Illinois 

"The Prairie State"

Illinois is located in the heart of the US, boasting scenic byways, lush vineyards and weaving networks of lakes and rivers. It is the 24th largest state and it is bordered on three sides by water. Illinois has been home to four US presidents, each celebrated with myriad trails and historical markers; Abraham Lincoln is brought back to life at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum in Springfield, and visitors can dine at President Obama's favourite restaurants in the Chicago suburbs. Chicago is known as 'America's Favourite City' and is a stunning metropolis with a genuinely charming mid-western atmosphere. Situated on Lake Michigan, Chicago is blessed with 29 miles of lakefront, including sandy beaches and cycle paths. The city is as diverse as its scenery, from its jaw-dropping skyscrapers to outdoor sculptures.

Experience interactive public art, authentic Blues music, interesting architecture, fine dining and world class museums and theatre. Chicago is also a shoppers' paradise, with the Magnificent Mile shopping area welcoming millions of visitors to its wealth of premium department stores every year. Some of the most unique items can be found in the eclectic neighbourhood boutiques just a short journey from downtown and the best bargains can be found at the outlet malls statewide.

Experience true Americana in Illinois from the legendary Route 66 to charming towns along the Mississippi River to presidential history in Spring-field. Visit Chicago, a vibrant city brimming with music, dining and shopping.

Start your Route 66 adventure by visiting quirky roadside attractions such as the Gemini Giant spaceman, the world's largest ketchup bottle and covered wagon and 1950s-style diners

Land Area: 56,400 sq. miles, 24th largest state

Population: 12,901,563

State Capital: Springfield

Largest City: Chicago

Local Time: CST – 6 hrs behind the UK

Hot summers and cold winters with snow December to March. Moderate rainfall the rest of the year

131 State Parks and 5 National Parks

Discover the heart of America – stroll through quaint small towns, like Galena, or revel in Chicago’s big-city delights. Get your kicks along the USA’s most historic highway, Route 66. Retrace the route of Lewis and Clark or explore the land that Abraham Lincoln called home.

Illinois is probably best known for Chicago, a world-class city regarded by many as the cultural heart of the USA. Renowned museums, stunning architecture, Michelin-starred restaurants – Chicago has it all. But what surprises visitors the most is the 40-plus kilometers of ocean-like beachfront just steps from downtown and shopping. Just beyond the city lies Chicagoland, a metro area known for its unique attractions such as Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structures and exotic gardens. Some of the biggest and best malls in the USA also call the area home. Many are taking shopping to a whole new level with beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces that go on for as far as the eye can see. 

If you’re looking for true Americana through and through, there’s no better way to relive the USA’s golden age than along its most legendary highway, Route 66. Illinois’ iconic stretch features classic diners, drive-in theatres and quirky roadside attractions. And in Springfield, you’re never far from landmarks and monuments dedicated to Abraham Lincoln’s life. The 16th president’s legacy marked the beginning of a long history of presidents who called Illinois home, including Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama. 

The Mississippi River defines the entire western side of Illinois. If it’s the great wide-open outdoors you’re looking for, then you must explore Great Rivers Country. Charming river towns, steamboats, sprawling vineyards and quaint bed and breakfasts are just a few discoveries that await. This remarkable region is also home to Lewis and Clark’s historic point of departure, the Shawnee National Forest and the appropriately named Garden of the Gods. Be sure to spend some time exploring the distinctive towns you’ll find here, where the local culture includes unique shops and attractions, as well as farm-to-table dining and craft breweries and distilleries. 

Meet the artisans, small-batch brewers, distillers, vintners and farmers that make Illinois thrive. Tour their studios and production houses, sample their hand-crafted treats and browse their shops for truly local experiences. From tantalizing takes on gourmet popcorn and ground-breaking espresso drinks to art, furniture and jewellery created from salvaged materials or polished stone, you’re bound to discover foods, drinks and souvenirs unlike anything else you’ve experienced.