The Best Things To Do In Illinois That Steer Clear Of Chicago, According To Travelers

A whopping 50 million people visit Chicago every year, many of them in pursuit of top attractions like Wrigley Field, the Chicago Riverwalk, the Art Institute of Chicago (see how to make the most of your trip), Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile. However, not everyone gets amped up by the Windy City's crowds, skyscrapers, and big-city vibes. If you're not a city lover, there's plenty to do throughout Illinois that has nothing to do with the state's capitol, including taking a road trip to this stunning little lake town. Explore rounded up the best of them, ranging from the largest prehistoric city north of Mexico to the oldest Bahá'í temple on Earth. These attractions are ideal for everyone from history buffs to those looking to let their screams out on a waterslide.

To determine which Illinois attractions would make the cut, we evaluated those that had the most ratings on review sites, such as Tripadvisor and Google, with at least 4.2 stars. We also considered which sites had the most reviews, at least hundreds. To learn more about how we assembled this list, visit the end of this article. But in the meantime, pull out your Illinois bucket list because these attractions — many of which are the top or largest of their kind — are seriously swoon-worthy.

Before becoming the 16^th U.S. president, Abraham Lincoln was a nearly 2-decade resident of Springfield, Illinois. So it's only fitting that the city is home to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, a 40,000-square-foot epicenter of everything Lincoln. It houses the most Lincoln-related artifacts than any other place on the planet. Tickets are $15 per adult and $6 per child (ages 5 to 15).

Here, visitors can see a model of the White House as it looked when Lincoln lived there. You will also view tens of thousands of Lincoln-related artifacts, including original letters and manuscripts signed or written by him and clips from the 1860 election. These are just a few of the 12 million items that the museum holds. One visitor who enjoyed the array of artifacts wrote on Tripadvisor, "An excellent museum highlighting many aspects of Lincoln's life and his challenging presidency. A nice balance with exhibits, artifacts, and movies that tell his story." The museum has earned 4.8 stars from more than 4,600 reviews on Tripadvisor.

The museum also houses several theaters to help people learn about Lincoln's history through stage performances. Visitors can watch "Lincoln's Eyes" in the Union Theater, which showcases the historic figure's life. Or, they can head to The Mr. Lincoln Theater to see ever-changing videos about current events related to Lincoln's legacy, as well as productions about museum exhibits.

Not many parks offer history and lodging alongside Mother Nature's beauty, but Allerton Park and Retreat Center in Monticello does. Spanning 1,500 acres, it has a reflecting pond, a 10-acre meadow, 14 miles of trails, and 14 formal gardens with nearly 20,000 flowers. Visitors who don't want to tear themselves away from Allerton Park's natural beauty can stay overnight at several historical lodgings. Thirty-three guestrooms are available on the property, such as park owner Robert Allerton's mansion and the former home of the site's head gardener.

The land dates back to 1900 when Allerton called the park and mansion home. A philanthropist dedicated to conservation and art, it was only natural that he lived among such stunning landscapes. In 1946, he donated the property to the University of Illinois with the condition that it be transformed into a public park. Today, it's still one of the biggest gifts ever given to the school. Everything, from the property's history to greenery, has been a hit with Google users.

"The trails are great. The art is amazing. The mansion has such a cool history. The staff is fantastic. And the events are great. I can't recommend Allerton enough," wrote one past visitor on Google. Allerton Park and Retreat Center has earned 4.8 stars on Google based on more than 1,600 reviews.

A 12-acre slice of Japanese natural beauty grows in Rockford at the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which have been called one of the best Japanese gardens in the world. Nearly 100,000 people visit them every year to see the gardens' koi ponds, streams, waterfalls, 16^th-century Asian architecture, and more. To get the full experience of this non-profit Illinois landmark, reserve a tour, which is available twice a day between 10:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., every weekday. Admission is $13 to $15 per adult and free for kids under 5. Visitors can also have breakfast or lunch at the on-site restaurant Fresco at the Gardens.

The Anderson Japanese Gardens date back to 1978. Local businessman John Anderson paired up with Japanese native and renowned landscape architect Hoichi Kurisu to create a Japanese garden in Anderson's backyard. Kurisu had designed many other Japanese gardens throughout the United States. Twenty years later, Anderson donated the garden to share its colorful plants, bridges, pagodas, and lanterns with the community.

Judging by the gardens' 4.7 stars on Tripadvisor from more than 870 reviews, the community has been enjoying it. "This is a Must Stop," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor. "What a truly lovely, relaxing, soothing Japanese Garden. The paths are easy to navigate and the diverse trees and bushes amidst water features make for a very pleasant experience. Numerous quiet corners afford opportunities to sit, relax, and step away from the busy life of 2025."

