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State Pride

13 Reasons Why Illinois Is The BEST State

Illinois stands out as the best state in America due to its vibrant city of Chicago, delicious cuisine, sports legends, and natural beauty.

Published Feb 6, 2016

Written by 

Laura Meli

America has 50 great states, but there are several compelling reasons why Illinois is the best one of them all. Read on for 13 reasons why Illinois is the very best.

1. Let's get it out of the way--it has Chicago, one of the best cities in the world.

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Bert Kaufmann/Flickr

2. Our cuisine is delectable and often involves cheese and fried things.

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ryan harvey/Flickr

3. We have had some of the greatest sports legends of all time playing here. Except Cutler.

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Esparta Palma/Flickr

4. Views like this are a mainstay in Illinois, and not just the southern part of the state.

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Tom/Flickr

5. There are miles of sandy, salt-free beaches with incredible views.

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Roman Boed/Flickr

6. Natural beauty in the shape of forests surrounds us.

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Meredith Bell/Flickr

7. The architecture here is just simply amazing.

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Carl Wycoff/Flickr

8. We have an incredible amount of bald eagles who spend winters here.

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CheepShot/Flickr

9. We have Portillos. 'Nuff said.

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Navin75/Flickr

10. We brought you the Twinkie.

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Christian Cable/Flickr

11. It provides sunsets like this one.

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Michael/Flickr

12. It has a river that is both green and flows backwards.

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Alan Light/Flickr

13. Along with flat prairies, there are surprising places to climb, hike, and explore.

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Eric Schmuttenmauer/Flickr

Why do you think Illinois is the best state?

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