23 Vacation Spots in ILLINOIS (Unique, Cool, & Memorable)
On August 28, 2019, the Washington Post called all of America out, especially the labor pool, when they published their article titled ‘What does America have against vacation?’
For those who didn’t get the chance to read this article, the major takeaways are that America doesn’t seem to be a vacation nation, and workers do not even use their paid vacation days to unwind and relax; instead, they do more work.
Perhaps this could happen because people do not know the best places to decompress and go wild.
If you are in Illinois and have this problem, use the recommendations in this article to craft your travel itinerary.
After this post, there is no excuse not to go out and enjoy your next time off.
You certainly deserve it!
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Family vacations in Illinois.
Vacation Spots in Naperville, Illinois
1. Hollywood Palms Cinema (Unique Movie Experience)
If you are familiar with Illinois, you will know that the state is well known for its many entertainment centers that support the theatre, exciting nightlife, and outdoor activities.
One such entertainment center is the Hollywood Palm Cinema in Naperville, Illinois.
There are so many features that set this cinema apart from others.
First, foodies would be happy to hear that they are not limited to the regular popcorn, hotdog, and soda refreshments available at other cinemas.
Guests here are treated to an elaborate menu featuring salads, chicken, fries, tacos, pizza, margaritas, and cocktails while enjoying the latest blockbusters.
Second, the motto here is big, bold, and beautiful, which means that you get to enjoy your movies on mega screens with a fully immersive sound experience.
This one is a memorable cinema experience with comfy seats and excellent food and is perfect for a night out with family or someone special.
Address: Hollywood Palms Cinema, 352 South Route 59, Naperville, IL, 60540.
2. iFly Indoor Skydiving (Safe Indoor Skydiving)
Are you an adventurous soul looking for a completely safe flight experience?
iFly Indoor Skydiving in Naperville allows you to float on a cushion of air safely, especially if you are not ‘brave’ enough to try jumping out of a plane.
Over here, you are allowed to choose safety and technology over risk and thrill and still get the same sensations.
iFly has about 37 locations worldwide, and Naperville folks are lucky to have one.
The team comprises well-trained instructors that ensure first-time and seasoned divers have a great experience.
This vacation experience would make for great stories, and it is as easy as visiting the Naperville location or booking a flight ticket from iFly’s website, so satisfy your adrenaline rush and fly big at this family-friendly wind tunnel.
Address: 1752 Freedom Dr, Naperville, IL 60563.
3. Riddle Box Escape Room (Challenging Escape Adventures)
Escape rooms have become popular in the United States, and Naperville has one to give adrenaline junkies a good time.
Riddle Box has three escape rooms: Old Tavern, Witch House, and Prison Escape.
Children as young as seven can participate in the action as the rooms have family-friendly themes.
You might, however, want to keep kids that get spooked quickly away from the Witch House.
There are plenty of challenges to overcome, and you can bow out when things become too overwhelming.
The best part about this experience is strategizing your escape with a team.
Unlock your own Jumanji and Maze Runner experience when you complete tasks, find clues and solve all the puzzles at the Riddle box escape room.
Address: 620B W 5th Ave, Naperville, IL 60563
4. DuPage Children’s Museum (Interactive Kids’ Play Zone)
The DuPage Museum has been in existence for 30 years now and was created to allow kids to have fun and, at the same time, learn loads of stuff.
In fact, it is more than a museum.
It is a world built for kids to enjoy exhibits, events, summer camps, and cafes.
Adults get plenty of opportunities and places to run wild in Naperville, so it’s great that the kids get this spot to themselves.
This is not to say that grownups cannot benefit from a bit of nostalgia here.
Kids are encouraged to learn new science, technology, engineering, art, and maths skills.
The DuPage Children’s Museum is a destination play zone if you travel to Naperville with kids.
Address: 301 N Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540, United States
Also see our article on Museums in Illinois.
Vacation Spots in Champaign, Illinois
1. U.I. Ice Arena (Premier Ice Skating Venue)
Champaign is genuinely magnificent in winter and is the perfect spot to enjoy ice skating.
The University of Illinois Ice Arena is the only ice rink in Champaign-Urbana and offers an ice cafe, shopping opportunities, and party areas.
Check out the Ice Arena calendar to see when you can have public skate sessions, drop-in hockey, and freestyle sessions during the week.
You can also take lessons if you want to master spins and lunges.
There are also special accommodations to ensure that persons with disabilities have the time of their life at this facility.
Plus, there is an Ice Centre cafe and Pro shop where you can find chilled drinks, food, and skating supplies.
When Champaign goes to Frost, make the most of the cool weather and head to the U.I. Ice Arena for an unforgettable skate sesh.
Address: 406 E Armory Ave, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
2. Sholem Aquatic Center (Award-Winning Aquatic Center)
Champaign may be a sophisticated city best known for its educational resources, culture, and love for the arts.
