Illinois Group Tour Planner 2023

Meet the Illinois Makers

There’s something for everyone in Illinois from delicious food to exquisite art

Jan Kemmerling, Acting Deputy Director Illinois Office of Tourism

Hello!

On behalf of the Illinois Office of Tourism, I’m proud to invite you and your group to enjoy the many wonderful destinations to be found here in Illinois.

Illinois puts you in the middle of everything, and is an ideal destination for group travel. For a big city experience, Chicago offers world-class museums and culture, award-winning dining, and a spectacular skyline. For those looking for a slice of small town hospitality, head to one of our quaint towns and enjoy charming main streets, local delicacies and uniquely Illinois-style locally made goods.

Throughout the state, you’ll also find not-to-be-missed experiences—take in a show at Broadway in Chicago, hike to sandstone canyons decorated with waterfalls, experience Big Things in a Small Town in downstate Casey. And explore our endless wonders—from scenic bluffs and dark skies to vast nature preserves and recreational lakes, Illinois has it all. Of course, there’s no shortage of historic sites, water parks, zoos, amusement parks, and kid-friendly activities for the whole family.

Architectural wonders also abound here in Illinois, home to the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail, which includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Follow Abraham Lincoln’s footsteps through the state capital of Springfield and see where he lived and made history. And you won’t want to miss Route 66, the 300-mile stretch of America’s most famous roadway featuring quirky and nostalgic stops you won’t soon forget.

Illinois is a year-round destination. Our winter eagle watching season offers unique views of one of the largest eagle migrations in the nation. Spring and summer are a prime opportunity for travelers to enjoy Illinois’ beautiful byways, beaches, and parks. Autumn brings with it the fall colors and provides some of the most amazing hues and landscapes to be found anywhere in the country.

For more information on group itineraries and all the travel opportunities Illinois has to offer, be sure to visit our website at tourillinois.org.

We hope to see you soon.

Jan Kemmerling Acting Deputy Director Illinois Office of Tourism

Illinois Group Tour Planner

Editorial & Advertising Office

Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 advertising@ptmgroups.com

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Chief Editor Jason Paha, jason@ptmgroups.com

Senior Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com

Contributing Writers –Lisa Shames, lisas@ptmgroups.com Heather Dale, heatherdale.ptm@gmail.com

Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com

Production Coordinator – Kelsey Ledford kelsey@ptmgroups.com

RETURN TO YESTERYEAR

Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

By Lisa Shames

It’s hard to get very far in Illinois without seeing some reference to its most revered native son. The memory of Abraham Lincoln is alive and well here — and for good reason. But while our 16th president deserves all the accolades and then some (see Where to Experience Lincoln’s Legacy below), there’s so much more to Illinois history than Honest Abe. From a Native American city and iconic architecture to a spooky prison, Illinois is chockfull of exciting experiences around every corner that depict times gone by. Leave the history books at home.

WHERE TO VIEW HISTORIC ILLINOIS ARCHITECTURE

From towering modern skyscrapers to charming decades-old buildings, Chicago is home to a range of architecture that is sure to please a variety of design tastes. To get a lay of the land, head to the Chicago Architecture Center, located in a beautiful new building just off Michigan Avenue and next to the Chicago River. In addition to a variety of boat and walking tours, the Center offers the Chicago City Model Experience,

featuring more than 4,000 buildings and interactive elements that tell amazing stories of the city and its historic design.

Armed with your new knowledge, head out to visit some architecture up close. Noteworthy buildings to view all within walking distance include Frank Lloyd Wright’s The Rookery , a light-filled marble and glass masterpiece; the Art Deco Chicago Board of Trade ; and the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel , a one-time private men’s club that opened in 1893 and has been lovingly restored inch by inch to its previous grandeur.

Looking for more Wright wonders? A trip to Oak Park is in order, where you’ll find the Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio , along with 30 more structures from the famed Illinois architect scattered through this lovely neighborhood.

In Southern Illinois, the Centralia Area Historical Society Museum in downtown Centralia features two floors of a former wholesale grocery warehouse filled with railroading, mining, oil industry, agricultural and Civil War artifacts. In Carlyle, Ten Pin Antique Mall is home to thousands of items

for sale in a repurposed bowling alley that still has the old signage, bowling lanes and scoring monitors.

NOT-TO-BE-MISSED HISTORIC ILLINOIS SITES

In southwestern Illinois in Collinsville lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing more than 2,000 acres of archaeological remains. Cahokia Mounds Historic Site is the location of a pre-Columbian Native American city and includes several natural trails, a walk to the top of the 100-foot Monk’s Mound (the largest man-made mound north of Mexico) and 70 burial mounds.

To glimpse one of the oldest remaining municipalities in the world that began as a French outpost, head to the city of Prairie du Rocher, where you’ll find Fort de Chartres State Historic Site. A former major hub for 18th century French merchants, the reconstructed fort is now open to visitors, who can walk the garrisons and learn about colonial life from historic reenactors.

In Hartford, Camp Dubois served as the winter camp and launch-point for the exploration of the Louisiana Purchase by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. View a replica of the 1803 winter fort the duo called home before heading off on their westward journey. Visitors can also climb the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower, which rises over 150 feet tall for a terrific view of the Missouri and Mississippi river confluence.

In the far northwest corner of Illinois, you’ll find some of the Midwest’s best-preserved 19th century towns, including Galena, where you’ll find the Ulysses Grant Home State Historic Site. It’s here the Civil War hero and 18th U.S. president lived after returning from the Civil War. The two-story brick house includes some of Grant’s possessions and original furnishings. Also in Galena, groups can enjoy a walk down the city’s historic Main Street, featuring specialty stores and boutiques along a curving pathway first paved in the 1840s. You can also embark on a Galena Trolley Tour to pass

Explore Illinois history with visits to homes of beloved presidents, buildings by famous architects and a drive on a road like no other

Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

Frank Lloyd Wright’s The Rookery is a marble and glass masterpiece in Chicago.

famous buildings like the DeSoto House Hotel (where Abraham Lincoln delivered a speech from the balcony in 1856) and the Dowling House (one of the state’s oldest surviving buildings and a fabulous example of Galena’s limestone-based architecture).

Looking for some spooky vibes to go along with your Illinois history? Old Joliet Prison, which once housed famous criminals such as Leopold & Loeb and Babyface Nelson, now welcomes non-criminals to check out its castle-like guard towers, wrought-iron gates and some cellblocks.

Nestled between Springfield’s brick-paved streets and the State Capitol, the Illinois Governor’s Mansion is the third-oldest state governor’s residence in the United States and the oldest gubernatorial residence in the Midwest.

WHERE TO EXPERIENCE LINCOLN’S LEGACY

A history-focused Illinois trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to some of the many Abraham Lincoln-centric sites. There’s a reason, after all, Illinois is called the Land of Lincoln. And Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is the city where America’s 16th president spent much of his life. At the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum you’ll see rare artifacts as well as exhibits and theater shows.

At the Old State Capitol, you can see where Lincoln delivered his famous House Divided speech and where his body lay in state after the assassination. Pay your respects to his final home with a visit to Lincoln’s Tomb in Springfield’s Oak Ridge Cemetery. Near Petersburg, you can get an idea of Lincoln’s stomping grounds as a young adult with a visit to Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, a log-cabin village.

