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Illinois

  • Chicago, Illinois
  • A freight train passing through Savanna, Illinois
    By Anna Smith 2 months ago

    The 'Best Small Town For Adventure' Is Illinois' Scenic City On The Mississippi River Packed With Outdoor Thrills

    Whether you want to kayak on the river, hike through a forest, or camp at a state park, this Illinois city has you covered with its abundant natural beauty.

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  • Aerial shot of Chicago skyline
    By Alex Lauzon 2 months ago

    One Of Chicago's Best Suburbs Is Known For Its Spacious Lots, Boutique Shopping, And Golf Greens

    One of the best parts about the Chicago area isn't the big city — it's a nearby suburb full of activities, cute shops, and a renowned golf course to enjoy.

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  • Small waterfall flowing into a pool in a dark autumnal forest
    By Amy McMahon 2 months ago

    14 Best Places To Have An Authentic, Fun Midwest Fall Getaway

    The Midwest is an underrated, autumnal gem that deserves just as much fall foliage hype as New England. Here are some of the best places for leaf peeping.

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  • sunset on Lake Michigan in Harbor Country
    By Tess Kazenoff 2 months ago

    Michigan's Day-Trip Destination Less Than Two Hours From Chicago Has Charming Shops And Lake Views

    Take a break from the big-city rush of Chicago at this Michigan destination only two hours away, filled with delightful stores and views of the lake.

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  • Craft beer from Indiana brewery
    By Jade Poleon 3 months ago

    Indiana's Chicago Suburb Reinventing Itself As A Craft Beer Destination Has A Charming Downtown And Fun Festivals

    For a great craft beer scene complete with a cozy downtown and excellent summer and fall festivals, head to this underrated Indiana suburb of Chicago.

    Read More
  • A wooden pathway with views of the Mississippi River
    By Erika W. Smith 3 months ago

    Illinois' Park On The Mississippi River Offers Extensive Scenic Trails And Rock Climbing

    In northwestern Illinois, bordering Iowa, you'll find a cozy state park that's ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and camping near the Mississippi River.

    Read More
  • Arial view of the Champaign-Urbana's University of Illinois and city
    By Carrie Back 3 months ago

    The 'Greatest Midwest Food Town' Is A Walkable Prairie City With College Town Energy, Thriving Arts, And Shopping

    Global flavors, locally crafted brews, and sustainable restaurants boost this city's culinary accolades, and its thriving art scene makes it easy to stay.

    Read More
  • Aerial view of Chicago's North Shore
    By Kira Reinke 3 months ago

    Illinois' Serene Swim Beach Is An Idyllic Chicago Getaway With Few Crowds, Clear Water, And Amenities

    This beautiful Illinois beach is a favorite destination among locals, and it's still under-the-radar enough that you won't run into overwhelming crowds.

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  • Two women cycle in park
    By Jonathan Houston 3 months ago

    Chicago's Underrated Suburb Boasts Shopping Boutiques, Nature Parks, And Family-Friendly Fun

    Discover this underrated suburb just outside Chicago, where you'll find fantastic shopping and perfect parks for family fun.

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  • An overlook above the Mississippi floodplain at the Little Grand Canyon in Shawnee National Forest, Illinois.
    By Eva Johnstone 3 months ago

    Illinois' Little Grand Canyon Is A Natural Wonder With Breathtaking Views At The Bottom

    Located in a national forest southeast of St. Louis, this box canyon carved into the sandstone provides a fantastic hike with gorgeous scenery and plant life.

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  • The childhood home of Pope Leo XIV is seen in Dolton, Illinois
    By Bridget Gleeson 3 months ago

    The Place Where Pope Leo XIV Grew Up Is A Charming Chicago Suburb With A Vibrant Community

    This humble but charming Chicago suburb where Pope Leo XIV spent his childhood has great parks and family-owned restaurants and offers easy access to the city.

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  • Commuter train in downtown Chicago
    By Sophia Moss 3 months ago

    Chicago's Most Dangerous Train Stations That Tourists Should Consider Avoiding

    Chicago has an excellent public transit system, but there are a few stations outside of the common tourist areas that you should probably avoid.

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  • Benches and buildings in Mattoon, Illinois
    By Erika W. Smith 3 months ago

    Between Indianapolis And St. Louis Is Illinois' Lovely City With Tasty Restaurants And A Relaxing Nature Park

    Stroll through soothing green spaces by day, and chow down on a delicious dinner by night when you visit this serene and unique destination in Illinois.

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  • An aerial view of Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest
    By Mina Elwell 3 months ago

    Illinois' Most Scenic Wilderness Destination Is This Stunning Natural Wonder Lined With Idyllic Trails

    This little-known Midwest wilderness is tucked between the Mississippi and Ohio rivers and hides breathtaking scenery and unique rock formations.

