Illinois Road Construction Projects 2020 Map Travel Guide

Introduction

Illinois is known for its vibrant cities, beautiful nature, and rich history. However, with the ongoing road construction projects in 2020, traveling around the state can be challenging. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide for the Illinois Road Construction Projects 2020 Map. This guide will help you navigate through the construction and explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Chicago

Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States and is known for its skyscrapers, museums, and cultural institutions. Some of the must-see attractions in Chicago include the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Willis Tower, and the Shedd Aquarium.

Springfield

Springfield is the capital of Illinois and is known for its historical landmarks, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Old State Capitol, and Lincoln’s Tomb. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Springfield or explore the city’s rich culinary scene.

Hidden Gems

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is a hidden gem located in Utica, Illinois. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Illinois River. The park is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Starved Rock Lodge and the Illinois and Michigan Canal.

The Cahokia Mounds

The Cahokia Mounds are located in Collinsville, Illinois, and are the remains of a pre-Columbian Native American city. Visitors can explore the mounds and learn about the ancient civilization that once inhabited the area.

Food Scene

Chicago-style Pizza

Chicago-style pizza is a must-try for any foodie visiting Illinois. The deep-dish pizza is known for its thick crust, tomato sauce, and generous amounts of cheese and toppings. Some of the best places to try Chicago-style pizza include Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and Gino’s East.

Hot Dogs

Another iconic food in Illinois is the Chicago-style hot dog. The hot dog is topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, pickles, and peppers and is best enjoyed at one of the many hot dog stands in the city.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Many of the museums in Illinois offer free admission on certain days of the week. For example, the Art Institute of Chicago is free on Thursdays from 5 pm to 8 pm.

Picnic in the Parks

Illinois is home to many beautiful parks that are perfect for a picnic. Visitors can save money by bringing their own food and enjoying a meal in the great outdoors. Some of the best parks for a picnic include Millennium Park, Grant Park, and Lincoln Park.

Outdoor Adventures

Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway

The Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway is a 291-mile route that runs along the Illinois River. The route is known for its stunning scenery and offers many opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing.

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Mississippi Palisades State Park is located in Savanna, Illinois, and offers hiking trails, rock climbing, fishing, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Family-Friendly Activities

Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo located in Chicago. The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals and offers many educational programs and events for children.

Discovery Center Museum

The Discovery Center Museum is located in Rockford, Illinois, and is a hands-on museum that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. The museum offers many interactive exhibits and programs for children of all ages.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Anderson Japanese Gardens

The Anderson Japanese Gardens are located in Rockford, Illinois, and are one of the top Japanese gardens in North America. Visitors can enjoy serene gardens, waterfalls, and traditional Japanese architecture.

Abraham Lincoln’s New Salem

Abraham Lincoln’s New Salem is a reconstructed village located in Petersburg, Illinois. The village is a replica of the town where Abraham Lincoln lived and worked as a young man.

Natural Wonders

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is located in the Shawnee National Forest and is known for its stunning rock formations and scenic views. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the park.

Cave-in-Rock State Park

Cave-in-Rock State Park is located on the banks of the Ohio River and is known for its limestone cave. Visitors can explore the cave and enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping in the park.

Vibrant Nightlife

Wrigleyville

Wrigleyville is a neighborhood located near Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. The area is known for its lively bars and restaurants and is a popular destination for nightlife in Chicago.

River North

River North is a neighborhood located in downtown Chicago and is known for its art galleries, nightclubs, and restaurants. The area is popular among young professionals and is a hub for nightlife in the city.

Local Markets

The French Market

The French Market is a year-round indoor market located in Chicago. The market offers a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Green City Market

The Green City Market is a farmers’ market located in Lincoln Park in Chicago. The market offers locally grown produce, meats, and cheeses and is open from May to October.

Beaches and Mountains

Lake Michigan

Illinois is home to a beautiful coastline along Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports at one of the many beaches along the lake.

Shawnee National Forest

The Shawnee National Forest is located in southern Illinois and is known for its stunning mountain views. Visitors can hike, camp, and enjoy outdoor activities in the forest.

Cultural Immersion

Chinatown

Chicago’s Chinatown is a vibrant community that offers a glimpse into Chinese culture. Visitors can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine, visit the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago, and explore the area’s shops and markets.

Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum

The Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum is located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood and is dedicated to promoting Mexican culture through art and education. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, events, and programs for visitors of all ages.

Art and Music Scene

Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the top art museums in the world and is home to over 300,000 works of art. The museum’s collection includes famous works by artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is one of the top orchestras in the world and performs at the Symphony Center in downtown Chicago. The orchestra offers a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.

Walking Tours

Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise

The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise is a popular walking tour that takes visitors on a boat ride along the Chicago River. The tour offers stunning views of the city’s architecture, including the Willis Tower, Trump Tower, and the Wrigley Building.

Lincoln Park Zoo Walking Tour

The Lincoln Park Zoo Walking Tour is a free tour that takes visitors on a guided walk through the zoo’s exhibits. The tour offers insights into the zoo’s history, conservation efforts, and animal care.

Architectural Marvels

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is located in Oak Park, Illinois, and is a popular destination for architecture enthusiasts. Visitors can tour the home and studio where Frank Lloyd Wright lived and worked for many years.

Robie House

The Robie House is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The house is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago and is open for public tours.