AN ILLINOIS ROAD LIKE NO OTHER

A trip along “The Mother Road,” as Route 66 is affectionately called, is always a fun adventure in American history and trends. In Pontiac, you’ll find the home of the freeadmission Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum, which celebrates the people and businesses that served motorists traveling the fabled national highway.

Next door is the free Livingston County War Museum, a repository of gear, uniforms and other U.S. military mementoes from World War I up to current Middle East conflicts. The nearby Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum, another gratis experience, spotlights the popular Pontiac brand and the development of early car travel in America. IL

Pontiac boasts nostalgic murals and the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum.

Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

TRAVEL

AROUND THE WORLD IN ILLINOIS

Add international flair with visits to pockets of foreign culture

By Randy Mink

Without crossing the borders of Illinois, travelers can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and tastes of far-flung lands. Just by including a visit to a museum, historical site or lively retail corridor, savvy tour planners spice up their trips by

whisking their groups, at least vicariously, from the heart of the Midwest to Mexico, Europe or Asia.

Of Chicago’s many ethnic neighborhoods, Chinatown is the favorite of tourists. Group members enjoy perusing the gift shops and tasting cuisine from all parts of China. Foodies can further immerse themselves in the culture by dropping into

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

bubble tea shops, sampling bakery treats and checking out grocery stores where little English is heard.

The picturesque Chinatown Gate heralds the entrance to South Wentworth Avenue, the main drag. Another photo op awaits at the pedestrian-friendly Chinatown Square mall, where 12 bronze animal statues in the plaza represent the signs of the Chinese zodiac. A mural depicts the history of Chinese immigrants in America.

At the Chinese American Museum of Chicago, exhibits include Great Wall to Great Lakes: Chinese Immigration to the Midwest, Chinese Cuisine in America: Stories, Struggles and Successes and My Chinatown: Stories from Within, the latter with video interviews of Chinatown residents. Idyllic Ping Tom Memorial Park, its entrance adorned with four pillars carved with dragon designs, provides great skyline views of the Loop, a short distance to the north.

For a trip to South Asia, groups can head to the West Ridge neighborhood on Chicago’s far North Side, home to Chicago’s Indian and Pakistani communities. A mile-long stretch of Devon Avenue, the main thoroughfare of

the area commonly called Little India, is lined with dozens of South Asian businesses.

Guided “Taste of India” food walks offered by the National Indo-American Museum provide samplings of Indian street foods and tell how Indian Americans have revitalized the historic, formerly Jewish neighborhood, a melting pot also populated by people from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and countries outside of South Asia. Metro Chicago claims the second-largest Indian American population and the fourth-largest Pakistani American community in the country.

Andersonville, another lively North Side community, is historically Swedish, though it now is a mosaic of multi-ethnic shops and restaurants. Those searching for its Swedish roots will find them at the Swedish American Museum, a treasure house of art and artifacts with a focus on Swedish immigration.

Docent-led tours are available at the Polish Museum of America in West Town, which encompasses what was once Chicago’s “Polish Downtown,” a commercial area centered at Division Street, Milwaukee Avenue and Ashland Avenue. Located in the headquarters of the Polish Roman Catholic

Union of America, the museum boasts the biggest collection of Polish artifacts outside of Poland. A trip to the Old Country features exhibits of folk costumes, crafts and military paraphernalia, plus paintings and sculptures. The metropolitan area has the largest Polish population of any city outside of Warsaw.

Reminders of Chicago’s Eastern European heritage also are found in Ukrainian Village, a neighborhood northwest of the Loop. Named for the influx of immigrants who began settling there in the late 19th century, it has become trendy with young professionals but maintains evidence of its Slavic identity. With Russia’s war on Ukraine raging, Ukrainian Village has been grabbing national attention. Of special interest are Ukrainian shops, three major Ukrainian churches and two museums.

The Ukrainian National Museum of Chicago displays religious and military artifacts, folk costumes, artwork, crafts, richly woven and embroidered textiles, and has an impressive collection of Ukrainian Easter eggs (pysanky). Another gem is the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art

The Ukrainian Village Landmark District includes early 20th century workers’ cottages and churches like the 1903 Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, a building designed by famous Chicago architect Louis Sullivan and distinguished by gilded cupolas; group tours are available. Also worth a look are the 1915 St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral and 1973 Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church. All have beautiful iconic paintings, mosaics, stained glass and chandeliers. For tastes of Ukrainian Village, Shokolod Pastry and Cafe offers traditional foods like borshch (beet soup), varenyky (pierogis, served with sour cream) and Ukrainian cheese pancakes.

Greektown, once home to Chicago’s Greek community, is now a lively commercial strip along a five-block stretch of South Halsted Street in the West Loop. Both tourists and locals come to indulge at restaurants dishing up Greek favorites like gyros, braised lamb in tomato sauce, moussaka (layers of eggplant, zucchini, potato and bechamel sauce) and saganaki, a flaming appetizer of pan-fried kaseri cheese delivered to the table with great flourish. The Greek language is still heard in the neighborhood, and the community comes out in full ethnic pride during the annual Greek Independence Day parade, the Taste of Greektown open-air summer festival and the days surrounding Greek Easter.

The National Hellenic Museum, a modern building on Halsted, is the only museum of Greek culture in the United States. Exhibits trace Greek heritage back to ancient times and tell the story of the immigrant experience in America.

During the holidays at Daley Plaza in the Loop, Christkindlmarket transports merrymakers to the festive Christmas markets of Germany. From mid-November to Christmas Eve, candy cane-striped tents manned by some 50 vendors from Germany, Austria, Poland and other countries brim with high-quality, handcrafted imports— ornaments, wooden toys, nutcrackers, Nativity sets, jewelry, cuckoo clocks, the list goes on. Food and drink stands offer German beer and spiced wine, fresh pretzels, roasted nuts, gingerbread, apple strudel, sausages, sauerkraut and potato pancakes. Other Christkindlmarket locations are Wrigleyville and RiverEdge Park in downtown Aurora, west of Chicago.

Another Chicago holiday tradition is Christmas Around the World, the Museum of Science and Industry’s grand exhibition of 50-some Christmas trees decorated by groups according to their ethnic traditions.

Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, southwest of the Loop, showcases MexicanAmerican culture through the lens of bold, color-splashed street murals and a thriving art scene. The prime retail strip, 18th Street, abounds with Mexican restaurants, bakeries and grocery stores. Art galleries and studios along several blocks of Halsted Street make up what is known as the Chicago Arts District. The free-admission National Museum of Mexican Art , the largest Latino museum in the country, has everything from ancient artifacts and folk art to textiles and photography. October programming features traditional Day of the Dead altars

from artists around the nation.

Authentic slices of Mexican-American life also mark Little Village, a neighborhood adjacent to Pilsen. The bustling 26th Street corridor is one of the busiest shopping districts in all of Chicago. Little Village, or “La Villita,” also has a burgeoning arts scene.

Monumental iron Puerto Rican flags on bustling Division Street serve as the gateway to Paseo Boricua, the cultural heart of Humboldt Park, home to Chicago’s Puerto Rican community. The street is lined with public art and ethnic eateries where visitors will want to try a jibarito, a plantain sandwich invented in the neighborhood. Paseo Boricua Tour Company offers walking tours led by a lifelong resident, and lunch can be included. The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture is housed in the former horse stables of Humboldt Park, a peaceful greenspace with gardens and lagoons.