Just nine temples for the Middle East-founded Bahá'í faith are around the world, and only one is in the United States. It stands tall with 1,100 seats in Wilmette, Illinois, where it is a National Historic Landmark and one of the Seven Wonders of the state. It's also the oldest Bahá'í temple, dating back to 1953. A quarter of a million people visit the building every year, which prominently features the number 9. In the Bahá'í religion, the unity of humanity is everything, and the number is seen to represent that unity. That's why Wilmette's Bahá'í temple has nine exterior doors and nine verses above each. It's also why, to symbolize harmony, it features numerous religious symbols like the Star of David, crucifixes, and the Islamic star.

With its bright quartz exterior and message of peace, the Bahá'í House of Worship is sometimes called the "Temple of Light and Unity." One Tripadvisor user got that vibe, too. "The visit was solemn and uplifting," they wrote on Tripadvisor. "The volunteers were very pleasant and respectful and helpful. The views inside and outside were very nice." The temple has earned 4.7 stars on Tripadvisor from more than 450 reviews. All of them, no matter their nationality, were welcome to pray inside the structure, as Bahá'í temples are intended for people of all backgrounds. No sermons or speeches; only music is utilized during services to reinforce this effort.

Every year, countless visitors head to the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark. It's also one of the quirkiest stops on Route 66. But more than 1,300 years ago, the Collinsville destination was inhabited by up to 20,000 people when it was the largest ancient city north of Mexico. Seventy earthen mounds built by indigenous people fill the city, including the Monks Mound highlight. Stretching 100 feet up in the air, it's the biggest ancient earthen mound on the continent, and its summit can be reached via a stairway.

One visitor who climbed the stairs wrote on Tripadvisor, "This trip made me aware of the history of this area. I'm amazed at the height of Monk's Mound, and the view at the top. I was able to see the famous St. Louis Arch from the top of the Mound. Amazing!" The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site has earned 4.6 stars from more than 800 reviews on Tripadvisor.

To see it all, take the 6.2-mile trail and check out a stockade wall restored to its original glory. And don't miss out on Woodhenge, a sundial that determines the season using several wood posts. Visitors can learn more about the site inside the Interpretative Center, which brings life to the outdoor wonder with a theater, exhibits, and a full-size model of what a Cahokia Mounds village looked like centuries ago.  

Known for his creative yet practical designs, spanning more than 1,000 works, Francis Lloyd Wright is the greatest American architect of all time, according to the American Institute of Architects. The largest home he ever conceived is the Dana-Thomas House, which also contains 550 original items designed by Wright, including furniture, doors, lighting, and glass windows.

Located in Springfield, the home belonged to heiress and activist Susan Lawrence Dana. Wright transformed her Italianate estate into a Prairie-style structure, his flagship design. Today, the home remains the best-preserved example of the Prairie design. Its 35 rooms included musicians' balconies and other elements perfect for entertaining after Wright finished his 12,000-square-foot masterpiece in 1902.

People can reserve a one-hour, free guided tour of the Dana-Thomas House every day from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. "Great tour of one of Wright's first houses," wrote one Tripadvisor user who snagged a spot on one of the popular tours. "A person learns quite a bit of the house's history and one of Springfield's prominent families. Interesting stories about the local children playing at the house and some of the celebrated guests, like Alice Paul. When visiting Springfield, this is a must!" The Dana-Thomas House has earned 4.8 stars based on nearly 1,200 reviews on Tripadvisor.

People of all ages love trains. And if there's one of them in your family, you can't leave Illinois without a visit to the outdoor Illinois Railway Museum in Union. The museum has been dedicated to saving vintage trains and keeping the lore of the nation's railway history alive since 1953, when it started with just one train purchased at $1,000. As the largest railway museum in the country, it offers everything from historic trains you can ride on a 5-mile demonstration track to meticulously restored railway equipment. Just a few of the trains that people can step back in time in for a ride include a streetcar and a steam engine.

"This was a a really fun and informative museum," wrote one past visitor on Tripadvisor. "The highlight was being able to ride historic trains and trolleys. Their mission to preserve and restore historic trains is an admirable one." The museum has earned 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor from 300 reviews.

Tickets range from $11 to $20 and grant visitors access to more than 500 pieces of interactive railway history. The massive collection is the largest on the continent and includes a freight train exhibit and a model railroad exhibit. These pieces are displayed on a 100-acre property. Depending on when you visit, you'll also have access to seasonal events like the Halloween-themed Pumpkin Train in October and the annual Vintage Transport Extravaganza.

Despite being known as the Windy City, Chicago can reach temperatures in the 90s (degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer. That won't matter if you head to the largest waterpark in the state — Raging Waves Waterpark in Yorkville. "Looking for a fun way to beat the summer heat near Chicago? Raging Waves Waterpark—Illinois' largest—is a top pick. It has something for everyone, from a great kids' area to thrilling rides like Wonambi, Cyclone, and Three Sisters. Lines can be long, but the rides are worth the wait," wrote one past visitor on Google. The waterpark has earned 4.2 stars from over 4,000 reviews on the site.

