- The Willis Tower, once known as the Sears Tower, stands tall at 110 stories and provides awe-inspiring views of the Windy City from its observation deck.
- The Art Institute of Chicago boasts an impressive collection of art, making it a leading art museum worldwide. The museum showcases a variety of artwork including Impressionist and Post-Impressionist pieces, American art, and modern and contemporary art.
- Millennium Park is a public park nestled in the heart of Chicago, featuring iconic public art, a serene reflecting pool, and a variety of gardens and public spaces – perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
- Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination that sits along the shores of Lake Michigan. It offers amusement park rides, shops, restaurants, and a Ferris wheel with breathtaking views of the city and the lake.
- The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free public zoo located in Lincoln Park, offering visitors a chance to see big cats, primates, reptiles, and more, alongside beautiful botanic gardens and a conservatory.
- The Field Museum is a natural history museum where you can discover extensive collections of fossils, artifacts, and specimens from around the world – perfect for those with an adventurous spirit.
- The Shedd Aquarium is a public aquarium that’s a must-see, featuring a diverse range of marine life, including dolphins, beluga whales, and penguins, as well as a vast collection of reptiles, fish, and invertebrates.
- The Adler Planetarium is a public planetarium that will send your mind soaring into the cosmos, offering interactive exhibits and shows that explore astronomy, space science, and the wonders of the universe.
- The Museum of Science and Industry is a science museum that offers visitors an immersive, hands-on experience with interactive displays and live demonstrations in the fields of science and technology.
- The Museum of Contemporary Art is a contemporary art museum that showcases a rotating collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as special exhibitions and programs – perfect for those with an artistic flair.
- The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: a jolly fine establishment located in Springfield, Illinois, that pays homage to the life and works of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, complete with a museum and research facility.
- The Illinois State Capitol: a grand old building located in Springfield, Illinois, where the state’s government sits, and where one can take a tour, peruse some exhibits, and learn about the history of Illinois.
- Starved Rock State Park: a splendid state park located in Utica, Illinois, boasting magnificent canyons, waterfalls, and breathtaking views, not to mention hiking trails, campgrounds, and other recreational activities to delight one and all.
- The Shawnee National Forest: a lush forest located in southern Illinois, offering picturesque vistas, waterfalls, and a range of activities for one’s enjoyment, such as hiking, camping, and fishing.
- The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site: a fascinating historic site located in Collinsville, Illinois, that showcases the remains of the ancient Native American city of Cahokia, one of the largest and most advanced pre-Columbian civilizations in North America.
- The Abraham Lincoln Home National Historic Site: a place of historical importance located in Springfield, Illinois, where one can visit the home of Abraham Lincoln during his presidency, as well as the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices and other notable buildings.
- For those seeking a delightful experience, a visit to the Galena History Museum is simply a must. Nestled in the charming city of Galena, Illinois, this splendid museum showcases the captivating history of the region. The museum displays the city’s pivotal role in the Black Hawk War and its rich legacy in lead mining, among other fascinating exhibits.
- Travelers looking to relish in breathtaking scenery must not miss the Great River Road, a picturesque route that meanders along the mighty Mississippi River. This lovely drive provides splendid views of the river and the surrounding countryside. It also grants access to a range of historical sites, museums, and other cultural attractions that add to the journey’s allure.
- Finally, a trip to the Allerton Park and Retreat Center, situated in Monticello, Illinois, is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. One can relax and bask in the serene natural beauty that envelops the park. Visitors can also explore the park’s delightful gardens, sculptures, and other tranquil delights, making it the ultimate retreat for rejuvenation and reflection.