Things To Do In Illinois Not In Chicago

Illinois is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States, bordered by Wisconsin to the north and Indiana to the east. The state is home to a wide variety of attractions and activities, and is a popular destination for tourists. While Chicago is the most well-known city in Illinois, there are many other cities and towns throughout the state that offer visitors a unique experience. Here is a guide to some of the top things to do in Illinois that are not located in Chicago.

History and Culture of Illinois

Illinois has a vibrant culture that is steeped in history. The state was first explored by French explorers in the late 1600s, and was then claimed by the British when they took control of North America. It was eventually ceded to the United States after the Revolutionary War in 1783. In 1818, Illinois became the 21st state to join the Union.

Modern-day Illinois is home to 12.7 million people and has a diverse culture that reflects its many different ethnicities and nationalities. The city of Chicago is known for its iconic architecture and its many museums, arts institutions, and cultural events. But beyond Chicago, there are many other towns and cities that showcase the unique culture of Illinois.

Rockford

Something that makes Rockford unique is its strong connection to the historical past. Located about 90 miles northwest of Chicago, Rockford was an important manufacturing hub during the Industrial Revolution and is still home to numerous historic sites. The Rockford Museum Center offers an extensive collection of artifacts from this era, while the Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens showcases one of the earliest homes in the city.

Also located in Rockford is Midway Village Museum, a living history museum that features more than 30 buildings from the 19th century, as well as numerous historical artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can learn about life in rural America during this time period with interactive displays and guided tours.

For outdoor activities, Rockford boasts numerous parks and trails, including Anderson Japanese Gardens – a 12-acre botanical garden – and Rock Cut State Park, which features 3,092 acres of wooded terrain for hiking, biking, and camping.

Galena

Galena is a small city in northern Illinois that offers visitors a unique experience. This historic town has been designated as a National Historic Landmark due to its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and its connections to former US President Ulysses S. Grant, who lived in the town after his retirement from the military.

Today, Galena is a popular tourist destination and offers plenty of activities for visitors. History buffs can explore the numerous museums, including the Ulysses S. Grant Home and the Galena Historical Society Museum, which houses artifacts from Galena’s past.

The town also has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as horseback riding, fishing, biking, and boating on the Galena River. The city also offers numerous shopping and dining options as well as two wineries and two breweries.

Springfield

Springfield is the capital of Illinois and home to many historical sites related to former US President Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore these sites, such as Lincoln’s Tomb, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, and his former home at Lincoln Home National Historic Site.

The city also has several other attractions for visitors, such as The Lincoln Depot – an interactive museum about Lincoln’s life – as well as numerous performing arts venues. For outdoor activities, Springfield boasts numerous parks and trails as well as Lake Springfield – an 8,000-acre lake with recreational activities like fishing and boating.

Popular Tours in Illinois Not In Chicago

For visitors who want to experience the best of what Illinois has to offer without traveling too far from Chicago, there are a few popular tours that offer an unforgettable experience.

Chicago to Galena Tour

Experience a day trip from Chicago to historic Galena with a guided tour from Viator. This tour takes visitors on a scenic journey from Chicago to Galena through picturesque countryside and offers insight into the area’s history with stops at landmarks like the Ulysses S. Grant Home and Old Market House State Historic Site. The tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant as well as free time for shopping and sightseeing. Book this tour for a memorable experience outside of Chicago.

Rockford Historical Tour

This guided tour from GetYourGuide takes visitors on a journey through Rockford’s past with stops at popular attractions like Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens and Midway Village Museum. The tour also includes visits to historic sites related to Rockford’s industrial past such as Anderson Japanese Gardens and Rock Cut State Park. Book this tour for an immersive historical experience outside of Chicago.

Conclusion

Illinois is a great destination for travelers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Chicago without going too far from the city. There are plenty of attractions and activities throughout the state that offer unique experiences for visitors of all interests – from enjoying outdoor recreation to exploring historical sites and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want a relaxing getaway, Illinois has something for everyone.