5 Star Places To Visit in Illinois, United States (50)

1. 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..
   
2. 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..
   
3. 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..
   
4. 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. 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..
   
6. 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..
   
7. 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..
   
8. 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..
   
9. 5.0 Chicago Skyline (736 reviews)
   - Simply spectacular
   Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
   
   
   We saw the Chicago skyline from the Sky Walk toll bridge yesterday. The skyline is amongst the best in the world. The Willis Tower stands out and the buildings, from far, look like they have been assembled. I have been to Chicago twice before and do recollect having gone up the Willis Tower (then known as Sears Tower) to view the city from top. The city’s skyline is amongst the best in the world. Also try to see the skyline after it is dark -simply stunning. Munir D. See more..
   
10. 5.0 The Haunted Galena Tour Company (672 reviews)
    - Best ghost tour I’ve taken in a long time
    Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Ghost & Vampire Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours
    
    
    Our tour guy Ted was amazing. Part actor, part ghost enthusiast, he kept us completely entertained for over 90 minutes. I would highly recommend this if you were interested in learning about those stories in Galena and even having your own pure and normal experiences while you are with him. See more..
    
11. 5.0 Cantigny Park (582 reviews)
    - Alebrije Exhibit is Awesome
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Military Museums • Historic Sites
    
    
    Welcome to Cantigny! Discover a world of beauty, learning and fun just around the corner! Cantigny was Colonel Robert R. McCormick’s gift to the community and all 500 acres are yours to enjoy. Plan your visit today! See more..
    
12. 5.0 Accelerate Indoor Speedway (571 reviews)
    - Axe throwing fun @ Accelerate
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers
    
    
    Experience a thrill like no other! Speed-lovers, be prepared for the newest attraction taking over the Chicago, IL area; European style indoor go-karting! Our 53,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility in Will County, IL is the largest completely indoor karting facility in Illinois. This means perfect racing conditions every day. See more..
    
13. 5.0 Lookingglass Theatre Company (469 reviews)
    - Always good
    Saturday: 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM Theaters
    
    
    The Lookingglass Theatre Company seeks to redefine the limits of theatrical experience and to make theatre exhilarating, inspirational, and accessible to all.Through theatre, which invites, even demands, interaction with its audience, the company's goal is to fire the imagination with love, to celebrate the human capacity to taste and smell, weep and laugh, create and destroy, and wake up where we first fell --- changed, charged and empowered. See more..
    
14. 5.0 Paramount Theatre (416 reviews)
    - The Paramount Experience.
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Theaters
    
    
    We have been season ticket holders at this theater for many years. We have never seen a poor performance at this theater although there are certainly some plays we have enjoyed more than others. The acting, sets and ambiance of this theater is outstanding. In addition this theater provides so many opportunities for actors and a wonderful workplace in our community. It is truly an Aurora landmark which benefits all those who live here. See more..
    
15. 5.0 Garden of the Gods (409 reviews)
    - Stupidity at its Best
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    The park itself is beautiful and well worth the visit. We didn’t get there until 10:15 due to the number of hours we had to travel and it was already packed with cars circling around looking for a parking space. The trails are mostly paved with flat stones and the view once on the trail is spectacular. The stupid part starts with the number of people climbing the rocks and taking unnecessary chances. One kid about 7-years-old jumped off of a high cliff and I thought he was a goner but luckily jumped down to a ledge a few feet down. He was on a cliff hundreds of feet high when he made the decision to do this. The signs warn of people falling off the cliffs and falling to their death. See more..
    
16. 5.0 Long Hollow Canopy Tours (349 reviews)
    - Great time near Galena, Illinois!!
    Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 1, 2023 Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks • Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    Had a great time with guides Joey and Ella. Long Hollow was very responsive after booking online with adjusting the number of participants a couple of times. Our group of 8 ages 14-47 had a fabulous time and would recommend to anyone in the Galena area. Challenging but everyone felt safe and guides were great!! See more..
    
