Things to do & places to visit in Illinois, United States

Illinois #13 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.48 based on 315.9k traveler reviews, of 3.854 attractions. Timezone: America/Chicago, current date and time: Saturday, December 09, 2023, 0:14.

Top things to do (41)

Top destinations in Illinois 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 The Art Institute of Chicago (24.4k reviews)
- So great we visited twice
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums

See why the Art Institute of Chicago is the only museum in the world to be top-ranked by TripAdvisor four years in a row! Experience the greatest Impressionist collection outside Paris, and view contemporary masterpieces in the spectacular Modern Wing. Stand before classics like Nighthawks, and travel the globe through galleries devoted to the art of ancient Greece, Japan, Africa, and the Americas. See more..
5.0 Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (4.552 reviews)
- So impressive!
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Libraries • History Museums

In a stunning combination of scholarship and showmanship, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum immerses you in Lincoln's world and time. Journey from a rustic Indiana cabin to the Executive Mansion in the nation's capitol; follow the fate of America's 16th president and share the joys and sorrows of a family - and a nation. (Please be advised, while the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is open 7 days a week, the Presidential Library is only open on weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.) See more..
5.0 Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. (2.397 reviews)
- Blauman Bro's a must visit
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Distilleries

Blaum Bros. Is a family owned and operated craft distillery in Galena, IL. Blaum Bros. Uses local grain from Jo Daviess County and produces handcrafted spirits including bourbon, rye whiskey, vodka, gin...And many others. Blaum Bros. offers daily tours and tastings and has a gift shop and a craft cocktail bar. Located in Galena on Highway 20 on the East side of town. Come try one of our specialty cocktails! See more..
5.0 Chicago Botanic Garden (1.233 reviews)
- Breathtaking Beauty
Spent 2-3 hours Gardens • Scenic Walking Areas

Just a short trip from Chicago, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a 385-acre complex of flora, footbridges and waterways. See more..
5.0 Dana-Thomas House (1.168 reviews)
- Historic Frank Lloyd Wright home
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites

95+% original Frank Lloyd Wright house only blocks from the Illinois State capital building. The state-landmark house is a living museum of the socialite Mrs. Dana. She paid Wright a lot for the design a little over 100 years ago. The home is filled with original furniture design by Mr. Wright that takes you back to his original concept. Lots of art glass as well. You need to make reservations online because they only have a few guided tours a day - takes about an hour. Our tour guide was great! See more..
5.0 Anderson Japanese Gardens (849 reviews)
- Beautiful unexpected gem in the city of Rockford
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

Anderson Japanese Gardens is proud of its longstanding reputation as one of the highest quality Japanese gardens in North America. Our passion, however, is how the Garden positively impacts individuals and the communities where they live. We are committed to presenting first-class programs, events, and opportunities that bring people together in this uplifting natural setting. See more..
5.0 Escapology Orland Park (827 reviews)
- Loved It!
Saturday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Escapology Orland Park is the area's leading escape room serving the southwest suburbs. We offer a variety of escape room scenarios for private events, birthday parties, team building, family entertainment and much more. We can accommodate up to 8 people per room and also have gift cards available! For more information, contact Escapology Orland Park. See more..
5.0 P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre (804 reviews)
- The Magic and Humor was Great
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Theaters

"One of America's Best Magic Shows!" Enjoy the mysteries of an ancient art as presented by Galena's master magician, P.T. Murphy. The setting is Murphy's private theatre located in the heart of historic downtown Galena, IL. Murphy is known for his personable style, mischievous sense of humor and sophisticated sleight of hand that has made P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre one of Galena's top attractions. Advanced purchase is suggested. Run Time: 65 minutes. No intermission. Not recommend for infants and toddlers. *Theatre rentals are available for your tour group, or private parties. Schedule is subject to change. See more..
4.5 Millennium Park (25.0k reviews)
- Very nice park
Saturday: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks

Three square blocks of open lakefront complete with a Ferris Wheel, outdoor music pavillion and ice skating rink; expected to become one of the city's most popular sites. See more..
4.5 Cloud Gate (18.2k reviews)
- Visit to Chicago to take part in the Marathon.
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

