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

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

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000

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.

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

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 01:45:00 +0000

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.

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

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 19:45:00 +0000

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

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

staff@islands.com (Tess Kazenoff) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 20:45:00 +0000

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.

Illinois' Charming College Town With The State's Oldest University Has A Historic Downtown With Cute Shops

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 16:25:00 +0000

From historic buildings to the oldest university in the state, you won't want to miss checking out this charming city in Illinois, filled with lots of charm.

Illinois' Artsy Suburb Outside Chicago Is Filled With Scenic Parks, Local Shops, And Quaint Restaurants

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 11:45:00 +0000

Escape Chicago's big city vibes for a scenic slice of nature within a quaint, artsy suburb, boasting local restaurants and shops to explore.

The US Airport With The Most Flights In 2026 So Far

staff@islands.com (Rachel Dennis) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:15:00 +0000

This Midwest airport has recorded the most flights in 2026 so far, with hundreds of millions of travelers projected to pass through this year.

Illinois' Unbeatable Spot For Stargazing

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Escape the big city lights at this Illinois destination known for low light pollution, open skies, and designated areas built for stargazing.

Just Outside Chicago Is Illinois' Peaceful Prairieland With Scenic Trails Filled With Wildlife

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:45:00 +0000

If you're looking for a quiet and relaxing getaway from busy life near Chicago, then this nature reserve filled with hiking and wildlife is just what you need.

Chicago's Classic Park Has An Underground, Artsy Feel

staff@islands.com (Jess Simms) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Home to sports fields, a swimming pool, and tons of annual concerts, this Chicago park is a wonderful year-round destination for all sorts of activities.

What's The Easiest National Park To Visit From Chicago?

staff@islands.com (Kristin Conard) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:15:00 +0000

Even though it's only about an hour from the city, this park couldn't feel further away with its towering sand dunes, lake views, and diverse ecosystems.

America's Hands-Down Best Breakfast Restaurants, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Breakfast is often considered to be the most important meal of the day and it just may be the tastiest -- especially at these U.S. hot spots.

The Once-Thriving Former Capital Of Illinois Is Now A Nearly-Abandoned 'American Atlantis' With Eerie Vibes

staff@islands.com (Nikolai Arto) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 02:45:00 +0000

This former Illinois capital offers historic sites, river views, and a remote setting influenced by flooding and shifting landscapes over time.

Under An Hour From Chicago Is A Family-Friendly Nature Preserve With Trails, Fishing, And Interactive Exhibits

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 22:45:00 +0000

Visitors to Chicago (and even some locals) might be surprised to learn just how close they are to a quiet escape into a peaceful outdoor experience.

Illinois' Charming Village Outside Chicago Was A Once-Thriving Resort Town That's Now A Laid-Back Nature Getaway

staff@islands.com (Caitlin McAllister) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:45:00 +0000

This quiet Illinois village rests between two lakes and offers access to Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve, nearby beaches, scenic trails, and family attractions.

Chicago Or New York: Which City Really Has The Best Food?

staff@islands.com (Rachel Dennis) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:45:00 +0000

From deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to a New York slice and classic delicatessen delights, is Chicago or New York City a better foodie spot?

Between Naperville And Peoria Is A Once-Thriving Illinois Coal Mining Destination That Is Now An Abandoned Ghost Town

staff@islands.com (Jess Simms) — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Between two well-known Illinois cities lies an abandoned mining site with little left behind, but plenty of history for those seeking unique travel spots.

Illinois' Quaint Chicago Suburb Is A Riverside Village With A Charming Downtown, Shops, And Family-Friendly Fun

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000

Though it's quite tiny, this Chicago suburb is home to a wealth of family-friendly attractions, including a retro arcade, petting zoo, and riverside fun.

Between Chicago And Milwaukee Is Illinois' Largest Theme Park Known As The 'Thrill Capital Of The Midwest'

staff@islands.com (Kirtana Menon) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 18:25:00 +0000

This amusement park in Illinois boasts 300 acres filled with thrilling coasters, kid-friendly rides, a water park, and casual food beloved by visitors.

Between Springfield And St. Louis Is Illinois' Vibrant Lake For Swimming, Fishing, And Beach Fun

staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000

This vibrant lake, between Springfield and St. Louis, is an Illinois destination worth visiting thanks to its swimming, fishing, boating, and beach fun.