Top 25 Attractions in Illinois You Can’t Miss (2025 Guide)

At the heart of the United States is Illinois, a state notable for its inaugural advancements. The first skyscraper was constructed in The Prairie State, which also introduced the first Ferris wheel. This state, named after the Illinois River, is characterized by its diversity, being the leading producer of corn in the US, while also hosting the world’s busiest airport and the tallest building in America.

Often referred to as the Land of Lincoln, Illinois is where the 16th president of the United States initiated his political career. The esteem and admiration towards this historical figure are evident throughout the state, thanks to the numerous monuments and landmarks commemorating him. While Illinois boasts charming towns and state parks, it is predominantly characterized by The Windy City, Chicago. Renowned for its world-class museums, iconic sights, exceptional cuisine, and extensive shopping options, Chicago truly represents a paradise for travelers. It ranks among the largest cities in the US, attracting millions of visitors each year.

I have resided in Illinois my entire life and have been exploring its offerings from a young age, traveling with my parents in an RV and later embarking on various city and road trips. Drawing from my personal experiences, I have compiled this list of some noteworthy attractions to explore within the state:

1. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, located in Springfield, offers an exceptional opportunity to gain insights not only about Abraham Lincoln but also about Illinois and its rich history. Officially inaugurated in 2004, the museum’s collection has been curated over the course of at least a century. The facility is also utilized for research purposes, and thus, not all items in the collection are accessible to the public.

2. Chicago’s Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue is essential for any visitor to the Windy City. This vibrant section of Chicago is renowned for its upscale shopping, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues. Extending for approximately a mile along Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago, the Magnificent Mile features some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the historic Wrigley Building and the John Hancock Center.

Visitors can explore luxury retail shops, art galleries, and world-class restaurants, or simply absorb the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling city streets. The Magnificent Mile serves as a popular destination for both tourists and locals, providing a unique fusion of culture, history, and contemporary amenities.

3. Ulysses S Grant Home State Historic Site

The Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site is an essential destination for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the life and legacy of one of America’s esteemed presidents. Located in Galena, Illinois, the site represents the former residence of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States.

The residence has been meticulously restored to its original splendor, granting visitors an intimate understanding of the life of one of the nation’s most revered leaders. Guests have the opportunity to tour the house, which showcases original furnishings and decor, and explore the beautiful gardens and grounds. The Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site is a captivating destination that presents a distinctive viewpoint on American history and one of its most iconic figures.

4. Navy Pier

Navy Pier represents a prominent tourist attraction situated along the waterfront in Chicago.

The pier accommodates a diverse range of activities: museums, shopping, theaters, restaurants, and cinemas.

Noteworthy features include the Crystal Gardens, which provides a tropical oasis year-round, and the Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking views of the city.

5. Starved Rock State Park

This state park, named after a group of Native Americans who were left to perish on one of the rocks by their adversaries, is celebrated for its picturesque canyons and magnificent waterfalls.

Situated on the Illinois River, southwest of Chicago, this park boasts outstanding hiking trails that provide access to the park’s stunning landscapes.

For those prioritizing safety, guided hikes are available.

As is the case with many US state parks, Starved Rock serves as an excellent venue for activities such as fishing, horseback riding, and boating.

6. Art Institute of Chicago

One of Chicago’s premier cultural institutions, the Art Institute of Chicago is recognized globally for its extensive collection.

The historic building, dating back to the late 1800s, houses a diverse array of artwork ranging from ancient sculptures to post-impressionist masterpieces.

Among the most remarkable pieces within the museum are Vincent Van Gogh’s Self-portrait and a Han Dynasty tomb sculpture dating back over 2000 years.

7. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Cahokia Mounds is distinguished as the largest prehistoric Native American settlement north of Mexico. The site comprises 120 mounds, including the 100-foot tall Monks Mound.

The area is believed to have been inhabited between 700AD and 1400AD, reaching a peak population of approximately 20,000 individuals around 1100AD.

Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring an Interpretive Center that narrates the story of the inhabitants who constructed the area, utilizing artifacts, audiovisual displays, and dioramas.

8. Dana-Thomas House

The Dana-Thomas House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902, stands as a premier example of his large-scale Prairie-style residences.

This 35-room building, located in Springfield, now operates as a museum offering guided tours to the public.

The house showcases Wright’s artistry, particularly in its windows, doors, and light fixtures.

9. Anderson Japanese Gardens

These 10-acre Japanese gardens, located in Rockford, feature waterfalls, ponds, streams, and rock formations alongside an authentic sukiya-style guest house and tea room. The Anderson Japanese Gardens provide visitors with a tranquil and picturesque environment to unwind and connect with nature. The gardens are inspired by traditional Japanese principles of balance, harmony, and simplicity, encompassing a variety of plant and tree species native to Japan.

Visitors can wander along meandering pathways, traverse ornate bridges, and appreciate the beauty of the garden’s numerous water features, including serene ponds and cascades. There is also a tea house available, where guests can indulge in traditional Japanese tea and sweets while soaking in the garden’s beauty. It is advisable to review their website as they offer tea ceremonies on select dates.

10. Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum of Natural History ranks among the largest of its kind globally and is home to the largest Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton ever discovered.

This T-Rex, affectionately named Sue, stands 13 feet tall at the hip and measures 42 feet long, boasting its own gift shop as well.

In addition to this remarkable prehistoric specimen, the museum features numerous other exhibits, including permanent displays focused on the Americas and ancient Egypt.

The temporary special exhibits frequently offer high quality and are well worth a visit.

11. Willis Tower

Once known as the Sears Tower until 2009, when the insurance company Willis Group Holdings acquired the naming rights, this tower is the tallest building in the United States.

