10 Incredible Hidden Gems In Illinois You’ll Want To Discover This Year
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Linze Rice
Author
As a lifelong resident of the Prairie State, I know that the many hidden gems in Illinois are what make our state special. They’re like our secret sauce. While some destinations, like Chicago, are filled with famous must-sees, there are still tons of other incredible locations with special features that most don’t even know exist. Whether it’s a unique small town, an off-the-beaten-path trail, an old-school restaurant, or a hidden gems road trip that lets you sample all of the above — there is no shortage of cool places to visit in Illinois. Let’s take a look at 10 of the best-kept secrets in Illinois.
1. Anderson Japanese Gardens — Rockford
Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, USA
Located in the Northern Illinois city of Rockford are the pristine Anderson Japanese Gardens, a 12-acre haven of tranquility and nature. The grounds feature beautifully landscaped flowers, trees, and shrubs, as well as ponds, statues, footbridges, a pavilion, and waterfalls. Despite its placement next to a busy road in the bustling, industrial city of Rockford, the gardens instantly transport you to a place of calm and serenity that feels thousands of miles away from city life.
2. Kathy Osterman Beach — Edgewater, Chicago
Kathy Osterman Beach, Illinois 60660, USA
Linze Rice
Looking for something non-touristy to do in Illinois? As I mentioned, Chicago is full of amazing destinations — from "The Bean" to the Magnificent Mile. But one of my all-time favorite places in the city is in the Far North Side neighborhood of Edgewater where you can escape to a place where Lake Michigan feels like an endless ocean. Kathy Osterman Beach — also known as Hollywood Beach or Ardmore Beach — is known for its crystal-clear waters, sand bar, rainbow-themed pier, and welcoming atmosphere. Some days, it was so quiet I could bring my laptop and a chair and work from the beach, while others were buzzing with friends and families enjoying the water and playing volleyball. This is a great way to experience the beach in Chicago without the tourist crowds — plus there is Wi-Fi, a seasonal restaurant, and restrooms.
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3. Cozy Dog Drive In — Springfield
Cozy Dog Drive In, 2935 S 6th St, Springfield, IL 62703, USA
Nothing makes me hungrier than a hidden gem with a historic twist — therefore Cozy Dog Drive In in Springfield had to make the list. This old-school diner is off Route 66 and first opened in 1949. It's an absolute MUST for travelers in the area, not only for its retro decor but also for its famous fried foods. In fact, this local haunt claims it invented the modern corn dog on a stick. To me, that alone is worth the stop, especially if you want the quintessential Rt. 66 experience.
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4. Village of Arthur
Arthur, IL, USA
Perhaps the exact opposite of Chicago, the slow-paced historic village of Arthur is part of Illinois' Amish country. With a population of about 2,300 residents, this small town is a peaceful getaway full of rich history, gorgeous countryside, fantastic antique and local shopping, and lots of fresh produce. It's truly a breath of fresh air. Here you'll see horse-and-buggies and strung clothes drying naturally from the breeze, and you'll also experience a lot of unique charm through its annual festivals and dining. Stop by the Illinois Amish Heritage Center, The Homestead Bakery, Countryside Amish Furniture, and Yoder's Kitchen for the very best of Arthur.
5. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — Collinsville
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville, IL, USA
One of the most unique places to visit in Illinois is near the Missouri border at the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, which features the mysterious ancient ruins of a 9th-century Native American city. The hilly park sits on about 2,200 acres containing 80 mounds made by humans — the tallest of which is 10 stories high. Explore the grounds and appreciate the incredible feats of the people who inhabited the land over a thousand years ago.
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6. Pomona Natural Bridge — Pomona
Pomona Natural Bridge, Natural Bridge Rd, Pomona, IL 62975, USA
Off the beaten path in Illinois is one of its finest natural wonders: The Pomona Natural Bridge. It's exactly what it sounds like — a walkable bridge that was crafted entirely by nature. Specifically, it was carved by a river over time, resulting in the 90-by-8-foot walkway. Covered by bright green moss, the bridge is found in the massive Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois, though is accessible via a somewhat challenging 0.3-mile loop trail.
7. City of Metropolis
Metropolis, IL, USA
It's a bird, it's a plane, it's...a statue of Superman standing in his "hometown" of Metropolis, Illinois! This red-yellow-and-blue town is full of whimsy and charm, celebrating all things Superman — from the name of its local newspaper ("The Metropolis Planet") to its over-the-top Super Museum. Plus, its 15-foot bronze Superman statue is nearly impossible to miss — and why would you want to? It makes the perfect photo opportunity! For those seeking something quirky, fun, and all-American, a day trip or weekend getaway to Metropolis is a bucket list must.
8. Cave-In-Rock State Park — Cave-In-Rock
Cave-In-Rock State Park, 1 New State Park Rd, Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919, USA
If you're thinking, "It's a cave in a rock, how exciting can it be?" — I don't blame you. But, what you may not know, is that this beloved destination is full of unbelievable history. The location was actually named in reference to pirates who flowed down the Ohio River, finding refuge in the small town of Cave-In-Rock. The hidden river bluff made for an exceptional hideout where pirates could rest, store their wares, and socialize with alcohol. Today, you can explore the cave for yourself and imagine what it would have been like to be a river renegade on the run.
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9. Cache River Natural Area — Belknap
Cache River State Natural Area, 930 Sunflower Ln, Belknap, IL 62908, USA
One of the most jaw-dropping hidden beautiful places in Illinois is the Cache River Natural Area. With major enchanted forest vibes, this storybook swamp is home to ancient bald cypress trees, some of which are more than 1,000 years old and span 40-foot circumferences. Accessible by boat or boardwalk, you can visit the bog to soak in its amazing natural beauty — just make sure to bring lots of bug spray.
10. Garden of the Gods Recreation Area — Herod
Garden of the Gods, Herod, IL 62947, USA
Of course, no list of hidden gems in Illinois would be complete without mention of Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, part of the larger Shawnee National Forest. Known for its unique rock formations and trails that lead to breathtaking views, Garden of the Gods offers some of the best secret getaways in Illinois, whether you spend the day hiking, a week camping, or a weekend of solitude surrounded by nature.
Ready to explore these incredible hidden gems in Illinois? Before you hit the road, make sure you’ve checked out our ultimate road trip packing list. And if you need more travel inspo, these top-rated tours, attractions, and experiences throughout Illinois make perfect additions to your bucket list.
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