Islands
  • Destinations
    • Canada
    • United States
    • Mexico
    • Central & South America
    • Caribbean & Bahamas
    • Europe
    • Asia
    • South Pacific
    • Africa
  • Travel Guides
    • Hotels & Resorts
    • Air Travel
    • Travel Gear
    • Budget Friendly
    • Romantic Getaways
    • Family Friendly
    • Beaches
    • Islands
    • Tropical Vacations
    • Arts & Culture
    • Tips & Hacks
    • Dining
    • Festivals
    • Nightlife
    • Theme Parks
  • Cruises
  • Outdoor Adventure
    • National & State Parks
    • Hiking
    • Camping
    • Water Sports
  • News
  • Deals
  • Features
  • Newsletter
  • About
  • Editorial Policies
  • Our Experts
  • Archive
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
© 2026 Static Media. All Rights Reserved
Islands
Islands
Illinois
Destinations Travel Guides Cruises Outdoor Adventure News Features
  • Newsletter

Illinois

  • Chicago, Illinois
  • View of TWA lounge area with red mid-century furnishings at JFK International Airport in New York City
    By Rebekah Winters Barton 4 hours ago

    US Airport Hotels That Will Make You Want An Overnight Layover

    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.

    Read More
  • The old brick courthouse and surrounding square in Marshall, Illinois
    By Sam Scott 4 hours ago

    Between Indy And St. Louis Is A Charming Midwest City With A Historic Downtown, Tasty Eats, And Lovely Parks

    This charming Illinois city features historic brick streets, colorful murals, cozy cafes, forested parks, peaceful lakes, and relaxing Midwest scenery.

    Read More
  • The historic headhouse building of Navy Pier in Chicago
    By Rene Bennett 7 hours ago

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

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

    Read More
  • Observation deck surrounded by a grassy landscape at the Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge, Illinois
    By Stephen Hanson 8 hours ago

    Between Chicago And Peoria Is Illinois' Restored Wetland Haven For Birdwatching, Fishing, And Hiking

    This restored Illinois wetland refuge offers birdwatching trails, prairie hikes, fishing lakes, and sweeping marsh views filled with migrating wildlife.

    Read More
  • Brewster Creek at James
    By Stephen Hanson 15 hours ago

    Nestled Between Chicago And Rockford Is Illinois' Lovely State Park For An Easy Loop Trail And Birdwatching

    Herons, egrets, and sandhill cranes, as well as prairie, wetlands, and wildflowers, are among the attractions at this park just 40 miles from downtown Chicago.

    Read More
  • Store with columns and elaborate stone facade with cars in front of Market Square, Illinois
    By Olivia Typaldos 1 day ago

    America's First Planned Shopping Center Is A Historic Midwest Mecca Of Design, Boutiques, And Eats

    America’s first planned shopping center features European architecture, a 1920s family-run boutique, and a local institution famous for Chicago-style hot dogs.

    Read More
  • Bridge over body of water at golf course at Flossmoor Golf Club
    By Sara Caskey 3 days ago

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

    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.

    Read More
  • Picture of the city hall and former Carnegie Library in Beardstown, Illinois
    By Kelley Dukat 4 days ago

    Between Starved Rock State Park And St. Louis Is A Historic Midwest City With Nearby Trails And River Charm

    Learn about Illinois’ unique, presidential past at this historic little riverside city, surrounded by woodlands you can explore nearby.

    Read More
  • Two teapots pouring tea
    By Sara Caskey 4 days ago

    Chicago's Charming Afternoon Tea Destination Is A Historic, Senior-Friendly Experience

    Not only does it offer a variety of teas, but this historic spot in Chicago features a luxurious dining area and is close to several other attractions.

    Read More
  • Views of a serene lake in Illinois framed by lush grass with the Clinton Power plant in the distance.
    By Melanie Johnson 4 days ago

    Illinois' Under-The-Radar Reservoir Is A Midwest Lake Haven With Swimming, Camping, And Hiking

    In Central Illinois, you'll find a unique lake that has unusually warm temperatures, no matter the time of year, and you can fish for crappie or camp nearby.

    Read More
  • a scenic view of Walnut Point Lake at Walnut Point State Park in Illinois
    By Neha Maheshwari 4 days ago

    Between Springfield And Indianapolis Is An Illinois State Park For Fishing, Hiking, And RV Camping

    Get in the RV and head to this little gem near the Illinois-Indiana border, with pretty views and lots of outdoor activities for the whole family.

    Read More
  • Dock overlooking Lake Springfield
    By Tess Kazenoff 8 days ago

    A Summer Lake Escape Near Illinois' Capital City Offers Boating Days, Picnic Parks, And Sunset Dining

    Situated near the capital city of Illinois, this peaceful lake has lots to offer -- from boating excursions to picnicking and lakeside barbecues.

    Read More
  • Shops in Geneva, a suburb of Chicago, Illinois
    By Rosheda Stephenson 12 days ago

    Hands-Down, The 10 Best Chicago Suburbs To Visit, According To Locals

    Chicago is one of the most visited cities in the U.S., but people who stick to the city limits are missing a lot of things to see and do in its suburbs.

