Fun Things To Do In Central Illinois

Watch The Chicago Bulls Play At The United Center

Best Things to Do in Springfield, Illinois

With the legacy of Michael Jordan etched into NBA and sporting folklore, the Chicago locals absolutely adore their Bulls.

The teams regular home games are played at the United Center and run from October to April presenting a fantastic opportunity to escape the wind and the cold.

In terms of getting there, the Blue Line which stretches through Downtown drops you off within walking distance.

Listen To Live Blues At Buddy Guys Legends

Established by Grammy-winning Blues music maestro, Buddy Guy, this venue holds a special place in local hearts.

With live performances happening every day of the week, soaking in some of the best blues the city has to offer couldnt be easier.

The menu serves up tasty New-Orleans-inspired dishes, the bar is stocked to the brim, and you can even grab a t-shirt souvenir on the way out!

Devour A Delicious Brunch On The Chicago Odyssey Cruise

Captivating views of the Chicago skyscrapers are aplenty on board the luxurious Chicago Odyssey.

On a typical 2-hour cruise, guests have access to a fresh brunch buffet, offering the best of the breakfast and the lunch menu, and complemented by a gourmet coffee bar.

Cap off the journey with a mouth-watering mimosa before disembarking at the 3,300-foot-long Navy Pier.

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Race Against The Clock At An Escape Room

Race against the clock and put your teamwork and puzzle-solving skills to the test with an epic escape room challenge.

Visit The Escape Game and choose from gold hunting, prison breaks, heist mysteries, even rocketing to Mars, all within 60 minutes of non-stop excitement.

Think you have what it takes to bust out? Sign up for one of the most fun things to do in Chicago and find out!

Visit The Skydeck Chicago At Willis Tower

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Entry Ticket: Adults: $34.50, Children: $26.50, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60605

  • Recommend booking tickets in advance
  • VIP dinner: $100.00 per person, limit of 2

Previously known as the famous Sears Tower, The Willis Tower, is the third tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, consequently making the Skydeck Chicago experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Ready to experience the best view of Chicago?

If you are daring enough , you will have the thrill of seeing Chicago from 1,353 feet in the air while you stand on a glass ledge that also extends approximately 4 feet out from the building.

View the undeniably breathtaking city while it sweeps out beneath you, with sparkling buildings, winding rivers, and bustling city streets.

For a date night that is unforgettable, you may want to purchase a VIP dinner for two, in which you and your date can dine on classic Chicago pizza as you enjoy the incredible nighttime view of the city from the glass ledge.

Among the most exciting things to do in Chicago, you wont want to miss out on the rare opportunity offered by Skydeck Chicago.

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Celebrate Pumpkinfest At Didier Farms

Pumpkinfest is a month-long celebration all things pumpkin at Didier Farms. Thousands of pumpkins from the itty-bitty Munchkin variety to the carriage-sized Cinderella await you at the pumpkin patch. Follow the fresh-baked smells to the bakery where you can pick a dozen delicious pumpkin donuts, infused with the colors and flavors of the season. You can also cheer on some speedy swine at the pig races, mine for gems, go on a hayride, or even ride a camel.

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Go Ape Zipline And Adventure Park

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With a menu that includes everything from ziplining to axe throwing, the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park will definitely satisfy your hunger for adventure.

Its one of the most exciting places to visit in Illinois for people who like to view the world from on high.

Most activities are in the tree canopies, including the swings, ziplines, rope courses, suspension bridges and bouncy treehouse nets.

A few things like the axe throwing are on the ground.

Things can be booked by the hour or by the course.

There are also adventure packages available that combine multiple site features into one, so if you have an insatiable appetite that wants to try everything, thats an option as well.

Clear out this weekends schedule.

Its time to embrace your inner monkey and go hurtling through the treetops at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park.

Address: 1100 Ogden Ave, Western Springs, IL 60558, United States

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On Illinois’ Western Border

John Deere sites, Moline Farm equipment and history displays fill the Eero Saarinen-designed John Deere World Headquarters. The John Deere Pavilion puts visitors behind the wheel of tractors and a bulldozer simulator. Schedule a tour of the Harvester Works factory or the Deere-Wiman House and Butterworth Center, built in the late 1800s by descendants of John Deere. Pandemic-related closures may be in place check website before visiting.deere.com

Historic Nauvoo Take free wagon and carriage rides, see craft demonstrations and attend seasonal music performances in Nauvoo, a historic Mormon town about halfway between St. Louis and Moline. beautifulnauvoo.com

Feel The Vibe At The Millennium Park Summer Music Series

Living in Naperville Illinois [2022] Everything you need to know!

Every year come rain, hail or shine the city of Chicago puts on an exciting lineup of outdoor concerts at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park from June through August.

Past performers have spannel the entire genre spectrum, from jazz and orchestral music to dance vibes, indie rock, and country. Best of all, its totally free.

