State Pride

Fun Facts

State Pride
Fun Facts
History

The Story of This Abandoned Place Near Galena, Illinois Is Truly Fascinating

If you love exploring old, abandoned places in Illinois, you will love all the history at Winston Tunnel State Natural Area

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 3
An abandoned rail tunnel is surrounded by lush green vegetation and blocked by a metal grate.
State Pride

The World’s Largest Horseradish Festival, The International Horseradish Festival, Happens Right Here In Illinois

by Andrea Verschuyl
on May 3
A bustling street fair with crowds, vendor tents, and colorful banners lining the road on a sunny day.
State Pride

You’ll Love The Massive Hot Pot Buffet At This Yummy Illinois Restaurant

by Andrea Verschuyl
on Mar 11
Exterior of a vibrant orange restaurant named "Hot Pot & BBQ," featuring a welcoming entrance and bright signage.
State Pride

Most People Don’t Know That Oscar Mayer’s Gravesite Is Found Right Here In Illinois

by Linze Rice
on Dec 15
Black and white portrait of a man with a mustache, wearing a suit and bow tie, set in an oval frame.
State Pride

8 Surefire Signs You Have Strong Roots In Illinois

by Linze Rice
on Dec 5
A vast field of tall corn plants under a clear blue sky, with trees lining the horizon in the background.

Latest Fun Facts

State Pride
Fun Facts

Not Many People Realize That These 10 Things Are Actually Illegal In Illinois

Illinois has several bizarre and amusing laws that are still technically enforceable.

by Laura Meli
on Feb 23
A fluffy white poodle with a blue bow, standing beside a person, enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
State Pride
Fun Facts

This Famous Statue Was Actually Built In Indiana, Dismantled, And Brought To Illinois

The story behind the Picasso statue in Chicago reveals its journey from inception to installation and its significance in the city.

by Linze Rice
on Jun 29
A large abstract metal sculpture of a horse-like figure in an urban plaza, surrounded by modern buildings.
State Pride
Fun Facts

These 10 Crazy Laws in Illinois Will Leave You Scratching Your Head In Wonder

Illinois has many bizarre and outdated laws that are still technically enforceable.

by Laura Meli
on Jun 27
A close-up of a giraffe with distinctive patterns and a clear blue sky in the background.
State Pride
Fun Facts

Meet The Farm Animal That Inspired An Iconic Restaurant Chain In Illinois

Dairy Queen, a globally recognized ice cream parlor, originated in Illinois and was inspired by the dairy cow.

by Linze Rice
on Jun 2
Black and white image of a Dairy Queen storefront with a sign reading "The New Frozen Dairy Product."
State Pride
Fun Facts

One Of The Biggest Names In Film Grew Up In One Of The Smallest Towns In Illinois

John Malkovich, a renowned actor, hails from the small town of Christopher, Illinois.

by Linze Rice
on May 24
A sunny street scene featuring brick buildings, storefronts, and a clear blue sky in a small town.
State Pride
Fun Facts

This Historic Illinois City Was Named Best In The State For Beer-Lovers

Springfield, Illinois, is recognized as the best city in the state for beer drinkers, featuring several notable local breweries.

by Linze Rice
on May 23
A street lined with historic buildings and shops, featuring parked cars and a clear blue sky.
State Pride
Fun Facts

7 Strong Beliefs Illinois Natives Stand By

Highlights unique cultural quirks and strongly held opinions of Illinois residents.

by Linze Rice
on Nov 25
Chicago landscape shot at sunset.
State Pride
Fun Facts

It’s Bizarre To Think That Illinois Is Home To The World’s Largest Collection Of Pin Buttons, But It’s True

Chicago's Busy Beaver Button Museum holds the Guinness World Record for the largest display of pin-back buttons.

by Linze Rice
on Mar 22
Historic brick building with large windows and decorative facade, featuring two storefronts on a city street.
State Pride
Fun Facts

7 Quirky Facts About Illinois That Sound Made Up, But Are 100% Accurate

Illinois is full of quirky facts, unique attractions, and interesting historical tidbits.

by Linze Rice
on Apr 7
Three golden Twinkies, one cut in half to reveal creamy filling, on a yellow plate against a brown background.
State Pride
Fun Facts

Most People Don’t Know That This Charming Small Town Was Named After Ancient Egypt

by Linze Rice
on Mar 1
A rusted metal bridge spans a river, framed by trees and bathed in warm sunlight.
State Pride
Fun Facts

Visit The Friendliest Town In Illinois The Next Time You Need A Pick-Me-Up

Downers Grove, known for its friendliness and hospitality, offers historical sites, parks, a thriving downtown, and community events, making it one of the best places to visit in Illinois.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Jan 22
A city street view featuring a clock tower, bank, and shops under a clear blue sky. Traffic lights and trees are visible.
State Pride
Fun Facts

It’s Bizarre To Think That Illinois Is Home To The World’s Largest Collection Of 8-Track Tapes, But It’s True

Illinois resident Bob Hiemenz has possibly the world's largest collection of 8-track tapes, amassing over 100,000 since 1985.

by Chris Muras
on Nov 18
A smiling man holds a case of vintage cassette tapes in a thrift shop, with clothing and items visible in the background.
Experiences
State Pride
Fun Facts

The World’s Single-Largest Mailbox is Located Right Here in Illinois

Did you know that the world's largest mailbox is in Casey IL? It's true! As one of the largest things in Illinois, you should see it for yourself. You can even climb inside!

by Catherine Armstrong
on Dec 4
World's Largest Mailbox
State Pride
Fun Facts

You May Be Surprised To Learn These 13 Famous People Are From Illinois

A list of famous people born in Illinois, highlighting their achievements and origins.

by Laura Meli
on Sep 23
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