A few lesser known places to See when visiting Illinois
When it comes to travel destinations, Illinois doesn’t usually top people’s lists. But that’s a shame, because there are actually lots of great hidden gems in the state that are worth checking out. Here are five of our favorites.
–Starved Rock State Park: Located about 90 minutes from Chicago, Starved Rock is a great place to get away from the city and enjoy some nature. With more than 13 miles of hiking trails, you can explore waterfalls, canyons, and forests. And if you’re looking for a place to stay overnight, there are more than 100 campsites available.
–Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site: This is one of the largest archaeological sites in North America and it’s right here in Illinois! The Cahokia Mounds were built by Native Americans between 900 and 1400 CE, and includes more than 120 mounds. It’s a really fascinating place to learn about Illinois’ native history.
–Galena: This small town in northwestern Illinois is definitely worth a visit. Galena is known for its Victorian architecture and its relaxed atmosphere. There are also lots of great shops and restaurants, as well as wineries and distilleries to check out.
-The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: If you’re a fan of American history, you’ll want to add this museum to your list. The museum does a great job of bringing Lincoln’s life to life, and it’s also home to the largest collection of Lincoln artifacts in the world.
–Anderson Japanese Gardens: Located in Rockford, Anderson Japanese Gardens is one of the most beautiful places in the state. The 12-acre gardens feature streams, waterfalls, ponds, and bridges, as well as more than 150 varieties of plants. It’s truly a sight to behold.
There are lots of great places to visit in Illinois, even if it’s not always at the top of people’s travel lists. From state parks and historic sites to small towns and beautiful gardens, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re looking for somewhere new to explore, be sure to check out one of these hidden gems in Illinois!