With 57,915 square miles of gorgeous land, Illinois is an oasis of epic attractions waiting to be explored. While you may know about some of the main spots — like Six Flags and Cahokia Mounds — these lesser-known places should hit the top of your list of future adventures.
If you're not doing these 11 things in Illinois, you aren't utilizing this state to the fullest. Read away for all the places you should go.
1. Try this wine trail
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a nest of about a dozen vineyards nestled in the Shawnee National Forest. Try wines made from grapes and other fruits that were grown right here in Illinois. This unique wine tasting experience is everything you've ever dreamed and more.
2. Visit this train park
The Rochelle Railroad Park is a little-known wonder that train lovers can't get enough of. You'll learn about how our great state became integral to the railway industry as well as see old locomotives from the 1800s. All ages will find something to marvel at here.
3. Live like a hobbit
Even if just for a night, Rocky Comfort Cabins in the Shawnee National Forest gives you a storybook getaway like none other. Live like Bilbo and Frodo in a cottage made to replicate the real thing. Geeks and nerds will flock to this paradise.
4. Take a ghost tour
Amelia's Galena Ghost Tours explore the haunted history of this resort town in the northern tip of the state. Visit an old cemetery and haunted homes while you listen to tales of horror and fright. You can catch these tours year round.
5. Play at this Western amusement park
Located in Union, this incredible replica of a time gone by is fun for children of all ages. Wild West Town has rides, games, sports, and many other epic attractions to keep you busy all day long. Get your cowboy boots ready for this one.
6. Explore this secret garden
The Linmar Gardens in Galena are hillside plots of breathtaking greenery, stone work, and waterfalls. Best during the spring and summer, this enchanting garden is open throughout the year. Don't forget to bring your camera.
7. Eat at the tiniest pizza joint
The lucky town of Winnebago is home to Anna's Pizza. Serving up a wide range of flavorful pies, this little bitty eatery is an Illinois secret locals don't want you to know about. Good things really do come in small packages.
8. Relax in this salt cave
The Primal Oceans Salt Cave in La Grange is the most unique spa you'll ever visit, and we bet you didn't even know it was right here in Illinois. Using Hymalayan salt, this relaxing paradise will soothe you in more ways than one. Treat yourself.
9. Take a river cruise
Grafton River Adventures cruises aboard the Hakuna Matata, which travels up and down the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. It holds about 50 passengers and offers 360-degree views of the river and surrounding forestry. Learn the ancient history of how some of Illinois was discovered on this journey.
10. Tour the treetops
One of the most epic attractions in Illinois, the zip lines at Aerie's Resort and Winery will blow your mind. You've never seen treetops quite like this before. Travel over 250 miles above the ground for the experience of a lifetime.
11. Hike behind a waterfall
At Ferne Clyffe State Park, there is a waterfall hiding deep into the trail. The main part of the falls reaches 50 staggering feet and falls into a lovely pool below. It'll feel like you're in a whole other world.
For more places to take adventures, check out these 11 Illinois attractions for those who love a good mystery.
Which of these epic attractions have you already tried? Share your experiences and photos with us!
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