11 Hidden Attractions Locals Keep To Themselves In Illinois
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
With so many fun things to do in Illinois, it can be easy to miss some of the lesser-known sights, sounds, and tastes nestled in remote pockets of the state. These hidden attractions will make your weekend or vacation epic.
Sorry, locals. We were all going to find out about these amazing things to do sooner or later. Keep scrolling (and click the corresponding links) to uncover each secret.
This Illinois gem celebrates its Dutch heritage continuously. From this large windmill from the Netherlands to the annual Dutch Heritage Festival, this town is all about the old world. Go back in time in this historical town along the Mississippi River.
Click here to uncover this vintage paradise.
Located in Quincy, this castle was built as a home in 1900. It overlooks the Mississippi River and is currently a tourist center for those entering the state.
Click here to uncover this unique castle.
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Locals don't want anyone to know about this swampy home to bald cypress trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old. There's a neat boardwalk that allows you to explore some of the area, though others prefer to take a boat.
Click here to uncover this natural wonder.
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This Champaign pizzeria is a local favorite that pumps out pizza like a factory. Get pan, stuffed, and thin crust pies as well as sandwiches, appetizers, and delicious Italian desserts.
Click here to uncover this pizza.
Boasting fabulous views and a secluded atmosphere, this upscale resort is located in Itasca. It features comfy beds, marvelous restaurants, a spa, a golf course, and more.
Click here to uncover this luxury getaway.
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Used to smelt iron in the 1800s, this crumbling structure was closed and abandoned in 1883. It is located in the Shawnee National Forest near the town of Rosiclare along the Ohio River.
Click here to uncover this ancient wonder.
Located in Maple Park, this incredible spot is a winery, bed & breakfast, restaurant, wedding venue, and retail market all in one. It contains a stunning 40 acres and 20,000 square-feet of space.
Click here to uncover this adult wonderland.
Situated on the north side of Chicago, this old graveyard is more like a park than a place of the dead. It contains a pristine lake with a bridge as well as 119 acres of landscaped grounds and enough trees to become an arboretum.
Click here to uncover this cemetery.
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Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, this bridge is made from sandstone and crosses a ravine. It is 90 feet long, eight feet wide, and 30 feet above the ground below. It is also part of a small hike.
Click here to uncover this natural phenomenon.
One of the best hidden attractions in Illinois is surrounded by natural beauty and scenic sights. No matter the time of year, you'll enjoy dining on homemade classics like steak and seafood here.
Click here to uncover this lodge.
This downtown Galena secret was built within the ruins of an old church. It features flourishing gardens with flowers, trees, and bushes, as well as a waterfall.
Click here to uncover this incredible oasis.
For more fun to have in this great state, check out these 11 epic things you didn’t know you should be doing in Illinois.
What other hidden attractions are Illinoisans keeping secret? Share your favorites with us!
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