Overview of Illinois
Photo credit: Jim Larrison
The metropolis of Chicago, on the shore of Lake Michigan in the north of Illinois, is the focus for most visitors, with its amazing collection of museums and high-class shopping areas. Travellers who venture downstate can find plenty of other diversions, particularly those interested in history or outdoor activities.
The state capital, Springfield, 200 miles (322km) south of Chicago, is a city with a small-town atmosphere, renowned for once being the home of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US President, who practised law here and was laid to rest in the local Oak Ridge Cemetery after his assassination.
Visitors seeking life in the open air are drawn to the expanse of natural beauty in south Illinois, where the Shawnee National Forest offers hiking, biking, camping, and fishing opportunities in serene woodlands.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.
- Passport/Visa:
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.
Travel Advisories
Travel to Illinois
Climate
Most of Illinois has a humid continental climate, with hot, humid summers and cold winters.The southernmost part of the state borders on a humid subtropical climate, with milder winters. The weather in Illinois can be fairly extreme. In summer (June to August) temperatures rise to between 80F (27C) and 90F (32°C) and there is high humidity, while in winter (January to March) it can be wet and cold, with temperatures as low as 12F (-11C) and icy winds whipping off Lake Michigan. Snow is likely in winter. May and September are the most pleasant months, with reliably warm, sunny days.
Health Notes when travelling to United States of America
There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential. Visitors must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if they are non-U.S. citizens.
Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America
Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, though travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.
Customs in United States of America
Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which alcohol may be legally bought and consumed is 21 years.
Duty Free in United States of America
Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.
Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.
Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.
Doing Business in United States of America
In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, though in states such as California, dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.
Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; foreigners should never make assumptions about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Foreigners should concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. It's best for foreigners to get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and to avoid taking offence if someone questions or challenges them outright.
Communication in United States of America
The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and WiFi is widely available.
Tipping in United States of America
A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but travellers shouldn't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, the tip should be 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.
Passport/Visa Note
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.
Currency
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
| Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
0.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar |
0.93 EUR Euro |
0.80 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling |
152.99 JPY Japanese Yen |
1.37 CAD Canadian Dollar |
0.91 CHF Swiss Franc |
|
1.52 AUD Australian Dollar |
39.40 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia |
443.91 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge |
93,075.00 LBP Lebanese Pound |
4.86 LYD Libyan Dinar |
6.86 BOB Bolivian Boliviano |
|
0.00 NPR Nepalese Rupee |
0.00 OMR Omani Rial |
0.00 QAR Qatari Rial |
1.35 SGD Singapore Dollar |
10.82 SEK Swedish Krona |
0.00 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar |
|
0.00 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar |
58.11 DOP Dominican Peso |
0.00 HRK Croatian Kuna |
16.95 MXN Mexican Peso |
610.53 XOF West African CFA Franc |
0.00 PGK Papua New Guinean kina |
|
0.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar |
0.00 FJD Fiji Dollar |
0.00 HNL Honduran Lempira |
133.87 DZD Algerian Dinar |
0.00 MMK Myanma Kyat |
0.00 BWP Botswana Pula |
|
3.72 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol |
938.44 CLP Chilean Peso |
386.84 AMD Armenia Dram |
23.29 CZK Czech Koruna |
17.63 MDL Moldova Lei |
139.89 ISK Icelandic Krona |
|
12,582.40 UZS Uzbekistan Sum |
3.72 ILS Israeli New Sheqel |
0.71 JOD Jordanian Dinar |
0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar |
38.15 UYU Uruguayan Peso |
0.00 MUR Mauritian Rupee |
|
0.00 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba |
10.88 NOK Norwegian Krone |
4.03 PLN Polish Zloty |
3.75 SAR Saudi Riyal |
0.00 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee |
