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


Illinois cover image

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: Thursday, March 28, 2024, 4:58.

Top things to do (41)

Top destinations in Illinois 100

See more 88 destinations » « Show less

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

  1. 5.0 The Art Institute of Chicago (24.4k reviews)
    - So great we visited twice
    Thursday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums
    The Art Institute of Chicago image
    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..
  2. 5.0 Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (4.552 reviews)
    - So impressive!
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Libraries • History Museums
    Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum image
    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..
  3. 5.0 Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. (2.397 reviews)
    - Blauman Bro's a must visit
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Distilleries
    Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. image
    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..
  4. 5.0 Chicago Botanic Garden (1.233 reviews)
    - Breathtaking Beauty
    Spent 2-3 hours Gardens • Scenic Walking Areas
    Chicago Botanic Garden image
    Just a short trip from Chicago, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a 385-acre complex of flora, footbridges and waterways. See more..
  5. 5.0 Dana-Thomas House (1.168 reviews)
    - Historic Frank Lloyd Wright home
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites
    Dana-Thomas House image
    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..
  6. 5.0 Anderson Japanese Gardens (849 reviews)
    - Beautiful unexpected gem in the city of Rockford
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens
    Anderson Japanese Gardens image
    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..
  7. 5.0 Escapology Orland Park (827 reviews)
    - Loved It!
    Thursday: 4:00 PM - 9:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    Escapology Orland Park image
    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..
  8. 5.0 P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre (804 reviews)
    - The Magic and Humor was Great
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Theaters
    P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre image
    "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..
  9. 4.5 Millennium Park (25.0k reviews)
    - Very nice park
    Thursday: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks
    Millennium Park image
    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..
  10. 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
    Cloud Gate image
    Nicknamed "The Bean" for its sleek kidney shape, this Anish Kapoor sculpture is the centerpiece of AT&T Plaza in Millenium Park. See more..
  11. 4.5 Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower (17.7k reviews) from $44.00
    - Great view of Chicago
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers
    Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower image
    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..
  12. 4.5 The Magnificent Mile (15.8k reviews)
    - Definitely worth it
    Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    The Magnificent Mile image
    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..
  13. 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
    Museum of Science and Industry image
    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..
  14. 4.5 360 Chicago Observation Deck (11.0k reviews) from $30.00
    - Spectacular views of the Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers
    360 Chicago Observation Deck image
    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..
  15. 4.5 Wrigley Field (9.908 reviews)
    - Very good tour
    Spent 1-2 hours Arenas & Stadiums
    Wrigley Field image
    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..
  16. 4.5 Field Museum (8.854 reviews) from $68.00
    - Tired but satisfied
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Natural History Museums • Science Museums
    Field Museum image
    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..
  17. 4.5 Lincoln Park Zoo (5.938 reviews)
    - ZooLights delivers with even more lights this year!
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos
    Lincoln Park Zoo image
    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..
  18. 4.5 Buckingham Fountain (3.410 reviews)
    - Try to Figure Out When the Tall Water Spike Shoots Up, and then Let Me Know, OK?
    Thursday: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Fountains
    Buckingham Fountain image
    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..
  19. 4.5 Chicago Riverwalk (3.057 reviews)
    - Beautiful walk in the city
    Spent 1-2 hours Historic Walking Areas
    Chicago Riverwalk image
    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..
  20. 4.5 Chicago Cultural Center (3.050 reviews)
    - Great free tour, very pretty building
    Thursday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries • Architectural Buildings
    Chicago Cultural Center image
    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..
  21. 4.5 Lincoln Home National Historic Site (2.856 reviews)
    - Great NHS but it's a school group magnet
    Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
    Lincoln Home National Historic Site image
    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..
  22. 4.5 Lakefront Trail (2.442 reviews)
    - Walk, Run, Bike, Stroll, your views are excellent
    Biking Trails • Hiking Trails
    Lakefront Trail image
    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..
  23. 4.5 Jumer's Casino Rock Island (2.065 reviews)
    - Always a pleasant stay
    Casinos
    Jumer's Casino Rock Island image
    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..
  24. 4.5 Chicago River (2.020 reviews)
    - Amazing
    Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water
    Chicago River image
    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..
  25. 4.5 Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials (1.979 reviews)
    - Beautiful…. and still sad
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials image
    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..
  26. 4.5 Starved Rock State Park (1.600 reviews)
    - Beautiful
    State Parks • Hiking Trails
    Starved Rock State Park image
    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..
  27. 4.5 United Center (1.495 reviews)
    - Another great concert outing here!
    Arenas & Stadiums
    United Center image
    This modern arena replaced the old Chicago Stadium as home court for the NBA's Bulls and the NHL's Blackhawks. See more..
  28. 4.5 Richard H. Driehaus Museum (1.455 reviews)
    - Excellent tour--do the guided tour
    Thursday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums
    Richard H. Driehaus Museum image
    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..
  29. 4.5 Ulysses S. Grant Home (1.389 reviews)
    - Interesting glimpse into Grant's family life
    Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites
    Ulysses S. Grant Home image
    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..
  30. 4.5 Maggie Daley Park (1.338 reviews)
    - Terrific free park - #1 free place in city for kids
    Parks • Playgrounds
    Maggie Daley Park image
    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..
See more places to visit in Illinois »

