The Illinois Bucket List
I’ve been to Illinois exactly twice - both times in Chicago. Not only do I want to go back and explore more of that vibrant city, but there’s a few more places in the state that is worthy of a weekend. Check out my bucket list places to stay, dine/drink, as well as things to see/do, below.
Jump To:
Chicago
LOOKING FOR CHICAGO? CLICK HERE.
Galena
Kind of Visit: Historical - Some of the best Bed and Breakfast Inns, in the world, are in Galena. It’s also home to Ulysses S. Grant.
Where to Stay
Aldrich Guest House Bed and Breakfast - Over 300 5-star Google reviews!
Jail Hill Inn - Voted #1 B&B/Inn in the USA and #2 in the World by TripAdvisor in 2019. It’s a 135 year-old building, with 100 years of jail history (before it was converted).
where to Dine & Drink
Blaum Bros. Distilling Company - They make their own bourbon, gin, vodka, and moonshine.
Fried Green Tomatoes - Once the leather store of Ulysses S. Grant's father.
Log Cabin Steakhouse - The oldest restaurant in Galena.
Things to See & Do
Elihu B. Washburne House State Historic Site - The library of this house is where Ulysses S. Grant received news he elected President.
Springfield
Kind of Visit: Historical - The home of Abraham Lincoln!
WHERE to Stay
In addition to the typical hotels, here are some unique ones to consider:
WHERE to Dine & Drink
Charlie Parker’s Diner - Was featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”.
Cozy Dog Drive In - It’s now also an historic landmark.
Things to See & Do
Edwards Place Historic Home - The 180 year-old home of Mary Todd and her sister, as well as the infamous “courting couch”, which Mary Todd and Abraham Lincoln got married next to.
Lincoln’s New Salem - Where President Lincoln lived from 1831 - 1837 (about 20 miles north from Springfield)
Old State Capitol - Hasn’t been used for political endeavours since 1876,
The Western Depot - The train depot that sent Abraham Lincoln off to Washington, D.C. after he made his famous goodbye speech.
