4 Overhyped Illinois Places That Look Better Online Than in Real Life

I'll be the first to tell anyone that the Midwest is the place to be, especially my home city of Chicago. But even I'm not going to hype up these locations that are already so well known and overpopulated. These locations in Chicago and beyond are not bad spots to see—not by a long shot. However, they are frequently overcrowded and may surprise a traveler who has only seen the dreamiest of dreamy shots online.

1. Cloud Gate - Chicago

"Cloud Gate" is one of the most iconic landmarks in Illinois and one of the most easily recognizable sites in Chicago. Also known as The Bean, this sculpture is rarely without throngs of tourists. That signature photo you're chasing on a Chicago trip? It's probably going to be photobombed by at least 100 other people who had the same idea. You can visit, just be aware that every other tourist will probably be there, and the giant mirror bean looks a lot less picturesque with 1,000 other visitors making faces in its reflection.

Also, it's grimy. Please don't touch it.

2. Starved Rock State Park - Oglesby

No hate to Starved Rock State Park (you know I love you). But if you plan on visiting and hiking the most popular trail, Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook Trail, you'll be in (lots) of good company. We know that this is the best state park in Illinois—and it's no secret to anyone else either. Starved Rock is a beaut, with waterfalls, moss-laden rock faces, and canopies of trees. It is a place to be admired, often among a crowd of other adoring fans. The images you see online of open spaces with no people in sight are deceptive, especially for the most popular trails.

3. Navy Pier - Chicago

I have openly admitted that Navy Pier is one place I wanted to hate but ended up loving. This is still true. However, tourists need to be aware that it is far from the crowd-free amusement locale it appears to be online. I've been to the pier in the early morning and dark of night, which are often the only times you'll see it even remotely empty. Navy Pier is a one-stop entertainment shop along the Lake Michigan shoreline—with limited space. When travelers descend onto it, the pier becomes like a sea of people all trying to swim (probably) in the wrong direction. If you remember that, and don't mind it, have the time of your life!

And enjoy the Centennial Wheel—the views from there are so much better than at Sears (fine, Willis) Tower. Plus, you aren't elbow to elbow with anyone else!

4. Garden of the Gods Observation Trail - Herod

Over in the Shawnee National Forest, there are incredible rock formations and vistas to be seen along the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail. As awe-inspiring as they are, this easy half-mile trail is exceedingly popular. Unless you go during an off-time in the off-season, you are unlikely to get the types of views along the way that you may see online. However, the vistas will look as gorgeous as they do in pictures, mainly because no one can obstruct them.

Want to see for yourself if these spots are worth the online photo hype? Be sure to check out Only In Your State's AI Travel Planner to get yourself started!