Aside from the countless intriguing artefacts, it’s also considered as one of the first ‘experience museums’, combining history with innovation and interaction, unlike most other museums. This beautiful society is believed to have had 10,000 to 20,000 between the years 1050 and 1150. Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon might receive the brunt of the attention when it comes to the USA’s national parks, but there are actually a few hidden gems scattered across Illinois as well. Experience gourmet fare and culinary delights with food tours in Illinois. Thos 14,000 square-foot exhibit area has 6 galleries that showcase the story and history of the Lewis and Clark excursion from its beginning to its significance for what America is today. People tend to associate Illinois with the Windy City of Chicago, but it has a lot more to offer. From the vast collection of the Chicago History Museum to small town historical museums, you’ll discover the stories and heritage of our towns and our people. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is situated in Springfield and offers a great opportunity to learn not only about Abraham Lincoln, but also about Illinois and its history. All rights reserved. Home Taste your way through the state with our guide to the best and closest places to eat in Illinois. Hopefully, this article has helped you decide which places you should not miss throughout your visit. Situated in the southernmost part of Illinois, Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge covers parts of Pulaski, Johnson, Alexander, and Union Counties. This is actually Lincoln’s hometown, so it’s not hard to put two and two together and realize why it’s the chosen site for the museum. Plus, it’s earned its spot of National Register of Historic Places. Wonderful nature has formed one of the most diverse and naturally rich environments in not only Southern Illinois but as well as the Midwest. For our next Illinois POI, we’re stopping in the baby-sized town of Rockford, located in the state’s north, about an hour and a half’s drive northwest of the big city. Visit the many historic sites in Illinois, from the Land of Lincoln, to the site of an ancient Native American city at Cahokia Mounds. Breweries Downtown Chicago: The 6 Best To Visit On Your Trip, New York’s Central Park Has Something for Everyone. A couple of miles south of Ellis Grove, Fort Kaskaskia is located next to the river. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend or in September. Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Alexandreawilliams used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. From the top of the decomposing limestone ridge, suitably called Inspiration Point, you are able to look off to the south, north, and west part of the state and see the majestic Mississippi River. Find the best places to eat, drink and have fun. Find the best places to eat, drink and have fun. Step back in time to the golden age of train travel and settle in for a peaceful ride to discover some of Illinois’ most charming towns and hidden treasures.