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Grab Some Ice Cream At Original Rainbow Cone

This longstanding Chicago ice creamery hibernates in the winter, but in the summer theyre teeming with elated customers and ice cream fanatics.

Visit the Original Rainbow Cone, choose from cones, milkshakes, sundaes, or banana splits, then burn off the calories with a pleasant stroll through the parks of Dan Ryan Woods.

Speed Through The Treetops At Grafton Zipline

Who said ziplining is a summer-only activity? Get ready to have your autumn heart race and your jaw drop as you zip from spectacular bluff to spectacular bluff at Grafton Zipline. This epic canopy adventure offers some of the most impressive views of the Shawnee National Forests pristine wilderness. Those feeling extra fearless will especially enjoy the Soaring Eagle lines 250-foot drop and the Creek Hopper lines 45mph max speed.

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Drive A Bit Of Route 66

You can get a flavour of Route 66 in Springfield, seeing as it starts in Chicago and winds down.

The Cozy Dog Drive Inn is an icon of the route. This diner has been a Springfield Route 66 Landmark since 1949 and is filled with memorabilia from years gone by.

I tried my first corn dog here wasnt convinced, as you can see by the pic. Might be for you though?

The actual Route 66 has been paved over and slightly moved since the 60s, thanks to developments and innovation in road building. If youre upset or offended by this, go and drive the 1.4-mile stretch by Snell Road and Curran Road. Youll soon see why they decided to change the brick road to a smoother ride!

This mile and a bit stretch is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Go for the photo op.

Thats me, on Route 66! Cooool!

On the way back stop in at the Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill and Museum. The selection of memorabilia the owner has managed to collect is just amazing. Looking through his collection is one of the most fun things to do in Springfield.

And if you want a good value dinner, check out the menu. Beautiful place for sunset in November.

Have A Slice Of Pizza At Burts Place

Aleksei Isachenko | Shutterstock

Address: 8541 Ferris Avenue, Morton Grove, IL 60053

  • Open Tuesday through Sunday, beginning at 4:30 pm
  • Family-friendly

Have you ever wondered why Chicago is famous for its deep dish pizza?

Look no further than the legendary pizza maker, Burt Katz.

Burt Katz is a legend in the world of classic Chicago deep dish pizza, having opened his first restaurant in 1965, eventually earning world renown for his mouthwatering creations.

His pizza was so good, in fact, that Anthony Bourdain was quoted as saying, Burts Pizza was the only deep dish pizza I ever loved.

Today, Burts Place keeps his tradition of amazing food alive with classic Italian toppings, simple recipes, and perfectly cooked pizzas.

Relax in the atmosphere of this restaurant as you dine, read framed newspaper articles about the Kinda Cranky Pizza Guy, or enjoy some outdoor time on the patio.

Visit this iconic pizza place for a late lunch or dinner, and taste some of the best deep dish pizza in the world.

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Catch A White Sox Baseball Game At Guaranteed Rate Field

As much as the locals love their deep-dish pizza, that love doesnt quite compare to the obsession with the Chicago White Sox baseball team .

Experience the famous White Sox atmosphere firsthand by catching an MBL match at Guaranteed Rate Field on the citys South Side.

Alternatively, head to Wrigley Stadium to catch the Cubs in action, an absolute must when it comes to things to do in Chicago.

The season typically runs from March to October, with concerts, pre-season matches, and events held at the stadium outside of those months.

Make Sightseeing Competitive With A Scavenger Hunt

With limitless attractions scattered across the city, walking around from A to B can get a little repetitive. Why not spice it up a bit with a little extra adventure?

The professionally-orchestrated Scavenger Hunt games combine sightseeing with interactivity, sending players all over the city to solve puzzles and complete tasks, Amazing Race-style.

Sign up for a city-wide adventure, or get specific with a hunt centralized to the Magnificent Mile or the Chicago Zoo.

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Feed Yourself At The Taste Of Chicago Festival

Foodies, its time to get excited! Hosted in Grant Park, Taste of Chicago is considered the worlds largest food festival and best of all, the 5-day event is free of charge.

If you happen to be visiting in July, dont miss the chance to sample some of the tastiest treats that the city can muster up.

Even if youre not hungry, the atmosphere and live music are still worth checking out.

Chicago Gangsters And Ghosts Tours

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@Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tours

Rating: 4.9

Entry Ticket: Adults: $35.00, Seniors: $25.00, Children: $17.00, Ages 6 and Under: Free

Address: 71 East W Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601

Famous for gangsters, such as the infamous Al Capone, Chicago is a great place to take a tour that caters to those interested in the history of the mob and even the spookier side of the city.

Want to find out more about Chicagos notorious gangsters?

During your tour, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with not only the history of Chicagos gangsters but details about their crimes, deals, and how they shaped the face of the city.

You will also be able to hear ghost stories as you make your way through the city, stopping at significant points of interest, such as Death Alley, Congress Hotel, and Palmer House.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the history of Chicagos gangsters, along with some of the old crime scenes that are now haunted locales.

