How to Plan Your Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour in Illinois

Are you looking for a way to enjoy the beauty of Starved Rock State Park from a unique perspective? A guided kayaking tour could be exactly what you need! With amazing views of the towering cliffs from the water, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. Here’s how to plan your Starved Rock State Park guided kayaking tour in Illinois:

Experience

This two-hour guided kayak tour takes place at the Kayak Starved Rock campground. The highlights of the tour include the amazing views of the towering cliffs from the water, as well as the calm beginner-friendly and dog-friendly atmosphere. The tour is also family-friendly and scout-group-friendly, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Full Description

The Starved Rock Guided Kayak Tour takes place every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday at 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, and 2pm. The price for a single kayak is $69, but tandem kayaks and boats can also be booked. Space is limited, so it’s recommended to book in advance. The tour takes you through the #1 state park in the Midwest region with its 18 canyons and towering St. Peters sandstone bluffs. As you kayak on the Illinois River, you’ll get up close to the soaring bald eagles, pelicans, and beautiful lotus flowers. The tour guides will also provide educational points about the area and entertaining tips, giving you a deeper understanding of the park’s beauty and history.

Booking

To book the Starved Rock Guided Kayak Tour, visit this link. Be sure to book your spot in advance, as space is limited.

Tips for Your Tour

– Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting wet. – Bring a change of clothes, just in case. – Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. – Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the amazing views. – Listen carefully to the tour guides to get the most out of the experience.

Book Your Tour Now

A guided kayaking tour is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Starved Rock State Park from a unique perspective. With amazing views of the towering cliffs, joyful atmosphere, and family-friendly appeal, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Be sure to book your spot in advance and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

Illinois FAQs: Important Information You Need to Know

Are you planning a trip to Illinois and want to know more about the “Land of Lincoln”? Do you have questions about Illinois that you can’t find the answers to? Look no further because we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Illinois to help you with your planning.

1. What is Illinois?

Illinois is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It shares borders with Wisconsin to the north, Indiana to the east, Kentucky to the southeast, Missouri to the west, and Iowa to the northwest. The state capital is Springfield, while the largest city is Chicago.

2. When is the best time to visit Illinois?

The best time to visit Illinois depends on your interests and what you’d like to do while in the state. If you’re planning to visit Chicago, the best time to go is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor events and festivals happening. However, if you’re looking for fall foliage or want to avoid crowds, consider visiting in the fall (September-November). Winters in Illinois can be cold and snowy, but if you enjoy winter activities like skiing or ice skating, it can be an ideal time to visit.

3. What are some popular attractions in Illinois?

Illinois has many popular attractions for tourists to see, including:

• The Willis Tower – formerly known as the Sears Tower, it is the tallest building in America and offers stunning views of the city from the top.
• Millennium Park – located in downtown Chicago, this park is known for its famous “Bean” sculpture and live music performances.
• Lincoln Park Zoo – one of the oldest zoos in the US, it is located in Chicago and is free to visit.
• Starved Rock State Park – located in Utica, it offers hiking, canyoning, and camping opportunities in a beautiful natural setting.
• Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum – located in Springfield, it offers visitors an interactive experience and an in-depth look at the life of Abraham Lincoln.

4. What foods is Illinois known for?

Illinois is known for many foods, but perhaps the most well-known is the Chicago-style pizza. This deep-dish pizza is typically layered with cheese, sauce, and toppings and can take up to an hour to cook. Other popular foods in Illinois include Italian beef sandwiches, hot dogs, and horseshoe sandwiches (a dish made with an open-faced sandwich, meat, and fries).

5. How do I get around Illinois?

If you’re visiting Chicago, the easiest way to get around is by public transportation. The “L” train system and buses are inexpensive and well-connected to most areas of the city. If you’re planning to venture outside of Chicago, renting a car or taking the train might be a better option. Amtrak rail service connects Chicago to many other Illinois cities and towns.

6. What is the weather like in Illinois?

Illinois experiences a continental climate, which means hot summers and cold winters. Temperatures in the summer months range from the 70s to the 90s (Fahrenheit), while temperatures in the winter months can drop below freezing with snowfall. It is best to check the weather forecast before visiting to ensure you have appropriate clothing for the season.

7. What sports teams are in Illinois?

Illinois has several professional and college sports teams, including:

• Chicago Cubs (baseball)
• Chicago White Sox (baseball)
• Chicago Bears (football)
• Chicago Bulls (basketball)
• Chicago Blackhawks (hockey)
• University of Illinois Fighting Illini (college sports)

8. What are some lesser-known attractions in Illinois?

Illinois has many hidden gems and lesser-known attractions to explore, including:

• Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site – located in Collinsville, it is the largest pre-Columbian settlement in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Blackhawk State Historic Site – located in Rock Island, it is the birthplace of the famous Native American leader Black Hawk and features a museum and historic buildings.
• Union Depot Railroad Museum – located in Mendota, it is home to an extensive collection of railroad memorabilia and artifacts.
• Anderson Japanese Gardens – located in Rockford, it is a beautiful and peaceful Japanese-style garden with pagodas and koi ponds.