36.79 THB Thai Baht |
|
3.66 AED U.A.E Dirham |
5.09 BRL Brazilian Real |
4.63 RON Romanian New Leu |
7.81 HKD Hong Kong Dollar |
610.53 XAF Central African CFA Franc |
25,405.70 VND Vietnamese Dong |
|
878.36 ARS Argentine Peso |
0.00 XCD East Caribbean Dollar |
0.00 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal |
10.06 MAD Moroccan Dirham |
0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar |
1.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa |
|
1.70 AZN Azerbaijan Manat |
3,920.00 COP Colombian Peso |
88.42 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som |
362.00 HUF Hungarian Forint |
10.89 TJS Tajikistan Ruble |
16,073.70 IDR Indonesian Rupiah |
|
47.95 EGP Egyptian Pound |
1,358.84 KRW South Korean Won |
7,456.52 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní |
4.74 MYR Malaysian Ringgit |
508.31 CRC Costa Rican Colón |
1.67 NZD New Zealand Dollar |
|
277.87 PKR Pakistani Rupee |
91.39 RUB Russian Rouble |
18.51 ZAR South African Rand |
3.13 TND Tunisian Dinar |
0.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar |
1.82 BGN Bulgarian Lev |
|
32.33 TRY Turkish Lira |
57.28 PHP Philippine Peso |
32.31 TWD New Taiwan Dollar |
1,164.84 NGN Nigerian Naira |
0.00 XPF CFP Franc |
0.00 GHS Ghanaian Cedi |
|
0.00 JMD Jamaican Dollar |
0.00 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder |
0.00 BND Brunei Dollar |
108.90 RSD Serbian Dinar |
7.24 CNY Chinese Yuan |
6.94 DKK Danish Krone |
|
3.49 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat |
83.42 INR Indian Rupee |
||||
Euro to U.S. Dollar
1 EUR = 1.07 USD
Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 CAD = 0.73 USD
U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar
1 GBP = 1.26 USD
Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 AUD = 0.66 USD
New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 NZD = 0.60 USD
South African Rand to U.S. Dollar
1 ZAR = 0.05 USD
Airports in Illinois
Chicago O'Hare International (ORD)
O'Hare International Airport
http://www.flychicago.com
Location: Chicago Chicago O'Hare is located 17 miles (27km) northwest of Chicago.
Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from March to November).
Contacts: Tel: (800) 832 6352
Transfer between terminals: A free automated rail system, the Airport Transit System connects all terminals.
Getting to the city: Blue Line trains run every few minutes between the airport and downtown Chicago 24 hours a day; the journey takes around 50 minutes. For safety reasons travellers are advised against using the Blue Line at night. Travellers can also use the Pace bus service to get to downtown Chicago. Taxi ranks are situated outside the arrivals hall in each of the airport terminals; the fare is around $40 for the 30 to 45 minute journey from the airport to downtown Chicago.
Car rental: Companies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz, and National.
Airport Taxis: There are plenty of metered taxis outside, and a taxi to the centre of Chicago takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes and costs about $40. But be prepared to pay twice as much during rush hour.
Facilities: Facilities at the airport include restaurants, bars, shops, duty-free shopping, bureaux de change, a bank, and ATMs. The Hilton Health Club provides a health club, sauna, steam room, and massage. There is a medical centre, baby-change facilities, a play area, and a 24-hour interfaith chapel. There are also many airport art exhibits to view as well as the Urban Garen, the first aeroponic garden in the world.
Parking: Parking at Chicago O'Hare is divided into the main lots, international lots, economy lots, and valet lots, with an additional free Cell Phone Lot for pick-ups and drop-offs. Fees range from around $3 per hour at the main lots, or $6 for two hours at the international lot, to $17 per day in the economy lots. Valet parking is also available.
Peoria International Airport (PIA)
General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport
http://www.flypia.com
Location: Peoria The airport is situated six miles (10km) west of the city of Peoria.
Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Getting to the city: Taxis, airport shuttles and rental cars are available at the airport. CityLink buses on Route 7 (the Garden Route) access Peoria International Airport between roughly 6.30am and 6pm on weekdays, and between 8.30am and 5pm on Saturdays. Late night access is offered via bus Route 13. Uber and other similar mobile app based taxi services are also available.
Car rental: Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National.
Airport Taxis: Several taxi companies service the airport.
Facilities: Airport facilities include a restaurant, a bar, vending machines, children's play areas, a conference suite, an ATM, a lost and found, and a visitor information kiosk.
Parking: Parking is free at Peoria International Airport. Free airport shuttle buses transport passengers from the parking lot to the terminal if necessary.
Moline Airport (MLI)
Quad City International Airport
http://www.qcairport.com
Location: Moline The airport is located three miles (5km) from downtown Moline.
Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Getting to the city: The airport is accessible via the METRO bus, on Route 20 Blue. The METRO bus departs from the bus stop in front of the terminal twice an hour. Monday to Friday, operating hours are from 6.10am to 6.10pm; and on Saturdays from 8.40am to 6.10pm. There is no bus service on major holidays.
Car rental: Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. These companies are located in the public terminal inside Exits 6 and 7, on the east side of the terminal, near baggage claim.
Airport Taxis: The Metropolitan Airport Authority of Rock Island County (MAA) oversees the taxicab and shuttle services. Most of these services require a reservation, particularly at night. Taxis are available in designated parking stalls outside Exit 7, and can be called with the courtesy phone located at baggage claim.
Facilities: Airport facilities include ATMs, a business centre, work stations, a restaurant, and a gift shop.
Parking: There is a free drop-off and pick-up zone, as well as short and long-term parking lots. Short-term rates are $1 for the first hour, and $2 per hour thereafter up to $15 for 24 hours. Long-term parking is $1 per hour, with a daily rate of $7. Weekly rates range from $35 in the long-term lot to $75 in the short-term lot.
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)
Chicago Midway International Airport
flychicago.com
Location: Chicago The airport is located eight miles (13km) from downtown Chicago.
Time:
Contacts: Tel: +1 (773) 838-0600. Email: aviation@flychicago.com
Getting to the city: Passengers transfering to Chicago can rent a car, or hire a limo or taxi. The Chicago Transit Authority's Orange Line runs from the airport to downtown Chicago. There are also bus services from the airport to throughout the city. The Continental Airport Express has door-to-door service on shuttles leaving every 15 minutes.
Car rental: There are several car rental agencies based at Chicago Midway.
Airport Taxis: There are taxis available from the airport lower level to downtown Chicago or any other destination.
Facilities: The airport offers restaurants, cafes, gift shops, a business centre, yoga room, ATMs and a chapel.
Parking: There is a six-level parking garage attached to the airport by a covered walkway. Complimentary shuttle buses to the terminals run every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day.
Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI)
Central Illinois Regional Airport Bloomington-Normal
Location: Bloomington The airport is situated five miles (8km) east of Bloomington.
Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Getting to the city: The Tan line of the Connect-Transit bus service provides transport to the airport via the 'CIRA Terminal' stop. Taxis and rental cars are also available at the airport.
Car rental: Car hire companies represented at the airport include Avis, Hertz, and National.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are usually available at the airport, but for peak hours, or late at night, it is best to book a taxi in advance. Uber is also an option.
Facilities: Facilities at the airport include a conference centre, shops, a restaurant, and a coffee shop.
Parking: All parking is free at the airport and there is a free airport shuttle available to transport passengers between the parking lots and the terminal. Short-term parking is available for up to two hours, but there is no time limit for the long-term lot.
Chicago
Photo credit: Robert Cameron
Once a gangster's paradise, home to Al Capone and Bonnie and Clyde, the 'Windy City' today has a reputation as an international business and commercial capital with an eclectic mix of architecture, world-class theatre and art exhibitions, a fantastic local music scene, and thriving sports scene.
Chicago emerged after being destroyed in the Great Fire of 1871, when a large influx of immigrants in the early 20th century infused the city with diversity and the unmistakable sound of Chicago-style blues music. It now boasts soaring skyscrapers such as Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), colourful neighbourhoods, a lakefront business district, a re-energised downtown district, unbeatable shopping along the famed Michigan Avenue, and top-class sports teams.
One thing that does not attract visitors to Chicago is the weather; the city's geographical location means it is breezy at best, and freezing and gale-ridden at worst. It is possible to ignore the weather though, especially in summer, while getting caught up in the myriad things to do, see, and experience in this Midwestern metropolis.
Getting around in Chicago
Chicago has one of the largest public transportation systems in the country and getting around the city is fast and easy with an extensive network of train and bus routes. The train system is known as the 'L'; most visitors only use the 'L', but buses also cover every part of the city including the suburbs, albeit less regularly. Most trains run 24 hours a day, with Overnight or Night Owl services taking over between midnight and 5am on some lines.
The Metra commuter trains link the city to the outer suburbs, including Lake Michigan, Hyde Park, and McCormick Place. During the summer months, a free trolley system operates in the downtown area, connecting Chicago's top cultural attractions, shopping areas, and visitor destinations. Taxis are easy to find, and the metered rates are reasonable for short journeys. Although traffic is not as bad as in other major cities (outside rush hour), parking is expensive and difficult to find. Uber and Lyft are also available.
