The Land of Lincoln is an unassuming midwestern state with one massive claim to fame: The majestic city of Chicago.
Illinois might be a flyover state if not for the windy city, but visitors would miss the beautiful spaces the rest of the state offers. Here are the best things to do in Illinois outside of Chicago, plus the top five in the second city!
Top 5 Things to Do in Chicago
Illinois boasts the third-largest city in the United States. Chicago abounds with museums, theme parks, restaurants, parks, venues, and unique neighborhoods, making it a top bucket list destination for many travelers. Over 30 million people visited Chicago in 2021.
Because this article is about visiting Illinois in general, we’re limiting the Chicago section to the top five, even though there are many other things to do in the windy city.
Visit a Museum
Some of the best museums in the country call Chicago home. Meet Sue, the most intact Tyrannosaurus rex fossil ever discovered, at the Field Museum of Natural History, or explore an authentic German U-boat from World War II at the Museum of Science and Industry.