Calling all readers. This book lovers' road trip through the ol' Land of Lincoln will take you past some of the best bookstores in the state. In addition to shopping, you'll also find a literary-themed bar and one of the coolest libraries in the world.
Whether you read fiction, non-fiction, or something that doesn't fit any category, you'll be perfectly pleased with this journey. Check it out:
Illinois' book lover's road trip begins north of Chicago and takes you more than six hours and 330 miles across the state to the best book-themed attractions the Prairie State has to offer. Depending on where you are coming from, it will take a day or two to complete this trip and possibly an extra day to get home.
Click here for an interactive version of this map, and keep scrolling to the bottom for ideas about places to stay if you need this trip to last multiple days.
1. The Library Bar
Your first (or final) stop is to a tiny little dive bar that has been in business since 2008. It is known for its literary decor and Wednesday night trvia as well as themed cocktails with fun names like Pear-iodical, Li-BERRY-ian, Grape Glossary, and Citrus Fiction. Get more details about this unique spot here.
Address: 131 East Marsile Street, Bourbonnais, IL 60914
2. Joe And Rika Mansueto Library At The University Of Chicago
The next stop on this book lovers' road trip takes you to what might be the most unique library in the world. It features a beautiful dome design and an underground catalog of 3.5 million books that are retrieved through an automated system. Click here to learn more about how it works.
Address: 1100 East 57th Street, Chicago, IL 60637
3. Anderson's Bookshop
With three locations in the northern part of the state, this chain of bookstores begins the shopping portion of this epic readers' journey. The original location in Naperville has been in business since 1875 and is known for its new books in just about any topic you can think of. For details about what else you can find at this popular shop, click here.
Address: 123 West Jefferson Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540
4. Book Rack Used Books & Gifts
In business since 1980, this bookstore is known for the free titles left outside each day. In addition to that incredible deal, you will also find budget-friendly used books inside as well. Topics include young adult, horror, best sellers, fantasy, children's books, and everything in between, and you'll even find literary-themed gifts. Click here for more information.
Address: 4408 North Knoxville Avenue #2B, Peoria, IL 61614
5. Old Book Barn
This central Illinois warehouse of used books is probably the biggest in the state, so you'll want to leave plenty of time to spend here while on this book lovers' road trip. The store spans 14,000 square-feet and contains mixed media, including more than 250,000 books of all different genres. The friendly staff includes some sleepy felines. Get more details about this one-of-a-kind spot here.
Address: 126 US-51, Forsyth, IL 62535
6. Books On The Square
With two locations in and around Springfield, this budget-friendly bookshop is a true gem. It has been kickin' since 1993 and is home to more than 50,000 titles. Collectibles, rare books, books about Abraham Lincoln, and much more abound at this special shop. Click here for more information.
Address: 153 East Jackson Street, Virden, IL, 62690
If you need a place to rest while on this trip, check out one of these 10 very best hotels in Illinois.
What would you add to this book lovers' road trip? Share your ideas with us below in the comments.
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