Nightlife in Chicago
Chicago's unassuming nightlife scene comes as a refreshing change to some other big US cities. Most locals prefer to stay close to what they know and hang out at their local watering hole. However, Chicago still has its fair share of trendy bars, clubs, and cocktail lounges.
Popular areas for nightclubs, bars, and music venues include Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and Lakeview, where revellers can find music clubs devoted to just about every genre, from R&B and jazz to alternative rock and indie. The city's waterfront nightlife is popular with residents and tourists alike, while the piano bar at The Drake Hotel is a local favourite.
Wells Street in the Old Town offers some great restaurants and bars as well as the popular Zanies Comedy Club. Chicago's gay scene is concentrated on a stretch of North Halsted Street in Lakeview, where men's bars dominate the strip.
The birthplace of house music in the 1980s, Chicago has plenty of clubs full of 20-somethings dancing to the latest offerings of the resident DJ. Many of these types of clubs pop up and disappear at a dizzying rate, while others have been around for decades.
The culture scene in Chicago is bustling with shows and plays running throughout the year at renowned Chicago theatre companies, such as the Steppenwolf Theatre Company, the Goodman Theatre, and the Victory Gardens Theater.
Broadway-style entertainment can be found at the CIBC Theatre and the Cadillac Palace Theater. For lovers of classical music, a visit to Symphony Center to hear the Chicago Symphony Orchestra perform is an absolute must.
Dining in Chicago
It has been estimated that there are more than 6,000 restaurants in Chicago, representing just about every cuisine across every price range imaginable. Visitors can experience eating an authentic Ethiopian meal or a true south Goan curry under the shadow of the Willis Tower.
While the city offers everything from haute cuisine to hotdogs with all the trimmings, its true specialty is the world-famous deep-dish pizza, invented at Pizzeria Uno in 1943, and now available throughout the city (though still served at its birthplace).
Chicago has been steadily earning a reputation as one of the cuisine capitals of America, with its concentration of award-winning chefs and highly acclaimed fine dining establishments. Around 25 restaurants in Chicago have earned Michelin stars, proving just how much fodder is available for discerning foodies. Top areas for dining include trendy Lincoln Park, Chinatown, Little Italy and Pilsen, a Mexican neighbourhood.
Club Lucky —
Italian
Located in the Wicker Park area, this authentic and retro Italian eatery reminds one of wholesome Italian fare being cooked up in the kitchen by real Italian mammas. With homemade ravioli, Veal Parmigiana, and their flagship dish, Chicken Vesuvio with roasted potatoes, peas, white wine and garlic, this cosy Chicago favourite is one of the best when it comes to Italian cuisine. Open Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner. Saturday and Sunday dinner only. Reservations accepted.
1824 W. Wabansia Avenue
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.clubluckychicago.com
Penny's Noodle Shop —
Asian
Established by Thai native Penny Chiamopoulous, this simple and spacious Chicago eatery serves delicious authentic Thai cuisine and other Asian fusion dishes to perfection. Sample everything from Crab Rangoon - a crispy dumpling stuffed with cream cheese and seafood - and Tom Yum soup, to Hot Pepper Noodles and Thai ravioli dumplings stuffed with shrimp and pork and served with BBQ pork, lettuce, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations not accepted.
950 W. Diversey Avenue
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.pennysnoodleshop.com
Arun's —
Oriental
Arun's has been called the finest Thai restaurant in the city. Dinner is an ever-changing fixed-price menu comprising of a gourmet banquet of 12 exquisitely presented courses that puts other Thai kitchens to shame. A special menu can be designed to suit individual tastes on calling ahead. The culinary experience is complemented by traditional Thai décor and displayed artwork. Reservations are required with a credit card. Closed Monday. Dinner only.
4156 North Kedzie Avenue, Irving Park (North Side)
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.arunsthai.com
Everest —
French
Towering above the city with commanding views from the 40th floor, Everest is one of the city's premiere French dining rooms offering the world-renowned cuisine created by Alsatian chef Jean Joho. His distinctive style is a blend of noble and simple ingredients for unusual flavour combinations, such as caviar or foie gras with potatoes or cabbage, drawing inspiration from the cookery of his native Alsace. Everest includes classics like lobster and lamb, as well as a vegetarian menu and some creative desserts. Closed Sunday and Monday. Dinner only. Reservations required.
