Top 100 best museums in Illinois

The Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) is a museum of visual arts located at 111 South Michigan Avenue in Grant Park, Chicago. It is one of the largest museums in the United States, second only to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The museum is affiliated with the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and was established in 1879 as the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.

Shedd Aquarium is a public aquarium situated in Chicago. It forms part of a museum campus located just south of Grant Park, which also houses a natural science museum and a planetarium. This campus is one of the major tourist attractions in Chicago, offering a variety of experiences for visitors.

The Field Museum of Natural History, also known as FMNH, is a renowned natural history museum located in Chicago. It is recognized as one of the most frequently visited cultural institutions in the United States, attracting a large number of visitors each year due to its extensive collections and exhibits.

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Chicago, established in 1967, is one of the largest museums for modern and contemporary art in the United States. It provides a comprehensive overview of art since 1945 and its collection largely chronologically follows the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

The Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, located in Chicago, Illinois, is recognized as one of the city's major attractions. This institution, which was built in 1930 with the support of businessman Max Adler, is one of the oldest planetariums in North America. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the wonders of the universe and learn about the history and current research of space and planetary systems.

The Museum of Science and Industry is a renowned science center situated in Jackson Park, just a bit south of downtown Chicago. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum offers a unique blend of science and industry exhibits, making it a fascinating destination for individuals of all ages.

The Lincoln Park Conservatory, also known as Lincoln Park Botanical Garden, is a conservatory and botanical garden located in the Lincoln Park sector of Chicago, Illinois, USA. It has been in existence since 1877 and is situated at 2391 North Stockdon Drive, just south of Fullerton Avenue, west of Lake Shore Drive, and is part of Lincoln Park. The conservatory is near the shores of Lake Michigan and just north of Lincoln Park Zoo.

The Lincoln Park Zoo is situated in the Lincoln Park sector of Chicago, in the northeastern state of Illinois, USA. It is nestled within Lincoln Park, the largest public urban park in the city of Chicago and one of the most significant in the United States. The zoo is one of four in the metropolitan region of Chicago, with the other three being Brookfield Zoo, Phillips Park Zoo, and Indian Boundary Park Zoo. However, Lincoln Park Zoo is the only zoo located within the city of Chicago itself.

The Museum of Contemporary Photography is situated in the Near South Side neighborhood on Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other cultural and historical sites, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The Chicago Cultural Center, which opened its doors in 1897, is a significant landmark in the city. It is managed by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events of Chicago. The center serves as the city's official reception venue, where the Mayor of Chicago has welcomed notable figures such as presidents, royalty, diplomats, and community leaders.

The museum within the Oriental Institute is home to a vast collection of artifacts unearthed from various archaeological excavations in Egypt, Israel, Syria, Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. These artifacts provide a unique insight into the ancient civilizations of the Near East and are a must-see for any history enthusiast visiting Chicago.

The Hull House, located in Chicago, was a social work center co-founded in 1889 by Jane Addams and Ellen Gates Starr. This iconic establishment served as a residence for social reformers and offered a wide variety of cultural, social, and educational services to the disadvantaged population of the neighborhood, which included many immigrants from Europe.

The International Museum of Surgical Science is situated in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. The museum is managed by The International College of Surgeons, a prestigious organization dedicated to the advancement of surgical standards and patient care worldwide. This location offers a unique blend of history, science, and art, making it an interesting destination for a wide range of visitors.

The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is a significant piece of architectural history, designed by the renowned architect himself. It has been meticulously restored by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust to reflect its state in 1909, the year when Wright and his family resided there. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the living and working environment of one of America's most influential architects.

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a natural history museum operated by the Chicago Academy of Sciences. The museum is named after its benefactor, Peggy Notebaert, and was opened in 1999. It is situated at the intersection of Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive in Lincoln Park.

No fan of the legendary writer should miss out this museum set in his birthplace. Memorabilia, letters and writings on display.

The Chicago History Museum, located in Lincoln Park at 1601 North Clark Street, is a significant institution dedicated to studying and interpreting the history of Chicago. Founded in 1856, the museum is part of the Chicago Historical Society (CHS), and it provides a comprehensive look into the city's past. The museum's location in the Old Town Triangle neighborhood makes it easily accessible for tourists.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a vast botanical garden and arboretum spanning 156 hectares (385 acres). It is nestled within the Cook County Forest Preserve District, a green belt that encompasses over 68,000 acres (275 km²) of open spaces. This green belt encircles the city of Chicago, Illinois, providing a serene and natural escape from the bustling city life.

The DuSable Museum of African American History, located in Chicago's Washington Park, is a significant institution as it is the oldest museum dedicated to the study and conservation of African American history, culture, and art. Founded in 1961 by a group of artists and educators, it has since grown to become a major repository of African American heritage.

The Chicago Children's Museum, situated at the Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois, is a renowned institution that was established in 1982. The Junior League of Chicago, in response to programming cutbacks in the Chicago Public Schools, founded the museum. It has since grown to become a significant educational and recreational resource for children and families in the region.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is a unique institution dedicated to providing comprehensive information about the life and times of the sixteenth President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The museum also offers insights into the course of the American Civil War, making it a valuable destination for history enthusiasts.

The Glessner House, located at 1800 S. Prairie Avenue in Chicago, Illinois, is a significant architectural landmark from the 19th century. The house was designed by renowned architect Henry Hobson Richardson between 1885 and 1886, and was completed in late 1887. This historic residence is a testament to Richardson's architectural prowess and the design trends of the time.

The Frederick C. Robie House, a pioneering residential building, was designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908. It was constructed from 1909 to 1910 near the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park. This historical building is a significant example of American Prairie Style architecture.

The Michigan Avenue Bridge, a bascule bridge over the Chicago River, is a significant landmark in Downtown Chicago. It serves as a border between the community sectors of the Loop and Near North Side. The bridge is crossed by Michigan Avenue, one of the city's major thoroughfares, and is maintained by the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT).

The Arts Club of Chicago is a unique blend of a private club and a public exhibition space. It is situated in the Near North Side community area of Chicago, just a block east of the Magnificent Mile. The club is renowned for its exhibitions of international contemporary art, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.

The Farnsworth House, located in Plano, Illinois, is a single-family home that was designed and built by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe between 1946 and 1951. This architectural masterpiece is one of the best examples of 20th-century residential architecture and is a testament to Mies van der Rohe's love for architectural simplicity and perfection in construction details.

The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures is home to an archaeological museum that showcases artifacts from various excavations in Egypt, Israel, Syria, Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. Notable items in the collection include the Megiddo Ivory, a collection of Luristan Bronzes, a 40-ton Lamassu from Dur Šarrukin, and a monumental statue of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. These artifacts provide a unique insight into the ancient cultures of these regions.

Brookfield Zoo, situated in the suburb of Chicago, Brookfield, spans across an impressive area of 57.4 hectares. This expansive space is home to a diverse range of animals and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about different species in a spacious and natural environment.

The National Museum of Mexican Art, previously known as the Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum, is a cultural institution that showcases Mexican, Latino, and Chicano art and culture. It is situated in Harrison Park, in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for visitors interested in Mexican and Latino art and culture.

The Illinois Railway Museum, located in Union, Illinois, is recognized as the largest railroad museum in the United States. It is situated 55 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, making it a convenient destination for those visiting the Chicago metropolitan area. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of railroads in the country.

The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is a preserved area in Springfield, Illinois, which includes the home and the surrounding historic district where Abraham Lincoln lived from 1844 to 1861, before he became the 16th president of the United States. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and times of one of America's most influential presidents in the very place he called home.

The Unity Temple, located in Oak Park, Illinois, is a church belonging to the Unitarian Universalist religious community. This architectural marvel was designed by the renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. The temple stands as a testament to Wright's unique architectural style and his ability to create functional, yet aesthetically pleasing structures.