In west suburban Bartlett, groups can take an imaginary trip to India by visiting BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the largest Hindu temple in North America. Built in 2004 with more than 7,000 tons of

Turkish limestone and Italian Carrara marble, it dazzles visitors with its luminescent pinnacles, exotic domes, and photogenic fountains and gardens. The exhibition Understanding Hinduism sheds light on a religion practiced by one of every seven of the world’s people.

Travelers get a taste of Dutch culture in the Mississippi River town of Fulton, where a major attraction is De Immigrant Windmill. Manufactured and partially assembled in the Netherlands, it produces stone-ground buckwheat, corn, rye and wheat flours that are sold in the gift shop at the Windmill Cultural Center, which features more than 20 European windmill models.

Groups can commune with the spirit of the Land of the Rising Sun at Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford. Recognized as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the 12-acre oasis includes a tea house, ponds, decorative bridges, stone sculptures, coin basins, examples of Japanese carpentry and a waterfall made of 700 tons of boulders. At Japan House on the University of Illinois campus in Urbana, groups can walk through the gardens and arrange a traditional tea ceremony or flower arranging workshop among other cultural experiences.

In western Illinois, a utopian colony founded by a group of Swedish religious dissenters has been preserved for its historical significance. Bishop Hill State Historic Site includes buildings dating back the 1840s, when the prairie community thrived economically. Groups can tour the Colony Church and Bishop Hill Museum, shop for Swedish-themed items at the old-fashioned general store, pop into stores to see artisans making brooms and pottery, and enjoy Swedish meatballs and noodles at P.L Johnson’s. The entire village of Bishop Hill is a National Historic Landmark. IL

Photo courtesy of Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church

Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church features beautiful paintings and mosaics.

MAKERS MEET THE ILLINOIS

There’s something for everyone in the Land of Lincoln from delicious food to exquisite art

Optimo hats have become legendary around the world for their uncompromising quality. The beautifully made hats defy trends.

By Lisa Shames

Illinois is nothing if not diverse. From the towering skyscrapers of Chicago to the centrally located agricultural heartland, this Midwest state aims to please. The same can be said of the variety of products that those who call Illinois home create, whether it’s food, spirits or works of art.

To highlight some of these extraordinary professionals, the Illinois Office of Tourism formed a program called Illinois Made, featuring those who craft, design and invent. Illinois Made gives an intimate glimpse into the creation process

of artisans across the state on the Enjoy Illinois website by providing a behind-the-scenes view on what makes each maker exceptional. Here are a few of the hundreds of Illinois Made businesses that can be found throughout the state.

ALTON

The showroom at Mississippi Mud Pottery, which offers views of the iconic river in its name, abounds with one-of-a-kind stoneware items handcrafted by husband-and-wife owners Chad Nelson and Felicia Breen, who took over the shop and

Photo courtesy of Optimo Hats

gallery from the original owners Ken and Brenda Barnett in 1983. Family-owned and -operated is a big deal here. Tours feature a demonstration at the pottery wheel in front and a look in back at the kilns and glazeapplying process. Merchandise ranges from mugs, magnets and wind chimes to honey pots, garlic keepers and olive oil pourers.

CHICAGO

Even before you step inside Optimo Hats located in the historic Monadnock Building in Chicago’s Loop, you’ll be mesmerized by the beautiful hats that seem to be floating in its windows (credit the thin metal bars supporting them for this magical special effect). Founded in 1996 by Graham Thompson, who has spent his career recovering and advancing the lost art of fine hat making, Optimo has become legendary around the world for its uncompromising quality when it comes to its beautifully made hats that defy trends. Even if you’re not a hat-wearer, consider a visit to this shop a lesson in craftsmanship.

Among food-obsessed Chicagoans, Katherine Anne Confections is legendary — and for good reason. All of her sweet treats are impeccably made using pristine ingredients that add to the flavor — think Jersey cream from local farmers, seasonal Midwest fruit — as well as the world (fairtrade cacoa, anyone?). Katherine began making caramels and truffles back when she was a kid, and that passion comes through loud and clear in her extensive selection of handcrafted truffles, marshmallows and caramels all these years later.

DEKALB

The folks at Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. take their tagline “from seed to spirit” very seriously, creating the only bourbon, whiskey and vodka made in the state from grain seeds sown, grown, harvested, distilled, barreled, bottled and sold on the same lot of Illinois farmland. Heck, even the water used is naturally filtered by the limestone aquifer found deep under their land. Whiskey Acres is one of two certified “on-farm” craft whiskey distilleries in the U.S. and the first estate distillery in Illinois. A fifth-generation farm family, the Walters know their DeKalb land inside and out, and it shows in their pristine spirits. Learn about their craftsmanship with a tour. Live music and food trucks add to the friendly atmosphere.

EFFINGHAM

Celebrated chefs around the world use hardwood cutting boards and butcher blocks made by John Boos & Co., the oldest business in Effingham, with a history going back to 1887. Its flagship product is the Boos Block (4 to 16 inches thick), which takes three days to individually craft from hard-rock maple. While their products are available in many locations, a visit to their Effingham showroom and outlet means access to exclusive items offered only there as well as special prices on factory seconds. The company also makes counter tops, worktables and islands, and rolling pins.

ELIZABETH

Located in the countryside of northwestern Illinois, Eshelman Pottery is where Paul and Laurel Eshelman create contemporary, red stoneware utilizing glazed and unglazed surfaces for a visual and tactile contrast. These functional masterpieces range from cups to plates to serving dishes and are inspired by Paul’s vision of bringing people together around a dinner table. In line with that theme, all of the pottery glazes are lead-free and the ware may be safely used in the microwave, dishwasher and conventional oven.

GALENA

Great American Popcorn has been a staple in Galena since 1994. Family-owned and -operated, this beloved shop has earned many fans for its variety of popcorn made from the highest quality ingredients and the best non-GMO popcorn sourced entirely from American family farms. Handcrafted

Photo courtesy of Eshelman Pottery

Find creative contemporary stoneware at Eshelman Pottery in Elizabeth.

in small batches daily, Great American Popcorn flavors range from the classics to more inventive ones, such as Cheezy Garlic Bread, Churro Puffs and Honey Garlic. Over the years, they have created more than 350 different popcorn flavors and offer nearly 70 flavors daily in their downtown Galena shop. For decision-phobes, staff is happy to offer as many samples as needed.

There are two ways to experience firsthand the award-winning wonders of Galena Cellars: Stop by the downtown Galena shop located inside a historic building that features three floors of seating to enjoy their wine and small bites or travel a short distance to Galena’s countryside and enjoy wines at the vineyard.

MONTICELLO

The modest town of Monticello in Central Illinois is home to Prairie Fire Glass, one of the foremost glassblowing shops in the country. Complete with roaring furnaces, Prairie Fire allows visitors to watch molten glass transformed into beautiful and practical works of art in the gallery’s working studio. Owned and operated by glass artist

Jim Downey, Prairie Fire Glass opened in 2002 and features functional artworks such as vases, bowls, jewelry and ornaments. The unique shop also stocks mixed-media work from local artists, including greeting cards, paintings, sculpture and photography.

