12 Most Loved Tourist Attractions In Illinois

Step into the heart of the Midwest and discover Illinois, a state that has everything from the bustling city of Chicago to the serene natural landscapes of the Shawnee National Forest. Whether you want to spend a day strolling through the Field Museum, taking in the natural wonders at the Garden of the Gods, or making memories with your kids at the Brookfield Zoo, there is no shortage of adventures waiting for you in the Prairie State. Get ready to embark on a journey through some of the most loved tourist attractions waiting for you in Illinois!

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

If you are a history buff, head to the capital of Illinois, Springfield, for a visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. In the museum area, you will journey through the 16th President’s childhood and political career while viewing some of Lincoln’s personal artifacts up close. Head to the library section to browse through hundreds of documents written by Lincoln himself that shine a light on his most significant milestones. You can also walk around the museum grounds to see sculptures and monuments, including the impressive Beacon of Endurance, which is embossed with famous Abraham Lincoln quotes.

Brookfield Zoo

There is nothing quite like bonding with the kids on a fun family outing. Just on the outskirts of Chicago, head to the Brookfield Zoo, where visitors of all ages will fall in love with more than 3,400 animals. Here, you can think beyond lions, tigers, and bears, getting up close and personal with exhibits featuring Galapagos tortoises, reindeer, spider monkeys, and more. Jump on board the Motor Safari for a narrated ride around the zoo, or explore by foot and spend as much time as you would like viewing the different animals. Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the hand-carved wooden carousel for a quick spin!

Anderson Japanese Gardens

One of the best places in Illinois to feel a sense of peace is Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford. Located about an hour and a half West of Chicago, the gardens span across 12 acres and feature koi ponds, babbling streams, and cascading waterfalls all begging to be explored. During the spring and summer, bring your appetite and stop at Fresco at the Gardens. The onsite restaurant offers eye-catching views and delicious bites, perfect for breakfast and lunch. In the wintertime, experience “Illuminated,” the Gardens’ light experience that captures the magic of the holiday season.

The Art Institute of Chicago

Get in tune with your creative side by visiting one of the most popular art museums in the country, the Art Institute of Chicago, which is located in the heart of the Windy City. The museum houses world-famous pieces spanning countless styles, such as American Gothic by Grant Wood, Vincent van Gogh’s iconic Self-Portrait, and Pablo Picasso’s The Old Guitarist, in addition to rotating exhibits. If browsing the Art Institute’s collection leaves you feeling inspired to make art of your own, the museum hosts regular workshops where you can create an art project, practice creative writing, and more.

Field Museum

Another much-loved Chicago tourist attraction is the Field Museum, located on the shore of Lake Michigan. The most iconic site to see at the museum is SUE, the T. rex. Spanning more than 40 feet in length, SUE is the largest T. rex skeleton ever found and the most complete. Aside from SUE, there are other popular exhibits focusing on ancient Egypt, the vast ocean, and DNA research. Are you looking to explore the great state of Illinois on a budget? The Field Museum offers free admission for Illinois residents on Wednesdays!

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Known as one of the most renowned minds in American architecture, Frank Lloyd Wright’s first home and studio is in Oak Park, Illinois. To get the full experience of learning about Wright’s architectural style and its impact on American architecture, opt for the Home and Studio: Inside and Out Tour. On it, you will be taken on a guided indoor tour of Wright’s home and studio, followed by a self-guided audio walking tour of the outdoor Historic District, where you can see some of the homes Wright designed in his studio. You can also explore photos that Wright took on a 1905 trip to Japan that influenced some of his design principles.

Garden of the Gods

When you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, head to the Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois for a trip to the Garden of the Gods. Take a short quarter-mile hike on the observation trail to take in a stunning view of sandstone bluffs that stretch for miles, or embark on a longer 5-and-a-half-mile walk for an up-close look at this geographic marvel. You could also turn your trip to the Garden of the Gods into a weekend outing by reserving one of the campsites or the nearby Shawnee Forest Cabins, depending on how much you like to "rough it" while camping.

Navy Pier

When you think of Chicago’s most notable sites, does the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier come to mind? While the nearly 200-foot-tall Centennial Wheel is undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions at Navy Pier, it is far from the only thing to explore! Sitting right on the waters of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier hosts year-round events like live music and cultural celebrations, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can also book cruise tours that leave from Navy Pier, such as the Architecture River Tour that explores the city’s skyline or a romantic brunch cruise that offers incredible views.

Illinois Beach State Park

Experience the beauty of the Great Lakes with a trip to Illinois Beach State Park, which spans more than six miles along the shore of Lake Michigan in Zion, Illinois. Perfect for outdoor lovers, you can go swimming and boating in the lake or pack a delicious picnic for lunch with a view. If you decide to explore the hiking trails in the park, keep an eye out for wildflowers sprouting in nearly every color of the rainbow and prickly pear cactus that grows in the dry areas of the park. From April to mid-November, the onsite campground is open, so you can spend a whole weekend enjoying the great outdoors.

The Super Museum

Calling all comic book lovers! The Superman Museum in Metropolis, Illinois, is the home of more than 70,000 Superman items, including one of the only George Reeves Superman costumes in the world. While you are there, don’t forget to stop by the towering Superman statue, which is the perfect place for a photo op. While the museum is open year-round, Superman super fans should make a special trip during the second weekend in June for the annual Superman Celebration event, where fans can dress up, meet comic artists, participate in games, and help raise scholarship money for local students.

Millennium Park

When you plan to spend time in Chicago, don’t forget to stop by Millennial Park near the lakefront. One of the park’s most famous sites is the Cloud Gate statue (affectionately nicknamed “The Bean”), but beyond that, you can also explore Lurie Garden and interactive fountains. In the winter, you can lace up your skates and hit the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, and in the summer, the kids will love tackling the 40-foot rock climbing wall or playing a round of mini golf. The park also hosts year-round events, including free movie screenings and music festivals of all genres.

Raging Waves Waterpark

Make the most of the Illinois summer months with a family trip to Raging Waves Waterpark in Yorkville, Illinois. Whether your idea of relaxing is chilling in a cabana with a cold drink in hand or going down as many water slides as possible, Raging Waves has something that will appeal to every member of the family. With over 30 thrill-seeking water attractions, including the exciting Aussie Mat Dash, that lets you race with your friends, a visit to the largest waterpark in Illinois is the perfect way to get a break from the summer heat and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Adventure Awaits in Illinois

Why wait any longer to explore a state that has it all? Spending time in Illinois can be a journey through art, history, and nature, depending on what appeals most to you. From its bustling city sites to its peaceful parks, Illinois is a destination that will leave an impression long after your adventure ends. So, get ready to pack your bags, hit the road, and let the Prairie State surprise you with its endless possibilities!