Immerse yourself in the criminal side of Chicago while also getting some bone-chilling stories with Chicago Gangsters and Ghost Tours.

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Black Bart’s Pumpkin Patch

Just a hop, skip and a jump away from campus is this adorable, small, family-owned pumpkin patch. Perfect for quick trips, this patch will be sure to steal your heart. Enjoy a variety of pumpkins, a corn maze and a small little shop full of fall goodies. When you’re in a time crunch and need a pumpkin, Black Bart’s is the way to go!

Find Great Gourds Good Eats And More At The Great Pumpkin Patch

You wont have to wait all night to find an amazing pumpkin at the Great Pumpkin Patch. This 63-acre pumpkin patch features more than 400 varieties. Which makes your odds of finding your future jack-o-lantern or centerpiece about 100%. Once your search is complete, check out the exhibits, go for a wagon ride, explore the haunted barn, and eat some fresh pumpkin- and non-pumpkin-flavored desserts at their renowned Homestead Bakery.

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Cave In Rock State Park

The Cave in Rock State Park is located along the Ohio River. The scenic park offers heavily wooded areas overlooking the river, and is named for the 55-foot wide cavern situated in the bluffs along the rivers edge. The caves history is full of tales of pirates ambushing travelers along the river in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can hike through moderate to difficult trails, enjoy three childrens play areas, camping, picnic sites and fishing. For a less rugged experience, the Cave-In-Rock Restaurant and Lodge offers duplex guest houses or deluxe suites, and an on-site restaurant serving traditional southern style meals.

1 New State Park Rd, Cave-in-Rock IL 62919, Phone: 618-289-4325

Tour The Frederick C Robie House

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the prairie-style Frederick C. Robie House designed by none other than Frank Lloyd Wright is considered a pivotal stepping stone in the advancement of American architecture.

Tours run Thursday through Monday and include a stroll through the house and the gardens, led by an expert guide.

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Dana Thomas House By Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Dana-Thomas House for Susan Lawrence Dana in 1902. She was a forward-thinking socialite living in Springfield and wanted a house to show off about.

Annnnddd a few million in todays money later and she got one.

The house now belongs to the Illinois tourist board on the basis that they dont change anything inside.

The Dana Thomas House the 72nd building designed by Wright and contains the largest collection of house specific, original Wright art glass, fixtures and furniture from the Prairie Style.

It also contains this lamp worth TWO million pounds.

TWO MILLION!

Surprised it didnt have some sort of plastic casing around it to be honest.

There are 35 rooms with 12,000 square feet of living space, including an awesome bowing alley and pool table area too. You can arrange tours to look around definitely recommend it!

Catch A Performance Of The Chicago Symphony Orchestra

As the Chicago Symphony Orchestra edges its way toward 13 decades of captivating performances, it solidifies its reputation as one of the worlds best.

With brass, percussion, string, and woodwind instruments, coordinated by renowned Italian conductor, Riccardo Muti, its quite literally music to our ears.

Performances regularly take place at the Symphony Center in the Loop area.

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Explore The Lakefront On A Segway Tour

As the third-largest city by population across the entire country, Chicago is unquestionably massive. That means seeing everything on foot is next to impossible. Why not speed things up and tick off a few more attractions by joining a Segway tour?

Glide through downtown, the riverfront, or a number of other routes on offer, all while learning about the city from a seasoned local. These smooth-moving machines are fun for the whole family.

Enjoy Dinner At Augies Front Burner

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Flat Iron steak, carrots and potato risotto yessssaahhh.

At Augies Front Burner, we strive to provide you with a fine dining experience beyond your expectations. Let Chef dazzle you with innovative flavor combinations that are comfortable, yet exciting, in a vibrant & colorful setting in historic Downtown Springfield.

Conveniently located only blocks away from the Lincoln Presidential Museum & Library, the Prairie Capital Convention Center, Lincolns Home, & directly across from The Old Capitol Building.

Treat yourself to a culinary experience second to none in Springfield.

Make sure to start with the cocktails before you peruse their tasty, tasty menu. Open for lunch and dinner!

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Spot Constellations At The Adler Planetarium

Boasting the title of the first of its kind in North America, the Adler Planetarium is an unrivaled insight into the worlds of space and astronomy.

Old telescopes, moon rocks, a Gemini Capsule, and even a section on the moon landing rover cap off an extensive list of artifacts. Likewise, the interactive exhibits and live stargazing shows are second to none.

The planetarium sits on the northeast tip of Northerly Island, a location that offers arguably the best land-based panoramic view of the citys skyline.

Catch A Show At The Chicago Theatre

Besides sitting down for a show at the world-famous Chicago Theatre, visitors are blessed with the opportunity to go behind the scenes and explore the grand history and intricate architecture of this iconic entertainment venue.

Step on stage, visit the rehearsal space, admire the ceilings, and more, all with an expert guide leading the way.

The theatre is centrally located to countless bars and restaurants, which makes planning the evening outing a breeze.

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