17. 5.0 Grand View Drive (291 reviews)
    - Most Beautiful!
    Spent < 1 hour Scenic Drives • Scenic Walking Areas
    
    
    Grand View Drive is undoubtedly a very beautiful site to visit and to enjoy -- it's 2,5 miles of smooth driving on a waving road, flanked by a lavish residential area in the west and fantastic panoramic views of the Illinois River in the east. Pedestrian walk runs parallel to the road, the top of the steep bank is very well maintained and nicely landscaped, and picnic areas with benches and tables add more comfort to the scenery of sheer beauty. The place is popular with walkers (including the pets), runners, bikers, people of all ages, really. Tourists usually visit Grand View Drive too, and take tons of photos! Grand View Drive was constructed between 1910 ~ 1925, it is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places (1996), and the US President Theodore Roosevelt called it "the world's most beautiful drive". It most certainly is. Love Grand View Drive! See more..
    
18. 5.0 Psychic Medium Chris McBrien (276 reviews)
    - Loved it!
    Spent < 1 hour Mysterious Sites • Game & Entertainment Centers
    
    
    Fully trained shaman, psychic and medium offering individual and group readings, privately or for special events. Readings include tarot and mediumships, can be customized to suit your needs by including multiple art forms. Chris has been trained in the shamanic arts, mediumship, tarot, aura readings, palmistry, psychometry, energy work and handwriting analysis. Does home cleansings. See more..
    
19. 5.0 Healing Touch of Galena (275 reviews)
    - Healing Touch - the absolute best!!!
    Saturday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Spas
    
    
    I fix neck, shoulders and low back. Have table, will travel to you. Girls' getaway weekends and bachelorette parties are a large part of my business followed by couple's massage. I am very proud and humbled with these 225 five-star reviews and number one listing for massage and wellness in Galena, IL. I feel privileged to have done massage work at every Spa in Galena as well as the local Hospital. I will travel to you anywhere in the Galena, Jo Daviess County area or come to my office/home in the Galena Territory. Schedule an appointment ANYTIME of day or ANY DAY or HOUR of the week. Whether you are looking for a great relaxing massage, deep tissue, sports or prenatal massage, it's the same reasonable price. Visit my website for testimonials and pricing. I have performed thousands of getaway weekend massages for couples as well as group re-unions. See more..
    
20. 5.0 Historic Auto Attractions (273 reviews)
    - A hidden GEM of a museum in our back yard. One of a kind historical items, Cars, Wax figures ,NASA, Elvis, Religous……..
    Temporarily closed - Closed until Mar 31, 2023 Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • Speciality Museums • History Museums
    
    
    Experience all the History and Artifacts that Historic Auto Attractions has to offer. More than just a display of automobiles, It’s a journey through time! With over 80,000 sq. ft. of exhibits including the world’s largest collection of Presidential and World Leader’s Limousines, a vast collection of Gangster Era vehicles and memorabilia, a large Elvis Presley display and memorabilia, TV Land cars, and Cars from Hit Movies such as Batman, Ghostbusters, and Back to the Future. You’ll love the Old West area with vintage style stage coaches, a full size log cabin, and other interesting turn-of-the-century artifacts. We house one of the most extensive collections of John F. Kennedy & Kennedy Family artifacts & memorabilia in the country. We also have new additions to the museum including the Hall of Christ room, a 911 Memorial room, an Egyptian Artifacts room, Antique Clocks room, NASA exhibit, a huge Animal Kingdom area, plus many more! We are centrally located just north of Rockford, IL See more..
    
21. 5.0 Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center (267 reviews) from $18.00
    - Amazing VR experience
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Architectural Buildings • History Museums
    
    
    The mission of Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center is expressed in its founding principle: “Remember the Past, Transform the Future.” The Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Holocaust by honoring the memories of those who were lost and by teaching universal lessons that combat hatred, prejudice, and indifference. See more..
    
