9 Of The Greatest Destinations Most Illinoisans Overlook
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
Illinois is full of amazing things to do, but not everyone knows about some of the greatest destinations in the state. These nine overlooked attractions belong on your bucket list if you have not visited them yet.
From state parks to playgrounds to museums, this list has something for everyone. Scroll on to check it out.
You don't have to be religious to enjoy this amazing place. As it says on the sign, all are welcome to this historic temple for prayer and meditation. Dedicated in 1952, the structure was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. It is seven acres of gorgeous architecture and immaculate gardens that few Illinoisans know exists. Learn more about this Wilmette attraction here.
The main feature of Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park in East St. Louis, this geyser shoots water 630 feet in the air to match the height of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. It is surrounded by several smaller fountains that represent the four rivers that converge near the city. It was built in 1995, and you can get more details about it here.
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The largest train museum in America, this place features all sorts of engines as well as other unique and historic forms of transportation. Special events and scenic rides take place throughout the year. Learn more about times and dates of operation here.
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This 385-acre oasis has been a nature preserve since 2001, though its time as a state park began in 1927. The area is full of gorgeous trees, rock formations, and streams that make this majestic place even more memorable. This place has numerous trails and is ideal for camping, fishing, and picnicking. Learn more about this little-known state park here.
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Many of Illinois' greatest destinations can be found in the northwest town of Galena, but there is one in particular that is often overlooked. Spanning 40 acres, this area includes a loop trail that leads to a structure called Council Ring that is somewhat like Stonehenge as it is aligned for the summer and winter solstices. Get more interesting details about this hidden spot here.
This Southern Illinois park is 786 acres and is known for its small creek and waterfalls. There are many different trails, rock formations, and canyons to explore, and you can learn about all of them here. Playgrounds, camp sites, and picnic shelters make this a wonderful place for nature lovers.
Featuring nearly 650 video games, this is America's largest arcade. All games are set to free play, and guests just pay a flat fee to enter. Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, Primal Rage II, Hammer Away, and Godzilla games abound. Check out what else you'll find at this arcade here.
Due to the proximity of Starved Rock State Park, this beautiful place is often overlooked by Illinoisans. It is a wonderful spot if you like waterfalls, streams, rock formations, and other incredible, natural sights. Learn all about this hidden paradise here.
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This playground is a memorial to a boy who died in 1993 in a car accident. His father called him "Boo" and had this 3.5-acre, Dungeons and Dragons themed park built in his memory. Children can't get enough of the castles, princesses, knights, and mythical creatures. Click here to learn more about it.
For more like this, check out the 11 most exciting attractions in Illinois that aren’t in Chicago.
What other attractions in Illinois do you consider to be our greatest destinations? Share your thoughts with us below in the comments.
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