A smiling woman in a white sweater sits at a table with a plate of cookies and a cup of tea.

Linze Rice

Linze Rice is an Illinois native and DeKalb County-raised journalist whose bylines have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago, among others, since 2014. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, chronicled historic Route 66 diners, and reviewed some of Chicago's most celebrated hotels — all while bringing a heartwarming, historically grounded perspective to every story. For Only In Your State, Linze covers Illinois with the rare authority of a working journalist who genuinely loves the state she grew up in.

State Pride
Need to Know

For The First Time In 221 Years, A Rare Double Emergence Of Cicadas Is Expected In 2024 In Illinois

by Linze Rice
on Jan 17
Close-up of a cicada perched on a branch, showcasing its detailed wings and vibrant body colors.
State Pride
History

10 Unique Trivia Facts About Illinois You Might Not Have Heard Before

by Linze Rice
on Jan 16
Cooling towers release steam against a clear blue sky, with hay bales in the foreground and power lines in the background.
Nature
Waterfalls

The Little-Known Natural Wonder In Illinois That Becomes Even More Enchanting In The Wintertime

by Linze Rice
on Jan 15
A frozen waterfall surrounded by snow-covered rocks and trees, with a stone bridge above.
State Pride
History

A Total Solar Eclipse Will Be Visible Above Illinois This Spring

by Linze Rice
on Jan 12
An annular solar eclipse, showing a bright ring of sunlight around the dark silhouette of the moon.
Experiences
Activities

Millennium Park’s Ice Skating Rink Is The Perfect Midwest Winter Travel Destination

by Linze Rice
on Jan 11
A bustling ice skating rink surrounded by city skyscrapers, illuminated by colorful lights and a festive tree at night.
Stays
Camping

One Of The Best Campgrounds In Illinois Is Open For Adventure Year-Round

by Linze Rice
on Jan 10
A serene lakeside view with kayaks, a dock, and a picnic area under a clear blue sky.
Experiences
Events
Festivals

Explore An Illinois Natural Area And Enjoy Live Music At This Winter Festival

by Linze Rice
on Jan 9
Sign for Volo Bog State Natural Area, with a snowy landscape and a building in the background.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Cozy Small Town In Illinois That Comes Alive Under A Blanket Of Snow

by Linze Rice
on Jan 8
Four skiers on a chairlift, smiling and holding skis, with a snowy landscape and other skiers in the background.
Food
Restaurants

This 85-Year-Old Retro Diner Is One Of The Most Nostalgic Destinations In Illinois

by Linze Rice
on Jan 5
A brightly lit diner, White Palace Grill, with a large sign stating "Open 24 Hours" and Coca-Cola branding.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

10 Incredible Hidden Gems In Illinois You’ll Want To Discover This Year

by Linze Rice
on Jan 4
A serene garden entrance with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and a traditional wooden gate.