We Found the Most Colorful Places in Illinois

Chicago’s bright skyscrapers are dazzling, but they aren’t the most colorful places in Illinois. From parks bursting with fall foliage and fields lined with vibrant flowers to creative murals and neon lights, Illinois is a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your photography or take a visual road trip, these five destinations are the most colorful places to visit in Illinois. 

1. Anderson Japanese Garden - Rockford

One of the nation’s most renowned Japanese gardens is found in Rockford. The Anderson Japanese Gardens features 12 acres of wooden bridges, winding paths, koi ponds, and trickling streams. The tranquil park is bursting with color in any season. Visit in spring to see cherry blossoms and in fall for fiery Japanese maple trees.

2. Lilacia Park - Lombard

Lilacia Park in Lombard is always lovely, but in spring it hosts its own colorful festival. Lombard Lilac Time is held during the first two weeks of May, and it features more than 700 lilacs and 35,000 tulips. Stroll the park’s 8.5 acres and admire the brilliant varieties of flowers.

3. Pilsen Murals- Chicago

Chicago is filled with creativity, but the neighborhood of Pilsen is known for its multicolored murals. Pilsen’s mural tradition began in the 1960s when artists in the Mexican-American community painted works to showcase their history and culture. Vibrant murals line 16th Street and embellish local businesses. Explore the neighborhood and admire the work of artists like Hector Duarte and Sam Kirk.

4. Richardson Adventure Farm - Spring Grove

Richardson Adventure Farm offers activities for every season, from a corn maze in the fall to sunflower fields in the summer. During spring, the fields light up with 350,000 tulips in 30 different varieties and 50,000 daffodils. From yellow to red to pink, count all the colors blooming as you wander the vivid fields.

5. Route 66 Legends Neon Park - Springfield

If you can’t travel all of Route 66 in Illinois, the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience allows you to visit it all in one place. The exhibit is a self-guided tour through 92 communities along Route 66 in Illinois from Chicago to Madison. Explore photographs, muffler men, and vintage neon signs from along the route.

Why This Is One of the Most Colorful Places in Illinois

Neon signs are one of the nostalgic symbols of Route 66. Within the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience, you can see vintage neon signs from the Mother Road at the Route 66 Legends Neon Park. The neon signs featured in the park are recreations or restorations for former Route 66 businesses in Illinois. Here, the A. Lincoln Motel, the Coliseum Ballroom, Chain of Rocks Motel, and the Bel-Air Drive-In theater glow again.

When to Visit for the Best Color and Light

The best times to visit these destinations vary by time and season. While you can enjoy the Route 66 Legends Neon Park by day, the neon lights buzz to life after dark. Some destinations are seasonal. Lilacia Park is at peak bloom in May, while the tulips at Richardson Adventure Farm bloom for two to three weeks in April and May. Generally, the best light for photography is found during the morning and during magic hour before sunset. Destinations often see thinner crowds during these times, a bonus for capturing gorgeous photos.

From creative expressions to nature’s canvas, Illinois is filled with colorful destinations. Are there other colorful destinations in Illinois you recommend? Let us know by filling out our nomination form. We'd love to hear from you.

If you're feeling inspired to discover more destinations where you can experience Illinois in color, try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.