ROCKFORD

How much does print shop Rockford Art Deli — or RAD as locals call it — take pride in the city it calls home beyond including in its name? Through their participation in 1% For the Planet and collab shirts with local and regional organizations, RAD has donated thousands of dollars each year to supporting local businesses, nonprofits and artists. A passion for high-quality prints, designs and vibes, RAD focuses on curating only ethically made, eco-friendly products, including its uber-popular 815 line of T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, hats and mugs, which pays homage to Rockford’s area code.

ROCK ISLAND

At his workshop in historic Rock Island, Wild Cherry Spoon Co.’s Tim McGuire crafts a variety of high-quality wooden spoons,

spatulas, pizza cutters and other utensils and home products. Utilizing raw, ethically harvested urban lumber, each piece is hand chiseled before being finished with organic olive oil and beeswax. With a distinct style all his own, McGuire’s pieces can be found all over the world, including at a nationally recognized art museum as part of an esteemed culinary feature.

UTICA

The Midwest might not be the first place you’d think of when it comes to stellar sparkling wines, but thankfully the couple behind Illinois Sparkling Co. did. Through arduous craftsmanship and an in-depth knowledge of the soil, Mark and Teri Wenzel have crafted a line of award-winning sparkling wines that range from Brut Ombré Rosé and Extra Brut to Demi Sec Rosé.

While their wines can be found in a number of shops, the best way to experience them is to visit their downtown Utica Tasting Room, where you can enjoy everything from flights to small bites. Additionally, their seasonal Wine on the Hill and Cave Tastings are held at their winery and vineyard in Peru. IL

VENUES ILLINOIS ENTERTAINMENT

WOWING CROWDS STATEWIDE

Venues range from the expansive open-air Illinois State Fairgrounds to opulent theaters and arenas for spectacular live performances

By Heather Dale

Illinois is home to a gamut of impressive entertainment venues that provide a kaleidoscope of live shows, music concerts, theatrical performances and cultural events. Whether your group is visiting the southeast, northwest or somewhere in between, there are plenty of entertainment places throughout Illinois for an unforgettable experience.

Tucked away on the quaint Rock Valley College campus in northern Illinois is a structural work of art. Since 1967, the Starlight Theatre in Rockford has been providing live performances for the community and beyond. The theater was formed by a group of Rock Valley College students in the 1960s who wanted

to create a culture-rich performing arts program to showcase the community’s talents.

What started as modest acts performed outside on the beautiful campus grounds grew into a striking one-of-a-kind theater in 2003. Designed by world-renowned architect Jeanne Gang, the 135,000-square-foot edifice has a 200-foot retractable star-shaped roof that opens like a blossoming flower. Performances have wowed over one million audience members over the decades, including Finian’s Rainbow, the first show held in 1967, to classics like Little Shop of Horrors

Groups can also enjoy a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Center , which has

Cloud Gate in Millennium Park

Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illinois

hosted artists, shows, concerts and events since 1927. This iconic Rockford venue is a place where history and entertainment merge.

Rebuilt in 1927, the Illinois State Fairgrounds Grandstand in Springfield hosts a unique variety of live events. Some artists who have graced the stage include Willie Nelson, Demi Lovato and Jason Aldean. If your group is looking for thrills, the Grandstand also presents horse and automobile races.

The historic Wildey Theatre in downtown Edwardsville is a reinvented 1909 opera house putting on musical concerts, classic films, dance performances and theatrical shows. In its original form, the Victorian-style Illinois theater was designed with lavish plaster ornamentation, stately balconies and two 50-person viewing boxes, one on each side of the stage. In 1937, the Wildey received an art deco makeover showcasing a vibrant lighted marquee with red, orange and yellow stripes, and neon lighting inside. Today, audiences can enjoy live concerts of all types, comedy shows, classic movies shown on the Wildey Big Screen, Dueling Pianos concerts and much more.

Old Mill Creek is home to the spectacular Tempel Lipizzans. The Tempel Lippizans’ history spans more than six decades while the story of the Lipizzan and classical riding spans more than five centuries. Each performance is set to music and is a study in classical horsemanship and amazing athleticism.

Since 1921, the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA) has been known by many names, including Bloomington’s Scottish Rites Temple and The Consistory. Since then, BCPA has undergone a large-scale renovation. This exciting Illinois entertainment venue hosts many performing and visual arts and arts education events. The BCPA proudly provides a diverse range of entertainment for all audiences and holds more than 500 gatherings each year. Former big ticket names include renowned musician Duke Ellington, the Bloomington Symphony and the Boston Pops Orchestra.

Bloomington-Normal is home to numerous theaters including the Community Players Theatre and the  Historic Normal Theater . The area also hosts multiple festivals including the  Sugar Creek and Arts Festival  in Normal where more than 170 arts and crafts vendors display their impressive

Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illiknois

The Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford has been entertaining audiences since 1927.

Get immersed in the culture in Illinois’ Amish Country, ride the rails in Monticello, and kiss a reindeer at Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch. Request

creations. Lively music and delicious food accompany the art displays.

A summer staple in BloomingtonNormal is the Illinois Shakespeare Festival . Drawing nearly 10,000 visitors each year, this professional repertory company produces work by Shakespeare and contemporary plays created in his spirit. Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, behind-the-scenes tours and live music.

The new multi-million-dollar Fox Pointe outdoor arena in Lansing is a state-ofthe-art entertainment venue that hosts many diverse events. Fox Pointe features an outdoor amphitheater, an ample concessions building, an open-air pavilion and climate-controlled restrooms. Combine that with high-grade acoustics and modern amenities, and this Illinois entertainment venue has it all. Besides amazing concerts, they also organize holiday events like tree lighting with Santa and spooky Halloween activities for kids.

Millennium Park in Chicago is an award-winning cultural space that hosts an array of live entertainment, community events, music concerts, group tours and other cultural activities. More than 20 million people visit this expansive Illinois entertainment venue annually. The park offers docent-led and self-guided walking tours of the comprehensive campus, including a half-mile exploration of seven public artwork displays from April through October. View “live” art at the Crown Fountain and view the famous Bean sculpture in the Cloud Gate section of Millennium Park.

While at the park, catch a concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an impressive outdoor amphitheater that can accommodate 11,000 fans and often features free performances. Memorable past shows include acts from the comical music duo Flight of the Concords and the talented female rock group Sleater-Kinney.

In East Moline, the former 1900s Moline-Knight Automobile Company’s manufacturing plant is the newest addition to the unique Quad Cities entertainment venue space. The Rust Belt is an entertainment place that hosts music concerts, wrestling events, house music festivals, comedy acts and big-name musicians. World-renowned artists who have performed here include Bon Iver, Jimmy Eat World and Nathaniel Rateliff. This 22,000-square-foot arena can hold 3,500 fans and has hosted more than 50 bands and musical performances.

Savor a tasty meal and a magnificent theater performance at Circa’ 21 Dinner Playhouse . Once a grand movie house, this lovely Art Deco space offers a delectable buffet and Vegas-style seating for groups to enjoy Broadway-caliber musicals and murder mysteries.

