25 Best Things to Do in Illinois

 

At the heart of the United States is Illinois, a state of firsts. The first skyscraper was erected in The Prairie State along with the first Ferris wheel. The State, which was named after the Illinois River, is as varied as possible and is the leading producer of corn in the US but also home to the world’s busiest airport and the USA’s tallest building.

Illinois is often referred to as the Land of Lincoln as it is where the 16th president of the United States began his political journey. The pride and respect towards this figure is obvious in the state due to the numerous monuments and landmarks dedicated to him. Illinois has many charming towns and state parks but is largely dominated by The Windy City, Chicago.

Home to world-class museums, memorable sights, great food and a lot of shops, Chicago is truly a travelers paradise. It is one of the largest cities in the US and draws millions of visitors every year.

Have a look at the best things to do in Illinois:

1. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

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Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library And Museum

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is situated in Springfield and offers a great opportunity to learn not only about Abraham Lincoln, but also about Illinois and its history.

Officially opened in 2004, the museums collection has been a work in progress for at least a century. The facility is also used for research and not all of the collection is available for public viewing.

2. Chicago’s Magnificent Mile

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Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue is a must for any visitors to the Windy City.

The Mile offers a selection of shopping ranging from exclusive boutiques to high street shops.

There is also a selection of museums, live entertainment, hotels and restaurants along the Magnificent Mile and several famous buildings such as Trump Tower and the Wrigley Building.

3. Ulysses S Grant Home State Historic Site

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Ulysses S Grant Home State Historic Site

Ulysses S Grant was a Civil War Hero and was presented this house upon his return from the war in 1865.

The Grant Home has been fully restored to how its 1860’s furnishings and contains many of Grant’s own belongings.

The home is open to the public for tours and is a great way to learn about an American Civil War Hero.