Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The state of Illinois, located in the midwest region of the United States, has a reputation as a microcosm of the country as a whole, thanks to its varied ethnic make-up. The state's geography and attractions equally represent what the U.S. has to offer, and travelers in Illinois can opt to explore everything from bustling metropolises and ancient ruins to quaint historical towns and areas of unspoiled wilderness.
Like many states, Illinois has its fair share of bustling metropolitan areas for visitors to explore. High on many travelers' itineraries, Chicago has strong connections with music and a seemingly endless aptitude for reinvention, alongside a population made up of many different races. Chicago boasts a diverse cultural scene, hosting numerous public events such as art exhibitions and theater productions each year. The Illinois city of Rockford, on the other hand, prides itself on the authentic Midwestern values it has retained over the years, and is a suitable place to enjoy a coffee in a cafe or to stroll through the nearby rolling hills.
Illinois offers plenty for hikers -- both beginners and veterans -- to enjoy, and outdoor enthusiasts should head out to one of the state's major hiking trails. East-central Illinois contains the Fox Ridge State Park, featuring eight rugged trails, while travelers looking to explore canyons should venture to the Starved Rock State Park in northern Illinois. In total, the state offers some 270 trails, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, with some areas especially suitable for disabled hikers or families.
Museums, exhibitions and interactive experiences designed to educate and entertain kids are plentiful in Illinois, and can make for a suitable reason to visit a certain town or area. For example, travelers to Naperville can explore the DuPage Children's Museum, which aims to develop youngsters' creativity and problem solving skills through play. Meanwhile, Illinois also contains indoor water parks, such as CoCo Key at the Clock Tower resort in Rockford, where kids can ride water slides and explore play islands.
Illinois' rich history is brought vividly to life through places which still retain echoes of the past. In New Salem, for example, travelers can see recreations of the 19th century town in which Abraham Lincoln spent his formative years. The town features a reconstruction of a blacksmith's forgery as well as a local theater. Nauvoo, a picturesque riverside town nestled in the Midwestern hills, is another period town containing over 60 historic sites and museums for visitors to explore.