Many travellers think Chicago is Illinois’ capital. Tell us what agents should know about the actual capital, Springfield?
While many people think of Chicago when Illinois is mentioned, Springfield is the state’s true capital — a city rich in presidential history and classic Americana.
Best known as the home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield gives travellers the chance to explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site — the only home he ever owned — and pay their respects at the Lincoln Tomb, where visitors continue the long-standing tradition of rubbing the bronze statue’s nose for good luck.
Visitors can also check out the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln’s political career rose to national prominence. And then more than a century later, Barack Obama announced his candidacy for President of the United States at the Old State Capitol. These Springfield sites offer a powerful and immersive presidential experience.
Beyond its Lincoln legacy, visitors can tour the impressive Illinois State Capitol and the Dana Thomas House — Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie-style masterpiece that is celebrated for its intricate art-glass and custom-designed interiors.
Springfield also proudly embraces its U.S. Route 66 heritage. Travellers can catch a film under the stars at the Route 66 Drive-In, browse classic memorabilia and vintage vehicles at the Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill and Museum, and snap colourful photos at the Route 66 Neon Park, where restored and replica neon signs celebrate the golden age of the Mother Road.
No visit is complete without stopping at the iconic Cozy Dog Drive In — credited as the birthplace of the cozy dog — and sampling Springfield’s signature comfort food, the horseshoe, a hearty open-faced sandwich topped with fries and rich cheese sauce. In autumn, visitors can also experience the lively Route 66 Mother Road Festival.
Full of character and rich in history, Springfield is an essential stop on any Illinois itinerary. Whether paired with Chicago, woven into a classic Route 66 road trip or combined with other nearby attractions, the city offers travellers a unique blend of presidential history, authentic Americana, and nostalgic roadside charm.
What are some of the other regions of the state travellers should visit and why?
Illinois offers an incredibly diverse mix of outdoor adventure, historic towns and scenic road trips, making it ideal for travellers eager to explore beyond the city skyline.
Nature lovers can discover more than 60 state parks, 2,900 lakes and seven national scenic byways across the state. Starved Rock State Park is renowned for its dramatic canyons and waterfalls, while Galena features rolling hills and the chance to experience hot air balloon rides with panoramic views. Along the Mississippi River, the Great River Road showcases classic Americana scenery, charming river towns, and unforgettable sunsets.
For wellness and slower-travel experiences, Anderson Japanese Gardens provides a tranquil escape, while Illinois’ certified Dark Sky Places and Trails offer exceptional stargazing opportunities, so perfect for outdoor explorers.
Illinois is also home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Unity Temple and Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio — highlighting the state’s rich cultural and historical significance.
Chicago remains a great gateway spot for many visitors, renowned for its iconic skyline, world-class museums, shopping, Michelin-starred dining and 77 vibrant neighbourhoods.
Beyond its urban hub, Illinois is full of authentic small-town character, outdoor adventure and open landscapes, offering travel agents the opportunity to craft itineraries that balance city energy with history, culture and natural beauty.
How does Illinois offer value for money compared with other U.S. destinations?
Illinois delivers exceptional value for money, with experiences to suit every budget, from affordable road trips and free cultural attractions to luxury city stays and fine dining.
In Chicago, visitors can enjoy landmarks such as Millennium Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, North Avenue Beach, and the National Museum of Mexican Art completely free. The city also hosts world-class music festivals, including the Chicago Blues Festival, the Millennium Park Summer Music Series and other free cultural events year-round.
Beyond the city, historic towns such as Galena, Joliet and Alton offer charming and affordable escapes where travellers can stroll picturesque streets, explore Civil War-era sites and Victorian districts, and soak up authentic small-town character.
Illinois’ state parks are free for general day-use, allowing visitors to hike the dramatic canyons of Starved Rock State Park or explore the striking rock formations and trails of Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest without paying an admission fee (some parks may charge for parking or specific activities).
For those exploring Route 66 during its centennial year, Illinois’ stretch of the Mother Road covers over 300 miles and more than 66 classic stops, including the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, the Historic Ambler-Becker Gas Station in Dwight, Pontiac’s legendary murals, the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville and Mount Olive’s historic Soulsby Service Station — offering free and quirky roadside attractions perfect for photos and nostalgic Americana experiences.
