When you think of Illinois, you probably think of Chicago. While Chicago has so much to offer, Illinois is actually a relatively large state with many facets.
Illinois is known as the “Land of Lincoln,” as the president spent many of his pivotal adult years in the state. Illinois is also a major agricultural state, and serves as the starting point for Route 66. 
When it comes to outdoor adventure, there are beautiful places to hike throughout the state.I really love Starved Rock State Park, which isn’t far from Chicago. But I very much want to explore Southern Illinois, which is full of some incredible hiking trails.  
I’ve visited Chicago many times growing up, but 2026 was the first time I explored some smaller towns in Illinois. I especially fell in love with Champaign-Urbana, which is a vibrant college town. See below for my Illinois travel guides. This state might surprise you!

Illinois Travel Guides

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Learn about outdoorsy things to do and cool small towns in Illinois.

More Midwest Travel Guides

Spend a fun weekend in Champaign-Urbana! Enjoy a sculptures park, stunning gardens, international food, and more.

10 Outdoorsy and Creative Things To Do in Champaign-Urbana, IL

This list of the best road trips in the Midwest is sure to inspire your next Midwest vacation! From badlands to waterfalls, the midwest has so much to offer.

The 12 Best Outdoorsy Road Trips in the Midwest

Discover the most beautiful waterfalls in the midwest! From the Minnesota North Shore to state parks in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, the midwest has so many waterfalls.

13 of The Best Waterfalls in the Midwest

Take an epic waterfall road trip using this itinerary! This midwest road trip will take you to the best parks in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois.

Illinois Travel Guides