Best Places to Visit in Illinois

The Best Kept Summer Secret in Illinois Is This Sailing Lake With Quiet Beaches

This hidden summer spot in Illinois is perfect for cooling off, with scenic views and a one-of-a-kind swimming experience.

by Stephanie Frias

on Jun 20

A golden sand beach between a rocky shorline and a forested cove at Carlyle Lake, the best lake in Illinois for shallow swimming.

Jun 21

The Best Waterfront Stays in Illinois for a Scenic Escape

Stays

Vacation Rentals

White Oak Cabins in Southern Illinois at sunset with a lake in the background

Jun 25

If You’re a Fan, This ‘Wednesday’-Themed Airbnb Is a Must-Book Dream Come True

Stays

Living room in the Wednesdays Lair in Lincoln, Illinois.

Jun 27

Legend Says Bigfoot Is Still Hidden Somewhere in Illinois

Experiences

A Bigfoot crossing sign posted on road near the forest. Bigfoot is still a hidden legend in Illinois that people are actively looking for.

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More to Explore

Nature

Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Castle Rock State Park

The Pride of Oregon paddlewheel boat in Illinois

Nature

The Dune Hike in Illinois That Everyone Should Take at Least Once

Nature

Take a Unique Adventure On Illinois’s Best Kayaking Trail

Food

You Haven’t Tried True Illinois Comfort Food Until You’ve Been Here

Food

Slurp, Savor, Repeat: Illinois’ Best Noodle Restaurant for National Noodle Month

Spicy miso bowl with crispy chicken, a must-try for fans of ramen in Illinois.

Food

This Is the Best Buffet in Illinois, Known for Its Polish Cuisine

Experiences

One Unforgettable Airbnb Experience in Illinois You’ll Want to Book ASAP

Experiences

These 3 Hidden Spots in Gramercy Park Feel Like a Secret

Experiences

7 Truly One-of-a-Kind Buildings You’ll Only Find in Illinois

A white temple stands surrounded by green trees and a road.

Trips & Routes

The Unexpected Stops That Made My Route 66 Illinois Drive Unforgettable

A newly erected Route 66 sign welcomes folks to Lockport, a small town just off Route 66 in Illinois.

Trips & Routes

Endless Outdoor Adventures Await in These 5 Small Towns in Illinois

Trips & Routes

You Won’t Need a Car To Explore This Walkable Coastal City in Illinois

Stays

What Happened to McDonald’s Former Illinois Headquarters? It’s Now a Sustainable Hotel

Stays

This Campground Near the Mississippi River Is Perfect for an Illinois Escape

Aerial view of the Mississippi River banks in Savanna, Illinois with a bridge crossing the river, lush, green foilage, and a train crossing on the tracks near the secluded campground at Seven Eagles Campground & Resort.

Stays

3 Epic Airbnbs in Illinois With Pools, Cold Plunges, and Unreal Water Views

Bucket List

Nature

National & State Parks

Your Ultimate Guide to State Parks in Illinois

Explore the best state parks in Illinois for outdoor fun. Discover hiking trails, lakes, camping spots, and more. Plan your next nature escape.

by Jasmine Vieau

on Jul 6

Trips & Routes

Instead of Lake Geneva, This Illinois Town Is Where You Should Take Your Next Trip

by Amanda Finn

on Jul 2

Sunset over a beach in Wilmette, Illinois.

Nature

Locals Love This Hidden Gem Swimming Hole in Illinois (That Doesn’t Feel Like the U.S.)

by Amanda Finn

on Jul 3

Kincaid Falls Spillway in Gorham, Illinois

Food

Chicago’s Heavy Metal Burger Bar Names Every Burger After a Band

by Only In Your State Staff

on Jul 13

exterior signage for kuma's corner in chicago illinois

Nature

The Most Beautiful Lake in Illinois That Most People Have Never Heard Of

by Cait Kontalis

on Jul 16

A sandy shoreline at Rend Lake in Illinois

Discover Local Wonders

All Stories

Trips & Routes

One of Illinois’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

Learn all about one of the quirkiest towns in Illinois, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.

by Stephanie Frias

on May 19

Visiting the Gemini Giant, a 20-foot green alien sculpture. It's a Route 66 attraction in the Illinois quirky small town of Wilmington. Shown here with travel writer, Stephanie Frias, and her husband, Carlos Frias.

Nature

National & State Parks

The Small-Town State Park in Illinois Locals Want to Keep to Themselves

Discover a peaceful small-town state park in Illinois that locals love for its quiet trails, scenic views, and hidden gem appeal.

3 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Illinois for a Spring Hike

Explore three picture-perfect nature trails in Illinois for a spring hike, featuring wildflowers, scenic views, and unforgettable outdoor escapes.

by Cait Kontalis

on Apr 20

Stays

The Unique Illinois Treehouse You’ll Remember Forever

Discover a unique and unforgettable cabin in Illinois that offers a one-of-a-kind experience you’ll remember forever.

by Stephanie Frias

on Apr 14

A girl looking out octagon windows from the loft of a treehouse cabin near Garden of the Gods. This unique cabin in Illinois is near Herod, Illinois.

State Pride

3 Reasons Why Illinois Is the Best Place To Retire

Illinois is home to hundreds of museums, music venues, arts organizations, and so much nature for retirees to enjoy. There are several cities with high affordability and quality of life as well.

by Amanda Finn

on Apr 13