The National Hellenic Museum, located in Chicago's Greektown, is the second oldest American institution dedicated to showcasing the cultural contributions of Greeks and Greek-Americans. The museum aims to promote understanding of the rich cultural traditions of ancient and contemporary Greece, as well as the Greek-American immigrant experience.

The Morton Arboretum, located in Lisle, Illinois, is a sprawling 1700-acre arboretum and botanical garden. It offers a diverse range of plant life and tree collections from specific taxonomic and geographical areas. The arboretum is generally open to the public every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Ulysses S. Grant Home in Galena, Illinois, is a significant historical site as it was the residence of Ulysses S. Grant, a notable Civil War general and the 18th president of the United States. This home provides a glimpse into the life and times of this influential figure, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about American history.

The Garfield Park Conservatory, situated in Garfield Park in Chicago, is recognized as one of the largest greenhouse conservatories in the United States. This vast conservatory is often referred to as 'landscape art under glass' and spans approximately 4.5 acres both inside and out.

Fort de Chartres, established in 1720, served as a French military post along the Mississippi River. It was also the administrative center of the Pays des Illinois region. This historical site provides a glimpse into the French colonial era in North America, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the region's past.

The Apple River Fort State Historic Site, located in Elizabeth, Illinois, is a significant landmark from the 1832 Black Hawk War. The fort was constructed in less than a week by settlers in response to the onset of the war. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of those early settlers.

The Chinese American Museum of Chicago (CAMOC) is a cultural institution that aims to enhance the understanding and appreciation of Chinese American culture. It does this through various exhibitions, educational programs, and research initiatives. Visitors to the museum can expect to gain a deeper insight into the rich history and heritage of Chinese Americans, primarily those in the American Midwest.

The Polish Museum of America is situated in the West Town area of Chicago, which was historically known as the Polish Downtown neighborhood. This location is significant as it reflects the rich Polish heritage of the city and provides a cultural context for the museum's collections.

The David and Alfred Smart Museum of Art, situated on the University of Chicago campus, houses a permanent collection of over 15,000 objects. The museum is open to the public and does not charge an admission fee.

The Ukrainian National Museum (UNM) is situated in the historical Ukrainian Village neighborhood of Chicago, United States. This location is not only significant for its historical value but also for its cultural relevance to the Ukrainian community. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Ukrainian culture and history while exploring the neighborhood.

The Dana-Thomas House, also known as the Susan Lawrence Dana House or Dana House, is a private villa built between 1902 and 1904. It is considered a masterpiece of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, reflecting his affinity for the Prairie House style. This architectural style is known for its emphasis on horizontal lines, flat or hipped roofs with broad overhanging eaves, and integration with the landscape, intended to evoke the vastness of the prairie landscape.

The Dana–Thomas House, also known as the Susan Lawrence Dana House and Dana House, is a unique architectural masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The house, built in the Prairie School style, is a testament to Wright's innovative design principles and his ability to seamlessly blend architecture with the natural environment. The house is located along East Lawrence Avenue in Springfield, Illinois, and is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Henson Robinson Zoo, located on the eastern shore of Lake Springfield, is a private nonprofit zoo that is owned and operated by the Springfield Park District. The zoo was constructed between 1968 and 1970 and officially opened its doors to the public in 1970.

The Kenneth and Phyllis Laurent House, located in Rockford, Illinois, is a unique piece of architecture designed by the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright. What sets this house apart from Wright's other works is that it was the only one he designed specifically for a physically disabled client. This aspect of the house's history adds a layer of significance to its design and overall appeal.

The Oak Park Conservatory is a conservatory and botanical garden situated at 615 Garfield Street in the suburb of Oak Park, Illinois, United States. It is a place where visitors can explore a variety of plant species in a serene environment. The conservatory is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to learn about different types of plants and their habitats.

The David Davis Mansion, also known as Clover Lawn, is a historic home from the Gilded Age located in Bloomington, Illinois. This mansion was the residence of David Davis, who served as a Supreme Court justice from 1862 to 1877 and as a Senator from Illinois. This historic site provides a glimpse into the life and times of one of the influential figures in American history.

