Daisy Dow

Daisy Dow is a contributor to Only In Your State whose published work highlights the hidden gems, local flavors, and unique experiences that make each destination worth exploring.

Sleep In A Wooden Shoe Shop When You Book A Stay In This Small-Town Airbnb In Illinois

Spend the night in a wooden shoe shop in the village of Teutopolis, an unexpected but worthwhile destination for Illinoisan history buffs.

A cozy room with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, a ceiling fan, and a TV on a wooden cabinet.

This Antique Mall Along Route 66 in Illinois Is the Epitome of Americana

Stop by The Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston for a trip back in time and a side of all things Americana.

a massive pink elephant made of fiberglass stands in front of a trailer used as a sign for the pink elephant antique mall on route 66 in illinois

A Historic Church Is Now Illinois’ Best New Mediterranean Restaurant

Aerial view of a modern triangular building surrounded by trees and a park at dusk.

Shops & Boutiques

The Eclectic Neighborhood In Illinois You Could Spend Weeks Exploring

Bright yellow flower shop with "Wild Pansy" sign, adorned with plants and flowers, set against a clear blue sky.

I Saw Georgia O’Keeffe’s “My New Yorks” And Here’s What It Taught Me About Chicago, Illinois

A spacious gallery with large text on walls: "MY NEW YORKS" on the left and "GEORGIA O'KEEFFE" on the right. Visitors walk through.

Travel Preparation & Advice

8 Things That Belong On Everyone’s Illinois Summer Bucket List

A sandy beach with a lifeguard stand, wooden walkway, and a sign, overlooking calm waves under a clear blue sky.

The Tallest Pendulum Ride In The Midwest Just Opened In Illinois And It’s The Perfect Summer Adventure

A tall amusement park ride with a circular top, set against a dramatic sunset sky.

Vacation Rentals

6 Last-Minute Getaways In Illinois For A Fun, End-Of-Summer Retreat

A cozy wooden cabin with a porch, surrounded by green grass and trees, near a calm body of water.

With A Clubhouse And Zipline, This Family-Friendly Park In Illinois Is The Best Summer Day Trip

A large tree with a prominent branch and a wooden ladder leading up, surrounded by lush green foliage.

The Outdoor Cafe In Illinois That Is The Prettiest Place To Enjoy A Warm Afternoon

Outdoor seating area with tables and umbrellas, surrounded by greenery and people enjoying the space on a sunny day.

I Watched Single-Engine Planes Take Off While Dining At This Aviation-Themed Eatery

Exterior of Pilot Pete's Restaurant & Bar, featuring a brick facade and colorful landscaping under a cloudy sky.

Parks & Gardens

Sinnissippi Park Is A Hidden River-Walk In Illinois Worthy Of A Day Hike

Sign marking the location of Indian Mounds, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, surrounded by trees.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Natural Water Park in Illinois Is a Summer Dream Come True

With cliffs to jump off and ropes to swing on, Bell Smith Springs is like a natural water park in Illinois-- only admission is free!

A serene swimming hole in Illinois, surrounder bby are boulders and unique rock formations.

Raging Waves in Yorkville Is Illinois’s Largest Outdoor Water Park—Here’s What to Know

Whether you want to float and relax or zip down waterslides, this spot has you covered.

Aerial view of a winding lazy river with colorful shade sails and people enjoying the water and surrounding green areas.

Dells Canyon And Bluff Trail Is One Of The Best Waterfall Hikes In Illinois

A serene natural scene featuring stepping stones in a calm waterway, surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery.

Cafes & Coffee Shops

Enjoy A Breakfast Of Champions At This Delicious, Historic Restaurant In Illinois

Sign for "The Vault Café on the Square" with a clock tower in the background under a cloudy sky.

Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

These 6 River Activities Will Take You To Parts Of Illinois You’d Never See Otherwise

Four people relax on colorful inner tubes in a river, enjoying a sunny day with trees lining the shore.

Wildlife & Farms

This Charming Illinois Alpaca Farm and Fiber Mill Has Tours and Workshops

Ever wanted to pet an alpaca? Head to Alpaca Pines in Poplar Grove for an unforgettable and unique animal encounter.

Sign for Alpaca Pines Farm and Fiber Mill, featuring trees and alpacas, with a patriotic banner and sunlight in the background.

Breweries & Wineries

Obscurity Brewing in Elburn Is the Most Unique Craft Brewery in Chicagoland

Some breweries are all about beer, while others aim to create an experience. This brewery with unique features blends both in Elburn, IL.

Exterior of Obscurity Brewing Company, featuring a brick building and a large silver brewing tank beside it.

Wildlife & Farms

The Illinois Audubon Society’s H&B Bremer Sanctuary Is a Hidden Natural Gem

This stunning nature sanctuary plays a vital role in preserving Illinois' prairie ecosystems. It's a great day trip destination!

A serene river bends through lush greenery, with trees reflecting in the calm water.

Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks Across Illinois This Summer

Colorful fireworks burst in the night sky above a river, with a bridge silhouetted in the foreground.

Spontaneous Weekend Road Trip in Illinois You Can Take Anytime

If you are wanting to change up your routine, this spontaneous weekend road trip itinerary through Illinois can help guide your journey!

A fiery sunset over Rend Lake in southern Illinois.

Vacation Rentals

4 Incredible Airbnbs In Illinois That Offer Resort-Style Amenities

A log cabin home with a pool in the foreground, surrounded by trees and autumn foliage.

Enjoy A Sense Of Peace At This Incredible Waterfront Restaurant In Illinois

A spacious outdoor dining area with blue tables and chairs overlooking a calm lake, surrounded by screens.

Vacation Rentals

Reconnect With Nature When You Stay At These 5 Charming Rentals In Illinois

A rustic wooden house on a grassy hill, surrounded by trees and a cloudy sky, with a deck and gazebo nearby.