440 South LaSalle Street, 40th Floor, One Financial Plaza building (The Loop)
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.everestrestaurant.com
Morton's of Chicago —
American
King of the Chicago-style steakhouses, Morton's on North State upholds its reputation as the best steakhouse in the region with huge succulent steaks cooked to perfection. It is famous for its signature tableside menu presentation, where a trolley is rolled out containing main course selections that are described in detail by the server. The menu features a variety of cuts, including the house speciality, the 24-ounce (680g) porterhouse steak, as well as fresh fish, lobster, veal, and chicken. Open daily for dinner. Reservations recommended.
1050 North State Street (River North)
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.mortons.com
Vermilion —
Indian
High ceilings, crisp white tablecloths, and black and white photos on the walls create a sophisticated dining experience, where the Indian-Latin food is as contemporary as the restaurant. Indian tapas such as cilantro tamarind shrimp, coconut chilli mussels, and duck vindaloo arepa tantalise the tastebuds. Signature dishes include chilli-glazed blackened tamarind ribs served with amchur tortilla crisps and a sweet corn salsa, or fiery culinary delights such as the Desi goat curry in a rich Indian gravy served with naan. This restaurant lives up to its reputation as one of Chicago's finest eateries and does not disappoint. Reservations recommended on weekends. Open Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner. Saturday and Sunday dinner only.
10 W. Hubbard Street
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.thevermilionrestaurant.com
Blackbird —
American
Chicago's chicest diners and celebrity clientele flock to this sought-after addition to 'Restaurant Row'. Here, the smart minimalist interior is the perfect backing to the ornate food presentation and creative renditions of French-influenced contemporary American food. The exterior of the restaurant is as stylish as the food. The seasonal menu is creative yet simple and features dishes such as wood-grilled California sturgeon with English peas, braised peanuts, crispy bacon, and bourbon caramel. Closed Sunday. No lunch Saturday. Reservations recommended.
619 West Randolph Street (West Loop)
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.blackbirdrestaurant.com
Mirai Sushi —
Japanese
Top-quality sushi and sashimi dishes are found in this eatery which exudes a youthful ambience. Fresh fish is flown in daily for the sushi bar where several inventive chefs whip up a list of delicious offerings to order. Upstairs, the futuristic sake lounge is the city's most stylish place to enjoys its namesake and other cocktails. Dinner daily. Reservations recommended.
2020 West Division Street, Wicker Park
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.miraisushi.com
North Pond —
Modern Eclectic
One of the prettiest settings in the city, North Pond is situated within the famous Lincoln Park, in a building that was originally an ice skaters warming house overlooking Chicago's skyline. In keeping with the natural setting, chef Bruce Sherman emphasises organic produce and simple but delicious seasonal cuisine. The wine list focuses on boutique vintners. Dinner Tuesday to Sunday, lunch Tuesday to Friday (June to September), brunch on Sundays. Reservations recommended. Jacket and tie recommended for dinner.
2610 North Cannon Drive, Lincoln Park
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.northpondrestaurant.com
Pizzeria Uno Chicago —
Italian
Pizzeria Uno is famous for its original Deep Dish Pizza, a pie-like crust stuffed with meat and fresh vegetables and cheese. This Chicago-style pizza originated at Pizzeria Uno in 1943 and both locals and out-of-towners pack into the panelled rooms for a filling meal. Other delicious dishes on the menu include Angus Beef steaks, ribs, and inventive new creations such as Chicken Milanese or Spicy Chicken Flatbread. There is often a wait, but regulars maintain it is more than worth it. Open from 11am daily.
29 East Ohio Street
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.unos.com
Smoque BBQ —
Barbecue
Voted the best barbecue in Chicago, Smoque serves traditional Midwest barbecue. Dishes like the applewood-smoked baby back and St Louis-style ribs, brisket (smoked for 15 hours), pulled pork (smoked for 12 hours), and sides like cornbread and mac and cheese. The restaurant is casual and diners stand in line to order at the counter. Smoque's location outside of downtown Chicago makes it inconvenient for some tourists, but it is located near an L station and most diners say it's worth the trip. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11am-9pm, closes 10pm on Friday and Saturday.
3800 North Pulaski Road, Irving Park
Chicago, United States of America
http://www.smoquebbq.com
Shopping in Chicago
The Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue lies along an eight-block stretch, and has more than 460 stores that offer luxury items and fashion bargains to suit most budgets. There are also lovely restaurants and cafes aplenty to provide exhausted shoppers with refreshment. Another area worth exploring is Oak Street, which provides a renowned concentration of designers and salons.
Chicago is equally famous for its art and antiques dealers, which are congregated around the River North Gallery District. There are also good markets, some of which sell antiques. Visitors who head out on Sunday mornings shouldn't miss the Maxwell Street Market, which boasts more than 500 stalls selling everything under the sun. It's best to get there early and to bargain.
Malls and department stores in Chicago are generally open from 10am to 9pm Monday to Saturday; and 12pm to 6pm on Sundays. A sales tax of about 10 percent (the highest sales tax of any large city in the US) is levied on most products and is added at point of purchase, not on the price tag.
Climate in Chicago
Chicago has an extreme continental climate with very hot summers and bitterly cold winters, its lakeside setting only slightly moderating the temperatures and adding some humidity to the atmosphere.
Chicago has distinct seasons, with a short spring, when temperatures are moderate and nights frosty. Summers are hot, sunny and humid, from June to the end of September, and are prone to thunderstorms. The daily average high in July is around 84F (29C). August is usually the wettest month of the year.
Autumn is a lovely time of year when the air is crisp and cool, with blue skies and sunshine. Winters (December to February) in Chicago are icy and prone to cold, harsh winds, with temperatures averaging between 32F (0C) highs in the afternoons and around 14F (-10C) lows at night. Snow is common.
Sightseeing in Chicago
What this city lacks in New York bravado and LA style, Chicago makes up for in the astonishing variety of its architecture, vibrant culture, and thriving art scene, all of which are highlighted by the Art Institute of Chicago. It is also a truly family-friendly destination, with world-class attractions such as the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium to delight the whole family.
With so much to see, it's worth getting a sense of perspective from the start. Travellers can visit the 360 Chicago or the Willis Tower Skydeck for views of the city from breathtakingly high up. Then they can check out Navy Pier for a 3D motion simulation of Chicago's fascinating history and exciting future. Afterwards, they can hop on a boat tour departing from the adjoining pier to explore the waterfront area.
A good option for visitors is the Go City card, which gives discounted admission to all the city's key attractions, shopping and dining discounts, various free tours, and a guide book. A Go City card also allows visitors to skip some long queues, which can be useful in peak season. The card is available from a number of tour operators or online.
Kids Attractions in Chicago
At first glance, the Windy City may not seem like a destination that caters well to little ones, but families on holiday in Chicago will find there are more than enough attractions and activities to keep kids busy.
On clear days, visitors can enjoy the panoramic views over the city from atop the iconic Willis Tower or the observatory atop 875 North Michigan Avenue. They can also enjoy a stroll through Lincoln Park or the Chicago Botanic Gardens if the sun is out.
The Navy Pier is a great place to walk along the docks and enjoy the spectacular views from the Ferris wheel and funfair rides. For larger scale amusement park fun, the renowned Six Flags Great America is on hand.
In inclement weather, unfortunately common in Chicago, parents should consider visiting one of the high-quality indoor playgrounds in the city. There are also several wonderful museums geared specifically towards children, such as the Chicago Children's Museum. With so many attractions on offer, children on holiday in Chicago will be just as enchanted with this city as their parents.
Chicago Attractions
Art Institute of Chicago
Photo credit: Leon Petrosyan
Website: http://www.artic.edu
Chicago Field Museum
Photo credit: Shoffman11
Website: fieldmuseum.org
Frank Lloyd Wright's Home
Photo credit: Library of Congress
Website: http://www.wrightplus.org
Lincoln Park
Admission: Free.