Still, it also has one of the first-rate aquatic centers in the country renowned, especially in terms of risk management.
In 2021, the Sholem Aquatic Centres was voted number one public pool in the News-Gazette People’s Choice.
They have also won several other awards because they are committed to exceeding the established criteria for safety in pools.
Because Champaign weather is primarily sweltering, it is no surprise that the local folks like to spend sunny days here.
The center has three pools and two slides suitable for swimming parties, club parties, and recreational swimming.
When in Champaign, do as the locals do and swim here.
Address: 2205 Sangamon Dr, Champaign, IL 61821, United States
3. State Farm Center (Versatile Sports & Entertainment)
Champaign has everything you need, whether looking for a place to admire and appreciate artworks or a priceless heritage site.
It is, therefore, no surprise that this city has one of the finest sports centers in Illinois.
State Farm Center is regarded as Illinois’s third-largest sports arena and has quickly become a go-to venue.
The center is a modern sports arena with a fun twist, especially at night.
There are Broadway shows, several university and community events, food, and beverages, so while daddy is off watching a basketball game with other crazy sports fans, the kids can watch live music shows and gorge on snacks.
All week there are women’s and men’s basketball games played, especially from the University of Illinois basketball team, the Fighting Illini.
Experience basketball and wrestling matches in style with big screens around the arena.
Address: State Farm Center, 1800 South 1st Street, Champaign, Illinois,61820.
4. The Virginia Theatre (Classic Theatre Experience)
Settle in between luxuriously cushioned seats and catch a moving recital.
Positioned at the corner of Park Avenue and Randolph Street, the Virginia Theatre promises an exclusive theatre experience.
Plus, there are celebrity appearances occasionally, and the theatre can even be rented out for corporate parties, wedding ceremonies, and fundraisers.
If you want to take a break from the real world and immerse yourself in theatre productions and events, head to The Virginia Theatre.
The theatre is open to all visitors, so long as you come with a ticket, you can also take a virtual tour and learn more about the history of this first-class institution.
Refrain from bothering about dress codes; the theatre accepts you as you are.
You should be more bothered about finding parking space, especially during crowded events.
Get your tickets booked today and go to the opera.
Address: 203 W Park Ave, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
Also see our article on Picnic Spots in Illinois.
Vacation Spots in Rockford, Illinois
1. Skateland Rocks! (Dynamic Skating Center)
Skateland is the joint to challenge your mates to skate off and show off your strength, balance, and speed.
This family-owned skating center in Rockford is accessible to the public, both young and old.
They have skateboarding rails, ramps, and ledges to allow experts to perform their tricks, grinds, spins, and concrete floors for skate amateurs.
It is a thriving skate scene teeming with youngsters in the most hipster outfits and people of all ages, backgrounds, social classes, and genders.
The skatepark has concession stands, so getting food and drinks is straightforward.
This spot would impress non-skateboarders as the wildest parties are held here, and many games will be played at their Arcade.
Address: 4843 Stenstrom Rd, Rockford, Il.
2. Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens (Botanical Beauty & Butterfly Lab)
The Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens is a big-ticket attraction that provides residents with a greenhouse and contributes to the ideal environment that our climate needs.
It’s the perfect spot to breathe in that rare precious fresh air.
Don’t miss your chance to be smitten by the hundreds of orchids in the tropical exhibit open in the summer.
Since butterflies are as to gardens as bread is to butter, butterflies are a package deal at this garden.
You can purchase tickets, preferably before your visit, to see these beautiful winged creatures at the butterfly lab and learn about their metamorphosis.
There is the Sinnissippi Station for the kids, where they can get railroad tours and the opportunity to build wooden railway sets.
See many flowers and plants and enjoy quiet strolls in this lush garden.
Address: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N 2nd ST, Rockford, IL, 61107.
3. Coronado Performing Arts Center (Historic Arts Venue)
Mapped out by self-taught architect Fredric J. Klein, this performing arts center can conveniently host 2,400 art lovers and is inspired by the Spanish-Moorish style.
Coronado Performing Arts Centre has existed for about 96 years and is truly a sight for sore eyes.
About 80,000 people come worldwide to see live shows and play at this performing hall.
Its large performing stage has also seen the likes of Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and other notable individuals in the show biz.
The venue is designed with the audience in mind; the lighting, sound, and special effects all combine to promote intimacy between theatergoers and the performers.
Visit and take the opportunity to enjoy concerts, family shows, and comedies!
Address: 314 N Main St. Rockford, IL 61101, United States
4. Rockford City Market (Lively Community Market)
Local vendors, food carts, live music, and handicrafts make up the Rockford City Market.
The outdoor city market, which started as a small farmers market, has been operating since June 21, 2010, and is the Rock River Development Partnership initiative.
