All free museums and attractions to visit in Illinois

Illinois (United States) has a lot to offer for you culturally, even if you're on a budget, including free museums, free activities and free attractions. 129 museums and attractions in Illinois can be visited without charge.

Are you looking for free things to do in Illinois? These are the best places to visit:

  1. Lincoln Park Conservatory1

    Lincoln Park Conservatory

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  2. Lincoln Park Zoo2

    Lincoln Park Zoo

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  3. The Museum of Contemporary Photography3

    The Museum of Contemporary Photography

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  4. Chicago Cultural Center4

    Chicago Cultural Center

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  5. Jane Addams Hull-house Museum5

    Jane Addams Hull-house Museum

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  6. Arts Club of Chicago6

    Arts Club of Chicago

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  7. National Museum of Mexican Art7

    National Museum of Mexican Art

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  8. Lincoln Home National Historic Site8

    Lincoln Home National Historic Site

     Springfield, IL
    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.
  9. Garfield Park Conservatory9

    Garfield Park Conservatory

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  10. Apple River Fort State Historic Site10

    Apple River Fort State Historic Site

     Elizabeth, IL
    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.
  11. Smart Museum of Art11

    Smart Museum of Art

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  12. Dana–Thomas House12

    Dana–Thomas House

     Springfield, IL
    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.
  13. Dana Thomas House13

    Dana Thomas House

     Springfield, IL
    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.
  14. Oak Park Conservatory14

    Oak Park Conservatory

     Oak Park, IL
    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.
  15. 15

    Busy Beaver Button Museum

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  16. Old State Capitol16

    Old State Capitol

     Springfield, IL
    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.
  17. Lilacia Park17

    Lilacia Park

     Lombard, IL
    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.
  18. Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center18

    Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center

     Springfield, IL
    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.
  19. Design Museum of Chicago19

    Design Museum of Chicago

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  20. Illinois Governor's Mansion20

    Illinois Governor's Mansion

     Springfield, IL
    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.
  21. National Museum of the American Sailor21

    National Museum of the American Sailor

     Great Lakes, IL
    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.
  22. The Jones House22

    The Jones House

     Pontiac, IL
    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.
  23. University of Illinois Arboretum23

    University of Illinois Arboretum

     Urbana, IL
    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.
  24. The Renaissance Society24

    The Renaissance Society

     Chicago, IL
    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.
  25. Gregg House Museum25

    Gregg House Museum

     Westmont, IL
    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.
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    Route 66 Association of Illinois

     Pontiac, IL
    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!
  27. Amboy Depot Museum27

    Amboy Depot Museum

     Amboy, IL
    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.
  28. Luthy Botanical Garden28

    Luthy Botanical Garden

     Peoria, IL
    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.
  29. Starhill Forest Arboretum29

    Starhill Forest Arboretum

     Petersburg, IL
    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.
  30. Old Cahokia Courthouse30

    Old Cahokia Courthouse

     Cahokia, IL
    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.
  31. The Grove31

    The Grove

     Glenview, IL
    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.
  32. Phillips Park Zoo32

    Phillips Park Zoo

     Aurora, IL
    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.
  33. Pettengill Morron House33

    Pettengill Morron House

     Peoria, IL
    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.
  34. Bryant Cottage State Historic Site34

    Bryant Cottage State Historic Site

     Bement, IL
    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.
  35. Krannert Art Museum35

    Krannert Art Museum

     Champaign, IL
    The Krannert Art Museum, also known as KAM, is a fine art museum situated at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in Champaign, Illinois, United States. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a wide range of art from different periods and regions.
  36. Spurlock Museum36

    Spurlock Museum

     Urbana, IL
    The Spurlock Museum, located at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, is an ethnographic museum. It houses a vast collection of cultural artifacts from various parts of the world, making it a significant destination for those interested in global cultures and history.
  37. Pleasant Home37

    Pleasant Home

     Oak Park, IL
    Pleasant Home, also known as the John Farson House, is a historic home located in the Chicago suburb of Oak Park, Illinois. This large, Prairie style mansion was designed by the renowned architect George Washington Maher and was completed in 1897. The house is a significant example of early Prairie style architecture and is considered the finest surviving example of Maher's work.
  38. Mount Pulaski Courthouse38