Before the Marion Cultural and Civic Center (MCCC) in south central Illinois was destroyed by fire in 1997, it was the place to go for live entertainment. The flagship theater of the Orpheum Play House circuit was host to many notable performers and

vintage entertainment during the turn of the century. Beginning as a vaudeville and silent movie theater, the Orpheum put on live shows from world-renowned performers like Harry Houdini and Anne Case, “The American Soprano” from the Metropolitan Opera. With extensive rebuilding and renovations completed in 2004, along with a name change, MCCC hosted its first community event, the Marion High School prom. Today, MCCC puts on over 200 events annually, including music performances, concert events and theatrical plays. IL

CHICAGO AND BEYOND

There’s more to Chicago and its surrounding suburbs than an incredible skyline and a beautiful lake.

Activities Aplenty Await Groups in Illinois

Chicago, Aurora, DeKalb, Lake County, Joliet, Utica, LaSalle

DAY 1

One day isn’t enough to properly explore the City of Big Shoulders, so consider this a preview for your next trip. Start where it all began in Chicago’s Loop. Admire the historic buildings on State Street, including Macy’s, formerly Marshall Field’s, as you make your way to the Art Institute of Chicago and its world-renowned collection of masterpieces. Afterwards, head to nearby Millennium Park, where you’ll find “The Bean,” as locals call Cloud Gate, and other Instagram-worthy sites.

AFTERNOON

Hungry? We thought so. Stroll the short distance to the Riverwalk, where you’ll be rewarded with plenty of outdoor cafes as well as stunning views of the bustling Chicago River. For more breathtaking views,

visit the Willis Tower or Michigan Avenue’s John Hancock Center, the latter of which neighbors shopping galore. Or consider one of the many Chicago River architectural boat tours, a great group activity. Chicago’s theaters are famous around the world for the high-caliber performances they feature as well as their historic architecture.

EVENING

For dinner, get a dose of history as well as delicious locally brewed craft beers and American heartland food with a visit to Chicago Southland’s Flossmoor Station. Housed in a turn-of-the-century building that was formerly a train station, this award-winning brewery attracts locals and visitors alike.

If handcrafted spirits are more to your liking, head to Thornton Distilling, located in the in the oldest standing brewery in Illinois and the home of Drop Dead Spirits. Book a tour to see their on-site artesian

well and modern distillery production floor while you learn about the rich history of the building and, yes, taste some of their stellar craft spirits. If you want to stay in the big city, enjoy a Broadway-style show in Chicago at a variety of theaters including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, which has been entertaining audiences since 1926, and the James M. Nederlander Theatre (which also opened in 1926), which offers a variety of entertaining theater shows.

DAY 2

MORNING

For an up-close view of an iconic home created by one of the world’s most influential architects, head 58 miles southwest of Chicago where you’ll find the Edith Farnsworth House in Plano.

CHICAGO

Designed by Mies van der Rohe, the home represents the fullest expression of modernist ideals that had begun in Europe but was finished in Plano. Another great option is to travel northwest to the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, one of the top Japanese gardens in North America. This 12-acre oasis features two gardens, a pondstrolling garden and a contemporary Garden of Reflection. Another excellent outdoor option is the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center in Willow Springs. This interpretive center features sustainable design, a sensory garden, live native animals, exhibits about local natural history, a nature play area and an accessible trail.

AFTERNOON

Check some gifts off your list with a visit to More Polish Pottery in Aurora. At this family-run business, you’ll find an extensive selection of pottery stoneware and handmade products imported directly from Poland.

Add more Illinois architecture knowledge to your experience with a visit to the Ellwood House Museum. Located on 10 acres of parkland in the heart of DeKalb, the museum campus includes seven historic structures, including the 1879 Ellwood Mansion and 1899 ElwoodNehring House, four gardens and 6,000 square feet of exhibit space.

For a look into the everyday life of a sailor, head to the National Museum of the American Sailor. Horse-lovers won’t want to miss the Tempel Lipizzans. The history of these brilliant horses spans more than six decades while the story of the Lipizzan and classical riding spans more than five centuries.

Groups looking for a shopping outing can visit Aurora’s Chicago Premium Outlets, an outdoor center that sports more than 170 stores including Adidas, Coach, Nike, Kate Spade and more. Another nearby shopping destination is Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg. One of the largest shopping destinations in the country, Woodfield Mall houses more than 2 million square feet of shops including Aveda, Coach, H&M, Macy’s and more.

EVENING

Enjoy a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford. This iconic venue has hosted artists, shows and concerts since 1927. Another great theater option is the historic Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Opened in 1931, the theater presents Broadway shows, concerts, comedy and more in a classic setting. Another historic place to savor a night out is the historic Genesee Theatre in Waukegan. This legendary theater that opened in 1927, hosts concerts, shows and events and has seating for 2,403.

DAY 3

MORNING

Do some time-traveling with a visit to LaSalle where you’ll board the Volunteer, a mule-pulled 1840s replica of the canal boats that once traveled along the I&M Canal. Each hour-long tour begins with Mule Tending 101 presentation before it gently coasts up and down the Illinois and Michigan Canal. History lessons continues with a tour of the Hegeler Carus Mansion in La Salle. Designed by a noted architect and completed in 1897, the mansion, which has seven levels, 57 rooms and some 16,000 square feet of interior space, offers five different tours, including ones for groups.

AFTERNOON

Thirty-five miles southwest of Chicago, Joliet is a city steeped in history, including the Old Joliet Prison, which once housed famous criminals and now offers tours of its castle-guard towers. Groups can visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum to learn about the prison’s history. Looking for something less spooky? Head to Sue Regis Glass Art, where you can get a hands-on experience of the centuriesold craft. Another option is to travel 25 miles west of Chicago to the city of Lisle, home to the Morton Arboretum . This 1,700-acre public garden and outdoor museum protects more than 100 rare and endangered tree species and the grounds include more than 4,100 different plant species.

EVENING

Those seeking to savor quality entertainment in a fabulous locale can visit the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet. Opened in 1926 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the beautiful theater offers behind-thescenes tours in addition to hosting bigname performers.

DAY 4

MORNING

Tap into the greener side of Illinois with a visit to Starved Rock State Park , located on the Illinois River near Utica. One of Illinois’ most-visited state parks, it features 13 miles of hiking trails, canyons and waterfalls. Groups can also fish, boat and even relax and picnic while savoring extraordinary views.

In the Footsteps of Abraham Lincoln

DAY 1

MORNING

Start your East-Central Illinois adventure at a peaceful spot in Effingham, a city conveniently situated at the crossroads of Interstates 57 and 70. The Cross at the Crossroads , an engineering wonder of white steel soaring 20 stories into the sky, welcomes those of all faiths and backgrounds. Its base is ringed by polished granite tablets representing the Ten Commandments, with audio messages at each station. The visitor center shows a short video on the Cross’s construction and dedication in 2001. Then hop over to Mid America Motorworks’ MY Garage Museum , which houses vintage Corvettes and Volkswagens, plus all kinds of

automobile memorabilia, from neon signs to antique gas pumps.

AFTERNOON

Head east on I-70 and get off at the town of Casey (pronounced “KZ”). Lunch is at Richards Farm Restaurant, housed in a 1930s barn and home to the 60-foot-long World’s Largest Pitchfork. Downtown, devote at least an hour to taking pictures of more of the monumental installations that have put Casey on the map. You’ll find out why its motto is “Big Things Small Town” as you witness supersized roadside attractions like the World’s Largest Barber Pole, World’s Largest Teeter Totter and magnificent, 56-foot-tall World’s Largest Rocking Chair...you get the idea. Climb up into the World’s Largest Mailbox or ring the World’s Largest Wind Chime.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Springfield

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, Springfield

All photos courtesy of Illinois Office of Tourism

Effingham, Casey, Charleston, Arthur, Arcola, Champaign, Rantoul, Springfield, Lincoln

You’ll also find lots of other Big Things— the Big Pencil, Big Birdcage, Big Taco, for example—that are not record holders. All but two of the oversized items were made by local businessman Jim Bolin and his crew from Bolin Enterprises Inc.

