About Illinois
Quick Overview
Capital: Springfield
Largest City: Chicago
Population: 12600000
Languages: English, Spanish
Currency: USD
Explore Illinois by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Illinois
Discover the top 28 must-see destinations in Illinois, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Millennium Park
Chicago's crown jewel, home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture ('The Bean'), Crown Fountain, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Free to visit and the most photographed spot in Illinois.
Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, housing over 300,000 works including Georges Seurat's 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte' and Grant Wood's 'American Gothic'. A UNESCO World Heritage cultural site.
Shedd Aquarium
One of the world's largest indoor aquariums, featuring over 32,000 animals including beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, and penguins. Located on Chicago's Museum Campus along Lake Michigan.
Field Museum
Chicago's natural history museum housing 40 million specimens including Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered. Explore ancient Egypt, Native American cultures, and Pacific Island exhibitions.
Willis Tower Skydeck
Chicago's tallest building (443m/1,450 ft) features the famous glass-floored Ledge balconies extending 4 feet beyond the facade on the 103rd floor, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of up to 50 miles.
Navy Pier
Chicago's most visited attraction, stretching 3,300 feet into Lake Michigan with rides, restaurants, shops, IMAX theater, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and the iconic Centennial Wheel Ferris wheel offering panoramic lake views.
Chicago Riverwalk
A stunning 1.25-mile pedestrian promenade along the south bank of the Chicago River in the heart of downtown. Features restaurants, kayak rentals, architectural boat tours, and beautiful views of Chicago's iconic buildings.
Lincoln Park Zoo
One of the last free zoos in the United States, housing over 1,100 animals in a stunning urban setting along Lake Michigan's shoreline. Highlights include great apes, polar bears, lions, and a naturalistic African savanna habitat.
Recommended Itineraries for Illinois
Plan your perfect Illinois trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Illinois Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Illinois, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Illinois
- Days 1-2: Illinois city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Illinois
- Days 1-3: Illinois comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Illinois, departure
Where to Stay in Illinois
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Illinois offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options (60–80)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range (150–200)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury (350+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Langham Chicago
An ultra-luxury Forbes Five-Star hotel occupying the iconic former IBM Building designed by Mies van der Rohe, featuring panoramic Chicago River and skyline views, the acclaimed Travelle restaurant, and the award-winning Chuan Spa.
Four Seasons Chicago
Situated above the 900 North Michigan Shops on the Magnificent Mile, the Four Seasons Chicago offers sumptuous rooms with lake or city views, the acclaimed The Spa at Four Seasons, and Allium restaurant.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
A refined luxury hotel on the Gold Coast steps from Oak Street Beach and Magnificent Mile. Features the SALONE Ristorante, an exquisite spa, and meticulously appointed rooms with opulent French-inspired décor.
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
A landmark 1929 hotel in a magnificent Medinah Athletic Club building on the Magnificent Mile, featuring one of Chicago's most beautiful historic indoor swimming pools and elegant rooms with skyline views.
Where to Eat in Illinois
Discover the culinary delights of Illinois, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Alinea
Grant Achatz's three-Michelin-starred flagship, widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the world. An avant-garde multi-course experience that defies conventions — dishes are served on the table, in the air, and sometimes on the diner.
Girl & The Goat
Stephanie Izard's celebrated flagship in the vibrant Fulton Market District offering creative shared plates with bold global flavors. The goat empanadas, roasted pig face, and wood-oven dishes are legendary.
Au Cheval
Frequently ranked among America's best burgers, Au Cheval's double cheeseburger with a soft fried egg and crispy bacon is a revelation. A stylish diner vibe with a full cocktail program.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
An absolute Chicago institution since 1971, Lou Malnati's is widely considered the city's best deep dish pizza. The Malnati Chicago Classic — butter crust, sausage, tomatoes, and mozzarella — is an unmissable experience.
Giordano's
Famous for their 'stuffed' deep dish pizza with cheese packed between two layers of crust — a style distinct from traditional deep dish. The Giordano's original recipe has been served since 1974.
Pequod's Pizza
Beloved by locals for its caramelized-cheese-crust pan pizza that creates a crunchy, slightly burnt cheese ring around the edges. Less touristy than other deep dish spots, making it a local favorite since 1971.
Getting Around Illinois
Illinois has excellent transportation infrastructure centered on Chicago, one of North America's greatest transit hubs. Chicago is served by two major airports, an extensive rapid transit system (the CTA 'L'), Metra commuter rail, Amtrak intercity trains, and extensive highway networks. A car is recommended for exploring areas outside Chicago.
Budget Breakdown for Illinois
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: .
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-40 | $50-120 | $150+ |
| Food (per day) | $10-25 | $30-60 | $80+ |
| Transportation | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Activities | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Daily Total | 60–80 | 150–200 | 350+ |
Best Time to Visit Illinois
Best Season: Year-round
Essential Travel Tips for Illinois
- Get a Ventra card for unlimited CTA rides in Chicago.
- Book popular restaurants (Alinea, Girl & The Goat) months in advance.
- The Chicago CityPASS saves money on top museum admissions.
- Lincoln Park Zoo is completely free — a great budget option.
- Summers in Chicago bring major outdoor festivals; check the events calendar.
- Parking in downtown Chicago is expensive; use public transit.
- Many Chicago neighborhoods are walkable; rent a Divvy bike for lakefront rides.
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Illinois is generally safe for tourists. Chicago's tourist areas (Magnificent Mile, Grant Park, River North) are very safe. Avoid certain South and West Side neighborhoods after dark. Emergency: 911.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Illinois?
The best time to visit Illinois is year-round. Check local conditions may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Illinois?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Illinois for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Illinois?
For a comprehensive Illinois experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Illinois expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect 60–80 per day, mid-range 150–200, and luxury 350+.