9. What is there to do in Illinois for families with kids?

Illinois has many family-friendly attractions, including:

• Shedd Aquarium – located in Chicago, it is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world and home to thousands of aquatic animals.
• Chicago Children’s Museum – located on Navy Pier, it offers interactive exhibits and workshops for kids of all ages.
• Discovery Center Museum – located in Rockford, it is an interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits for kids to explore.
• Illinois Railway Museum – located in Union, it features the largest collection of historic trains in the US and offers train rides.
• Morton Arboretum -located in Lisle, it is a 1700-acre outdoor museum with gardens, trails, and tree exhibits for families to enjoy.

10. What is the state symbol of Illinois?

The state symbol of Illinois is the state bird, which is the Northern cardinal. The cardinal is a bright red bird with a black face and throat, and it is commonly seen throughout the state. Other state symbols include the state flower (violet), state tree (white oak), and state animal (white-tailed deer).

Book Your Tour Now

Illinois has much to offer visitors who want to experience the best of the Midwest. From the bustling city of Chicago to the natural beauty of state parks, there is truly something for everyone. Use this FAQ guide to help plan your next trip to Illinois and discover all that this great state has to offer.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Illinois

Illinois is a state located in the mid-western region of the United States. It is known for its diverse cultural attractions and scenic beauty. From the bustling city of Chicago to the serene countryside, Illinois has something for everyone. Here are some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Illinois.

1. Visit Chicago

Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and one of the largest cities in the United States. It has a rich cultural history, stunning architecture, and world-class museums. Here are some of the top things to do in Chicago.

a. Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a public park located in the heart of Chicago. It is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”), the Crown Fountain, and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The park also hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts and outdoor movie screenings.

b. Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. It houses a collection of more than 300,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world. Some of the highlights of the collection include works by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Georges Seurat.

c. Architecture River Cruise

The Architecture River Cruise is a popular tourist attraction in Chicago. It takes visitors on a tour of the city’s historic landmarks and iconic buildings, including the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), the John Hancock Center, and the Merchandise Mart. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide interesting insights and stories about the city’s architecture.

2. Explore Springfield

Springfield is the capital city of Illinois and the birthplace of President Abraham Lincoln. It is home to several historic attractions and museums that are worth exploring.

a. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a state-of-the-art facility that houses artifacts and exhibits related to the life and presidency of Abraham Lincoln. The museum features interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and historical artifacts, including Lincoln’s original handwriting and personal effects.

b. Lincoln Home National Historic Site

The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is the only home that Abraham Lincoln ever owned. It has been restored to its 1860s appearance and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the house and learn about the daily life of the Lincoln family.

c. Illinois State Capitol

The Illinois State Capitol is located in downtown Springfield and is home to the Illinois General Assembly. Visitors can tour the building and learn about the history and workings of state government. The capitol also features a beautiful dome that is decorated with stained glass windows and painted murals.

3. Visit Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is a scenic park located in north-central Illinois. It is known for its stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Here are some of the top things to do at Starved Rock State Park.

a. Hiking

Starved Rock State Park has more than 13 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. Visitors can explore the park’s canyons, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks on foot.

b. Fishing

The Illinois River runs through Starved Rock State Park, making it a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can catch a variety of fish, including catfish, bass, and walleye.

c. Camping

Starved Rock State Park has several campgrounds that are open year-round. Visitors can choose from tent camping, RV camping, and cabins. The park also has several picnic areas that are available for day use.

4. Visit Galena

Galena is a charming historic town located in northwest Illinois. It is home to several historic buildings and museums, as well as unique shops and restaurants.

a. Ulysses S. Grant Home

The Ulysses S. Grant Home is located in Galena and is the former home of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States. The house has been restored to its 1868 appearance and is open to the public for tours.

b. Main Street

Galena’s Main Street is lined with unique shops and restaurants. Visitors can shop for antiques, handmade crafts, and other souvenirs.

c. Galena River Trail

The Galena River Trail is a scenic trail that runs along the Galena River. It is a popular spot for biking, walking, and jogging.

Book Your Tour Now

Illinois is a state with a rich cultural history and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re exploring the city of Chicago, the historic town of Galena, or the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park, there is something for everyone in Illinois. Plan your trip today and discover all that this great state has to offer.