The Ultimate And Definitive Bucket List For Everyone In Illinois
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Laura
Author
Many of us plan for vacations to do all this fun stuff and forget that we have plenty of fun stuff to do right in our own backyard. If you live in Illinois, there are things you absolutely SHOULD do. We are counting down the twenty things that should be on your Illinois bucket list.
1. Shawnee National Forest
Shawnee National Forest, Herod, IL 62946, USA
At just under 300,000 acres, Shawnee National Forest has some of the most exquisite rock formations in our state, offers vantage points for two rivers, and gives you plenty of deciduous trees to fawn all over. It might be one of the best things on an Illinois bucket list!
2. The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
Voted the #1 attraction in the world, the Art Institute of Chicago has 300,000 works of art, including some of the most famous artwork in the world. You cannot possibly see it all in a day.
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3. Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field, 1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613, USA
Perhaps the most iconic ballpark, enjoy the entire Wrigley Field experience complete with hitting the bars in Wrigleyville. Spring for the good seats. It's worth it to do one of the most popular items on anyone's Chicago bucket list.
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4. Starved Rock
Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
Starved Rock has 18 canyons, gorgeous waterfalls, and 2600 acres of forest.
5. Millenium Park
Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602, USA
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
Even if you live in Chicago, be a tourist for a day. Millenium Park is not just "the bean." There is ice skating when the weather gets colder (great date night idea!), gardens, and different events throughout the year.
6. Cahokia Mounds
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville, IL, USA
At Cahokia Mounds, you will find the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico. Be prepared to be blown away by these structures.
7. Cave-in-Rock State Park
Cave-In-Rock State Park, 1 New State Park Rd, Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919, USA
Right off the Ohio River, enjoy the unique Cave-in-Rock State Park, the crown jewel of which is this cave with a 55-foot opening. It's one of the top must-do attractions in Illinois.
8. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701, USA
Illinois loves Lincoln, and you should definitely get down to Springfield to savor this important part of our state's history. Reenactments and cool exhibits make the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum not at all "boring."
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9. Metropolis
Home of Superman, Metropolis, Illinois is tons of fun for both kids and adults. Don your cape and strike a pose in front of this iconic statue.
10. Anderson Japanese Gardens
Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, USA
One of the most authentic Japanese gardens in North America, you will be stunned by Anderson Japanese Gardens, which is located in Rockford.
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11. Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Since 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo has been bringing joy to people. And, get this: it's absolutely free.
12. Springfield
Springfield, IL, USA
Visit the capitol! Springfield, Illinois in a fabulous historic Greek revival style building. Try and go to see the House or Senate in session.
13. Illinois State Fair
Illinois State Fair Campground, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
You just have to go to the Illinois State Fair at least once. See the livestock, eat a corn dog, and go on the scary-looking rides. Hey, you only live once.
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14. Go Back To School
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
There's nothing quite like catching an Illini football game. Make the drive to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, definitely tailgate, and head to the game. You will love the collegiate atmosphere.
15. Galena
Galena, IL 61036, USA
There's just something about Galena's charm that has people visiting. Rolling hills, scenic roads, and a quaintness about it make it a favorite.
16. Grand View Drive and Park
Grandview Drive Park, 3615 N Grandview Dr, Peoria, IL 61614, USA
The trip along Grand View Drive and Park only lasts 2.5 miles, but you will see some of the most stunning views of the Illinois River Valley. Grab a picnic and head out with the family.
17. Mississippi Palisades State Park
Mississippi Palisades State Park, 16327A IL-84, Savanna, IL 61074, USA
Simply check out these stunning views. Wow. These tall limestone bluffs and lush trees of Mississippi Palisades State Park will take your breath away.
18. Amish Country
Amish Country Farms, 17843 Wolf Rd, Orland Park, IL 60467, USA
Arthur, Illinois is really the heart of Amish Country. See horses roaming about, buggies, and explore the many country stores.
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19. Alinea
Alinea, 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Is Alinea the best restaurant in Illinois? Absolutely. You might need to save up first, though.
20. Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022, USA
Chicago Botanic Garden takes up almost 400 acres and has 26 distinct gardens. Once you've been here even one time, you'll agree that it's one of the best things to do in Illinois.
What’s on your Illinois bucket list? Let us know in the comments. We always love hearing from you! And if you’re ready to plan a fun trip, check out TripAdvisor Booking/Experiences. The possibilities are endless!
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More to Explore
Illinois Bucket List
What are the best day trips in Illinois?
The best day trips in Illinois are full of fun and quick and easy no matter how much time you have. All you need is one day to really enjoy yourself. Pack up the car with your family and friends and get ready for a memorable day out!
- Aikman Wildlife Adventure
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Nauvoo, Illinois
- Illinois Amish Heritage Center
- Brookfield Zoo
- Route 66
- Navy Pier
- Lincoln Park
- Villa Kathrine
- Linmar Gardens
- Aikman Wildlife Adventure
- Marcoot Jersey Creamery
- Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park
- Chicago's Magnificent Mile
What are the best small towns in Illinois?
The best small towns in Illinois are excellent places to get away from big-city life for a day or a lifetime! Whether you are looking for a quick trip or a new place to live, all of these charming towns are great places to go.
- Mount Carroll, Illinois
- Morris, Illinois
- Greenville, Illinois
- Sycamore, Illinois
- Woodstock, Illinois
- Lebanon, Illinois
- Elsah, Illinois
- Pinckneyville, Illinois
What are the best state parks in Illinois?
The best state parks in Illinois are full of natural beauty. They're idyllic getaways and excellent for hiking, relaxing, and enjoying stunning views.
- Kankakee River State Park in Bourbonnais
- Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby
- Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry
- Matthiessen State Park in North Utica
- Rock Cut State Park in Caledonia
- Illinois Beach State Park in Zion
- Shabbona Lake State Park in DeKalb Co
- Illini State Park in Marseilles
- Chain O'Lakes State Park in Spring Grove
- Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton