The 2009 Illinois Travel Guide will provide you with all you need to know about what to see and where to stay throughout the state. Whether you prefer the bustling culture of the big city, the friendly hospitality of small-town America or the serene beauty of natural wonders, Illinois has something for everyone.

You’ve picked a very special time to visit Illinois. Throughout 2009, celebrate the bicentennial of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was in Illinois that the future president began his professional career, started his family and set on the path that would lead him to become one of the most beloved and important presidents in American history.

In the cover feature, you will find a comprehensive listing of Lincoln sites in Illinois including his home, final resting place and the acclaimed Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which is as entertaining as it is informative. Also included are details on statewide Lincoln birthday celebrations that will demonstrate why Illinois truly is the Land of Lincoln.

As you will see, Illinois offers so much more. Dive into the family fun feature, highlighting the state’s many indoor water parks. Indulge in Sweet Spots, your guide to the most delicious made-in-Illinois confections. And celebrate a milestone as the feature on architecture honors the centennial of the historic Burnham Plan. Illinois provides mile after magnificent mile of fun for families, couples, groups and adventurers.

It’s all at your fingertips. For further information, log on to enjoyillinois.com or call 800/2CONNECT.

On the cover: Artwork by Gregory Manchess, courtesy of Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum

Download Illinois Travel Guide 2009

PDF format, 20MB, 230Pages.

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Bureau of Tourism
James R. Thompson Center
100 West Randolph Street, Suite 3-400
Chicago, Illinois 60601
800/2CONNECT (226-6632)
312/814-4733, FAX: 312/814-6175
e-mail: enjoyillinois@illinois.gov
www.enjoyillinois.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS
3 Welcome to Illinois
Governor’s letter
6 Land of Lincoln
During 2009, historic sites throughout the state roll out the red carpet to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s Bicentennial. Join the festivities and take a tour of the Illinois places that shaped the president.
Lincoln sites throughout the guide are marked with Abe’s signature stovepipe hat.
14 Exit Now!
During your Illinois road trip, hop off the interstates to experience famous roadside attractions, little-known gems, Civil War sites, family fun parks and many other colorful attractions. We also map out popular spots for regional cuisine.
Fun is only an exit away!
24 The Great Outdoors
Navigate bike trails through rugged terrain, take a canoe excursion down a crystal clear river or even jump out of an airplane.
Find your adventure niche throughout Illinois by land, by water and by air.
30 Top 5 for Families
Parents and kids alike will have a ball at these family-friendly attractions. From children’s museums to thrill rides, the whole family will agree on these getaways.
36 Illinois Architecture
From Chicago highrises to a worldrenowned temple, tour the architecture that has contributed to the state’s slate of legendary landmarks.
41 Good Bets
It’s a safe bet that everyone has fun at Illinois’ casinos. May Lady Luck be on your side as you explore the state’s gaming options.
44 Sweet Spots
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a tasty, made-in-Illinois treat. Also, discover local flavor at 12 of the state’s best food festivals.
48 Chicago
50 How to navigate Chicago
52 Attractions
70 Accommodations
74 Chicagoland
76 How to navigate Chicagoland
77 Attractions
96 Accommodations
108 Northern Illinois
110 How to navigate Northern Illinois
111 Attractions
125 Accommodations
134 Central Illinois
136 How to navigate Central Illinois
137 Attractions
150 Accommodations
160 Western Illinois
162 How to navigate Western Illinois
163 Attractions
173 Accommodations
180 Southern Illinois
182 How to navigate Southern Illinois
183 Attractions
191 Accommodations
198 Southwest Illinois
200 How to navigate Southwest Illinois
201 Attractions
207 Accommodations
214 Travel Information
By air, by rail or by road—find helpful travel tips and state stats to help plan your trip to Illinois.
216 Index
223 Index of Advertisers
Back Cover Fold-out State Map

ENJOYILLINOIS.COM

Get to know Illinois before your trip by learning where to go and what to do and exploring interactive maps. Plus, you’ll find much more on the state’s official tourism Web site:

• Book hotels
• Create itineraries with three-day getaway ideas
• Find insider details in Web-exclusive content
• Plan ahead with our seasonal events calendar
• Subscribe to our e-newsletter for exclusive Illinois seasonal highlights

Look for this icon throughout the guide for even more reasons to visit enjoyillinois.com.

Comments (1)

Name

Email

Comment

smaller | bigger

Add Comment