The Most Beautiful Islands in Illinois
Illinois is a delightful destination in the Midwestern United States with a rich history and beautiful natural landscapes. While it is known to host thriving metropolises and charming small towns, from Chicago to Springfield and other localities in between, the Prairie state is also home to numerous idyllic islands that are well worth exploring. Nestled along its expansive rivers and lakes are many scenic islands that feel a world apart from the state's bustling cities, offering visitors peaceful natural respites.
If you like off-the-beaten-path adventures, the most beautiful islands in Illinois are an excellent travel prospect. From heavily forested parklands to isolated retreats perfect for unwinding, those seeking natural beauty and recreation need to venture no farther than these lush islands right in Illinois' backyard.
Northerly Island
Very few travelers to Chicago realize there is a stunning Lake Michigan island a short distance from the Windy City. Spanning about 120 acres, this Midwest oasis presents the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Chicago, tailored for nature lovers. It is a delightful space with fun opportunities like bird-watching, lazy strolling, and fishing to entertain tourists. If you love taking photos, the views of the Chicago skyline from Northerly Island are breathtaking. The Adler Planetarium is one of the most visited spots on the island, home to diverse exhibits that introduce visitors to the fascinating universe surrounding us.
The island also houses the Huntington Bank Pavilion, a lovely outdoor amphitheater with a 30,000-seat capacity, famous for its string of summer concerts. Meanwhile, the lakefront natural area with picturesque walking paths along the island's western side is ideal for viewing native wildlife and plant species.
Jones Island Park
This tranquil hideaway in the heart of Grayslake promises tourists all the reasons to embrace the outdoor lifestyle. It boasts stunning natural surroundings, providing the ideal space for fishing, picnicking, and paddleboarding. Jones Island Park's several amenities allow visitors to stay engaged and entertained for a whole day. Nature lovers can access scenic hiking trails and spot local wildlife. There is also a lovely swimming beach available to those who fancy a dip in the water.
When tourists work up an appetite from nonstop exploration of the outdoors, they can access several eateries to restock their energy reserves. The Vine is a trendy local spot serving delicious American fare, including sandwiches and hamburgers. It also has a wine and cocktail bar where you can choose from a number of martinis.
Goose Island
Goose Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Illinois to visit, spanning about 160 acres on the North Branch of the Chicago River. This little piece of oasis in Chicago is among the city's best-kept secrets, promising exciting activities to intrigue all tourists. Goose Island is a culturally diverse destination and invites newcomers to enjoy its different points of interest. If you enjoy tasty flavors, you can stop by Goose Island Shrimp House for mouth-watering seafood.
Alternatively, you can get a refreshing dose of caffeine at Printer's Row Coffee Company, which treats patrons to an impressive selection of coffee drinks. Those who crave more activity can head to Chicago Sport & Social Club for numerous facilities related to 20 different sports, including a gym.
Isle a la Cache
This 101-acre Des Plaines River island in Romeoville charms with its secluded atmosphere, dense woodland, and thriving wildlife population. Isle a la Cache is a forest preserve considered to be part of the Des Plaines River wildlife corridor. It provides a habitat for various bird species. Bird watchers can visit to catch a glimpse of hooded mergansers and belted kingfishers. The island hosts the Isle a la Cache Museum, which presents guests with an insightful history lesson through artifacts taking you back to the 18th-century heritage, featuring the North American fur trade.
About a ½-mile of short trails crisscross the island, providing hikers with an avenue to explore the territory. One of the more notable routes serving the island to look out for is the Centennial Trail.
Kaskaskia Island
Kaskaskia Island broke off from Illinois' mainland when the Mississippi River showed its mighty side in 1881. Interestingly, the island is in Kaskaskia but can only be accessed from St. Mary, Missouri. Visiting Kaskaskia Island offers a glimpse into the remains of mainland Kaskaskia's history. While there are not many things to do here, visitors will be intrigued by the Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial. After liberating themselves from the British, the Kaskaskia townsfolk rang the bell in celebration. Although it no longer works, it is a stark reminder of their emancipation, and the site has a brief audio recording explaining the landmark's importance.
The island also hosts the beautiful Immaculate Conception Church, the largest structure standing on the island. Besides admiring its red brick facade, visitors can enter to explore its rustic interior features and artifacts or attend a mass service on Saturdays.
Chouteau Island
Chouteau Island is part of the three-island complex on the Mississippi River, alongside Mosenthein and Gabaret islands. It was formed by digging a channel during the construction of the Chain of Rocks Canal. The island consists of several hundred acres of bottomland forest, prairie, and shrub habitat, which harbor wildlife species like deer and turkeys. This results in generous hunting opportunities for enthusiasts. Tourists can also access delightful fishing spots at the Chouteau Island Fishing Area or walk along the Chain of Rocks Canal Bridge for picturesque water vistas.
Chouteau Island forms a significant part of the Confluence Greenway, a popular regional recreation corridor. This attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the county and neighboring St. Louis seeking outdoor adventures. Every January, people gather to watch bald eagles during the annual Eagle Days.
Plum Island
This beautiful island on the Illinois River covers about 52 acres and borders the famous Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park. The Illinois Audubon Society acquired it to serve as a wildlife sanctuary. It is home to the Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary and attracts visitors seeking to observe bald eagles in their natural habitat and other bird species. The island is also an important archeological site, with a sizeable haul of human remains once discovered dating back to around 2,000 BC.
The Plum Island Site provides evidence of prehistoric life on the island and harbors several Native American archeological sites, which should interest historians. Although the island is not open to the public, you can access it for restoration activities like volunteering for the Audubon Society.
The islands highlighted promise discoveries of exquisite natural beauty in Illinois' backyard. With diverse landscapes. ranging from glacial bluffs and towering sandstone to dense hardwood forests and sweeping prairies, each island offers unique ecosystems to explore. Exploring their quiet trails exposes visitors to scenic vistas, birdsong, and wildlife. The locations also present an ideal escape from the city to revel in a serene atmosphere without the noise. Focusing your future trips around these beautiful islands in Illinois ensures thoroughly rejuvenating recreational retreats.