Whether travellers are planning a city break, a classic American road trip or a budget-friendly outdoor adventure, Illinois combines flexibility, accessibility and memorable experiences at every price point, making it a highly value-packed U.S. destination.
Are you seeing increased interest in specific niches such as Route 66, food tourism, music, sports or outdoor experiences?
We’re seeing strong growth across several niche travel interests, with road trips leading the way as Route 66 celebrates its 100th birthday. UK tour operators are increasingly building itineraries around this milestone event, reflecting sustained demand for classic American road trips beyond major gateway cities.
Illinois also has a substantial number of Frank Lloyd Wright sites open to visitors. The state’s Frank Lloyd Wright Trail features 13 Wright-designed buildings that are open to the public for tours or visits.
Interest goes beyond Route 66. Scenic self-drive itineraries along the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River through charming towns and dramatic bluffs, and the historic Lincoln Highway offer travellers a slower, authentic way to experience Illinois’ landscapes, heritage and small-town hospitality.
Culinary tourism continues to shine. Chicago’s Michelin-starred dining remains a major draw, while downstate destinations offer farm-to-table experiences and iconic roadside diners showcasing Midwestern comfort cuisine. Outdoor tourism is also on the rise, with visitors eager to explore Illinois’ state parks, scenic byways, and certified Dark Sky Places for stargazing.
Together, these trends highlight Illinois’ versatility, from legendary road trips and world-class dining to immersive outdoor adventures and architectural treasures, giving travellers endless ways to create their perfect itinerary.
What tips do you have for agents that will assist them in selling Illinois?
It’s great to see agents enthusiastically showcasing Illinois to UK travellers.
While Chicago is a natural starting point, adding a night or two in Chicagoland suburbs such as Oak Brook or Oak Park, or other destinations like Springfield, Galena, Alton or Joliet, lets visitors explore Lincoln’s legacy, admire Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, enjoy Route 66 nostalgia or soak up small-town charm, turning a short trip into a richer experience.
Without venturing beyond the city, travellers can miss much of Illinois’ history, landscapes and character.
Agents can also highlight Illinois’ wide range of experiences. From outdoor adventures and wellness escapes to historic river towns and world-class cultural attractions, there are opportunities to craft personalised, multi-stop itineraries that appeal to many interests.
Finally, agents can reassure clients that travel logistics are simple. Drive times between key destinations are short and manageable, making it easy to combine city energy with scenic road trips, historic towns, and open landscapes for a seamless, memorable journey.
What’s new for 2026?
2026 is a milestone year for Illinois, featuring celebrations, openings and unique experiences, including the Route 66 centennial with major events such as the Red-Carpet Corridor in May, The Great Race in June and the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival in September.
The Illinois America 250 celebrations mark the nation’s 250th anniversary, featuring events such as the Rockford Symphony America 250 Concert, Chicago’s UNESCO International Jazz Day 2026 and the year-long exhibit The Promise of Liberty. The Passport to Illinois encourages visitors to explore historic sites, museums and monuments across the state.
New openings this year include the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, Sports Illustrated Resort, Bally’s Flagship Casino and the Treehouses at Starved Rock. Several historic Route 66 motels, including The Bel-Air Motel, The State House Inn, and The Hotel Bellevue, have also been renovated, offering classic Americana experiences for road trippers.
Anything else you’d like to mention?
Illinois can be seamlessly built into multi-stop itineraries, offering experiences for a wide range of interests.
Whether travellers are drawn to architecture, history, music, adventur, or nostalgic Americana, the state has something to engage every type of visitor.
Over 160 curated itineraries on EnjoyIllinois.com inspire travellers of all kinds — including LGBTQ+ visitors, families, couples, and multicultural audiences — showcasing the state’s diversity, from city highlights and historic towns to scenic road trips and outdoor adventures.
Together, these experiences create an unforgettable trip, often surprising visitors with how much Illinois has to offer beyond Chicago.
With 2026 being a milestone year, it’s the perfect time for travellers to discover a side of the state they may never have considered.
