Editors' Picks: 20 of the Best Things to Do in Illinois!

Featuring

Try your hand at ice climbing

Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby is popular year-round, but during the winter, ice climbers can do their thing in a big way. Yes, a partner is required, but the challenge is so worth it.

Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby is popular year-round, but during the winter, ice climbers can…

15 Perfect Illinois Getaways

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Kishauwau Country Cabins, Tonica, IL

Experience a rustic cabin getaway just 10 minutes from Starved Rock State Park at the Kishauwau Country Cabins. With 17 cabins scattered throughout 65 acres of nature, this property makes for a…

Experience a rustic cabin getaway just 10 minutes from Starved Rock State Park at the Kishauwau…

The 10 Best Camping Spots in Illinois!

Featuring

Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL

Starved Rock State Park is nothing short of a camper’s haven. Located around Oglesby, this gorgeous state park features towering trees, stunning canyons, beautiful waterfalls, and extraordinary…

Starved Rock State Park is nothing short of a camper’s haven. Located around Oglesby, this…

The 15 Best Hiking Trails in Illinois!

Featuring

Matthiessen State Park, Utica, IL

Hikers can marvel at unique rock formations and colorful natural wonders at the Matthiessen State Park in Utica. There are five miles of well-surfaced, marked hiking trails over the bluff tops and…

Hikers can marvel at unique rock formations and colorful natural wonders at the Matthiessen State…

The 8 Best Mom and Pop Restaurants in Illinois!

Featuring

Old Route 66 Family Restaurant, Dwight, IL

Old Route 66 Family Restaurant isn’t your typical café—this hidden gem offers home-style food in a quaint, retro atmosphere. Their fast, friendly service and generous portions also…

Old Route 66 Family Restaurant isn’t your typical café—this hidden gem offers…

The 11 Best Mexican Restaurants in Illinois!

Featuring

Jalapenos, Peru, IL

Jalapenos is a favorite Mexican restaurant for locals and travelers. Located right on the interstate, this authentic Mexican joint offers fresh, delicious dishes and friendly service. Customer…

Jalapenos is a favorite Mexican restaurant for locals and travelers. Located right on the…

Romantic Escapes: Best Resorts for Couples in Illinois

Featuring

Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center, Oglesby, IL

Located in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, this relaxing lodge is the perfect getaway for nature-loving couples. Stay in a lodge room or a rustic log cabin with a fireplace in the woods. They…

Located in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, this relaxing lodge is the perfect getaway for…

The 10 Best Thrift Stores in Illinois!

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Eureka Et Cetera Thrift Shop, Eureka, IL

Another hidden gem, Eureka Et Cetera Thrift Shop is a one-shop-stop for all your clothing and household needs. Local volunteers dedicate their time to ensuring this shop operates smoothly. Customers…

Another hidden gem, Eureka Et Cetera Thrift Shop is a one-shop-stop for all your clothing and…

Get Set, GO! Illinois' Best Road Races

Featuring

Starved Rock Country Marathon, Ottawa, IL

Starved Rock Country Marathon is favorite in central Illinois. The course winds around the scenic Illinois River, through Ottawa neighborhoods, and into Starved Rock State Park. Runners can choose…

Starved Rock Country Marathon is favorite in central Illinois. The course winds around the scenic…

The 15 Best Free Things to Do in Illinois

Featuring

Starved Rock State Park, Utica, IL

With over 13 miles of hiking trails, Starved Rock State Park is another wonder of nature without any admission fee. The park itself was formed by glaciers and how features steep rock walls, dark…

With over 13 miles of hiking trails, Starved Rock State Park is another wonder of nature without…

Try your hand at ice climbing

Featured in Editors' Picks: 20 of the Best Things to Do in Illinois!

Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby is popular year-round, but during the winter, ice climbers can do their thing in a big way. Yes, a partner is required, but the challenge is so worth it.

Read More

Matthiessen State Park, Utica, IL

Featured in The 15 Best Hiking Trails in Illinois!

Hikers can marvel at unique rock formations and colorful natural wonders at the Matthiessen State Park in Utica. There are five miles of well-surfaced, marked hiking trails over the bluff tops and… Read More

Jalapenos, Peru, IL

Featured in The 11 Best Mexican Restaurants in Illinois!

Jalapenos is a favorite Mexican restaurant for locals and travelers. Located right on the interstate, this authentic Mexican joint offers fresh, delicious dishes and friendly service. Customer… Read More

Growing Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, Peoria Heights, IL

Featured in The 10 Best Kid-Friendly Dentists in Illinois!

Parents love Growing Smiles Pediatric Dentistry because of the welcoming, kid-friendly atmosphere and fantastic care provided at this clinic. The doctor and staff members are very friendly, caring,… Read More

Hoerr Nursery, Peoria, IL

Featured in The 10 Best Garden Centers and Nurseries in Illinois!

With deep roots in the Peoria area, Hoerr Nursery offers the expertise and quality locals rely on. This family owned and operated nursery features a vast selection of plants and garden supplies along… Read More

The Book Rack Gift Booktique, Peoria, IL

Featured in The 9 Best Bookstores in Illinois!

The Book Rack Gift Booktique has been serving the Peoria area for over 40 years. This cozy used bookstore isn’t glamorous, but it’s the perfect spot to explore and stack up on some… Read More

Ice Cream Shack of Sunnyland, Washington, IL

Featured in The 6 Best Places for Milkshakes in Illinois!

Ice Cream Shack is a no-frills ice cream joint and local favorite. Although you may have to wait in a long line, you can expect to be impressed with their delicious shakes, large portions, and… Read More

The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern, Peoria, IL

Featured in The 9 Best BBQ Joints in Illinois!

Located on Peoria’s Riverfront, the Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern aims to add an unexpected twist to common barbecue dishes. They also serve house-smoked meats and feature a huge selection of… Read More

Steak & Fries, Peoria, IL

Featured in The 9 Best Places for French Fries in Illinois!

For some of the best Philly sandwiches in Peoria, visit Steak & Fries. What lacks in their dining atmosphere is made up by their fresh-cut fries and cheese fries, which are delicious and… Read More

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