There is a Friday and Saturday market, indoor markets, and pop-ups during the holiday season, especially winter and spring, so you’re sure to satisfy your inner shopaholic here.
Pick up fresh food products, flowers, drinks, and craft works at this community market.
Fun year-round events include Winter, Vintage, and Flash retail.
Expect a crowd of holiday goers at this venue, it is the ideal morning pleasure trip, but you might want to take a guided tour as things could get stressful.
Address: 116 N Madison St, Rockford, IL 61107, United States
Also see our article on Aquariums in Illinois.
Vacation Spots in Bloomington, Illinois
1. Miller Park Zoo (Conservation-Focused Zoo)
A figurehead in species conservation, the Miller Park Zoo is managed by the Parks and Recreation Department of the city of Bloomington.
The park has existed for over 130 years and is the place to see all the rare and endangered species like the red pandas, bald eagles, red-ruffed lemur, Sumatran tiger, and many others.
At the zoo, you can see the unusual flamingos turning their heads upside down to eat, watch the reindeer put on an act, and watch snow leopards thrive in their habitat.
Although the zoo is small, it has the cutest bevy of small animals that children will enjoy coming up close with.
Stand face-to-face with these exotic animals when you book a tour at affordable prices.
Address: 1020 S Morris Ave, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
2. Grossinger Motors Arena (Versatile Sports & Events)
If you are a basketball, football, or hockey fan, you will be thrilled that the Grossinger Motors Arena is Bloominghton’s top choice for sporting events.
This particular sports arena is located on Saint Madison Street.
It was initially known as the U.S. Cellular Coliseum and could hold up to 8,000 persons.
A considerable amount of money has gone into ensuring visitors have the best memories here, so there are concerts, ice capades, formula one car racing, and other live shows.
There are accommodations to ensure persons with disabilities have a comfortable experience at the venue.
Luxurious seats and unique suites are also available for people who want them and have the money to fund them.
The Grossinger Motors Arena is the home stadium of the Illinois State University Redbird hockey club, Bloomington Thunder, Central Illinois Flying Aces, and other local clubs.
Address: 101 S Madison St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
3. Bloomington Ice Center (Community Ice Skating)
Often considered one of Bloominghton’s impressive recreational facilities, this ice center promises thrilling skating escapades and is the best spot for skating get-togethers.
This public ice skating facility opened in 1970 with just one rink and has since grown to a 31,500-square-foot community with three rinks used for activities such as open skate bouts and hockey lessons.
Skating accessories are available for rent at the venue, and there are places to get food.
Ice skaters of all proficiency levels would find a community here, and the atmosphere here also makes for the best winter holiday memories.
If you have been stressing over where to take that special someone, this location is the perfect romantic spot, especially at night.
After this post, you will find yourself to blame if you skate at any venue less picturesque.
Address: 201 S Roosevelt Ave, Bloomington, IL, 61701.
Also see our article on Skiing in Illinois.
Vacation Spots in Elgin, Illinois
1. Fox Valley Shooting Range (Inclusive Shooting Range)
This shooting range gets accolades, primarily because of the special care it takes towards ensuring that everyone feels welcome; ladies who do not like to frequent gun ranges because of discomfort, fear, or lack of experience will be able to put all these worries to rest once they visit this facility.
The owner, Mark Glavin, has attended several seminars and training to ensure his facility is up to standards, so it is the ideal place for beginners to learn and sharpen their skills.
Fox Valley shooting range offers all of the services you would expect from a standard gun range, including accessible shooting and training stations, plus modern restrooms.
While guests can bring their firearms unloaded and in a secure case, ammunition is on the ground for sale and renting purposes.
Address: 780 S Mclean Blvd, Elgin 60123, United States
2. Martini Room (Chic Cocktail Lounge)
Martini Room is the apparent option for a relaxed evening hangout in Elgin.
And a romantic one at that.
This Chicago-style barroom in downtown Elgin has a dreamy atmosphere and is the prime setting for heartfelt conversations.
Their cocktail bar menu provides everything from martinis and vodkas to beer and wine.
This is the place to quaff down pint after pint of beautifully crafted cocktails; they even won the ‘2015 Best Martini in the Suburbs Challenge’ organized by Absolut Vodka and Daily Herald Newspaper.
Plus, it is not one of those overly crowded and loud bars; there is no better place to get loose in Elgin on a fantastic breezy night.
With a regular lineup of musical acts by local artists and even drag shows, Martini attracts big spenders looking for a good time.
Address: 161 East Chicago Street, Elgin, Il, 60120
3. The Highlands of Elgin Golf Course (Scenic Golfing Haven)
Located some hours west of downtown Chicago, this 18-hole golf course, with the added perk of simulators and a tavern designed by Keith R. Foster, promises a variety of challenges for golfers and is within your price range.