Nicknamed "The Bean" for its sleek kidney shape, this Anish Kapoor sculpture is the centerpiece of AT&T Plaza in Millenium Park. See more..
4.5 Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower (17.7k reviews) from $44.00
- Great view of Chicago
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers

Don't miss out on visiting Skydeck Chicago, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Check out the various exhibits here before heading straight up to the 103rd floor via a 70-second elevator ride. Visit on a clear day for panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows, where you can even see into the states of Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin or Indiana. For the adventurous, step out onto the Ledge, a glass box protruding 4.3 feet from the building. Skip the line at the elevator with a V.I.P pass. You can also choose the Chicago CityPASS for expedited entry, discounted admission and to combine your visit with other attractions in the city. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The Magnificent Mile (15.8k reviews)
- Definitely worth it
Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Magnificent Mile is a prime hospitality, dining and retail destination in the heart of Chicago. This section of Michigan Avenue, running from the banks of the Chicago River to Oak Street, features more than 460 shops, from high-end boutiques like Gucci and Burberry to pocket-friendly department stores. Amid lots of shopping and fine dining options, don’t miss the avenue’s historic landmarks like the Wrigley Building and the Chicago Water Tower. You can also take a walking tour of the area to make sure you’ll cover all the must-sees or stay in a room with an impressive view of downtown Chicago. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Museum of Science and Industry (11.1k reviews)
- Enjoyable Science museum with lots to see and do
Spent More than 3 hours Science Museums

The largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere! Housed in the only remaining building from the 1893 World’s Fair, MSI is a Chicago must-see. You’ll experience 14 acres of hands-on exhibits and have the chance to stand before a 40-foot tornado; climb aboard a World War II German submarine; take a run in a human-sized hamster wheel; descend into an Illinois coal mine; tour a fully functioning eco-friendly home; board a 727 hanging from the ceiling; transmit your pulse to a 13-foot, 3-D beating heart; and much more! MSI is not a place where you walk around quietly and observe. No way! You get involved in the fun—and learn—by doing. Just a few miles from downtown with convenient underground parking. See more..
4.5 360 Chicago Observation Deck (11.0k reviews) from $30.00
- Spectacular views of the Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers

Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, 360 CHICAGO offers breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline, the lakefront, and four states. It’s the only place you can enjoy Chicago’s highest thrill ride, TILT – a giant moving platform that literally TILTs visitors over the edge of the building. Relax at BAR 94 with local favorites, a large cocktail selection, and front-row seating to the city’s best views from 1,000 feet up. Explore HD interactive touch screens in seven languages and learn more about the Windy City. If you really want to experience Chicago, make your first stop 360 CHICAGO. See more..
4.5 Wrigley Field (9.908 reviews)
- Very good tour
Spent 1-2 hours Arenas & Stadiums

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall. See more..
4.5 Field Museum (8.854 reviews) from $68.00
- Tired but satisfied
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Natural History Museums • Science Museums

The Field Museum fuels a journey of discovery across time to enable solutions for a brighter future rich in nature and culture. With almost 40 million specimens and artifacts in our collections—including SUE, the world's most complete Tyrannosaurus rex—there's something for everyone. Start planning your visit at fieldmuseum.org. See more..
4.5 Lincoln Park Zoo (5.938 reviews)
- ZooLights delivers with even more lights this year!
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos

Founded in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the country's last free-admission zoos. There are over 1,200 animal residents, self-guided tours, and interactive activities with seals, polar bears, and penguins—check the schedule for timings. Don’t miss the Regenstein Center for African Apes—a popular habitat showcasing cheeky chimpanzees and majestic gorillas. Navigating the zoo is a breeze with multiple points of entry and wide paths to boot. Check for early closures before visiting and arrive in the morning to cover the majority of the exhibits. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Buckingham Fountain (3.410 reviews)
- Try to Figure Out When the Tall Water Spike Shoots Up, and then Let Me Know, OK?
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Fountains

Chicago's landmark is considered one of America's finest fountains due to its Beaux-Arts-style landscape design, finely wrought bronze sculpture and innovative use of technology. See more..
4.5 Chicago Riverwalk (3.057 reviews)
- Beautiful walk in the city
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Walking Areas

Located on the south bank of the Chicago River, this bustling urban space is filled with public art, museums, water activities, and more. See more..
4.5 Chicago Cultural Center (3.050 reviews)
- Great free tour, very pretty building
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries • Architectural Buildings