22. 5.0 First Division Museum at Cantigny (260 reviews)
    - Outstanding Military Museum
    Military Museums
    
    
    Museum with interactive exhibits on the trenches of WWI, the beaches of WWII and the rice paddies of Vietnam. See more..
    
23. 5.0 Lock Chicago Escape Rooms (257 reviews)
    - Generous silent auction donor!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Lock Chicago hosts innovative Escape Room adventures and experiences in the Chicago area. For those who aren't familiar, an Escape Room is a space that has been decorated, designed, and decked out with a theme and puzzles that you and a group of friends will have an hour to solve. Its a perfect game for any group of friends, and you can book either a private room for yourselves or join a public game. Located in Evanston, IL right off Northwestern Universities campus we offer 3 unique escape room experiences, "Matsuri", "Malfunction", and "Icarus". Perfect for team building and events for family and friends we welcome you to see for yourself if you have what it takes to earn a spot on our "Wall of Champions"! See more..
    
24. 5.0 Galena Day Spa (237 reviews)
    - Amazing!!!
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spas
    
    
    Galena Day Spa, located in the lower level of the Irish Cottage Boutique Hotel, offers exceptional massages, facials, and body treatments. At Galena Day Spa, you can expect to feel completely at ease, relaxed, and satisfied no matter what service you receive. Galena Day Spa's experienced and talented therapists tailor each service to the specific needs of the client. Come visit Galena Day Spa for the best spa experience in Galena! Voted Top 5 Best Spas in Illinois in 2016 and Top 10 Best Spas in Illinois in 2014 & 2015! See more..
    
25. 5.0 Great Rivers Scenic Route (236 reviews)
    - Beautiful year-round, but especially during the eagle migration in January & February
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Scenic Drives
    
    
    The drive is lovely. Take along a passenger so the driver can keep her/his eyes on the mostly-straight road. If you are driving this road during the eagle migration, look ahead to see if other drivers have pulled over to the side of the road. That's your cue to also pull over, because those drivers have probably spotted one or more eagles. Do some research ahead of time, so you can stop for things that interest you, such as Lewis-and-Clark sites or Abraham Lincoln sites. See more..
    
26. 5.0 Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. (236 reviews)
    - Great tour
    Saturday: 1:30 PM - 8:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries • Farms
    
    
    We are excited to announce that we are reopening to the public. We've been working hard to retrain our existing staff, bring on new team members, learn a new ordering system and create the safest space possible for you. Our reopening includes indoor seating in our new Visitors Center and seating for over 100 in our outdoor Whiskey Garden. Here's some of the other changes and requirements you can expect: All cocktails will be served table side. Please find a seat and someone will take your order. We have a new cocktail menu featuring some great new drinks (including a Manhattan!) Don't worry, most of our classics are still on the menu as well. Food trucks and music most evenings! Our updated hours and tour schedule: Friday: 3:00 - 8:30 with a 6PM tour. Saturday: 1:30 - 8:30 with tours at 2, 4 and 6 PM. Sunday: 1:30 - 5:30 with tours at 2 and 4 PM. See more..
    
27. 5.0 Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour (215 reviews)
    - Good zip line in southern Illinois
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    This is a course of 8 zip line runs of various lengths plus a short practice run. You are always connected to a very strong cable at 2 points so everyone is very safe. Rose and Will did a tremendous job. We were a small group of 3 retired folks. The staff made sure that we were safe at all times and did a great job briefing us on each run. They were knowledgeable about the local flora and were able to answer all of our questions. Great job guys. After our tour, Marc the owner, gave us some great hiking and dining ideas. All and all a fantastic time. See more..
    
28. 5.0 Tivoli Theatre (212 reviews)
    - Music concert
    Saturday: 11:30 AM - 11:30 PM Theaters
    
    
    Great place. General admission. All seats were great! Upscale bars set up in lobby area-reasonable prices. Beautiful ild converted theater. Parking is bad though. No designated area, street or a few commuter lots nearby. Pay attention to tow zones. See more..
    