It capitalizes on its quirky topography and twelve-acre quarry lake to create an exciting Illinois golfing adventure.
Set within a prairie background with fairways and undulating fields, it is a magnificent spot for those who want to play refined yet challenging games.
There is also a standard training facility with passionate golf instructors, hitting stations, a short game area, and a putting green.
Whether you are a club pro, tour pro, or complete beginner, this award-winning golf course is the venue for memorable golf matches plus incredible views.
Address: 875 Sports Way, Elgin, Il 60123, United States
4. Escapade 360 (Thrilling Escape Room Challenges)
Are you an escape room junkie in Illinois, looking for something new and keen for a challenge?
Do not fret; check out Escape 360, 35 miles west of Chicago.
The puzzles and riddles you and your team will have to solve to escape their rooms are complex.
You must channel your best observation, problem-solving, and creative skills to make it out unscathed.
Escapade 360 is one of the best escape rooms in Illinois with four themed rooms, namely The DaVinci Experience, The Sherlock Experience, The Candy Factory, and Save Santa.
Overall, it is the perfect place to have those spine-chilling experiences you so desperately crave, and even kids above 12 can join in the fun.
Address: 77, South Riverside Drive, Suite 300, Elgin, Il, 60120, United States
Also see our article on Cheap Weekend Getaways in Illinois.
Vacation Spots in Joliet, Illinois
1. Chicagoland Speedway (Adrenaline-Fueled Racing)
A famed raceway with immense car racing history, Chicagoland measures 2.4km long and has various corners.
It includes a variety of daunting turns and thrilling straights, and events such as the SuperMotorcross World Championships, making this a must-see haven for formula one racing fans.
The racetrack has been active since 2001 and has hosted the NASCAR Cup and the IndyCar series.
Chicagoland Speedway has been the set of many exciting moments, for instance, that one time Kyle Busch shot past Kyle Larson in the final lap of the Overton 400 in 2018 just in time to clinch his fifth Monster Energy NASCAR Cup.
Battles here run on for back-to-back corners, and fans from all over flock to Joliet to witness contests of speed.
Address: 500 Speedway Blvd, Joliet, IL 60433, United States
2. Rialto Square Theatre (Grand Performing Arts Venue)
Rialto has been a staple in Elgin’s arts scenes for nearly a century.
It was initially intended to be a vaudeville theatre but is now a nostalgic concert, live show, and standup comedy venue.
This glittering scagliola columned state-of-the-art building is an ode to the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine style and was designed by C.W. and George Rapp.
The vibrant, friendly atmosphere plus affordable drinks consistently attract the indie crowd looking for fresh brew and music.
A sophisticated venue, the theatre has been severally nominated for Theatre of the Year awards and is arguably one of the best-performing arts communities in America.
It must be visited not only for its electrifying musical festivals but also for the grandeur it oozes.
Have parking anxiety?
Do not worry; you will find a parking space just across the street from the theatre.
Address: 102 N. Chicago St, Joliet, Il, 600432, United States
3. Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center and Picnics (Amusement Rides & Picnic Fun)
Based in the Chicagoland area, Haunted Trails is a fantastic experience for fans of amusement rides and picnics fans.
There is kart racing, golf match, laser tags, and other games for the whole family to enjoy.
A gigantic indoor entertainment center, Haunted Trails, is the best stop for the family to have fun without putting up with the heat.
Test your courage levels at the Bone Shaker and Monster Hop and lose some steam at their batting cages.
If you are after thrilling rides and games in a serene environment, head over to Haunted Trails.
You can decide to immerse yourself fully in this experience by planning more than a day’s trips.
Several hotels around the park would accommodate you.
Address: 1423 N. Broadway (Rt.53), Joliet, IL 60435, United States
4. Duly Medical Group Field (Baseball Excitement Venue)
The Duly Medical Group Field is a baseball stadium in Joliet, Illinois.
Opened in 2002, it was formerly called Silver Cross Field and the Joliet Route 66 Stadium and has a seating capacity of 6,016.
Since 2018, the stadium has gone through some renovations as part of the improvement plan of the DuPage Medical Group.
It is the home ground of the Joliet Slammers and the University of St. Francis baseball team, and it also plays host to local high school baseball matches.
Apart from baseball matches, there are serial training programs for youngsters aiming for shining careers in baseball.
According to the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), America is the second-top-ranked baseball nation because baseball is a top sport and an essential part of American culture.
So, if you are ever in Joliet and are unwilling to miss out on any baseball action, catch this fun game at the Duly Medical Group Field.
Address: 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr, Joliet, IL 60432, United States
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Haunted Houses, Hidden Gems, Boutique Hotels, and RV Resorts in Illinois.
Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on the best vacation spots in Florida and California.