    Mount Pulaski Courthouse

     Mt Pulaski, IL
    The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency operates the courthouse as a state historic site. Visitors to the site can enjoy guided tours, which include a look at the recreated county offices and courtroom. This offers a unique opportunity to experience the courthouse as it would have been during its operational years.
  39. Adler Arts Center39

    Adler Arts Center

     Libertyville, IL
    The David Adler Estate, located in Libertyville, Illinois, was once the home of renowned American architect David Adler. Today, it operates as the David Adler Music and Arts Center, offering a unique insight into Adler's life and work. Visitors can explore the estate, which is closely associated with Adler's career, and participate in various cultural and artistic activities.
  40. Washington Park40

    Washington Park

     Springfield, IL
    Washington Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The park features walking trails for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. It also houses a botanical garden and a large duck pond, providing a serene environment for nature lovers. The rose garden is a sight to behold, especially when the flowers are in full bloom. The park also features a carillon and hosts carillon concerts, adding a musical element to the park's offerings.
  41. Ryan’s Round Barn41

    Ryan’s Round Barn

     Kewanee, IL
    The Ryan Round Barn is a significant historical site located approximately six miles north of Kewanee, Illinois, within the Johnson-Sauk Trail State Park. This location offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Illinois' agricultural history in a beautiful natural setting.
  42. Allerton – Park & Retreat Center42

    Allerton – Park & Retreat Center

     Monticello, IL
    Robert Allerton Park, located in Willow Branch Township, Illinois, near Monticello, is a unique combination of a botanical garden, arboretum, preserved natural area, and conference center. This expansive park was designed and built by industrial heir, artist, art collector, and garden designer Robert Allerton and his adopted son John Gregg Allerton. The park was donated to the University of Illinois in 1946 and has since been a popular destination for nature lovers and art enthusiasts.
  43. First Division Museum43

    First Division Museum

     Winfield, IL
    A military history museum displaying many artifacts connected with First Division's service in World War I and World War II.
  44. John C. Anderson House44

    John C. Anderson House

     Comer, IL
    The John C. Anderson House is a historic site located at 920 W. Breckenridge St. in Carlinville, Illinois. This location is easily accessible and provides a glimpse into the architectural styles of the late 19th century. The house stands as a testament to the rich history of the area and offers an opportunity for visitors to step back in time.
  45. Carl Sandburg State Historic Site45

    Carl Sandburg State Historic Site

     Galesburg, IL
    The Carl Sandburg State Historic Site is a significant location as it is the birthplace and childhood home of renowned author Carl Sandburg. Situated in Galesburg, Illinois, this site offers visitors a glimpse into the early life of the author and the environment that shaped his literary career.
  46. National Museum of the American Sailor46

    National Museum of the American Sailor

     North Chicago, IL
    The National Museum of the American Sailor houses over 40,000 artifacts and records, providing an invaluable record of the U.S. Navy. The collection includes naval uniforms and accessories from the early 1900s to the present, and the country's largest archive of boot camp-related photographs, narrating the story of the American Sailor in the United States Navy.
  47. Bishop Hill State Historic Site47

    Bishop Hill State Historic Site

     Bishop Hill, IL
    The Bishop Hill State Historic Site is an open-air museum situated in Henry County, Illinois. It is conveniently located approximately 2 miles north of U.S. Route 34 in the town of Bishop Hill. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling by road.
  48. Union Depot Railroad Museum48

    Union Depot Railroad Museum

     Mendota, IL
    The Mendota station, located at 783 Main Street, Mendota, Illinois, serves as an Amtrak intercity train station. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient starting point for your visit to the Union Depot Railroad Museum.
  49. Lewis and Clark State Historic Site49

    Lewis and Clark State Historic Site

     Hartford, IL
    Located in Hartford, Illinois, the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site commemorates Camp River Dubois. This was the camp of the Lewis and Clark Expedition from December 1803 to May 1804. The site provides a glimpse into the historical journey of Lewis and Clark.
  50. John Deere Pavilion50

    John Deere Pavilion

     Moline, IL
    The John Deere Pavilion, located in Moline, Illinois, is both an attraction and a museum. It was opened in 1997 as part of an urban renewal project. This location offers a unique insight into the history and development of John Deere, a renowned agricultural machinery company.
  51. Illinois State Museum51

    Illinois State Museum

     Springfield, IL
    The Illinois State Museum is a comprehensive showcase of the life, land, people, and art of the State of Illinois. The museum's focus is on the state's cultural and artistic heritage, providing visitors with a deep understanding of Illinois's history and its people. Exhibits range from natural history to local fossils and mining, household displays from different historic periods, dioramas of Native American life, archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, and a collection of glass paperweights.
  52. Clarke House Museum52