The Skydeck on the top floor offers visitors panoramic views of Chicago and features a vertigo-inducing ledge with a glass floor, providing a thrilling perspective from extreme heights.

During peak days, queues for entry to the top floor can extend up to an hour.

12. Shedd Aquarium

This public aquarium in Chicago has been operational since May 1930 and is home to over 8000 aquatic animals.

Major attractions include the Wild Reef, offering an up-close experience with numerous sharks, and the Oceanarium, which houses rescued sea otters.

In recent years, the Oceanarium has faced controversy over the captivity of whales and white-sided dolphins.

13. Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is the largest park in Chicago, extending for six miles across a remarkable area of 1200 acres.

The park features numerous trails, lakes, and paths, making it ideal for recreational activities. During winter, it becomes a space for snow-related activities, while sunbathing is common in the summer months.

This park serves as a wonderful location to enjoy snacks purchased from nearby markets found on Clark Street and Diversey Parkway.

14. Grant Park

This expansive urban park is situated within Chicago’s business district and frequently hosts major events, including Blues Fest and Lollapalooza.

The centerpiece of Grant Park is Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest in the world.

The fountain operates its 134 jets every hour, for a duration of twenty minutes, on the hour.

At night, the display is enhanced by colorful lights and music, creating a spectacular view.

15. Adler Planetarium

Established by Chicago businessman Max Adler in 1930, the Adler Planetarium is a museum dedicated to the study of astronomy and astrophysics.

With public telescopes, engaging 3D lectures, and the Planet Explorers exhibit that allows children to launch a rocket, the Adler Planetarium is an essential destination for space aficionados.

The steps of the Adler provide a fantastic viewpoint of Chicago’s skyline and have gained recognition as a romantic spot for couples.

16. The Driehaus Museum

Housed within the beautiful Nickerson Mansion, the Driehaus Museum features decorative art and architecture from the Gilded Age.

The museum offers public access to three floors of exquisite objects and stunning stained glass.

Guided tours of the museum are available without the need for advance reservations.

17. Old State Capitol

Located in Springfield, Illinois, the Old State Capitol was constructed in 1837 in remarkable Greek revival style. It served as the state house from 1840 to 1876 and was notably used by Barack Obama for his candidacy announcement in 2007.

Passionate museum docents offer guided tours of the building, sharing captivating tales of Lincoln and its historical significance. Prior to your visit, you may consider reading my guide on Springfield.

18. Chicago Cultural Center

This expansive building offers various attractions: lunchtime music concerts, foreign films, a stunning Tiffany stained glass dome, and serves as Chicago’s main visitor center.

All these attractions, along with guided tours available on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, are offered without charge. The StoryCorps program—also complimentary—allows visitors to document their personal stories and experiences.

The recorded stories are preserved on a CD as well as archived in the Library of Congress.

19. Lincoln’s Tomb

Lincoln’s remains were interred in this magnificent tomb located in Oak Ridge Cemetery following his assassination in 1865.

Over the years, the bronze bust on the tomb has visibly discolored due to the countless visitors who have honored his memory.

During summer on Tuesdays, the flag flies at half-mast, and muskets are fired by infantry reenactors to commemorate Lincoln.

20. Chicago Theatre

This iconic theatre has hosted renowned artists such as Prince and Frank Sinatra throughout its history, making it an excellent photo opportunity.

The six-story sign prominently displayed on the exterior of the building is certainly impressive; however, the true highlight is the theatre’s breathtaking lobby, inspired by the Palace of Versailles.

Upon its inauguration in 1921, the theatre screened silent films, with ticket prices starting at a mere 50 cents.

Today, the theatre functions as a concert venue, offering guided tours during the summer months.

21. 360 Chicago

360 Chicago, previously known as the John Hancock Center, ranks as Chicago’s third tallest skyscraper, reaching a height of 100 stories and 1,127 feet.

Some contend that the views from this building surpass those of its taller counterpart, the Willis Tower.

The observatory located on the 94th floor features informative displays, alongside an open-air “skywalk” that allows guests to feel the wind while soaking in the impressive views.

For those wishing to admire the surroundings in a more leisurely fashion, the Signature Room on the 95th floor offers fine dining complemented by stunning vistas.

22. Lincoln Home

This National Historic Site is the residence where Abraham Lincoln lived from 1844 until 1961, prior to becoming the President of the United States. It is the only home Lincoln ever possessed.

The house tends to fill quickly during the bustling summer season; however, the knowledgeable staff provide informative tours that are enriching for every visitor.

23. Six Flags Great America

The Six Flags theme park, established in 1976, is located in Gurnee. Like all Six Flags parks, it provides a broad array of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages.

Among the prominent thrill rides are Goliath and the double-tracked racing rollercoaster, American Eagle. The park features multiple dining establishments and a variety of souvenir options. The Goliath, a steep wooden coaster, remains my personal favorite.

24. Chicago Lakefront Trail

The Chicago Lakefront Trail extends for 18 miles alongside the shores of Lake Michigan.

Several of Chicago’s lakeside neighborhoods, including Lakeview and Lincoln Park, are situated along this trail.

This pathway is ideal for cycling and walking, presenting splendid views of both the lake and the skyline of Chicago.

Along the trail’s length are parks, playgrounds, tennis courts, and soccer fields, along with facilities such as restrooms, concession stands, and drinking fountains.

25. The Chicago Botanic Garden

Situated across nine islands in Glencoe, this living plant museum encompasses 385 acres and hosts 26 display gardens, enveloped by four natural habitats.

The gardens have been open for over 40 years, evolving into one of the world’s premier living museums.

The site is especially celebrated for its remarkable bonsai collection and features a giant night-blooming flower known as the Corpse Plant, notorious for its unpleasant scent when in bloom.