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  • An explorer in a hard hat in Illinois Cavern
    By Mina Elwell 3 months ago

    Illinois' Coolest Underground Destination Is This Stunning Geological Wonder Full Of Unique Wildlife

    For those brave enough to enter this wild and deep cave system in Illinois, a wondrous world of bats, bizarre rock formations, waterfalls, and more awaits.

    Read More
  • Chicago's Lakefront Trail with runners and walkers
    By Erika W. Smith 3 months ago

    Chicago's Underrated Lincoln Park Garden Is A Charming Trailside Spot With Picturesque Photo Opportunities

    This lush garden with a waterfall and rock garden in Chicago's Lincoln Park is the perfect spot for picnics, group and family photos, and quiet relaxation.

    Read More
  • Funks Grove on Route 66 in Illinois.
    By Desiree Koh 3 months ago

    A Tiny Illinois Township On Route 66 Hides Big History, Enchanting Forests, And Impeccable Maple Syrup

    On the Mother Road lies a tiny Illinois community where homesteading history, natural landmarks, and heirloom maple syrup shape its identity.

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  • Bluebells blooming along the Illinois Canyon Trail at Starved Rock State Park.
    By Eva Johnstone 3 months ago

    One Of America's Most Visited Parks Is A Destination-Worthy Wildflower Wonderland Outside Of Chicago

    At this state park near Chicago, wildflowers bloom from spring to fall. Add in waterfalls, fall foliage, and a lodge with an indoor pool, and it's a must-visit.

    Read More
  • The town square in Waterloo, Illinois
    By Joe Orovic 3 months ago

    About Half An Hour Outside St. Louis Is A Charming Illinois City Perfect For A Weekend Getaway

    This spot offers something for everyone, from caving expeditions to lakeside wineries, restaurants, and cozy inns, all making it perfect for staying awhile.

    Read More
  • Parks in Chicago
    By Jonathan Houston 3 months ago

    Chicago's 'Secret Garden' In Millennium Park Is A Serene Break From The Windy City's Bustle

    Step off Chicago’s bustling streets into a peaceful garden. Walk through Millennium Park’s secret oasis to feel a moment of bliss in the middle of the city.

    Read More
  • Pittsfield City Lake with calm waters
    By Jom Elauria 3 months ago

    This Small Midwest City Is A Hidden Haven For Lake Days, Jeep Lovers, And Unexpected Outdoor Adventures

    Hit the trails with an off-road Jeep club, swim with Yogi Bear at a lakefront campground, and follow in the footsteps of Lincoln with a visit to this IL city.

    Read More
  • A bench surrounded by blooming lilacs in Lilacia Park, Lombard, IL
    By Rebecca High 3 months ago

    The 'Lilac Village' Is Illinois' Picturesque Hidden Haven Full Of Flowers, Parks, And Eclectic Shops

    From lilac-lined parks to vintage shops and cozy eateries, this Illinois town blends history, nature, and culture into a hidden suburban gem.

    Read More
  • Aerial view of Norridge and Greater Chicago Area
    By Marta Benigni 3 months ago

    This Cozy Chicago Suburb Is An Affordable Gem With Great Shopping, Restaurants, And Easy City Access

    Chicago is one of the best cities in America, but consider escaping its busy streets by visiting this nearby suburb with great shopping and local restaurants.

    Read More
  • Pretty, Victorian storefronts in downtown Dixon, Illinois, on a clear day
    By Sophie Dunne 3 months ago

    This Underrated Illinois Town Is A Top Retirement Pick Thanks To Its Trails, Festivals, And Affordable Homes

    Located an hour west of Chicago, this charming town is an underrated retirement haven, offering both affordability and excellent quality of life.

    Read More
  • Gemini Giant towering over Wilmington, Illinois
    By Richard Milner 3 months ago

    Illinois' 'Island City' On Route 66 Charms With Old School Shops And An Iconic Roadside Attraction

    Come to this "Island City" in Illinois to witness an iconic 28-foot-tall, 500-pound statue that's synonymous with Route 66, along with endless vintage stores.

    Read More
  • View of St. Charles, Illinois
    By Leslie Veliz 3 months ago

    Chicago's Underrated Suburb Nicknamed 'The Pride Of The Fox' Has A Lively Downtown And Scenic River Views

    A short drive from Chicago reveals a vibrant town filled with riverfront parks, year-round events, unique shops, and a historic hotel rich in 1920s charm.

    Read More
  • Chicago skyline and river with a blue sky
    By Lauren Kershner 3 months ago

    The Most Disappointing Tourist Trap In Chicago, According To Reddit

    To get the most out of your trip to Chicago, Redditors suggest skipping this popular attraction, which they say is nothing more than an overpriced photo op.

    Read More
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