TL;DR
Plan your Illinois adventure with our in-depth travel guide—covering the very best ways to enjoy world-famous skylines, discover small-town treasures, navigate like a local, save money, stay safe, and make the most of every season. Jump directly to details
- Must-sees: Chicago’s skyline, cozy riverside towns, iconic Route 66, historic Springfield.
- Costs: Daily budget runs $119–$316 per person. Smart savings tips below!
- Stay safe: Road-savvy, urban aware, and emergency resources included.
- When to go: Spring, summer, and fall are peak—details on each inside.
Answer-First: What Are the Best Things to See and Do in Illinois?
If you want a blend of jaw-dropping cityscapes and authentic Midwest hospitality, Illinois truly delivers. Start by soaking in Chicago’s legendary skyline—from the Skydeck at Willis Tower or a walk along Navy Pier—then set your sights on friendly, slower-paced escapes in places like Arcola, Casey (home of the world’s largest mailbox), and bustling college towns such as Urbana.
Here’s my take after years of crisscrossing this state: Don’t just stay on the tourist track. Yes, hit the icons, but seek out roadside diners, small museums, and festivals in “the middle of nowhere.” Some of my favorite memories are stargazing in Starved Rock State Park, having pie at a vintage café in Quincy, or chatting with artists in Monticello’s Allerton Park. Expect world-class art, music, quirky landmarks, what locals proudly call “flyover food,” and a remarkable sense of community everywhere you go.
Unmissable Experiences: From Big-City Hubs to Small-Town Surprises
Sky High in Chicago: The City Skyline
- Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower): Step out on “The Ledge,” a glass balcony 1,353 feet above the city. Best view? Go for sunset or at night for a twinkling skyline. (Official Site). Get Directions
- 360 CHICAGO (John Hancock Center): Try the TILT thrill or enjoy panoramic vistas of Lake Michigan. (Official Site)
- Millennium Park: Not just “The Bean”—lush gardens, live music, and public art make this central loop park a can’t-miss urban retreat. Millennium Park Info
- Navy Pier Centennial Wheel: Air-conditioned gondolas offer 360° views, perfect for families or date nights. Navy Pier
Pro tip: Early weekday mornings offer quietest access and best photo ops.
Chasing Small-Town Magic—Handpicked Favorites
- Arcola: Famous for its Raggedy Ann legacy, colorful murals, and homestyle bakeries. Don’t skip the local festivals. Arcola Chamber of Commerce
- Casey: Take a photo tour of oversized roadside wonders—the giant rocking chair, world’s largest golf tee, and more. Kids (and adults) love this offbeat stop.
- Monticello: Allerton Park & Retreat Center mixes historic mansions, sculpture gardens, and Instagram-worthy walks. Allerton Park Info
- Quincy: A Mississippi River gem offering Victorian mansions, unique museums, and craft breweries with trivia nights.
Personal tip: In small-town Illinois, locals will always suggest a hidden breakfast spot. Say yes—even if it’s off the main street!
Outdoors & State Parks: Where to Get Away from It All
- Starved Rock State Park: Stroll canyon trails, watch for waterfalls, and climb to epic riverside overlooks. Weekdays are less crowded. Official DNR Park Info
- Great River Road: Route 66 nostalgia and picturesque riverside views await. Best explored by car or group bike rental. National Park Service Guide
Quote from a local hiker: “Catching a sunrise from Starved Rock’s bluffs feels like having the whole state to myself.”
Where to Stay in Illinois: Accommodations, Pricing, and Booking Tips
Illinois lodging runs from $47 for a basic motel to $150+ for a boutique downtown hotel or Airbnb. For unique stays, consider:
- Boutique B&Bs in Galena: Restored 1800s mansions and cozy riverfront inns.
- Chain Hotels in Chicago: Near top attractions—book early for best deals.
- Cabins near Starved Rock/State Parks: Perfect for families or nature lovers.
Personal insight: For summer festivals, book at least three months in advance—especially in college towns and lakeside areas.
Pro tip: Weeknight stays are often 10-20% cheaper; some rural inns offer cash-only rates or mid-week specials.
[email protected] | Official Tourism Site
[email protected] | Official Tourism Site
Budget Guide: Typical Costs, Suggested Daily Spend & Money-Saving Hacks
- Daily average spend: $165–$316 for most travelers (lodging, meals, activities included). See cost details
- Low-budget options: Hostels, motels, street food, public museums (many offer free/discount days).
- Top splurges: Chicago’s fine dining, premium Lake Michigan tours, big-ticket shows or events.
- Money-saving tips:
- Buy multi-attraction passes in Chicago for discounts (CityPASS, Go Chicago Card).
- Opt for off-peak season rates—midweek, shoulder months (April–May, September–October) are especially affordable.
- Public transit is affordable and reliable in Chicago; Amtrak is ideal for intercity trips.
- Insider budgeting: Illinois’s small towns offer free festivals, public events, and local markets—perfect for big experiences on a shoestring.
Custom review: “Staying in Urbana, I found farmers’ markets and family-run diners as affordable and charming as anywhere in the country.”