DAY 2

MORNING

Begin the day at the Lincoln Douglas Debate Museum in Charleston. Through film, audio, artifacts and interactive displays, learn about the 1858 senatorial debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas, a series of seven that brought Lincoln to national prominence. There’s time to shop, admire the seven murals and have lunch on and around Charleston’s Downtown Square, a historic retail district dominated by the Romanesque-style Coles County Courthouse, where a young Lincoln practiced law in a previous version of the building.

AFTERNOON

In nearby Lerna, go back in time at Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, the 1840s home of Thomas and Sarah Bush Lincoln, father and stepmother of the future president. The working, living history farmstead, developed around a replica of the family’s two-room cabin, offers an array of interpretive programs, as does the adjacent Stephen Sargent Farm, which has been moved to the site to broaden understanding of 19th century rural life in Illinois. Down the road are the Moore Home State Historic Site, the home of Lincoln’s stepsister, and Thomas Lincoln Cemetery, the burial site of his father and stepmother.

DAY 3

MORNING

Head north to Arcola and Arthur, the center of Amish life in Illinois. A step-on guide will take you down backroads

World’s Largest Wind Chime, Casey

Clip-clopping through Illinois Amish Country

populated by Amish farm families who travel in horse-drawn buggies and eschew modern ways. Some groups may wish to tour the collection of historical buildings at the Illinois Amish Heritage Center. Stock up on bakery goods, candy, nuts, spices, noodles, salad toppings, and homemade jams, jellies and pie fillings at Beachy’s Bulk Foods, a favorite with groups touring Amish Country. Shops in downtown Arthur purvey crafts and antiques.

AFTERNOON

For lunch in Arthur, arrange a meal in an Amish home or indulge in Amishand Mennonite-style home cooking at the buffet stations of Yoder’s Kitchen

Next, travel north to Champaign for an educational tour of Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery. In addition to meeting with the goats that produce milk for the farmstead’s cheeses and gelato, your travelers will walk through the vegetable garden and orchard, and taste some of the products. At Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch in nearby Rantoul, take a tractor-driven tour that focuses on the resident Alaskan reindeer and Christmas tree farm. Have your picture taken kissing a reindeer.

EVENING

For dinner at Hardy’s, schedule a chuckwagon BBQ dinner with entertainment in the Western-style banquet facility.

DAY 4

MORNING

Next up is Springfield, the capital of Illinois and the city where America’s 16th president spent so much of his life. The must-visit Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum blends scholarship with showmanship and 21st technology to immerse visitors in the 19th century. Not far away is the Old State Capitol , where Lincoln delivered his famous House Divided speech and where his body lay in state after the assassination. Present-day history buffs will remember

that this building served as the backdrop of the 2007 launch of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.

AFTERNOON

For lunch in Springfield, a good choice is Cozy Dog Drive-In , home to the original hot dog on a stick. Enjoy hearty helpings of nostalgia at this shrine to Route 66, the iconic highway that passed through town. Then head to the Lincoln Memorial Garden Nature Center

Dedicated to preserving the Midwestern landscapes Abe knew and loved, this 100-acre garden features hiking trails

amid the woods and prairie. Tear yourself away from the serene scenery and head to the Lincoln Home National Historic Site for a ranger-led tour of the only home Lincoln ever owned.

Head northeast on I-55 for the aptly named town of Lincoln. There you’ll find Railsplitter Covered Wagon, a roadside attraction that bears a familiar face. Designated the world’s largest covered wagon by the Guinness Book of World Records, it features a seated fiberglass Lincoln reading a law book and is a perfect spot to start making some notes for your next Illinois visit.

President Lincoln and General Grant chat at the Old State Capitol in Springfield.

A River Runs Through It in Great Rivers Country

Galena, Rock Island, Moline, Quincy, Alton, Collinsville, Hartford, Nauvoo

DAY 1

MORNING

Begin your day with a walk down Galena’s Historic Main Street to browse specialty stores and boutiques along curving streets that were first paved in the 1840s. Give your feet a rest and hop on a Galena Trolley Tour, which leisurely rolls by famous buildings like the DeSoto House Hotel (where Abraham Lincoln delivered a speech from the balcony in 1856) and the Dowling House (one of the state’s oldest surviving buildings and an exceptional example of Galena’s limestone-based architecture).

AFTERNOON

Add some local history to your group’s itinerary with a visit to the  Ulysses S.

Grant State Historic Site . The famed Civil War general lived and eventually retired here before and after his presidency, and a docent can offer a thorough tour of this Italianate-style manor that retains its 1865 furnishings. Continue the time-traveling vibe with a visit to Old Blacksmith Shop , an authentic 1897 blacksmith shop with working forges and filled with historic tools and equipment. Head to the gift shop for a Galena-forged item made by one of their blacksmiths. Quench your thirst with a tour and tasting at  Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. Established by two brothers in 2014, the business allows groups to learn about the distilling process, walk through the barrel aging room, and sample small-batch whiskey, bourbon and rye. Or if fermented grape juice is more your speed, opt for a visit to the serene Galena Cellars, a family-fun

Galena Cellars vineyard

Photos courtesy of Galena Country Tourism

Pay a visit to the Ulysses S. Grant State Historic Site in Galena.

vineyard and winery where you can enjoy a tour followed by a wine tasting.

EVENING

End your day with dinner at Fried Green Tomatoes in Galena, a famous restaurant on Main Street that serves steaks, fresh seafood and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.

DAY 2

MORNING

Fuel up for your busy day with a visit to Galena Bakehouse, which features made-from-scratch pastries, egg-filled empanadas and coffee. Not too far from Galena is Elizabeth, where you’ll find Apple River Fort, the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War, one of the so-called Indian Wars, in 1832. The family-friendly site includes

both an interpretive visitor center and a reconstruction of the long-vanished fort modeled upon findings of a 1995 archaeological dig.

AFTERNOON

From there, continue your journey south until you arrive at Quad Cities, an area that blossomed in the 19th century as a steamboat trade hub and includes two Illinois cities, Rock Island and Moline, that retain thriving entertainment districts and historic downtowns. Visit the John Deere Pavilion in Moline to learn about how a modest blacksmith began to sell handmade shovels and developed America’s premier agricultural equipment company. This glass-enclosed space houses vintage equipment, interactive tractor exhibits and previews of 21st century farming innovation. Nearby is the downtown area, known as Moline Centre to locals, a great spot for antique shopping and dining.

For some in-depth river knowledge, head to the Mississippi River Visitor Center . Located on historical Rock Island Arsenal Island , a 946-acre island that includes the Rock Island Arsenal Museum (which houses weapons used in the Battle of Little Bighorn) and the  Colonel Davenport House at Lock & Dam 15, this is a great spot for watching barges lock through.