29. 5.0 World's Largest Rocking Chair (207 reviews)
    - Very big
    Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    This is one gigantic rocking chair. One of our favorite big things in the town. We spent the evening driving/walking around Casey looking at all of the big things. The city of Casey has a website where you can see the location of all of the world records/big things they have. I'd recommend getting that first. See more..
    
30. 5.0 Mastermind Escape Games (197 reviews)
    - Well run and fun
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Escape rooms are a new form of reality gaming where players are locked in a room, provided a mission, and given 60 minutes to discover the way out. Try something different when you play one of our escape games. Find a room theme you think sounds fun, and see if you can discover all the clues to solve your way out of a locked room in less than an hour. See more..
    
31. 5.0 Hoof It - Goat Treks (196 reviews)
    - Goat walkabout
    Saturday: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM Hiking & Camping Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    A fabulous, relaxing and joyful encounter with these sweet animals. Made taking a walk in the woods extra special. Would highly recommend it for something very different to do, especially if you’re a city or suburban based person and want to do something completely different. Reasonably priced too. See more..
    
32. 5.0 SaltTreeYoga (166 reviews)
    - Salt Cave Visit
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Yoga & Pilates • Spas
    
    
    Himalayan Salt Cave & Wellness Center! Join society's movement toward wellness! So many people in today's world are looking for more proactive choices to support their health and well-being. Our goal is to provide some of the latest and also oldest natural healing methods to help you guide your body back to a functional, balanced, and healthy state. Yoga, Salt Cave, Dry Hydrotherapy Bed, Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, Migun Massage Bed, Ionix Foot Detox, Gift Shop, Essential Oils, CBD Products, and more! Beautiful space for group events. Watch our website for all kinds of educational offerings. Choose your own way to wellness! See more..
    
33. 5.0 Boo Rochman Memorial Park (143 reviews)
    - Amazing every time !
    Spent 1-2 hours Parks
    
    
    Every time we come it is an amazing experience! Every trip through southern Illinois included “Castle Park” as my daughter would call it . It is such a wonderful place for a family to enjoy. Thank you to the family who built it what a wonderful tribute to your son! See more..
    
34. 5.0 Krape Park (142 reviews)
    - Family fun
    Saturday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Parks
    
    
    Such a great park. There is no much to do and see at this park, I'm surprised they don't charge admission. We road the pedal boats, walked the paved trails and checked out the water fall. However, there was so much more than that. A person could easily spend the entire afternoon there See more..
    
35. 5.0 Independence Grove Forest Preserve (142 reviews)
    - winter visit
    Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
    
    
    This extraordinary forest preserve is worth a visit any time of the year. Becuase of this season's heavy snowfalls, not all of the paths had been cleared. You could tell from tracks in the snow that this did not stop visitors with appropriate footwear from striking out across the terrain. During this particular visit, ice skating was forbidden, but ice fishing was going on. I couldn't resist taking photos of groups of fisherpeople scattered across the lake -- some drilling holes as I watched. The thaw is coming. Because this property is so large and has so much parking, it is very easy to social distance during your visit. See earlier reviews for more details (May 9, 2020; July 18, 2017; and September 4, 2016). See more..
    
36. 5.0 Breakfast Diva Cooking School (137 reviews)
    - Fantastic
    Spent 1-2 hours Cooking Classes
    
    
    A 2015 Food Network contestant, Breakfast Diva Susan is full of laughs and skill. Everything you need to know to recreate a decadent meal in your own home in each 90 minute demonstration - including seasonal recipes, tips, hints and a hearty tasting. Winner of Best Breakfast in U.S. 2015,and owner of Farmers Guest House - one of the top 10 Bed and Breakfasts in the U.S. 2015! See more..
    