    Read More
  • White historic mill and watertower in Millstadt
    By Rory Buccheri 13 days ago

    Illinois' Charming Village Outside St. Louis Is A Family-Friendly Gem With Local Festivals And German Heritage

    With its unique seasonal festivals, family-friendly activities, and striking historic buildings, this Illinois village makes for a laid-back getaway.

    Read More
  • Paths in the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien, Illinois, during autumn
    By Rebecca High 17 days ago

    Between Chicago And Plainfield Is A Lush Forest Preserve With A Stunning Waterfall And Extensive Trails

    A short drive from Chicago, this preserve offers long trail loops, shaded paths, and a hidden waterfall set among limestone bluffs and wetlands.

    Read More
  • People queue in line outside The Art Institute of Chicago
    By Lucie Grace 18 days ago

    Here's The Right Way To Visit Chicago's Museums If You Don't Want To Waste Time In Lines

    The line to get in to most of Chicago's museums can be awfully long, but you don't have to waste half the day waiting to just get in if you prepare.

    Read More
  • Leaning Tower of Niles
    By Ishaan Arora 19 days ago

    Chicago's Charming Suburb Offers A Slice Of Tuscany With A Family-Friendly Vibe, Diverse Eats, And Local Shops

    For a family day trip to the sister city of Pisa, Italy, check out this Chicago suburb with its vast range of culture and authentic Greek and Polish eats.

    Read More
  • A suburban street with trees and houses to the sides
    By Erika W. Smith 19 days ago

    Chicago's Family-Friendly Suburb Is A Nostalgic Gem Filled With A Picturesque Nature Preserve And Parks

    Just outside the Windy City, you can find a quiet little town with plenty of open spaces and a little pizza spot that locals seem to love.

    Read More
  • The Palmisano Park fishing pond and pier in autumn on a sunny day
    By Jess Simms 19 days ago

    Chicago's Once-Thriving Quarry Turned Landfill Is Now A Vibrant Haven For Trails, Fishing, And Birdwatching

    This unexpected industrial site in Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood has new life as a leafy park where visitors can sit on the pond pier or take a stroll.

    Read More
  • A sandwhich, french fries and fried chicken from Daley's
    By Jenna Kelley 19 days ago

    Chicago's Oldest Restaurant Is A Family-Owned Gem That You Can Still Dine At Today

    Whether you're looking for a hearty meal of chicken and waffles or a classic club sandwich that's out of this world, this local favorite has got you covered.

    Read More
  • Oakbrook Terrace Tower in Chicago, Illinois
    By Ishaan Arora 21 days ago

    Between Chicago And Aurora Is A Charming Illinois Suburb Full Of Artsy Finds, Local Shops, And Trails

    Enjoy a charming escape from the big Windy City in this Illinois suburb with plenty of local businesses and easy trails through the area.

    Read More
  • A person standing at the edge of Lake Zurich amidst colorful foliage and trees
    By Jen Ottolino 22 days ago

    Chicago's Underrated Suburb Is A Village With Beachside Parks, Fishing Spots, And Small-Town Charm

    This small suburb, nestled in Northern Illinois, offers laidback, lakeside vibes just outside the Windy City with retro diners and plenty of annual events.

    Read More
  • Aerial view of downtown Kirkland, Illinois in summertime
    By Rebecca High 22 days ago

    Between Chicago And Rockford Is A Relaxed Village With Friendly Parks And Low-Key Local Eats

    This northern Illinois destination features scenic parks, a long-running summer festival, river access, and local restaurants in a small-town setting.

    Read More
  • The lobby of DeSoto House Hotel
    By Jenna Kelley 23 days ago

    Illinois' Oldest Hotel Brims With Historic Charm Between Cedar Rapids And Madison

    If you're in northwestern Illinois, you can check out this 19th century hotel that has fine dining, luxury suites, and a whole lot of history.

    Read More
  • A boardwalk and bench along the tree-lined water's edge at Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area in northern Illinois
    By Rebecca High 24 days ago

    Between Peoria And Chicago Is Illinois' Lovely Lakeside State Park For Fishing, Boating, And Trails

    Step outside the bigger cities in Illinois to discover a peaceful outdoor escape, with easy trails to hike and paddleboats to cruise around the water.

    Read More
  • Trail along the beach at the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary in Chicago
    By Rene Bennett 24 days ago

    Chicago's 'Magic Hedge' Is Found At A Lake Michigan Bird Sanctuary With Beach Trails And Rare Sightings

    Along Lake Michigan in Chicago, this quiet natural area draws the most avid birdwatchers with rare species, migration activity, and beachside paths.

    Read More
  • Greenery along the Des Plaines River Trail
    By Tess Kazenoff 25 days ago

    Chicago's Diverse Suburb Is Known For Its Restaurants, History, And Charming Parks

    While visiting this Illinois village, sit down for a picnic lunch after a refreshing hike, and for dinner, enjoy delicious seafood with a riverfront view.

    Read More
About Archive Privacy Policy
© 2026 Static Media® Islands.com All Rights Reserved
More From Static Media
EngadgetJalopnikTVLineExploreGarden GuidesHouse DigestHunkerOutdoor GuidePlanetWare
Islands