Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

Chicago's 6 Coolest Destinations With Sporty Appeal And Gameday Vibes

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 20:45:00 +0000

From iconic stadiums to interactive sports experiences, these six Chicago attractions let fans get closer to the city's legendary sports culture.

Tucked Between Rockford And Chicago Is An Under-The-Radar Park With Trails And Ethereal Beauty

staff@islands.com (David McElhinney) — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 21:45:00 +0000

If you're looking for a quiet park with trails, prairies, and woodlands, check out this hidden gem just outside of Chicago. Here's why you'll love it.

Just Outside Downtown Chicago Is Illinois' Nature Preserve With Scenic Wetland Trails And Urban Birdwatching

staff@islands.com (Jen Theriault) — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:45:00 +0000

Looking for the ultimate birdwatching getaway - without leaving the city? This Chicago spot boasts over 180 species, along with scenic trails to find them.

This Popular US Tourist City Was Named America's Worst For Bed Bugs 6 Years Running

staff@islands.com (Kirtana Menon) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 12:45:00 +0000

Don't let the bed bugs bite! If you're traveling to the U.S. city named the worst for bed bugs for 6 consecutive years, you'll want to take these precautions.

The Best Day Trips From Chicago, According To Locals

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

Chicago is a metropolitan playground with plenty to see and do, however, you can also have an excellent time on a day trip within 2 hours of the city.

Outside Chicago Is Illinois' Hilly Nature Preserve With Wetland Trails, Birdwatching, And Remote Beauty

staff@islands.com (Kaylee Giacomini-Moran) — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 19:00:00 +0000

Chicago might bring to mind thoughts of the big city - but this nature preserve located nearby offers some of the most remote experiences in the state.

The Best Cities And Towns Sandwiched Between Chicago And Columbus For A Perfect Midwest Getaway

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Scenic drives, charming stops, and great food make these underrated towns and cities between Columbus to Chicago are perfect for a memorable Midwest road trip.

What Chicago's 5 Best Suburbs To Visit All Have In Common

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 17:45:00 +0000

Just beyond Chicago's skyline, these five suburbs often captivate visitors more than the city itself, and they all share several important characteristics.

The Midwest's 10 Most Beautiful Beaches For Warm-Weather Summer Fun On Lake Michigan

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Head to these gorgeous beaches along Lake Michigan for a nostalgic summer of concession stand popsicles, splashing in the water, and hiking the dunes.

Chicago's Family-Friendly Suburb Is A Village Brimming With Parks And Laidback Charm

staff@islands.com (Christine Dulion) — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Looking for a getaway the entire family can enjoy that isn't the usual theme park or shopping? This village, southwest of the city, offers a serene experience.

5 Must-See Art And Architecture Spots In Chicago, According To A Local

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

The Windy City is loaded with gorgeous art, from stunning Art Deco skyscrapers to a world-class collection of Impressionist masterpieces - here's where to look.

12 Most Jaw-Dropping Train Stations Across The US

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 16:30:00 +0000

The journey can be just as important as the destination, especially if you are traveling through one of these stunning train stations in the U.S.

Downtown Chicago's Last Remaining Route 66 Motel Is A Nostalgic Escape Back To The '60s

staff@islands.com (Anna Robinson) — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 09:15:00 +0000

Chicago was famously the starting point of Route 66, and there's still one classic motel on the historic road that you can stay at in the Windy City.

The Article Of Clothing In Chicago That Could Get You Booed When Visiting

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 11:45:00 +0000

When visiting Chicago, avoid disrupting local life and being targeted by booing by saving this article of clothing for once you're back home.

5 Best Things To Do In Chicago This Summer That Locals Swear By

staff@islands.com (Kaylee Giacomini-Moran) — Sun, 31 May 2026 17:45:00 +0000

If you'll be spending some time in Chicago this summer, we've got a list of activities that won't make you look like a tourist. They're all favored by locals.

Not Portland, Not Denver: This Vibrant City Has The Most Breweries In The US

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Fri, 29 May 2026 19:45:00 +0000

Dubbed the "Beer Capital of America," this Midwest metropolis is a haven for craft beer fanatics with unique microbreweries and age-old favorites.

Nearly Half Of Chicago's Beaches Are Cracking Down On A Fee Travelers Should Be Aware Of In 2026

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Mon, 25 May 2026 14:45:00 +0000

Headed to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan? Here's what visitors should know about parking changes coming to Chicago's beaches this summer.

The Midwest's 6 Most Charming Walkable Piers Promise Sweet Summer Fun

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:45:00 +0000

Even without an ocean, the Midwest boasts several stunning and unique piers boasting lighthouse views, restaurants, historic sites, and other activities.

Chicago's Historic Suburb Is An Illinois Village With A Quaint Downtown And Stunning Golf Courses

staff@islands.com (Sara Caskey) — Mon, 18 May 2026 02:00:00 +0000

If you are looking for gorgeous golf courses and a small town with a charming vibe, this Chicago suburb is worth the train ride in from the city.

US Airport Hotels That Will Make You Want An Overnight Layover

staff@islands.com (Rebekah Winters Barton) — Sun, 17 May 2026 22:30:00 +0000

While airport hotels might seem like a place of last resort, these cushy landings make a long layover feel like a blessing instead of a curse.