    Clarke House Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Clarke-Ford House, also known as the Henry B. and Caroline Clarke/Bishop Louis Henry and Margaret Ford House, is a Greek Revival style home that now serves as a house museum in Chicago, Illinois. This historic building offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style of the period and providing a unique perspective on the city's history.
  53. National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture53

    National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture

     Chicago, IL
    The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture, located in Chicago, is a unique institution dedicated to the interpretation and celebration of the arts and culture of the Puerto Rican people, as well as the Puerto Rican community in Chicago. The museum offers a rich insight into the vibrant Puerto Rican culture, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in cultural exploration.
  54. Colonel Palmer House54

    Colonel Palmer House

     Crystal Lake, IL
    The Col. Gustavus A. Palmer House, located in Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a historic residence that dates back to 1858. It was constructed by Andrew Jackson Simon, a local stonemason and architect. The house stands as a testament to the architectural styles of the time and offers a glimpse into the past.
  55. J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator & Museum55

    J.H. Hawes Grain Elevator & Museum

     Atlanta, IL
    The J. H. Hawes Elevator, a historic grain elevator, is situated on 2nd Street in Atlanta, Illinois. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the agricultural practices of the past. Visitors can explore this historic site and learn about its role in the local farming community.
  56. Elijah Iles House56

    Elijah Iles House

     Springfield, IL
    The Elijah Iles House, located at 628 S. 7th Street in Springfield, Illinois, is a historic structure that has stood the test of time. Constructed around 1837, the house has remained largely intact for over 182 years, making it the oldest of its kind in Springfield.
  57. William Tanner House Museum57

    William Tanner House Museum

     Aurora, IL
    The William Tanner House Museum, located in Aurora, Illinois, is a historic residence that was built in 1857. It was constructed for William A. Tanner, who was a hardware merchant. This museum offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle and architecture of the Victorian period.
  58. Rockford Art Museum58

    Rockford Art Museum

     Rockford, IL
  59. Rock Island Arsenal Museum59

    Rock Island Arsenal Museum

     Rock Island, IL
    The Rock Island Arsenal is a significant historical and military site located on Arsenal Island, originally known as Rock Island. It spans 946 acres and is situated on the Mississippi River between the cities of Davenport, Iowa, and Rock Island, Illinois. The Arsenal is within the state of Illinois, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore a key location in American military history.
  60. John Deere Historic Site60

    John Deere Historic Site

     Grand Detour, IL
    The John Deere House and Shop, located in the village of Grand Detour, Illinois, is a significant site in the history of American agriculture. It was here that John Deere invented the first steel plow in 1837, a development that revolutionized farming practices. Visitors to the site can explore Deere's house, a replica of his original blacksmith shop, and an archaeological exhibit showing the excavation site of his original blacksmith shop.
  61. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site61

    Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site

     Petersburg, IL
    Lincoln’s New Salem is an open-air museum located in Menard County, Illinois. This historic site is dedicated to the memory of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. The museum was established in the 1930s as a reconstruction of the abandoned prairie town of New Salem, where Lincoln spent his early adult years. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience the environment that shaped one of the most influential figures in American history.
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    Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center

     Litchfield, IL
  63. Champaign County History Museum63

    Champaign County History Museum

     Champaign, IL
    The Cattle Bank, situated at 102 E. University Ave. in Champaign, Illinois, holds the distinction of being the oldest documented commercial structure in the city. Constructed in 1858, this historic building has witnessed the city's growth and transformation over the years. It initially served as a branch of the Grand Prairie Bank of Urbana, Illinois, providing banking and loan services to local cattlemen. Today, it houses the Champaign County History Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
  64. Dupage County Historical Museum64

    Dupage County Historical Museum

     Wheaton, IL
    The DuPage County Historical Museum, which was previously known as the Adams Memorial Library, is a significant landmark in Wheaton, Illinois. The building was designed by the renowned architect Charles Sumner Frost. This museum is not only a place to explore the rich history of DuPage County but also an architectural marvel in itself, showcasing the brilliance of Frost's design.
  65. National Shrine and Museum of St. Therese65