37. 5.0 Escape Factor (137 reviews)
    - SO FUN
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Voted as a TOP 5 favorite escape room in the USA! Truly unique scenarios not seen elsewhere! Escape Factor, with reviews like "Best Escape Room I've ever done!", is an immersive experience good for children & adults alike! Have you heard a little about escape rooms, but don’t want to play? “I’m claustrophobic.” “The room will be too scary.” “I won’t be any help at all.” None of this is a problem! Our rooms are spacious; you won't feel trapped. We’ve got clever, fun puzzles that many customers have called “the best in the Chicagoland area” and “10 out of 10!" 5 games to select from: - Bonus Fun Time Game Show Challenge *KNOWN WORLDWIDE* - The Timekeeper's Trapped! *A PUZZLING CHALLENGE* - The Treehouse Raid at Fort Knocks *THE FUN HEIST* - The Office of Dr. Awk C. Abmoor *OUR CHALLENGING INTRO* - Ghost in the Graveyard *OPENING SOON!* Check it out for yourself; drop by & ask for a sneak peek of the rooms. There's no better way to spend an hour with friends, family, or co-workers! See more..
    
38. 5.0 World's Largest Mailbox (136 reviews)
    - Glad My Mailbox isnt this BIG
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    Climbing the steps up to the 2nd floor to get into the mailbox gives you the perspective you need to appreciate just how big this is. There is a mail drop slot upstairs into a collection box if you want to mail a letter. Shouldn't be hard to spot the mailbox from the street. See more..
    
39. 5.0 Farnsworth House (133 reviews)
    - Gem of a House Tucked in Remote Area
    Saturday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings
    
    
    Glass and steel residence notoriously designed by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe for Dr. Edith Farnsworth. Famous for its "almost-nothing" design and the legal battle between architect and client, the House is an architectural pilgrimage site for students and professionals from around the world. Open for public tours as a National Trust for Historic Preservation Historic Site. Part of the National Register of Historic Places. See more..
    
40. 5.0 Champaign Public Library (132 reviews)
    - Stunning archetecture and design
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Libraries
    
    
    Step into our light-filled, open spaces and see our wonderful Peter Sis murals, colorful TeenSpace, quiet meeting rooms, Library Café and Friendshop Bookstore. The library at 200 W. Green St., is open Mondays - Thursdays 9-9; Fridays 9-6; Saturdays 9-6; and Sundays 12-6. Our Douglass Branch Library is located 504 E. Grove St., at the edge of Douglass Park. Stop in for a great selection of books, DVDs, and CDs, plus friendly service, free Internet access, and public meeting spaces. Open Mondays - Thursdays 10-8; Fridays 10-6 and Saturdays 10-4. See more..
    
41. 5.0 Space (131 reviews)
    - Best Concert Room in the Chicago Area
    Theaters
    
    
    Great acoustics at this intimate venue that seats about 250 people. Reserved seats are available, candle-lit tables of 4 small rounds. Some general admission and standing seats as well. Full bar with beer, wine and top shelf spirits. You can even bring in food from the adjacent Union Pizza. I have seen about 20 shows there, the most recent being John Mayall. A nice blend of the well known, cult and niche artists. A little bit of something for everyone almost every night of the week. See more..
    
42. 5.0 Meadowbrook Park (126 reviews)
    - walk in beauty
    Parks • Playgrounds
    
    
    Meadowbrook park has much to offer. A community built playground for children, and two walking paths. One is long and loops around the entire park, and the other is a short loop filled with outdoor sculptures which change frequently. It's a lovely place to just take a walk! See more..
    
43. 5.0 Gail Borden Public Library (125 reviews)
    - Top Library period
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Libraries
    
    
    Talk about what libraries need to do and be to survive, this one is a great example. Of course it has the basics and then some. The areas are broken into sections nicely and organized efficiently. The staff is first rate the best. Then during the year there is always something special that forces you to come back. See more..
    
44. 5.0 Aikman Wildlife Adventure (118 reviews)
    - Unexpected Animal Exhibit in Central Illinois
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Zoos
    
    
    Zebras in the midwest??!! YES!! Aikman Wildlife Adventure is a wildlife sanctuary located in Arcola, Illinois. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of life possible to all wildlife in need, while maintaining a family friendly environment through interaction, education, conservation and by creating an experience of a lifetime for all our guests. Come out to enjoy 200 animals and 75 different species! Drive through our park in your own vehicle to see all of our bigger animals, then take a stroll in our Walk-Thru to visit our small animals, predators, and petting zoo. If you love animals and are ready for an adventure of a lifetime, come out and see for yourself why our place is so unique and special! Hours vary depending on weather. See more..
    