The Elihu Benjamin Washburne House, also known as the Washburne-Sheehan House, is a significant historical site located at 908 Third Street in Galena, Illinois. This 1 + 1 ⁄ 2 -story Greek Revival house was constructed in 1844–45 and is a prime example of late Greek Revival architecture. The house was built in the style of Greek temples and features a two-story porch with four fluted Doric columns.

The Grosse Point Lighthouse is a significant landmark located in Evanston, on the shores of Lake Michigan, in the state of Illinois, USA. This historic lighthouse has been a beacon of safety for mariners since its establishment in the late 19th century. It is a place of interest for tourists who appreciate maritime history and architecture.

The Museum of Broadcast Communications is a unique institution located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. It is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and presenting historical and contemporary content related to radio and television broadcasts. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history of broadcast media in the United States.

The Pritzker Military Museum & Library, previously known as the Pritzker Military Library, is a museum and research library situated in Chicago, Illinois. Established in 2003 by Colonel Jennifer N. Pritzker, it serves as a public specialty library for military history. Initially located in Streeterville, in the Near North Side of Chicago, it later moved to the Downtown district, Chicago Loop.

The Noble–Seymour–Crippen House, located at 5624 North Newark Avenue in Chicago's Norwood Park community area, is a significant historical site. The southern wing of the mansion, built in 1833, is recognized as the oldest existing building in Chicago. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in the city's architectural history.

The Bronzeville Children's Museum is situated in the Calumet Heights community area on the South Side of Chicago. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for visitors. The museum's location also reflects its commitment to serving the local community and promoting African American culture and history.

Busy Beaver Button Museum offers a different look at history via a collection of buttons collected over the last century. Historical moments, lives and experiences of the buttons' owners nicely illustrate a whole century since 1896 when the pinback buttons were patented.

Eureka College holds a significant place in history as the third college in the United States to admit men and women on an equal basis. It is also closely associated with its notable alumnus, Ronald Reagan, who served as the 40th president of the United States.

The Old State Capitol State Historic Site is a significant landmark in Springfield, Illinois. This Greek Revival style building, which served as the state house from 1840 to 1876, is the fifth capitol building constructed for the state of Illinois. It was built between 1837 and 1840, marking an important period in the state's history.

The Legoland Discovery Centre Chicago is an indoor family entertainment center that is conveniently located in The Streets of Woodfield shopping center in Schaumburg, Illinois. This location makes it an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and educational experience while also having the opportunity to shop and dine in the same vicinity.

The Anderson Japanese Gardens is a sprawling 57,000 m² (14 acres) Japanese garden and botanical garden located in Rockford, Illinois. It is a place of tranquility and beauty, where visitors can experience the serenity of a traditional Japanese garden. The garden features various elements of Japanese design, including waterfalls, ponds, streams, rock formations, and trails.

The Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art is an art museum situated in Evanston, Illinois. It is conveniently located on the campus of Northwestern University, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum was named after its benefactors, Leigh Block, a Chicago steel manager, and his wife Mary Lasker Block, both art collectors.

The Burpee Museum of Natural History is situated in the heart of downtown Rockford, Illinois, at 737 North Main Street. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum's central location is ideal for those who want to explore the city's rich history and culture.

Lilacia Park, located in Lombard, Illinois, is a unique arboretum and botanical garden that specializes in the cultivation of lilacs and tulips. This 8.5-acre park is a beautiful destination for nature lovers and flower enthusiasts, offering a stunning display of over 200 varieties and cultivars of lilacs and 50 varieties of tulips.

The Metamora Courthouse State Historic Site is a significant historical landmark located in Metamora, Illinois. It was constructed in 1845 and served as the governmental center for Woodford County and as a circuit court for the former Illinois Eighth Circuit. This courthouse holds a special place in American history, making it a point of interest for visitors.

