Illinois, on the banks of the Mississippi River, is a well-known midwestern state in the US. This populous US state comprises over 1200 cities, towns, and villages. Illinois has also been nicknamed ‘Lincoln State’ after Abraham Lincoln. The beloved 16th President of the US spent much of his time there and was buried in Springfield, Illinois.
The state boasts stunning landscapes, from bustling cities and picturesque farmland to abundant fishing opportunities along the Mississippi. Some of the biggest Illinois cities, including Chicago, Springfield, Aurora, and Naperville, attract travellers worldwide and from within the US.
Read on to learn more about the cities of Illinois.
List of cities in Illinois for travellers
The following are some of the most famous cities in Illinois:
Chicago
One of the most popular cities in Illinois and the 3rd largest in the US, Chicago witnesses a massive influx of travellers owing to the architecture, sports scene, and food delicacies.
Springfield
Springfield is Illinois’ capital and the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. It is the birthplace of basketball and holds the fort for being one of the best Illinois cities for learning about history.
Aurora
Aurora is where you can occasionally witness the glorious northern lights. It is an excellent shopping place alongside natural attractions like waterparks, riverside walkways, and zoos.
Naperville
Naperville is one of the quietest cities in Illinois, an ideal choice for naturalists. It has sprawling parks, forests, and beaches and is home to one of the world’s largest carillons. Several tourist attractions include Moser Tower, The Morton Arboretum, and Naper Settlement.
Rockford
Rockford is 2nd largest Illinois city and the perfect weekend getaway option. It turns into a wonderland during the winter and is popular for its history, gardens, and industry.
Alton
Alton is known for its riverfront location and American history. This city amalgamates important rivers and historic towns, making it an attractive choice for visitors. At Alton, Illinois, you can enjoy the natural beauty of mountains and crystal-clear water while riding in the river.
Bloomington
Bloomington is the perfect place for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. This Illinois city welcomes tourists for an unforgettable experience through its several attractions, including Monroe County History Centre, WonderLab, Lilly Library, and Eskenazi Museum of Art.
Champaign
Champagne is a relatively smaller city but provides the best urban experience. It offers the perfect combination of culture, art, and history, an ideal travel blend. This place has numerous museums, each offering an insight into ancient and cultural artefacts.
Joliet
Joliet in Illinois is best known for its architecture, history, and natural attractions. You can visit museums, theatres, historical monuments, and parks in Joliet.
Other Popular Towns in Illinois
- Elgin for its Victorian landmarks and watch industry
- Galena, with a rich history and small-town charm, was the childhood home of the American President Ulysses Grant
- Princeton is famous for the Ivyleage University
- Fulton for its Dutch heritage and buildings
Interesting facts about the top cities in Illinois
All the Illinois cities have something unique to offer and add to your trip’s experiences. Are you curious about the interesting stories of these famous cities? Let’s take a look.
- The Chicago River is the world’s only river to flow backwards. Engineers in 1887 reversed the flow of this river to release the water to the Mississippi River. It is dyed green every year on St. Patrick’s Day.
- The name Aurora or “goddess of the dawn”, was given to the city in 1837 when a post office was introduced. This city is known as the “City of Lights” as it was the first US city to use electric lights to illuminate the city.
- Naperville Riverwalk is lined with artwork, fountains, and sculptures, attracting worldwide travellers. It is one of the most iconic sights in Illinois.
- Alton has the distinction of being the birthplace of the world’s tallest man. Measuring 8 ft. 11 inches, Robert Wadlow was nicknamed the Giant of Illinois.
- Rockford, full of greenery is often called the “Forest City” for the countless elm trees. It is also called the “City of Gardens” due to its several gardens, parks, and tree-lined streets.
- Morton, a village in Illinois, is the world’s pumpkin capital. The Libby’s pumpkin plant grows here, the source of production and export of the largest quantity of canned pumpkin.
- Ice cream sundae was invented in Evanston in the 19th century. Local soda fountains served syrup-infused ice creams on Sundays to bypass the prohibited law of selling soda. This led to the origination of this dessert delicacy.
- The predecessor to current-day McDonald’s was opened in Des Plaines. It is now replaced by a museum that showcases the franchise’s 1955 design.
Conclusion
Explore the famous cities of Illinois and immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and cultural diversity of the vast U.S. plains. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the charming small towns rich in heritage, travelling through Illinois offers a deeper understanding of American history and its evolving culture.
To make your journey truly worry-free, consider purchasing international travel insurance. It safeguards against unexpected setbacks like luggage loss, theft, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
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