Getting Around Illinois: Transportation Tips & Local Know-How
Ideal Illinois travel is flexible—use a mix of:
- Chicago Transit (CTA): Buses and trains serve most tourist spots—google Transit Chicago for route maps.
- Amtrak: Intercity trains connect Chicago with smaller cities and neighboring states. Book at amtrak.com
- Regional/Local Buses: Peoria Charter, Greyhound, FlixBus, and more run regular routes statewide. FlixBus
- Car Rentals: Best for exploring state parks, wine trails, or rural backroads. Watch for one-way “drop-off” fees.
- Bike & Rideshare: Cities like Springfield and Urbana have well-marked bike lanes. Uber/Lyft are widely available in urban hubs.
Personal insight: “Public transit made city-hopping easy—Amtrak’s reliability between Chicago, Springfield, and Carbondale was a game changer for weekend trips.”
When to Visit Illinois: Best Seasons & Weather Wisdom
- Best weather: Late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) mean mild temperatures, minimal rain, and lively festival calendars.
- Summer (June–August): Peak for beaches and outdoor events, but expect crowds and higher hotel rates.
- Winter (November–March): Chilly, especially in Chicago, but good for indoor museums, food fests, and winter sports south of I-80.
Pro tip: Early October brings spectacular fall colors state-wide. I always plan a countryside drive during this window.
How to Get to Illinois & Around the Region
- Major Airports: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Chicago Midway (MDW), St. Louis (for southwest Illinois).
- Trains/Buses: Amtrak, Greyhound, FlixBus and regional shuttles connect most towns and cities. Book train trips at amtrak.com
- Car: The legendary Route 66 and I-55 make for classic American road trips with plenty of quirky stops en route.
- Bike/Ride-Sharing: Chicago’s Divvy bikes and rideshare apps extend to most urban neighborhoods.
Suggested Length of Stay: How Much Time is Enough?
- Chicago, urban experience: 3–4 days for main sights; up to a week for museums, food, and neighborhoods.
- Small town/Scenic route tour: 2–4 days lets you explore a handful of towns or a state park region.
- Full state adventure: 7–10 days recommended for urban, rural, and outdoor highlights across northern, central, and southern Illinois.
Insight: I always recommend slow travel—pick a region and go deep, rather than racing through every highlight.
How to Stay Safe in Illinois: Local Tips & Emergency Contacts
Safety tips:
- In cities, avoid using phones on busy streets; be especially aware of valuables on transit and crowded attractions.
- On the road, buckle up—seat belt use is mandatory. Never text while driving and always check weather before heading out in winter or during thunderstorms.
- For rural adventures, always check park hours; bring extra water and confirm cell coverage—remote areas may have spotty service.
Emergency contacts (save these!):
- Illinois State Police (emergencies): 911
- Non-emergency police help: (217) 782-3636
[email protected] - Tourist helpline & official travel: enjoyillinois.com
- Local emergencies: 911
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Pro tip: I always snap a photo of the front of my hotel, note exits, and text my location to family before heading out on new adventures.
Top Tours to Book—Guided Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
- Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise: By far my favorite city-learning experience—amazing guides, gorgeous views, and stories that make the city come alive. Tickets from $56. Architecture River Tour
- Governor’s Mansion Tour, Springfield: Free guided tours of Illinois’ majestic executive residence, steeped in local and national history. Tour Info | (217) 782-6450
- Self-guided Route 66 Road Trip: Follow classic signage and pull off at quirky museums and diners—build your own custom journey.
- Outdoor Adventure Excursions: Outfitters statewide offer kayaking, ziplining, or guided hikes in Starved Rock and Shawnee National Forest—compare options at Enjoy Illinois
User review: “The Chicago River cruise was the perfect introduction to the city—the guides truly bring architecture to life with stories and humor.”
Frequently Asked Questions: Illinois Travel
What is the best time of year to travel to Illinois?
Most visitors prefer April–May or September–October for mild weather and lively festivals. Peak summer brings lakeside fun, but crowds and prices are higher.
What should I absolutely not miss in Illinois?
Chicago’s skyline (Skydeck or 360 CHICAGO views), Route 66 stops, small towns like Casey, and Starved Rock State Park are top experiences that capture Illinois’ spirit.
How can I save money while exploring?
Travel midweek, use public transit, visit free attractions (city parks, festivals, some museums), and seek out local diners off the main tourist drag for wallet-friendly meals.
Is Illinois safe for solo travelers and families?
Yes. Use city smarts in Chicago (stay alert, avoid late-night isolated areas), mind your valuables, and exercise basic road safety. One of the safest states for solo exploration if you keep common-sense precautions.
How long should I stay to see the highlights?
Give Chicago 3–4 days, add 2–4 days to explore small towns or state parks. A full week gives a rich, diverse experience.
What’s the best way to get around—can I manage without a car?
In Chicago and many cities, public transit is ample. For rural regions and park access, you’ll want a car. Amtrak and buses link most major towns, making car-free travel possible with planning.
Where can I find more information or traveler support?
Check Enjoy Illinois (Official Site), or call their visitor hotline for assistance anytime during your trip.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details.
Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