It dates back to 2008 when it was founded by a family that typically spent their vacations checking out different water parks. Since then, it's nearly doubled in size to 32 waterslides. Here, visitors can ride attractions across 58 acres, with tickets starting at $45 per person.

Just a few of the water attractions that families can choose from include the Aussie Mad Dash racing waterslides, the Kookaburra Kreek quarter-mile lazy river, and the Wild Wallabies body slides. For a more upscale experience, visitors can book all-day access to a private cabana with food delivery for $250 to $400. Cabana or not, they can also choose from a dozen on-site dining options like a pizza spot and an ice cream stand.

Shawnee National Forest is known as the Garden of the Gods for a reason. Its 320-million-year-old extraordinary landscapes are heavenly, with the biggest waterfall in Illinois, an archaeological site with ancient graves, and a natural bridge that stretches 125 feet. It even hosts one of the most beautiful places in America's state and national parks. With so much to see and do, it's no surprise that the forest has garnered 4.8 stars from more than 6,200 Google reviews. "You're going to need some time to take in all this location has to offer," wrote one Google user. "Beautiful and tranquil surroundings filled with wildlife, streams, wildflowers and walking trails. Very well kept and camping services [are] in the area. This is a definite must see on a weekend getaway!"

The best way to see this environmental powerhouse is on foot, and Shawnee National Forest has plenty of hikes to help people do that. To see the storming Ohio River from above and also trek down stone steps into a cave, do the Cave in Rock hike. Or, head to Heron Pond's floating boardwalk to see a huge array of animals as well as a tupelo-cypress swamp formed by glacial floodwaters. You can also be surrounded by forest views at Illinois' tallest waterfall here.

Named for a 1700s legend held by indigenous people, Starved Rock State Park is Illinois's first state park as well as a National Historic Landmark. Its array of stunning scenery is just as impressive as its history. This underrated state park is even known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Midwest.' Starved Rock State Park has more than a dozen miles of trails and 18 canyons. No matter which hike you choose, you'll be surrounded by an array of animals and plants, like red oaks, maples, and hickories, all enveloped by beautiful sandstone formations and lush greenery.

One of the best hikes to see Mother Nature's beauty in the park is the 4.3-mile Sandstone Point Overlook hike, which takes visitors to a high point that offers panoramic views of the River Valley. Another hike for those looking for views is the 3-mile Eagle Cliff Overlook hike, which runs along the Illinois River. "The trails were well-marked and took us through a variety of beautiful canyons, each with its own unique charm," wrote one hiker on Google. "From lush greenery to towering rock formations, the scenery was stunning at every turn." Starved Rock State Park has earned 4.7 stars from more than 16,000 reviews on Google.

Superman is always saving the day in movies and comic books in Metropolis. But Metropolis is a real place in Illinois, and it's also the home of the Super Museum, which has the largest collection of Superman memorabilia on the planet. It houses more than 70,000 items, including props from Superman spin-off movies and television shows and countless comics and costumes. Outside, it also has an Instagram-worthy Superman statue. It was all gathered by Jim Hambrick before the museum opened in 1993. Tickets are $8 per person and are available daily. The museum has been showcased on Entertainment Tonight, The Daily Show, ABC, CBS, and more.

More than 250 visitors have shared their Super Museum experiences on Tripadvisor, giving the destination 4.2 stars. One Tripadvisor user wrote, "Much More than Expected! Super Cool! We were not especially superman fans... until after visiting this museum. Before you even enter you will see a lot of fun statues and murals. You enter the museum through the gift shop. The museum is chocked full of all kinds of superman toys, statues, and lots of movie props. I would return!"

Chicago is one of the largest cities in Illinois, and it gets all the acclaim when it comes to top attractions for visitors. But if you only visit Chicago on your trip to the Prairie State, you're missing out. Illinois has tons of top-rated activities for people of all ages and interests, which we learned firsthand while determining the best non-Chicago attractions for travelers.

To do so, we turned to those who know them best: the travelers. We reviewed sites such as Tripadvisor and Google to see which destinations had the most ratings, with at least 4.2 stars. However, many on this list have far surpassed that, with up to 4.8 stars, like the Dana-Thomas House and Allerton Park and Retreat Center. We also assessed which spots had the most stars, with at least hundreds. Still, some of the sites on this list have surpassed that with thousands of reviews, such as Starved Rock State Park and Raging Waves Waterpark. 

Finally, we weighed sites that rank among the best in not only Illinois but also the country. Those include Anderson Japanese Gardens, which is one of the best Japanese gardens on the continent, and the Illinois Railway Museum, which is the largest railway museum in the United States.