Or connect with Mother Nature with a visit to the Quad City Botanical Center in Rock Island. Indoors you’ll find exotic tropical flowers, a 14-foot waterfall and reflecting pools with koi, while outside are the lovely conifer gardens and interactive Children’s Garden.

EVENING

Savor a tasty meal and an excellent theater performance at Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island. Once a movie house, this lovely theater serves a delectable buffet and Vegas-style seating for groups to enjoy Broadway-caliber musicals and murder mysteries.

DAY 3

MORNING

Begin the day with a stop at Underbrinks Bakery in Quincy, which has been supplying locals with the best made-from-scratch baked goods — think gooey pecan coffee cake, flaky chocolate croissants — since 1929.

Plenty of architectural jewels await Quincy, whose historic district includes beautiful examples of Queen Anne, Gothic and Arts & Crafts architecture. The city’s Greek Revival highlight is the John Wood Mansion, home of Quincy’s founder and the twelfth governor of

Apple River Fort in Elizabeth is the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War.

Illinois. Visitors can walk through a preserved log cabin built in 1837 and a parsonage building that houses Adams County artifacts that date back centuries.

AFTERNOON

Get an intimate look at some of Quincy’s finest mansions, with a Private Home Tour. More than 20 homeowners are participating in this unique tour that allows groups of 20 or more inside magnificent homes and gardens throughout Quincy. A great place to explore Quincy’s Underground Railroad history is Dr. Richard Eells House, the oldest standing two-story brick house in town. Back in the 1840s, Quincy was the first stop for fugitives this side of the Mississippi and Dr. Eells is credited with helping several hundred slaves make their way to freedom. Housed in a historic 1890s home, the Quincy Museum features everything from the history of the Mississippi River to dinosaurs and Native American artifacts.

Be sure to pause to admire the restored 14-karat gold woodwork.

EVENING

The city of Alton welcomes groups to the Old Bakery Beer Compan y. Located in a former bakery that dates back to the 19th century, this industrial space offers groups a behind-the-scenes look at the organic brewing process and samples of local favorite flavors.

DAY 4

MORNING

Pay a visit to the famous Cahokia Mounds Historic Site in Collinsville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers more than 2,000 acres of archaeological remains and 70 burial mounds. Group tours can include the interpretive center (which houses a recreated Cahokia village),

several natural trails and a walk to the top of the 100-foot Monk’s Mound (the largest man-made mound north of Mexico).

AFTERNOON

The region east of St. Louis is where famous explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark stopped before continuing to the Pacific Ocean. The Lewis & Clark Historic Site in Hartford reconstructs Fort Dubois, where the Corps of Discovery made its final preparations during the winter of 1803-1804. Exhibits replicate 1803 U.S. Army designs and daily interpreters explain the harsh Midwestern winters the crew endured. Another option is to visit Nauvoo , which was established by Joseph Smith and his followers and was the world’s original Mormon settlement until religious intolerance forced more than 100,000 to flee to Utah in 1844. The city still retains much of its picturesque 1840s character.

Cultural, Historic and Natural Southern Illinois Attractions

DAY 1

MORNING

Your Southern Illinois adventure starts in the morning in historic Mt. Vernon. Fuel up at the Farmhouse Bakery & Café for delectable scratch-made pastries and rich caffeinated beverages. Your group sojourn commences at the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, a magnificent pastiche of culture and art spanning more than 80 acres. Marvel at over 70 striking works of art on your group tour through the Goldman Kuenz Sculpture Park and immerse in the diverse styles and media. Afterward, head to the 33,000-squarefoot heritage center and explore its four galleries and performance hall.

AFTERNOON

Grab lunch at Aneil’s Restaurant,

serving the most tender smoked BBQ, burgers, catfish, ribs and other Southern favorites. If BBQ isn’t your jam, share a pie at Joe’s Pizza & Pasta for classic Italian American cuisine.

Groups can make a short drive to the Centralia Area Historical Society Museum in downtown Centralia. It features two floors that are filled with railroading, mining, oil industry, agricultural and Civil War artifacts. Groups can also travel west to Carlyle and stop at Ten Pin Antique Mall, where thousands of items are for sale in a repurposed bowling alley that still has the old signage, bowling lanes and scoring monitors.

There’s more history to be had at the Jefferson County Historical Village, where your group can take a self-guided or docent-led walking tour of this unique Mount Vernon attraction. Explore a true

community-inspired and -built showpiece based on life in the 1800s. Over several decades, generous monetary donations, gifting of historic and other buildings, land contributions, and thousands of local artifacts collected have made the village a popular Southern Illinois attraction.

Breathe in the calming aroma of lavender when your group explores the vibrant purple fields of Lavender Falls. This family-owned U-Pick farm has everything your group needs to unwind, like essential lavender oils, sprays, soaps, honey, lavender bundles and more.

EVENING

A tasty option is St. Nicholas Brewing Company in Du Quoin, a brewpub housed in a former hotel dating from 1879. Menu favorites include catfish with hushpuppies and fries, gourmet mac & cheese and barbecue pork.

Photos courtesy of Enjoy Illinois

Relax and enjoy the view at Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest.

Mount Vernon, Centralia, Du Quoin, Ava, Makanda, Carbondale, Goreville, Marion, Metropolis

DAY 4 DAY 2

MORNING

Venture out on a tasting tour at some of the finest local vineyards and breweries in Southern Illinois. Start in Ava at the Scratch Brewing Company, a farmhouse microbrewery located five miles from the pristine Shawnee National Forest. Stop in for lunch and a hand-crafted beer that will awaken your taste buds.

AFTERNOON

Travel 30 minutes southeast to Carbondale and walk off those liquid calories at the University Museum at Southern Illinois University (SIU). Opened in 1874, the museum represents the whole of humanity through stories, history, cultural arts and science with a focus on Southern Illinois heritage.

Just 10 minutes away at Kite Hill Vineyards in the Shawnee Hills, relax with a glass of local wine and enjoy the postcard views. Plan a visit to their tasting room by appointment for a unique group activity. Located along the Ponce Wine Trail, Monte Alegre Vineyard/Cellars invites guests to tour the impressive wine cellar and enjoy a glass of their red or white. Sold exclusively from their vineyard, Monte Alegre wines are a true taste of the area. Both vineyards offer relaxation for something to do in Southern Illinois.

EVENING

While in Carbondale, enjoy a robust dinner at Flame, serving up char-broiled steaks, Southern-style catfish, slow-cooked prime rib and more comfort cuisine, including an extensive beer and wine menu. After dinner, head down the street for an evening show at The Varsity Center, a performance arts venue originally home to the historic Varsity movie theater, before ending your night.

DAY 3

MORNING

Check into the historic Giant City Lodge in Makanda and enjoy quaint

cabins or lodge accommodations specializing in Southern hospitality. Once your group is settled, make your way to the Makanda Boardwalk in the charming downtown area.

Those who wish to stretch their legs and explore can visit Shawnee National Forest, which abounds with wilderness recreation areas across the state’s southern tip. A group visit to Giant City State Park, located within Shawnee National Forest near Makanda, can include a hike on the one-mile Giant City Nature Trail, known for the narrow passageways threading through huge sandstone walls. Explore natural outdoor Illinois attractions on the Red Cedar Hiking Trail Twin Falls or the Giant City Nature Trail.