    National Shrine and Museum of St. Therese

     Darien, IL
    The National Shrine & Museum of St. Therese, located in Darien, Illinois, is a Roman Catholic shrine dedicated to St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face. This shrine is part of the Aylesford Carmelite campus and is run by the Carmelite Order, Province of the Most Pure Heart of Mary. It is supported and served by the Society of the Little Flower, a religious organization dedicated to promoting devotion to St. Therese of Lisieux.
  66. Carthage Jail - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints66

    Carthage Jail - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

     Carthage, IL
    Carthage Jail is a significant historical site located in Carthage, Illinois. It is recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), which is a testament to its historical importance and preservation. The jail is known for its historical events and architectural design, making it a point of interest for tourists.
  67. Villa Park Historical Society67

    Villa Park Historical Society

     Villa Park, IL
    The Villa Avenue Train Station, which is one of two former Chicago Aurora and Elgin Railroad (CA&E) stations in Villa Park, Illinois, now serves as the home of the Villa Park Historical Society Museum. This historic building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, is a testament to the rich history of the area. It was built between August and November 1929, replacing two smaller waiting rooms on the east side of Villa Park. The station was a hub of activity, serving passengers and functioning as an office for the Western United Gas and Electric Company.
  68. Abraham Lincoln Long Nine Museum68

    Abraham Lincoln Long Nine Museum

     Athens, IL
    The Abraham Lincoln Long Nine Museum, also known as the Col. Matthew Rogers Building, is a historic site located at 200 S. Main St. in Athens, Illinois. This building holds significant historical value and is a key location for those interested in the life and times of Abraham Lincoln.
  69. Boone County Museum of History69

    Boone County Museum of History

     Belvidere, IL
  70. Dickson Mounds Museum70

    Dickson Mounds Museum

     Lewistown, IL
    Dickson Mounds, located near Lewistown, Illinois, is a significant Native American settlement site and burial mound complex. It is situated on a low bluff overlooking the scenic Illinois River. This site offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the Native American communities that once inhabited this region.
  71. 71

    Cedarhurst Center for the Arts

     Mt Vernon, IL
    The Cedarhurst Center for the Arts is a comprehensive visual and performing arts institution situated in Mount Vernon, Illinois. The center is spread over an expansive 80-acre campus, providing ample space for a variety of artistic and cultural activities. Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in a diverse range of art forms and performances, all within the confines of this vast and vibrant campus.
  72. 72

    Sousa Archives and Center for American Music

     Champaign, IL
    The Sousa Archives and Center for American Music is located in the Harding Band Building on the campus of the University of Illinois. It operates as a museum, offering annual rotating exhibits on various themes such as Baseball and Music, Women and Music, and Technology and Music. These exhibits provide a unique insight into the intersection of music with various aspects of American culture and history.
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    Illinois Fire Museum

     Springfield, IL
  74. 74

    Il State Museum Research and Collections Center

     Springfield, IL
  75. 75

    Morrison's Heritage Museum

     Morrison, IL
  76. 76

    National Veterans Art Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The National Veterans Art Museum, previously known as the National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum, is situated at 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue in the Six Corners neighborhood of Chicago. This museum is dedicated to showcasing and studying art created by veterans from the Vietnam War and other wars and conflicts.
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    Washington Park Botanical Garden

     Springfield, IL
  78. 78

    Raupp Museum

     Buffalo Grove, IL
    The Raupp Memorial Museum is a significant institution that documents the social history of Buffalo Grove, Illinois. It is a part of the Buffalo Grove Park District and has been recognized by the Illinois Association of Museums for its contributions. The museum offers a unique insight into the evolution of Buffalo Grove, making it a valuable destination for those interested in understanding the area's past.
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    Marion E. Wade Center

     Wheaton, IL
    The Marion E. Wade Center, located at Wheaton College in Illinois, is a unique research collection that primarily focuses on seven authors from the United Kingdom. These authors include C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, G. K. Chesterton, Dorothy L. Sayers, Charles Williams, Owen Barfield, and George MacDonald. The collection also includes works from C. S. Lewis's wife, the poet Joy Davidman. This center serves as a significant resource for scholars worldwide, offering a comprehensive collection of papers, books, and manuscripts related to these authors.
  80. 80

    Standish Park Arboretum

     Galesburg, IL
    Standish Park Arboretum is a sizable park situated in the heart of Downtown Galesburg, Illinois. Its location is conveniently close to Knox College, making it easily accessible for visitors. The park spans 3.3 acres, providing ample space for leisurely strolls and exploration.
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    Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Museum

