About Illinois
Illinois offers a captivating blend of world-class urban excitement and serene Midwestern charm. Chicago, the vibrant heart of the state, dazzles with iconic architecture along the Magnificent Mile, renowned museums like the Art Institute, and a legendary food scene featuring deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. Beyond the city, Illinois unfolds with rich history along Route 66, the presidential legacy of Springfield, and the stunning natural beauty of Shawnee National Forest. Experience the musical heritage of the blues, catch a game at Wrigley Field, or explore the charming river towns along the Mississippi. From the bustling energy of its metropolitan center to the rolling farmlands and scenic river valleys, Illinois presents a diverse and unforgettable American journey.
Things to do in Illinois
Half day Giza pyramids and Sphinx tour with an Egyptologist
Cairo, Egypt
Private Walking Tour in ElMoez Street & Khan Elkhalili Market
Cairo, Egypt
Half Day Tour to the Churches of Cairo
Cairo, Egypt
Horseback Rides, Interactions, and Petting Zoo
Illinois, USA
From GHS 1,348
5.0 (7)
Tour in Egyptian Museum, Citadel of Saladin and Khan Elkhalili
Cairo, Egypt
The Grand Egyptian Museum Tour
Cairo, Egypt
Grandview Drive Postcard Tour Experience
Illinois, USA
From GHS 843
5.0 (7)
Private Cairo by Night Tour
Cairo, Egypt
Zipline Adventure in Galena, Illinois
Illinois, USA
Private Indian-Mexican Fusion Cooking Class in a Chicago Home
Illinois, USA
2 hr Single Guided Kayaking Tour near Chicago
Illinois, USA
From GHS 1,090
5.0 (4)
3 Day Private Tour in Cairo
Cairo, Egypt
From GHS 3,257
5.0 (4)
Giza Pyramid with Grand Egyptian Museum Tour
Cairo, Egypt
Canoe/Kayak Day Tour of Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge
Illinois, USA
From GHS 1,348
5.0 (3)
Day Tour To Giza Pyramids, Memphis City, Dahshur And Sakkara
Cairo, Egypt
Travel Tips for Illinois
Getting Around
Chicago has an extensive public transit system (CTA) with buses and 'L' trains; use the Ventra app for payments. Metra commuter rail serves suburbs. Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Lyft) are widely available. Renting a car is recommended for exploring outside Chicago, including Route 66, state parks, and smaller towns. Interstate highways are efficient, but expect traffic congestion in and around Chicago. Biking is popular in Chicago with Divvy bike-share.
Best Time To Visit
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant festivals. Summer (July-August) is peak season in Chicago with numerous outdoor events and lakefront activities, but can be hot and humid. Autumn features beautiful fall foliage, especially in the Shawnee National Forest. Winters are cold and snowy but offer holiday markets and indoor cultural attractions.
Local Customs
Midwestern friendliness is prevalent; polite greetings are common. Casual dress is acceptable in most places, but upscale restaurants and theaters in Chicago may require smart casual attire. Tipping is standard: 15-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars for taxi/rideshares. Be punctual for appointments. In Chicago, avoid ordering ketchup on a hot dog in front of locals. Sports, especially baseball (Cubs vs. White Sox), are a passionate topic.
Safety Information
Exercise normal precautions. In Chicago, be vigilant in tourist areas for pickpocketing. At night, stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid certain neighborhoods on the South and West Sides unless with a local guide. Common scams include street shell games and fake petitions. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially on public transit. Weather safety is crucial; be prepared for severe thunderstorms in spring/summer and extreme cold/blizzards in winter.
Health Information
Medical facilities in Illinois, especially in Chicago, are world-class (e.g., Northwestern Memorial, Rush University Medical Center). No specific vaccinations are required for entry. Travelers should have comprehensive health insurance. Common seasonal health concerns include seasonal allergies and winter-related illnesses. In rural areas, be aware of ticks which can carry Lyme disease. Tap water is safe to drink in cities. For emergencies, dial 911.
Languages Spoken
English
Quick Facts
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
$
$
Timezone
America/Chicago -06:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+1
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
12.5 million
Area
149995 km²
Government
Representative democracy with a Governor as head of the executive branch and a bicameral General Assembly
ISO Code
IL