The Black Hawk State Historic Site is a significant location in Rock Island, Illinois. It is situated next to the historic site of the village of Saukenuk, which was once home to a band of Native Americans from the Sauk nation. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of the Sauk nation, providing a deeper understanding of the Native American heritage in this region.

Starved Rock State Park, located in the U.S. state of Illinois, is known for its numerous canyons spread across its 2,630 acres. This unique topography offers visitors a chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Wildlife Prairie Park, also known as the Hazel & Bill Rutherford Wildlife Prairie Park, is a significant natural attraction located in Peoria County, Illinois. It is situated approximately 10 miles west of downtown Peoria in central Illinois, making it easily accessible for visitors from the city and surrounding areas.

Fabyan Villa, located in Geneva, Illinois, served as the residence of George and Nelle Fabyan from approximately 1908 to 1939. The house is particularly noteworthy due to its extensive remodelling in 1907 by the renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. This remodelling transformed the mid-1800s farmhouse into a unique Prairie-style country house, complete with a south wing, three verandas, and large eaves.

The Lincoln Memorial Garden, also known as the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden, is a significant natural attraction in Springfield, Illinois. Spanning 100 acres, this woodland and prairie garden is owned by the city of Springfield and is managed by the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden Foundation. The garden is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving natural spaces and offers visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The Design Museum of Chicago, also known as DMoC, was established in 2012 by Tanner Woodford. Initially, it functioned as a pop-up museum, hosting exhibitions in various venues across Chicago. This unique approach allowed the museum to reach a wide audience and showcase a diverse range of design works.

The Illinois Governor's Mansion, located in the state capital of Springfield, serves as the official residence of the governor of Illinois. Its proximity to other significant sites such as the Illinois State Capitol building and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site makes it a point of interest for visitors. The mansion's location offers tourists an opportunity to explore multiple attractions within a short distance, making it a convenient stop in their itinerary.

The Gardens at SIUE is a botanical garden located on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Originally established as an arboretum, the garden spans 35 acres of the university's 2,660-acre campus in Edwardsville, Illinois. It serves as a living laboratory supporting the educational and research missions of the university, as well as a place of beauty for the university community and the general public to enjoy.

The Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a vast 63-hectare (155-acre) arboretum and botanical garden situated in Rockford, Illinois. This expansive green space offers visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of plant species and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

The National Museum of the American Sailor, previously known as the Great Lakes Naval Museum, is one of the ten Navy Museums managed by the Naval History & Heritage Command. This museum is an official Department of the Navy Museum, focusing on the history of the United States Navy, particularly the Navy's enlisted Sailor.

The Jones House, located in the city of Pontiac, Illinois, is a historic brick home that holds a significant place in the local history. It is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is recognized as the second oldest brick house in Pontiac. This house is a testament to the architectural and historical richness of the city, making it a point of interest for those who appreciate history and architecture.

The University of Illinois Arboretum is a significant botanical garden and arboretum that covers an expansive area of 64.75 hectares (160 acres). It is conveniently located on the campus of the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are interested in exploring the diverse plant collections and installations that support teaching, research, and public service programs.

The Renaissance Society, founded in 1915, is a contemporary art museum located in Chicago. It is dedicated exclusively to the promotion and exhibition of contemporary art, making it a unique destination for art enthusiasts. Over the years, it has hosted pioneering exhibitions of renowned painters and sculptors such as Georges Braque, Hans Arp, Constantin Brâncuși, Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso, Isamu Noguchi, Wassily Kandinsky, and Piet Mondrian.

Niabi Zoo is a public zoological park located in Coal Valley, Illinois. It serves the Quad Cities Area and is situated within a 287 acre forest preserve, with the zoo itself occupying 40 acres. This setting provides a unique and picturesque environment for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The William L. Gregg House, located in Westmont, Illinois, is a historic Victorian building designed in the Second Empire style. This architectural style is characterized by its mansard roof and elaborate detailing, which are both prominent features of the Gregg House. The house stands as a testament to the rich history of the area and offers visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Charles Gates Dawes House, located at 225 Greenwood Street in Evanston, Illinois, is a historic house museum. Constructed in 1894, this Chateauesque lakefront mansion served as the residence of Charles Gates Dawes and his family from 1909 until his death. Dawes was a notable figure in American history, having earned the 1925 Nobel Peace Prize and served as U.S. Vice President under Calvin Coolidge.