     Springfield, IL
  82. 82

    Lords Park Zoo

     Elgin, IL
  83. 83

    Governor Oglesby Mansion

     Decatur, IL
    House of the former U.S. senator, general in Civil War and three times governor of Illinois. Precious example of living at that time.
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    Air Classics Museum

     Sugar Grove, IL
  85. 85

    Isle a la Cache Museum

     Romeoville, IL
    The Isle a la Cache Museum is located on an island in the Des Plaines River and is operated by the Forest Preserve District of Will County. This free-standing museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while learning about its rich history.
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    Illinois State Military Museum

     Springfield, IL
  87. 87

    Depaul Art Museum

     Chicago, IL
  88. 88

    Edgewater Historical Society

     Chicago, IL
  89. 89

    Contemporary Art Center of Peoria

     Peoria, IL
    Cultural hub that brings together art galleries, musical performances, poetry readings, yoga classes and other entertainment services.
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    All Wars Museum

     Quincy, IL
  91. 91

    Elmhurst History Museum

     Elmhurst, IL
  92. 92

    Downers Grove Museum

     Downers Grove, IL
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    Windmill Cultural Center

     Fulton, IL
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    Heritage Canyon

     Fulton, IL
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    American Toby Jug Museum

     Evanston, IL
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    Illinois and Michigan Canal Museum

     Lockport, IL
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    The Kinder House

     Des Plaines, IL
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    Des Plaines History Center

     Des Plaines, IL
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    Museum of the Grand Prairie

     Mahomet, IL
    The Museum of the Grand Prairie is a recognized institution, located in the scenic Lake of the Woods park district in Mahomet, Illinois. It holds accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, a testament to its commitment to maintaining high standards in its operations and exhibits. This information is crucial for tourists who value visiting reputable and recognized institutions during their travels.
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    Collinsville Museum

     Collinsville, IL
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    Cahokia Mounds Interpretive Center

     Collinsville, IL
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    Family Living Center - Nauvoo Historic Sites

     Nauvoo, IL
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    Darien Historical Society

     Darien, IL
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    Dundee Township Historical Society

     West Dundee, IL
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    Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum

     Carthage, IL
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    Western Illinois Museum

     Macomb, IL
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    Cedarhurst Center for the Arts

     Mount Vernon, IL
  108. 108

    Niles Historical and Cultural Center

     Niles, IL
  109. 109

    Lake Bluff History Museum

     Lake Bluff, IL
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    Wilmette Historical Museum

     Wilmette, IL
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    Winslow Historical Society and Museum

     Winslow, IL
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    Funk Prairie Home Museum

     Funks Grove, IL
    Fossils, petrified wood and early Native American artifacts on famous Route 66. Book in advance!
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    Trailside Museum of Natural History

     River Forest, IL
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    Centralia Historical Society

     Centralia, IL
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    Illinois Coal Museum at Gillespie

     Gillespie, IL
  116. 116

    Riverside Historical Museum

     Riverside, IL
  117. 117

    Museum At Lisle Station Park

     Lisle, IL
  118. 118

    Center for American Archeology

     Kampsville, IL
    The pre-Columbian period is a significant era in American history, marking the time before the European discovery of the American continent by Christopher Columbus in 1492. This period is characterized by the existence and development of indigenous civilizations, some of which had already disappeared by the time the first permanent European visitors arrived. The term 'pre-Columbian' is often used to refer to the major Native American cultures of Meso-America and the Andean civilizations.
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    Carterville Heritage Museum

     Carterville, IL
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    Bushnell Wheeler Home

     South Beloit, IL
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    University Museum

     Carbondale, IL
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    Grayslake Historical Society

     Grayslake, IL
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    Plato Park and Depot

     Plato Township, IL
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    Douglas County Museum

     Tuscola, IL
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    Tinley Park Historical Society

     Tinley Park, IL
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    Haines House Museum - Waukegan Historical Society

     Waukegan, IL
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    Fayette County Museum

     Vandalia, IL
    The Fayette County Museum, formerly known as the First Presbyterian Church, is situated at 301 W. Main St. in Vandalia, Illinois. This historic site offers a unique blend of religious and local history, making it an interesting stop for tourists exploring the area.
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    Union County, IL Historical and Genealogy Society & Museum

     Cobden, IL
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    Homer Lake Interpretive Center

     Homer, IL