From the rich history of Springfield to the chic culture of inner-city Chicago, you'll never be short of things to do in Illinois. And with attractions dotted all across this state, hiring a car will allow you to discover what this Midwestern metropolis is all about.
The Windy City
Chicago is a thrilling city to explore, with its central grid of high-rise architecture dominating the western shore of Lake Michigan. The famously windy waterfront has attractions from the old Navy Pier to the giant Shedd aquarium that’s big enough to house beluga whales.
Inland, among the glossy skyscrapers, you’ll be able to browse the shops and restaurants of the prime street, Michigan Avenue, known locally as the Magnificent Mile, and enjoy the famous blues and jazz clubs of the central Loop district. For the best views, crane your neck up to see the tallest towers from a boat trip through Chicago’s waterways, take a ride in a speedy elevator up to the observation deck on the 110-storey Sears Tower or eat at the 94th floor restaurant in the Hancock Tower.
The best of the west
The long drive west from Chicago is worth it to see the small town of Galena – you’ll feel like you’re in a different world, when compared to the giant Windy City. Galena stands among leafy rolling hills and a gently curving tributary of the Mississippi River and you’ll love the relaxed feel of this romantic city that has become a popular tourist destination. You soon see that the vast majority of Galena’s buildings are of national historical importance – explore the Cobblestoned Streets of Old Stockdale, or for a piece of the town’s history, head for the Elihu B. Washburne House.
Taking in the state capital
Springfield stands in the wide flat plains of central Illinois amid traditional red barns of farming homestead and isolated Amish communities. In the city itself you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the story of its most celebrated son, Abraham Lincoln. You can pay your tributes at his impressive tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery, visit his 19th century home and the visitor centre alongside it, and even tour the country village shop where he originally worked.
And if you take a tour of the historic State Capitol building you’ll find it is full of Lincoln mementoes too, or visit the Presidential Library and Museum, where you can meet hologram versions of the politician. Nearby is one the best Lincoln-free sights of the city: architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s acclaimed Dana-Thomas House built in 1904 and is open for inspiring tours.