The Chicago Cultural Center is the nation's first free municipal cultural center and one of the most visited attractions in Chicago. The stunning landmark building, opened in 1897 as the city's first public library, is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, and annually presents hundreds of free cultural exhibits and performances. Admission is free. See more..
4.5 Lincoln Home National Historic Site (2.856 reviews)
- Great NHS but it's a school group magnet
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums

The only house Abraham Lincoln ever owned is the centerpiece of this four-block historic neighborhood. Lincoln and his family lived in the two-story house from 1844 until 1861, when their address changed to the White House. See more..
4.5 Lakefront Trail (2.442 reviews)
- Walk, Run, Bike, Stroll, your views are excellent
Biking Trails • Hiking Trails

The Chicago Lakefront Bicycle Trail is roughly 22 miles of bike paths, stretching from Indiana border up to Evanston. The trail rides through many parks including Jackson Park (including U of Chicago), Grant Park (including Buckingham Fountain/Museum Campus) Millennium Park, and Lincoln Park with its Free Zoo. Plenty of beaches and bike rentals available at Bobby's Bike Hike - 540 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago IL 60611 (free maps, helmets). See more..
4.5 Jumer's Casino Rock Island (2.065 reviews)
- Always a pleasant stay
Casinos

There’s no better place for nonstop gaming action and luxurious amenities than this Illinois Casino & Hotel. Jumer’s Casino and Hotel is equipped with the best in slots, table games, world-class hotel accommodations, amenities and dining. Jumer's amenities include a full service salon and day spa, four restaurants, gift shop, pool, fitness center and so much more! So, plan your visit to Jumer’s Casino and Hotel resort today. Your greatest Illinois gaming adventure awaits you!Recently Added: Aqua Driving Range with Floating Green. See more..
4.5 Chicago River (2.020 reviews)
- Amazing
Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water

We parked right at the marina and were greeted by friendly, helpful staff. Our tour guide, Hillary was outstanding, full of fascinating information about the history and the city, the buildings, and the architecture. She delivered the information in a fun, but informative way so it was never dull or boring. The views from the boat were incredible. We brought our teenage daughters and they loved it as much as we did. I highly recommend this tour ! See more..
4.5 Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials (1.979 reviews)
- Beautiful…. and still sad
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

We took our kids on a field trip, and the day we ended up here it was lightly drizzling, and overcast…fitting. It was empty and quiet. You are able to tour the building yourself, including where the majority of the family is laid to rest. It felt almost personal and emotional all alone inside. Such an amazing memory made with my kids! See more..
4.5 Starved Rock State Park (1.600 reviews)
- Beautiful
State Parks • Hiking Trails

Known for its magnificent rock formations of St. Peter sandstone, this scenic park offers many hiking and horseback riding trails plus fishing and boating along the banks of the Illinois River. See more..
4.5 United Center (1.495 reviews)
- Another great concert outing here!
Arenas & Stadiums

This modern arena replaced the old Chicago Stadium as home court for the NBA's Bulls and the NHL's Blackhawks. See more..
4.5 Richard H. Driehaus Museum (1.455 reviews)
- Excellent tour--do the guided tour
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum explores the art, architecture, and design of the late 19th century to the present. Its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions are presented in an immersive experience within the restored Nickerson Mansion, completed in 1883. See more..
4.5 Ulysses S. Grant Home (1.389 reviews)
- Interesting glimpse into Grant's family life
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites

This Italianate-style brick house, with original furnishings, looks very much as it did in 1865 when a group of townspeople presented it as a gift to Ulysses S. Grant on his victorious return from the Civil War. See more..
4.5 Maggie Daley Park (1.338 reviews)
- Terrific free park - #1 free place in city for kids
Parks • Playgrounds

Having been to Chicago many times, I'd say this is the #1 free place in the city to go with 5-12 year olds (with possible exception of Lincoln Park Zoo). There are a number of free towers, slides, and other very creative places for kids to play; plenty of benches for adults to sit in, and some other options like a climbing wall and bunji jump if you want to spend a bit of $. Easy to get to on public transportation or uber. Not a "hidden" gem but definitely a gem. See more..