A vacation in Illinois offers all kinds of fun entertainment alternatives. From fun family amusement parks, to colorful gardens and historic attractions, the state simply has it all. One can easily be fascinated with the city’s museums, tall skyscrapers and Navy Pier in the vibrant city of Chicago and the verdant valleys of Galena.
Illinois also has a lot to offer when it comes to accommodations. This outdoor destination has many beautiful Illinois vacation rentals, Illinois bed and breakfasts, and other charming Illinois resorts and more. Depending on your budget and needs, you can find affordable and comfortable Illinois lodging perfect for the whole family.
There are many cities worth visiting while in Illinois and my personal favorites are Chicago and Galena. There are also a lot of things to do and entertainment options for the whole family throughout the state.. Such attractions as zoos, family amusement parks, national parks and museums can all be found in this vibrant state.
If you are visiting Illinois with kids, don’t miss Santa’s Village. Located in Dundee, this fun park consists of three different worlds that include Coney Island, Old McDonald’s Farm and Santa’s World. Kids can observe animals at the farm and enjoy the thrilling rides at the Coney Island. If you like adventure then your best bet is the Racing Rapids Action Park which is also located in Dundee.
Other good option for kids is the state’s numerous zoos. The Miller Park Zoo, for example, offers a rain forest exhibit with many colorful free flying birds. Indoor butterflies, snow leopards, sun bears and many other animals can be admired in this park. At the Glen oak Zoo in Peoria families can participate in the Zoo Snooze, a unique experience that allows guests to spend the night at the zoo. A guided tour, up-close animal encounter as well as breakfast are available in this tour.
If you prefer history then you might be interested in visiting the historic home of Abraham Lincoln. This national historic site, home of Abraham Lincoln and Mary Lincoln until 1861, is based in Springfield and dates back to 1839. The site has a visitor center that offers orientation and interpretive films as well as a museum shop with many interesting items to purchase.
Museums are also a big part of Illinois’ tourism experience. If you like biology, astronomy and weather a visit to the exciting exhibits of SciTech Hands on Museum in Aurora is a must. If you love antique vehicles you should head to Big Rock and see Roberts Armory Museum. Other favorites include the Staerkel Planetarium and the Chicago International Museum of Surgical Science.
If you are a fan of nature then you can visit the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford. You will find tranquility amidst beautiful settings. These unique gardens include a formal Japanese garden in the Kamakura period style and the Garden of Reflection, more contemporary and international garden.
If you plan to visit Chicago then the list of things to do gets larger. Great shopping, incredible dinning and nightlife, numerous attractions and tours entertain visitors of the city year round and are all part of the Chicago experience.
If you are up for some great shopping then Chicago is the place to visit. World-class department stores, boutiques, upscale malls, and discount shopping stores; regardless of your shopping style at Chicago you will find it all. For high end stores visit Oak Street or the River North Gallery District. Plentiful shopping opportunities can also be found at the State Street Retail.
A must in Chicago is visiting the theater. Chicago is well known for its theater scene and local talents and international shows can always be found at any time of the year. Some of the most famous theaters of the area include the Cadillac Palace Theatre, the Ford Center of Performing Arts and the LaSalle Bank Theatre among others. You can also visit the Harris Theatre for Performance and Dance to enjoy great dance performances.
If you are the type of people that gets to know a city by its food, Chicago will not disappoint you. Looking for a great ethnical or international dish? Chicago’s contemporary dinning scene features world-class chefs and restaurants that serve from outstanding Italian, Latin and Asian food to pizza and delicious hot dogs. Chicago’s dinning is simply amazing.
If you are looking for a more relaxed vacation amidst incredible landscapes then a good idea is to head to Galena instead. Surrounded by rolling hills and verdant valleys, Galena provides tourists with year-round recreation including golfing, hiking and river cruises. Also, numerous historic sites and unique architecture can be admired in this city.
In spite of your vacation preferences a trip to Illinois will ensure a vacation full of adventure and good moments. This state is simply magical.
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