Filter places by Rating

Recommended for you

More Things to do in Illinois 133

  1. Points of Interest & Landmarks
  2. Architectural Buildings
  3. Churches & Cathedrals
  4. Historic Sites
  5. Observation Decks & Towers
  6. Art Museums
  7. Speciality Museums
  8. History Museums
  9. Religious Sites
  10. Castles
  11. Bridges
  12. Historic Walking Areas
  13. Gardens
  14. Marinas
  15. Piers & Boardwalks
  16. Waterfalls
  17. Wineries & Vineyards
  18. Nature & Wildlife Areas
  19. Cooking Classes
  20. Speciality & Gift Shops
  21. Multi-day Tours
  22. Private Tours
  23. Day Trips
  24. Taxis & Shuttles
  25. Health Clubs
  26. Scuba & Snorkelling
  27. Boat Tours
  28. Sightseeing Tours
  29. Horseback Riding Tours
  30. Cultural Tours
  31. Monuments & Statues
  32. Neighborhoods
  33. Bodies of Water
  34. Theaters
  35. Geologic Formations
  36. Beaches
  37. National Parks
  38. Ferries
  39. Hiking Trails
  40. Game & Entertainment Centers
  41. Biking Trails
  42. Scenic Walking Areas
  43. Escape Games
  44. Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
  45. Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
  46. Nature & Wildlife Tours
  47. Walking Tours
  48. Ranches
  49. Shopping Malls
  50. Water Parks
  51. Amusement & Theme Parks
  52. Observatories & Planetariums
  53. Children's Museums
  54. Flea & Street Markets
  55. Visitor Centers
  56. Sports Camps & Clinics
  57. Breweries
  58. Lessons & Workshops
  59. Caverns & Caves
  60. Golf Courses
  61. Movie Theaters
  62. Art Galleries
  63. Antique Shops
  64. Educational sites
  65. Sports Complexes
  66. Government Buildings
  67. Theatre & Performances
  68. Horse Tracks
  69. Aquariums
  70. Cemeteries
  71. Military Museums
  72. Forests
  73. Scenic Drives
  74. Operas
  75. Science Museums
  76. Ski & Snowboard Areas
  77. Libraries
  78. Playgrounds
  79. Arenas & Stadiums
  80. Mysterious Sites
  81. Farmers Markets
  82. Natural History Museums
  83. Kayaking & Canoeing
  84. Bars & Clubs
  85. Fishing Charters & Tours
  86. Historical & Heritage Tours
  87. Distilleries
  88. Casinos
  89. Convention Centers
  90. Cultural Events
  91. Dance Clubs & Discos
  92. Beer Tastings & Tours
  93. Coffee & Tea Tours
  94. Food Tours
  95. Factory Tours
  96. Distillery Tours
  97. Ghost & Vampire Tours
  98. Bar, Club & Pub Tours
  99. Segway Tours
  100. Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
  101. River Rafting & Tubing
  102. Air Tours
  103. Civic Centres
  104. Bus Tours
  105. State Parks
  106. Paint & Pottery Studios
  107. Missions
  108. Gear Rentals
  109. Symphonies
  110. Skydiving
  111. Wine Bars
  112. Shooting Ranges
  113. Auto Racing Tracks
  114. Department Stores
  115. Boat Rentals
  116. Exhibitions
  117. Dinner Theaters
  118. Factory Outlets
  119. Music Festivals
  120. Karaoke Bars
  121. Bowling Alleys
  122. Coffeehouses
  123. Yoga & Pilates
  124. Miniature Golf
  125. Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
  126. Other Outdoor Activities
  127. Sporting Events
  128. Wedding Chapels
  129. Concerts
  130. Cigar Bars
  131. Comedy Clubs
  132. Food & Drink Festivals
  133. Piano Bars
Load more 121 things to do » « Show less

Destinations nearby Illinois 20