A Virtual Walking Trip Across the USA

A walk through Illinois

Illinois is a wonderful state with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Let's take a virtual stroll through some of its key highlights, starting from the north and working our way south.

1. Chicago: Illinois' largest city and the third most populous city in the United States, Chicago, is known for its stunning architecture, renowned museums, and beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. You might want to start your day with a walk along the Magnificent Mile for some shopping, head over to Navy Pier for entertainment and attractions, or stroll around Millennium Park and don't forget to take a selfie in front of "The Bean" (Cloud Gate). Sports fans would enjoy visiting Wrigley Field, the home of the Chicago Cubs, while art enthusiasts could spend hours in the Art Institute of Chicago.

2. Evanston: Located just north of Chicago along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Evanston is home to Northwestern University. The city boasts a variety of cultural attractions, including the Block Museum of Art and the Shakespeare Garden. Evanston also has a vibrant downtown with plenty of dining and shopping options.

3. Rockford: Continuing west, you would come across Rockford, known for its many gardens, including Anderson Japanese Gardens. It's also home to the Discovery Center Museum, a nationally ranked children's science museum.

4. Galena: Located in the far northwest corner of the state, Galena is a historic town known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The downtown Main Street is a great place to explore, offering more than 100 stores and restaurants.

5. Springfield: Moving south, you'll arrive in the state's capital, Springfield, which is famous for its connection to President Abraham Lincoln. Here, you can visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and his tomb at the Oak Ridge Cemetery.

6. Peoria: Peoria, located along the Illinois River, offers attractions like the Peoria Riverfront Museum and the Luthy Botanical Garden. It's also home to the Wildlife Prairie State Park, where you can see animals native to Illinois in a natural setting.

7. Champaign-Urbana: This dual city is known for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. With a vibrant arts scene, it's home to venues like the Krannert Art Museum and the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

8. Shawnee National Forest: Continuing south, this beautiful forested region offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and horseback riding. The Garden of the Gods Recreation Area offers some of the most stunning views in the state.

9. Metropolis: As we reach the southernmost part of Illinois, Metropolis is a must-visit, especially for Superman fans, since this small city has officially been recognized as the "Home of Superman" by DC Comics. Visit the Super Museum, which houses a significant collection of Superman memorabilia.

This is just a small taste of the diversity and richness that Illinois has to offer. There are countless other places to visit, each with its unique charm and character.