The Birthplace of Ronald Reagan, also known as the Graham Building, is situated in Tampico, Illinois. This historic site is located on the second floor of a late 19th-century commercial building. It is here that the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, was born. The building itself is a part of the Tampico Main Street Historic District, which adds to its historical significance.

Chana School, located in the county seat of Oregon, Illinois, is a Registered Historic Place. This unique two-room schoolhouse, which has been relocated from its original site, offers a glimpse into the past. The school's unusual shape adds to its charm and historical significance.

The Fox River Trolley Museum, located in South Elgin, Illinois, is a railroad museum that was incorporated in 1961 and opened to the public in 1966. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of railroads and trolleys, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and train lovers alike.

Located in an old firehouse, pretty interesting displays are inside. Don't forget to check out the Route 66 shield in the back of building!

The Amboy station, located in Amboy, Lee County, Illinois, was originally built in 1876. It served dual purposes as the headquarters for the Illinois Central Railroad and as a public train station for the city of Amboy. The building's historical significance and architectural design make it an interesting site for tourists interested in history and architecture.

The George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden is a significant botanical garden and greenhouse located in Peoria, Illinois. Spanning an area of 20,234 m² (5 acres), it offers a vast space for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse range of plant life.

The Rochelle Railroad Park is a city park situated in Rochelle, Illinois. It is a safe haven for railfans, providing them with the opportunity to view and photograph trains. The park is designed to cater to the interests of train enthusiasts, offering a unique experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the world of railroads.

Starhill Forest Arboretum is a privately owned arboretum situated at 12000 Boy Scout Trail, Petersburg, Illinois. It has been under the ownership and management of the Sternberg family since 1976. The name 'Starhill Forest' is derived from the Sternberg family name, which translates to 'star mountain' in German.

The Cahokia Courthouse State Historic Site is a significant landmark in Cahokia Heights, Illinois. This reconstructed French-Canadian structure was originally built around 1740 and has served various purposes over the years. Today, it stands as a testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Kennicott Grove, also known as The Grove, is a significant historical and natural site in Glenview, Illinois. Spanning 123 acres, the area includes prairie and wooded lands, providing a diverse range of habitats for local wildlife. The site is also home to the residence of the Kennicott family, including John Kennicott, an agriculturalist and doctor, and his son Robert, a renowned naturalist and explorer. The Grove offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

Phillips Park Zoo, situated in Aurora, Illinois, United States, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1915. The zoo is open year-round and does not charge an admission fee, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. Over the years, the zoo has evolved from housing exotic animals to focusing on native species, reflecting the changing trends in animal conservation and public interest.

The Pettengill–Morron House, also known as Morron House, is a historic mansion located in the city of Peoria, Illinois. The house was originally built in 1868 for Moses Pettengill, a hardware store owner who relocated to Peoria from New Hampshire in 1833. This mansion stands as a testament to the city's rich history and the lives of its early settlers.

The Judge John C. Flanagan Residence, located in Peoria, Illinois, is a historic house that has been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. Today, it is operated as a museum by the Peoria Historical Society, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Pierre Menard House in Ellis Grove, Illinois, is a significant historical site as it was the residence of Pierre Menard, who served as the first lieutenant governor of Illinois from 1818 to 1822. This house provides a glimpse into the life and times of an important figure in Illinois' early political history.

The Bryant Cottage State Historic Site, located in Bement, Illinois, is a simple four-room house that was built in 1856. It is preserved by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources as an example of Piatt County, Illinois pioneer architecture. The site is also significant for its role in the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas debates, making it a key historic site for those interested in American history.