9 Popular Illinois Attractions That Actually Live Up To The Hype
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published January 05, 2018
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
Illinois is full of popular attractions that many people will rave about for days. From Chicago’s museums to Southern Illinois’ natural wonders, these are the nine things to do in the state that should make the top of your bucket list. Whether you’re looking for a long weekend activity or something to do over your next holiday, this list will guide your way. Keep scrolling for all the details.
This natural attraction is a historical land that once belonged to Native Americans. The park spans 2,200 acres and contains about 80 remaining mounds today. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a U.S. National Historic Landmark.
This resort is much more than a place to lay your head at night. Other than to maybe visit nearby Starved Rock State Park, you won't ever want to leave this place. It contains restaurants, an arcade, an indoor waterpark, and much more.
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This timeless town is a lovely place to find yourself anytime of year. It is best known for its charming downtown and vintage Main Street that is host to many boutique shops, bed and breakfasts, and restaurants.
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4. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum (Springfield)
Take a journey through time and discover what it was like to grow up like Lincoln. This immersive experience is one of the most popular attractions in the state's capitol. It begins in an Indiana log cabin and takes guests through to the 16th President's final days.
Spanning four counties, this amazing section of the Shawnee National Forest is the best place to go if you want to see the most amazing rock formations the state has to offer. This place truly lives up to its hype because the views will blow your mind.
Featuring plants of just about any kind, this conservatory is 11,000-square-feet and has an atrium that reaches 52 feet high. During the summer and over the holidays, light displays make this natural oasis even more dazzling.
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Editor's Note: The Art Institute of Chicago is temporarily closed.
The city is full of many things to do, but one of the most popular attractions is this impressive collection of art from around the world. Even if you don't think you like art, you'll find something that inspires you here.
Editor's Note: Lincoln Zoo is temporarily closed and will open in early March 2021.
While you're checking out the city, there's no point passing up a visit to one of the last remaining free zoos in the world. The place doesn't sacrifice quality though, and you'll even enjoy ZooLights over the holiday season.
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This gorgeous garden and nature park spans 500 acres and is a gift to the state of Illinois. You'll get lost in a world of beauty, fun, and history here. Don't forget to bring your camera.