Photo credit: Hot Dog Wolf
Website: http://www.lpzoo.com
Six Flags Great America
Photo credit: Daniel M. Hendricks
Website: http://www.sixflags.com
Shedd Aquarium
Photo credit: Sebastian Rueckoldt
Website: http://www.sheddaquarium.org
Rockford
Photo credit: Alexbaumgarner
Website: http://www.gorockford.com
Navy Pier
Photo credit: Serge Melki
Website: http://www.navypier.org
Willis Tower (Sears Tower)
Photo credit: Chad Kainz
Website: http://www.theskydeck.com
Millennium Park
Photo credit: Torsodog
Website: http://www.millenniumpark.org
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
Photo credit: Fritz Geller-Grimm
Website: http://www.adlerplanetarium.org
360 Chicago
Photo credit: Ken Lund
Website: 360chicago.com
Chicago Children's Museum
Photo credit: Octavio Ruiz Cervera
Website: http://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org
Chicago Botanic Gardens
Photo credit: Cbgde08
Website: http://www.chicago-botanic.org
Chicago Loop
Photo credit: Vincent Desjardins
Website: loopchicago.com
Buckingham Fountain
Photo credit: Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar
Magnificent Mile
Photo credit: Bert Kaufmann
Website: http://www.themagnificentmile.com
Route 66 Sign
Photo credit: Anna Harris
Website: http://www.historic66.com
Chicago History Museum
Photo credit: Jeremy Atherton
Website: http://www.chicagohistory.org
Chicago Beaches
Photo credit: TonyTheTiger
Events in Chicago
Chicago Blues Festival
Friday June 05, 2020 to Sunday June 07, 2020 (5 - 7 June 2020)
Where: Grant Park
The Chicago Blues Fest is one of the biggest outdoor, free blues events in the world. The festival features more than 70 international, national, and local Chicago artists, spread over five stages, and at night the festivities continue in blues clubs all over the city. The Blues Fest is the city's biggest music festival and attracts about 500,000 people every year. Past performers have included huge stars like Ray Charles, B.B. King and Bonnie Raitt. For more information check out the official website listed below.
http://www.chicagobluesfestival.us
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Friday November 20, 2020 to Saturday November 21, 2020 (20 -21 November 2020)
Where: North Michigan Avenue
The official start of the winter holiday season in Chicago is signalled by the lighting of more than a million white lights along the Magnificent Mile. It occurs during a procession of Micky Mouse and his Disney friends, concluding with a spectacular fireworks show over the Chicago River.
The whole winter wonderland weekend gears towards the holiday season, with special offers and family entertainment. Numerous stages have live music while the grand tree-lighting ceremony is one of the highlights. It's an unmissable and exuberant November display in Chicago.
http://www.themagnificentmile.com
Airports in Chicago
Chicago O'Hare International (ORD)
O'Hare International Airport
http://www.flychicago.com
Location: Chicago Chicago O'Hare is located 17 miles (27km) northwest of Chicago.
Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from March to November).
Contacts: Tel: (800) 832 6352
Transfer between terminals: A free automated rail system, the Airport Transit System connects all terminals.
Getting to the city: Blue Line trains run every few minutes between the airport and downtown Chicago 24 hours a day; the journey takes around 50 minutes. For safety reasons travellers are advised against using the Blue Line at night. Travellers can also use the Pace bus service to get to downtown Chicago. Taxi ranks are situated outside the arrivals hall in each of the airport terminals; the fare is around $40 for the 30 to 45 minute journey from the airport to downtown Chicago.
Car rental: Companies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz, and National.
Airport Taxis: There are plenty of metered taxis outside, and a taxi to the centre of Chicago takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes and costs about $40. But be prepared to pay twice as much during rush hour.
Facilities: Facilities at the airport include restaurants, bars, shops, duty-free shopping, bureaux de change, a bank, and ATMs. The Hilton Health Club provides a health club, sauna, steam room, and massage. There is a medical centre, baby-change facilities, a play area, and a 24-hour interfaith chapel. There are also many airport art exhibits to view as well as the Urban Garen, the first aeroponic garden in the world.
Parking: Parking at Chicago O'Hare is divided into the main lots, international lots, economy lots, and valet lots, with an additional free Cell Phone Lot for pick-ups and drop-offs. Fees range from around $3 per hour at the main lots, or $6 for two hours at the international lot, to $17 per day in the economy lots. Valet parking is also available.
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)
Chicago Midway International Airport
flychicago.com
Location: Chicago The airport is located eight miles (13km) from downtown Chicago.
