So are you planning to visit Illinois, but wondering how to explore the state in the best way? In this land of Lincoln, there are a lot of places to go to for you to make the most of it. With a lot of significant locations and major beautiful areas, you got to go to the right places.
So it is important for you to check out this list of the most beautiful places in Illinois.
1. Chicago
When it comes to Illinois, Chicago is a place that everyone knows of. It is the largest city in the entire country. The list of beautiful places in this city goes on and on. With views of Lake Michigan in the west and amazing beaches and beach fronts, you will be enchanted by the beauty. Interestingly, it is also the most visited tourist spot in Illinois.
2. Springfield
Did you know Springfield is the state capital of Illinois? It is also the birthplace of America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. Beautiful places to visit in this city are related to Lincoln, including Lincoln’s home, presidential library and other areas named after his name. All the places are well maintained and visited most by tourists.
3. Anderson Japanese Gardens
To see a piece of traditional Japanese garden in Illinois, visit the Anderson Japanese Gardens. Inspired by the real Japanese garden of Tokyo, this place is constructed with organized meticulous codes. Truly a magnificent place for nature lovers who will enjoy exploring these gorgeous tranquil gardens.
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4. Morton Arboretum
Open year round, Morton Arboretum is a stunning place with its flora and fauna. The place was constructed with the mission to collect and study plants and trees of the world. Established in 1922, this property now has over 4000 different species of plants. There is also a hiking trail and library within the vicinity.
5. Garden of the Gods
Located at the corner of Shawnee Hills recreation area, Garden of the Gods is one of the most popular places in the state. Every year, thousands of tourists are drawn to this beautiful property. With picturesque views of different unique rock formations, this place is also rich in wildernesses.
6. Chicago Loop
If you are running low in time but want to explore beautiful places, the Chicago Loop is a great choice. Known as the spiritual heart of Chicago, this loop is called Chicagoans. For over 100 days, this loop’s eponymous vertical neon sign has been one of the popular things among tourists.
Learn more about the best places to visit in Illinois.
7. Hyde Park
Home to the University of Chicago, Hyde Park is a brilliantly beautiful place. For those who want to explore the classic architecture of south Chicago, this is a must-visit. It is a historic neighborhood with blocks of idyllic row houses and vine-covered walls.
8. Illinois Beach State Park
Illinois Beach State Park is situated on the Sandy shores of Lake Michigan. You can enjoy many outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, biking and boating which are the favorite recreational activities in this place with magnificent views. With its large geological structures, sandy ridges and black oak forests, this park is truly filled with impeccable beauty.
9. Matthiessen State Park
For unwinding from the bustling cities, you can visit Matthiessen State Park. With a huge population of deer in these 2000 acres of land, there is no lack of natural charms. Starting from the spectacular waterfalls to the beauty of the Vermillion River, you will not get tired of exploring.
10. Inspiration Point
Nestled in the Shawnee Forest, Inspiration Point is a sign for hikers at the trailhead. For the best views from the steel terrain, this is the ideal spot from where you can view the gorgeous beauty of Illinois. Surrounded by dense forests, you can see the valleys blanketed in white during winters.
11. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha, or BAPS, is of great significance for Hindus. This religious place of worship is also a beautiful site in Illinois. You can find this place situated in the West Suburbs of Chicago, also before going to this temple remember to dress modestly.
12. Kewanee
Although Kewanee is just a small town in Henry County, Illinois, it is also one of the prettiest and most friendly towns in the country. The super friendly locals will show the beauty of the town lifestyle, and you will surely be charmed by the architecture and beautiful tree-lined streets. The public art tour is one of the highlights of visiting here.
13. Illinois State Capitol
Since 1888, Illinois State Capitol has been a historical place in the country. It is the center of Illinois Government, and was built following the architectural style of the French Renaissance. This beautiful building is decorated with magnificent architectural elements, including statues and stunning paintings.
14. Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
For a beautiful picturesque place, you have got to head to Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. It is an active, automated lighthouse right in Chicago. With the stunning beauty of Lake Michigan, this lighthouse stands as an iconic landmark.
15. Sacred Heart Church
To explore the exceptional Polish Cathedral Architectural Style, the Sacred Heart Church in Peoria is the ideal place. The impeccable beauty of the church, that is designed from the influence of Renaissance, is truly one of a kind.
16. Willis Tower
Willis Tower remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country. It stands with a height of 1,729 feet. Because of its great height, it was the tallest skyscraper for a long time from 1973 to 1988.
Interestingly, it is 108 stories and all the floors are occupied by offices, institutions and more. Looking through the glass floor is one of the unforgettable experiences you will enjoy in this tower.
17. Millennium Park
If you visit Chicago, then one of the landmarks that you just cannot miss is the Millennium Park. This 24.5-acre green space is unlike any other landmark. Not only is it a wonderful architecture, it is also an impressive structure. It was opened in 2004 and this modern structure has gained a lot of popularity within less time because of its charming beauty.
From places of entertainment to major cultural and historical places, Illinois has it all. But through this list of the most beautiful places in Illinois, you can figure out which places to head first.