Best Things To Explore In Illinois, Chicago

Illinois is the gem of Midwest USA with a lot of visitor attractions like State parks, Japanese gardens, aquariums, National forests, art institutes, amazing architecture, etc.

1. Lincoln Park Zoo

Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States.

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The zoological park was founded in 1868, one of the oldest zoos in North America. Entry is completely free and the animal collections include elephants, giraffes, sea lions, gorillas, reptiles, red wolf and also you can find different species of birds from here. It has beautiful lush lawns, walkways, greenhouses and Georgian Revival buildings etc to explore.

2. Navy Pier

Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States.

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Navy Pier attracts visitors with stunning architecture river tours, a favorite visitor attraction. Things you can explore here are a 75 minutes river tour with views of iconic Willis, Tribune & Hancock towers, more than 40 historic structures & modern skyscrapers to see and amazing views of urban skyline from the water.

3. Millennium Park

Address: Millennium Park, Chicago, IL, USA.

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This is an amazing town square in Chicago with a lot of attractions. This is a public gathering spot that attracts visitors with amazing architecture, beautiful gardens, cultural programs like concerts, exhibitions, tours, and family activities at Jay Pritzker Pavilion, outdoor sculptures etc and this is a must-visit destination in Chicago.

4. Field Museum of Natural History

Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, United States.

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This natural history museum was opened in 1893 with largest collections of anthropological and biological artifacts. It attracts visitors with more than 25 million artifacts, Giant jaws of Sue, Glittering jewels & gorgeous gold within the Hall of Gems, mummification process of ancient Egypt, etc.

5. Art Institute of Chicago

Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States.

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If you are an art lover, don�t miss to visit this museum. This museum houses greatest collections of masterpieces by Picasso, Monet, Renoir & Seurat, Renaissance & medieval art objects including arms and armors, collections of impressionist art, American furnishings, throne room, etc.

6. Starved Rock State Park

Address: 2668 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348, United States.

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This state park was established in 1911 located on the Illinois River. The popular attraction in this state park is sandstone canyons made with the melting of glaciers. Hiking is a popular activity you can enjoy here with amazing scenic views. A hiking nature trail towards Lover�s Leap Overlook enables you to enjoy the panoramic views of the River and Dam.

7. Springfield

Address: N Springfield Ave, Chicago, IL, USA.

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This is a magnificent capital city of Illinois which is popular for Abraham Lincoln�s home. Things you can explore here include Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, Lincoln Home National Historic Site where he lived for long years and Oak Ridge Cemetery where he rests.

8. Anderson Japanese Gardens

Address: 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, United States.

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If you are a nature lover, you must visit this beautiful garden. It spreads around 12 acres of lush greenery and considered the best Japanese Garden in the US. It has beautiful landscapes, fountains, pagodas, bridges, etc. October is the best season to visit this garden to enjoy unlimited foliage views.

9. Shawnee National Forest

Address: Shawnee National Forest, Illinois 62985, USA.

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This National forest was established in 1933 and lies in between Ohio and Mississippi River. This forest comprised of breath-taking hills, charming lakes, waterfalls, rugged bluffs, woodlands, etc. Popular outdoor activities you can enjoy here include hiking, fishing, sightseeing, picnicking, etc.

10. Shedd Aquarium

Address: 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, United States.

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This is an amazing indoor public aquarium in Illinois which houses 32000 animals. It attracts millions of visitors every year. It has amazing permanent saltwater fish collections, marine mammals, birds, snakes, amphibians, and insects. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark.

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