Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
Taking the family on a trip? Illinois has many fun and historical places to visit. Whether you're up for a hike in the woods, a walk into the past, or a thrill on a roller coaster, Illinois has something for you.
Want to get in touch with nature?
The Shawnee National Forest spreads across Illinois southern part. From the Ohio, to the Mississippi, you'll find plenty of trails, rock formations, lakes, trees and wildlife. Spend a day hiking or a night camping out in this natural treasure.
The Wildlife Prairie Park in Peoria offers a chance to experience a restored prairie complete with the animals that once called it home. Bobcats, wolves, elk, otter and more are present in this interesting park. Kids will love a chance to see the animals, take a train around the park, and even stay the night on the prairie.
Fort Massac State Park in Metropolis is a mix of history and nature. Easy hiking trails give a view of the fort, the Ohio River and the surrounding woodlands. Visit the museum, have a picnic or even go camping. While you're there, you can even take some time to explore Metropolis, the home of Superman.
Up for a bit of history?
Springfield, Illinois capitol is the proud home of Abraham Lincoln. He spent thirty years in Illinois, seventeen of those spent in Springfield. You can take guided tours through his family home and neighborhood, visit the Old State Capitol where he delivered his "House Divided" speech, or make a trip to the Lincoln Tomb in the Oak Ridge Cemetery. It's a great way to give the family a look into the life of one of our most influential presidents.
The Cahokia Mounds in Collinsville, the only prehistoric city north of Mexico, offers an up close look at what life might have been like for the people who once lived there. There's an interpretive center designed to offer views of the city, culture, products and life of these people. See the recreated village, the mounds and sites, take a guided or self-guided tour, or take a hike around the site.
Looking for some fun?
Project Playground in Decatur is full of wooden towers, slides, swings and forts. There are plenty of places to climb, jump, or tunnel.
After that, drop by the Children's Museum of Illinois for exhibits on culture, people, the arts and science.
The Navy Pier in Chicago has a multitude of things to do. Go shopping, visit a museum, or ride one of the many rides. It boasts of its 150 foot high Ferris wheel, designed after the first Ferris wheel from Chicago's 1893 World Columbian Exposition. It also offers several entertainment stages and a wide selection of restaurants. Try a boat ride to sightsee or go on a dinner cruise.
The Sears Tower in Chicago is the highest building in the U.S. View four states by walking around the Skydeck. The Knee-high deck allows younger tourists to see all the same sights of the city and its surroundings. Kids can play Skydeck scavenger hunt or visit the displays. Visit after 4 P.M. for less crowds and a chance to see the city at night.
There are so many places to visit in Illinois. No matter what you're looking for, you can find something for the whole family to enjoy.
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