Illinois

Best known for a massive shopping complex, this lively suburban destination offers far more than retail therapy alone.

They say the best things in life are free, and this is certainly true in the bold city of Chicago.

From its towering skyscrapers to the sweeping arc of its expansive lakeshore, there’s a feeling of confidence and pride that radiates from the landmark features of Chicago and from the faces of the city’s inhabitants as well.

This little city is cute and quaint. It has a slightly weathered and old-fashioned feel thanks to the historical buildings dotted around it.

Surrounded by endless stretches of fertile farmland, this vibrant twin-city area blends small-town warmth with big-university energy.

Perched atop a bluff overlooking the Illinois River and Peoria Lake, this historic city boasts scenic views and a rich past.

You’ve probably passed through dozens of small towns along a river, but a few still manage to hold onto their historic character and keep things genuinely lively.

Most drivers flying down Interstate 70 between St. Louis and Indianapolis never think twice about the tiny towns along the route.

Famed for its wonderful architecture and world-class museums, Chicago is one of the most popular cities to visit in the States.

Fittingly nicknamed the “City of Gardens,” this destination is defined by its beautiful parks and carefully landscaped green spaces.

This place stands out—almost defiantly—against the endless prairie that surrounds it, and you really can’t miss the contrast.

The summer and fall may be wonderful times to visit Illinois, but for the residents of the Prairie State, living here provides full-time access to the state’s rich history, architecture and nature.

Brick-lined streets, rolling hills, and beautifully preserved nineteenth-century buildings give this small town the feeling of stepping back in time.

If you want to explore the American Midwest, head to Illinois. The Land of Lincoln is home to teeming cities as well as rural farmland.

Steeped in political history and rich in architectural charm, this Midwestern capital offers a compelling glimpse into the past.