Illinois

Introduction

The Bean

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Illinois (pronounced ill-i-noy) is derived from the Algonquin Indian word meaning the tribe of superior men. It is also known as The Prairie State and the Land of Lincoln. The first moniker is based on the fact that a large portion of Illinois is part of the Great Plains region of the U.S. and prior to its settlement by European immigrants, great herds of buffalo and wild game roamed across its prairies. It is situated along the banks of Lake Michigan, which is part of the Great Lakes Waterway, and the only great lake to be located entirely within the U.S. boundary. The Land of Lincoln nickname is in reference to Abraham Lincoln, who relocated to Illinois at age 21, became a successful lawyer and State Representative, and went on to become the 16th President of the United States. In 1818, Illinois was granted statehood and became the 21st state in the Union. Presently, it is ranked 25th in size.

Geography

Cities

• Aurora
• Chicago is the Midwest's jewel on Lake Michigan. Chicago is a city of blues and jazz clubs, deep dish pizza, shopping on the Magnificent Mile and Oprah.
• Elgin
• Joliet
• Naperville
• Peoria
• Rockford
• Springfield is the capital of Illinois.

Sights and Activities

State Parks

Starved Rock State Park
Canyons of sandstone is not what you think when you picture the flat state of Illinois. Starved Rock State Park is an eroded butte overlooking the Illinois River and has 18 distinct canyons. During the winter time there is ice climbing and in the spring time the water run off can be quite pretty. Starved Rock State Park is located 75 miles (120 km) southwest of the city Chicago. There is a nice 1930s lodge that offers nice hotel rooms and camping options in the park.

Driving Tours

For those who enjoy a road less traveled...

Historic Route 66
On September 22, 2005, the U.S. Department of Transportation designated the portion of Route 66, which winds it's way through 421 miles of Illinois, as an American Scenic Byway. Those who enjoy motoring through small towns and countrysides will appreciate this paved piece of American history. The route begins in Chicago and exits the state as you cross the Mississippi River into St. Louis, Missouri. There are approximately 70 small towns along the way, several still sporting vintage signage and continued connections to the Route 66 heyday of the 40s, 50s and 60s. At the Williamsville Die Cast Auto Sales, you can still get a soda pop for 25 cents.

The Great River Road
In 2005, the Great River Road was also designated an American Scenic Byway. Though the route is actually comprised of several state highways, it runs along 550 miles of Illinois' western border as it follows the mighty Mississippi River southward. The journey begins in East Dubuque, Illinois and ends at the Fort Defiance State Park, where it meets the Ohio River National Scenic Byway. One is sure to find many small towns, nature areas, state parks and definitely beautiful scenery to enjoy as they make the drive. For the history buff, stops in Galena, Nauvoo, Cahokia (Collinsville) and Cairo are highly recommended. The area around Cairo is also known as Little Egypt.

Events and Festivals

Illinois State Fair
The Illinois State Fair is held over a 10 day period during the month of August in the state capital of Springfield. The fair has been held almost every year since it's beginning in 1853. The event highlights Illinois' agricultural roots with livestock, crop and machinery exhibitions. There is also a "midway" area with carnival rides and games. Beer tents and food vendors can be found throughout the 366-acre grounds. The Grandstand featured performers Toby Keith, Kenny Chesney, Gin Blossoms, Seven Mary Three, Sponge and several others in 2007. Approximately 700,000 visitors attend the Illinois State Fair each summer. About 650,000 of those visitors are there to see the life-sized Butter Cow which is 400-600 pounds of sculpted butter.

International Route 66 Mother Road Festival
At the end of each September, Springfield, Illinois is host to the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival. Car enthusiasts will enjoy this 3-day event which features free car shows, a street festival, swap meets, demonstrations and workshops. There is a Southern Illinois Route 66 Tour for those wanting to hit the open road. Other activities include the Route 66 Cruise Parade of Cars, lots of live entertainment and a travel expo. Begin the adventure in Chicago and just follow Route 66 all the way to Springfield. Arriving in time for the festival is a great way to end such a trip.

Weather

Getting There

By Plane

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Getting Around

By Plane

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Eat

Drink

Sleep