45. 5.0 Wright Plus Architectural Housewalk (115 reviews)
    - Great Experience
    Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    Join the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust on May 22, 2021 for the annual Wright Plus Architectural Housewalk. Wright Plus celebrates architecture, design, Frank Lloyd Wright's innovative vision and the talents of his fellow architects. It is an enjoyable day featuring rare interior tours of private homes and public buildings designed by Wright and his contemporaries. See more..
    
46. 5.0 Joe Diamond - The 13th Hour (114 reviews)
    - 5 Star Review
    Saturday: Spent < 1 hour Theatre & Performances
    
    
    Joe Diamond is the Mystery Performer everyone is quietly talking about. Some call him a mind reader, others call him psychic, and still more call him a magician. You now have the chance to decide for yourself, up close and personal! Only 13 people will be admitted to his studio in the 'supposedly haunted' Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake for this unique experience. “If you don’t already worship at the feet of Joe Diamond, you should really get on board.” - Varla Ventura, author of “Beyond Bizarre” "Joe Diamond is the Devil" - WGN News "I am totally floored" - You & Me This Morning "That's impossible!" - The Today Show It doesn't matter if you are a believer or a skeptic, we predict you will have a good time! See more..
    
47. 5.0 Champaign-Urbana Adventures in Time and Space (111 reviews)
    - So many cool features!!
    Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Champaign-Urbana Adventures in Time and Space is an interactive real-life escape room game for friends, family, and coworkers! Teams of 2-10 players have 60 minutes to find clues, complete puzzles, discover secret doors, and solve a greater mystery. Each game takes place in a different themed setting and time period. From dispelling evil spirits in a haunted cabin to foiling the plot of a medieval wizard, each scenario is designed to make players feel like they are living out a movie! Players must use observation, communication, and critical thinking to win. It makes for a great night out or an exciting twist on corporate team building. See more..
    
48. 5.0 Oak Park Public Library (111 reviews)
    - Can't go wrong here!
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Libraries
    
    
    Beautiful building and nice interiors. The services offered inside are also wonderful. Knowledgeable librarians with study rooms and comfy chairs make this a great community resource. There are great programs for adults and children. See more..
    
49. 5.0 Wheels O' Time Museum (109 reviews)
    - A very worthwhile visit in Peoria area.
    Saturday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
    
    
    OPEN FROM MAY THRU OCTOBER. NEW EXHIBIT BUILDING opened in 2021 includes military, vintage Caterpillar machines, and "Bricks in Motion" giant LEGO display! The Wheels O' Time Museum campus encompasses 6 buildings of over 30,000 sq. feet, filled with treasures from our past. The museum’s exhibits include interactive and educational materials for all ages, from forty-five antique and collector cars to a steam locomotive and rail cars, farm and Caterpillar equipment, a restored LeTourneau Steel House from 1938, fire trucks, airplanes, bicycles, clocks, music devices, vintage clothing, and many more exhibits for the enjoyment of kids and adults alike. Through many of the exhibits, visitors get a glimpse into early domestic and industrial life. In 2019, the LeTourneau Steel House was designated a historic landmark. See more..
    
50. 5.0 Downtown Geneva Historic Shopping District (109 reviews)
    - Sweet Area Brimming with Charming Stores and Excellent Restaurants
    Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    We really enjoyed walking around the historic shopping district in Geneva. Third, Second, & State Streets are easy to navigate, and there are many stores and restaurants to entertain and delight you for a day, a weekend, or a week. With all of the competition, if they aren’t excellent, they can’t stay in business. Really nice to visit in the “off season” when it’s not so crowded. See more..