the novel. The unique statues depict Scarecrow, Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and, of course, Dorothy and Toto, all of whom will spice up your stroll as you wander through the park. And for the kiddos, Dorothy’s Playlot has a full jungle-gym and swingset to keep them entertained for hours!
Oz Park
Address: 2021 N Burling St, Chicago, IL 60614
Website: Oz Park
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
Price: Free
24. Visit the rainforest at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens prides itself on bringing the luscious exoticness of the rainforest to the Midwest! See all of the unique flowers, trees, and shrubs native to the rainforest, such as orchids and dragon begonia, and escape to the tropics for a day! From nighttime events lit by paper lanterns to Food Truck Tuesdays, there’s always something going on at NCG that will keep you coming back for more!
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens
Address: 1354 N 2nd St, Rockford, IL 61107
Website: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens
Opening hours: Tue: 9am - 8:30pm; Wed - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 3pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 8 USD
25. Get your zen on at Garfield Park Conservatory
Stroll through Garfield Park Conservatory and escape from the urban cityscape in Chicago’s own tropic. Sit by the water lily pond and let your thoughts wander as you relax peacefully. Avoid the chilly temperatures by coming into the tropical temperatures of the greenhouse-like glass conservatory. Considered “landscape art under glass,” a visit to Garfield Park Conservatory’s lush beauty will inspire the zen in you. This is the perfect destination to spend a sunny day out amid nature while appreciating it.
Garfield Park Conservatory
Address: 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
Website: Garfield Park Conservatory
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 9am - 5pm; Wed: 9am - 8pm
Price: Free
26. Tour the International Museum of Surgical Science
The only museum in North America devoted to the science and study of surgery, the International Museum of Surgical Science is certainly a draw for anyone who is inspired by the field of health and medicine. During your visit, you will be able to see exhibits and programs all with the theme of surgery and medicine in mind. Starting from the origins of medicine and working through history to the most recent developments in technology and procedures, this museum will educate all of its visitors and particularly inspire those aspiring towards a medical profession!
International Museum of Surgical Science
Address: 1524 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60610
Website: International Museum of Surgical Science
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm
Price: 17 USD
27. Beat the heat at Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort Water Park and Amusement Park
This year-round water park in Utica is a perfect way to spend a day in summer or in winter! With numerous water slides, a lazy river, hot tub, spa, and wading pool, there is an activity for everyone in the family, from baby cousins to the grandparents! Spend the whole day hopping from one water activity to another and then satisfy that appetite over at the Wave Cave concession stand after a long day of swimming! This is definitely the place to visit with your family and friends. Any children in the group will thoroughly enjoy this activity.
Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort Water Park and Amusement Park
Address: 2643 Il Rt 178 Grand Bear, North Utica, IL 61373
Website: Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort Water Park and Amusement Park
Price: 39.95 USD
28. Visit the Pullman National Monument
The Pullman National Monument aka Pullman District is located in south Chicago and was designed by George M. Pullman to become the first industrial community in the U.S. back in the late 1800s. Today guests can visit the mansion and see original artifacts and furniture once used by the family, an award from 1896 which named Pullman “the world’s most perfect town,” and learn important facts about the railcars which Pullman was famous for producing. This is a must for learning more about Chicago’s detailed history!
Pullman National Monument
Address: 11141 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60628
Website: Pullman National Monument
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Free
29. Catch a show at The Chicago Theatre
An integral part of learning more about any city is delving into their production of the arts, and Chicago is no exception! Spend an evening at The Chicago Theatre and be enchanted by any performance of your choice! From comedy to intimate concerts to big-name band productions and even some WWE nights, the theatre offers something which everyone will be able to enjoy! Therefore, when you are in town with your family, you can always accompany your spouse and kids to this theater. Have a great time soaking in the culture of this magnificent city.
The Chicago Theatre
Address: 175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601
Website: The Chicago Theatre
Opening hours: Box office: Mon - Fri: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
30. Admire the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
This gorgeous and uniquely designed house was revamped in its architecture multiple times before Wright decided it was fit for him and his family. Tour the house in which they lived for 21 years and you’ll probably find yourself wishing he could come and design your home too! This place never ceases to thrill and inspires its guests with Wright’s masterful manipulation of interior (and exterior) design. By visiting, you’ll not only be able to receive a first-hand look at the home but will be able to gain an even deeper understanding of the artist himself.
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
Address: 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
Website: Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 15 - 18 USD
More than just another Midwest state
No matter what city you visit or reside in Illinois, there is something exciting, entertaining, or educating to do in this gem of America’s Midwest! Come one or come all, this is the city for fun galore. So if you’re entertaining visitors, looking for a good date idea, or traveling for the sights, Illinois will not disappoint you with its list of things to do! Check out the list above and prepare an itenarary to make the most out of the information at hand.
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