Enjoy a scenic drive to the eastern side of Shawnee National Forest, where the more adventurous can explore the Garden of the Gods , the region’s most popular recreation site. Observation Trail, a quarter-mile stone path, weaves through massive boulders affording spectacular overlooks of the pristine woodlands.

AFTERNOON

It’s time to relax and refuel with a glass of wine and lunch at Blue Sky Vineyard, a few miles southeast of the park. Share a pizza, order a deli sandwich from the café and savor hand-crafted vintages surrounded by a grape paradise.

MORNING

Wake up refreshed and grab a warm breakfast at the lodge before exploring Goreville and Marion. Both towns boast unique Southern Illinois attractions that will keep your group entertained.

AFTERNOON

Pack the water bottles before you leave Makanda and head southeast to Goreville and the magnificent Ferne Clyffe State Park. Take the Bork Falls Waterfall Trail for spectacular photo opportunities and breathtaking scenery.

Spend a few hours enjoying the pristine natural surroundings before heading to the Longhorn Café in Goreville for lunch. They serve classic Southern staples like okra, pork fritters, catfish and fried chicken.

Another option is a visit to Metropolis, which is known as the “Home of Superman.” Pay a visit to the Super Museum, which contains one of the world’s largest collections of memorabilia relating to the TV, movie and comic book hero. Across the square, pose with the 15-foot-tall bronze Superman Statue by the Massac County Courthouse.

Drive to Marion and see a live show like standup comedy, a tribute band and dance performances at the Marion Cultural & Civic Center (MCCC).

A visit to Giant City State Park, located within Shawnee National Forest near Makanda, features beautiful surroundings.

LAND OF LINCOLN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAUS

Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau

2701 Black Road, Ste. 201 Joliet, IL 60435 844-944-2282 heritagecorridorcvb.com

Kankakee County

Convention and Visitors Bureau

143 N. Schuyler Ave., Floor 2 Kankakee, IL 60901 815-935-7390 or 800-747-4837 visitkankakeecounty.com

Meet Chicago Northwest

1933 N. Meacham Road, Suite 210 Schaumburg, IL 60173 847-490-1010 or 800-847-4849 chicagonorthwest.com

CHICAGO & BEYOND

Aurora Area

Convention and Visitors Bureau

43 West Galena Blvd. Aurora, IL 60506-4129 630-256-3190 enjoyaurora.com

Blackhawk Waterways

Convention and Visitors Bureau

201 N. Franklin Avenue Polo, Illinois 61064 800-678-2108 visitnorthwestillinois.com

Chicago Southland

Convention and Visitors Bureau

19900 Governors Drive, Suite 200 Olympia Fields, Illinois 60461-1057 708-895-8200 or 888-895-8233 visitchicagosouthland. com

Chicago’s North Shore

Convention and Visitors Bureau

8833 Gross Point Road, Suite 307 Skokie, IL 60077 847-763-0011 visitchicagonorthshore.com

Choose Chicago

301 E. Cermak Road Chicago, IL 60616 312-567-8500 choosechicago.com

DeKalb County

Convention and Visitors Bureau

2500 N Annie Glidden Road Community Outreach Building Suite F DeKalb, IL 60115 815-756-1336 dekalbcountycvb.com

DuPage Convention and Visitors Bureau

915 Harger Road, Suite 120 Oak Brook, IL 60523 630-575-8070 or 800-232-0502 discoverdupage.com

Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

60 S. Grove Avenue, 1st Floor Elgin, IL 60120

847-695-7540 or 800-217-5362 exploreelginarea.com

Rockford Area

Convention and Visitors Bureau 102 N. Main Street Rockford, IL 61101 815-963-8111 800-521-0849 gorockford.com

Rosemont Convention Bureau 9301 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue Rosemont, IL 60018-5201 847-823-2100 rosemont.com

Greater Freeport Partnership (serves Stephenson County) 110 West Main St. Freeport, IL 61032 815-233-1357 greaterfreeport.com

Visit Lake County, Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau 5465 W. Grand Avenue, Suite 100 Gurnee, IL 60031 847-662-2700 800-525-3699 visitlakecounty.org

Visit McHenry County 11879 E. Main Street Huntley, IL 60142 815-893-6280 visitmchenrycounty.com

Visit Oak Park 193 N. Marion St. #208 Oak Park, IL 60301 708-524-7800 visitoakpark.com

GREAT RIVERS COUNTRY

Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226 618-257-1488 www.downstateil.org

Galena Country Tourism 101 Bouthillier St. Galena, IL 61036 815-776-9200 visitgalena.org

Galesburg Tourism & Visitors Bureau 2163 E. Main St. Galesburg, IL 61401 309-343-2485 experiencegalesburg.com

Great Rivers & Routes 111 4th Street, Suite 115 Alton, IL 62002 618-465-6676 Riversandroutes.com

Henry County Tourism Bureau 224 W. Third Street Kewanee, IL 61443 309-761-8473 visithenrycounty.com

Macomb Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

120 E. Calhoun St. Macomb, IL 61455 309-833-1315 visitforgottonia.com

Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

456 Fulton, Suite 300 Peoria, IL 61602 309-676-0303 or 800-747-0302 enjoypeoria.com

Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau

1601 River Drive, Suite 110 Moline, IL 61265-1472 309-736-6820 800-747-7800 visitquadcities.com

Quincy Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 532 Gardner Expressway Quincy, IL 62301 217-214-3700 or 800-978-4748 seequincy.com

LAND OF LINCOLN

Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 101 S. Madison St. Bloomington, IL 61701 309-665-0033 visitbn.org

Danville Area Visitors’ Bureau 100 W Main Street, Room 146 Danville, IL 61832 217-442-2096 or 800-383-4286 visitdanvillearea.com

Decatur Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 202 E. North Street Decatur, IL 62523-1129 217-423-7000 or 800-331-4479 decaturcvb.com

Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226 618-257-1488 www.downstateil.org

Effingham Convention and Visitors Bureau

201 E. Jefferson Ave. Effingham, IL 62401 217-342-5310 or 800-772-0750 visiteffinghamil.com

Jacksonville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 310 E. State St. Jacksonville, IL 62650-2030 217-243-5678 or 800-593-5678 jacksonvilleil.org

Logan County Tourism Bureau 101 N. Chicago St. Lincoln, IL 62656 217-732-8687 destinationlogancountyil.com

Shelby County Office of Tourism 315 E. Main Street Shelbyville, IL 62565 217-774-2244 or 800-874-3529 lakeshelbyville.com

Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau 109 N. 7th Street Springfield, IL 62701 217-789-2360 or 800-545-7300 visitspringfieldillinois.com

Visit Champaign County 17 E. Taylor St. Champaign, IL 61820 217-351-4133 or 800-369-6151 visitchampaigncounty.org

TRAILS TO ADVENTURE

Carbondale Tourism 126 S. Illinois Avenue Carbondale, IL 62901 618-529-4451 carbondaletourism.org

Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226 618-257-1488

www.downstateil.org

Mt. Vernon Convention and Visitors Bureau 200 Potomac Boulevard P.O. Box 1708 Mt. Vernon, IL 62864-0049 618-242-3151 enjoymtvernon.com

Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau P.O. Box 378 Anna, IL 62906-0378 618-833-9928 or 800-248-4373 southernmostillinois.com

visitSI 1602 Sioux Drive Marion, IL 62959 618-997-3690 or 800-433-7399 visitsi.com