Time:
Contacts: Tel: +1 (773) 838-0600. Email: aviation@flychicago.com
Getting to the city: Passengers transfering to Chicago can rent a car, or hire a limo or taxi. The Chicago Transit Authority's Orange Line runs from the airport to downtown Chicago. There are also bus services from the airport to throughout the city. The Continental Airport Express has door-to-door service on shuttles leaving every 15 minutes.
Car rental: There are several car rental agencies based at Chicago Midway.
Airport Taxis: There are taxis available from the airport lower level to downtown Chicago or any other destination.
Facilities: The airport offers restaurants, cafes, gift shops, a business centre, yoga room, ATMs and a chapel.
Parking: There is a six-level parking garage attached to the airport by a covered walkway. Complimentary shuttle buses to the terminals run every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day.
Springfield
Photo credit: Eovart Caceir
The senator fell out of favour and in 1832 the town was renamed Springfield, just before a young lawyer, Abraham Lincoln, decided to make the frontier town his home. Soon after he had settled in, Lincoln decided to up the town's status to state capital, a legislative effort that he seemed to accomplish without too much trouble. To this day, Springfield retains its status as state capital, despite the powerhouse of Chicago in northern Illinois.
The civil war brought some economic benefits to the town, with new industries opening. Springfield also became an important link in the state railway system. Today the city has a thriving economy and tourist trade thanks to having been Lincoln's home town.
It is also well located midway between Chicago and St Louis on historic Route 66. The city has retained its small-town charm and is an interesting tourist destination, with a number of worthy museums and galleries.
Sightseeing in Springfield
Springfield is a city in which it is possible to step back in history to the lofty days of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore Lincoln's home and the neighbourhood that has been carefully preserved and restored to be as the famous president would have remembered it.
The Lincoln Library and Museum holds famous documents hand-written by Lincoln, and the Oak Ridge Cemetery holds his tomb. Apart from the slew of historic sites and landmarks named for Lincoln, Springfield offers many museums, galleries and parks, and shopping destinations.
Springfield's status as the state capital ensures that the city boasts a number of worthy Illinois establishments, such as the Illinois State Museum, the Illinois State Capitol, and the Illinois State Military Museum.
Springfield makes visitor's welcome, with tourist centres and information kiosks sprinkled throughout the city, and a number of first-class guided tours on offer. There are also some well-organised self-guided tours available in Springfield tourist hubs.
Springfield Attractions
Lincoln's Home
Photo credit: Daniel Schwen
Website: http://www.nps.gov/liho
Oak Ridge Cemetery
Photo credit: Robert Lawton
Website: http://www.oakridgecemetery.org
Lincoln Library and Museum
Photo credit: Rogerd
Website: http://www.presidentlincoln.illinois.gov
Knights Action Park
Photo credit: Katherine Johnson
Website: http://www.knightsactionpark.com
Illinois Attractions
Overview
Art Institute of Chicago
Photo credit: Leon Petrosyan
Website: http://www.artic.edu
Chicago Field Museum
Photo credit: Shoffman11
Website: fieldmuseum.org
Frank Lloyd Wright's Home
Photo credit: Library of Congress
Website: http://www.wrightplus.org
Lincoln Park
Admission: Free.
Photo credit: Hot Dog Wolf
Website: http://www.lpzoo.com
Six Flags Great America
Photo credit: Daniel M. Hendricks
Website: http://www.sixflags.com
Shedd Aquarium
Photo credit: Sebastian Rueckoldt
Website: http://www.sheddaquarium.org
Rockford
Photo credit: Alexbaumgarner
Website: http://www.gorockford.com
Lincoln's Home
Photo credit: Daniel Schwen
Website: http://www.nps.gov/liho
Oak Ridge Cemetery
Photo credit: Robert Lawton
Website: http://www.oakridgecemetery.org
Lincoln Library and Museum
Photo credit: Rogerd
Website: http://www.presidentlincoln.illinois.gov
Navy Pier
Photo credit: Serge Melki
Website: http://www.navypier.org
Willis Tower (Sears Tower)
Photo credit: Chad Kainz
Website: http://www.theskydeck.com
Millennium Park
Photo credit: Torsodog
Website: http://www.millenniumpark.org
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
Photo credit: Fritz Geller-Grimm
Website: http://www.adlerplanetarium.org
360 Chicago
Photo credit: Ken Lund
Website: 360chicago.com
Chicago Children's Museum
Photo credit: Octavio Ruiz Cervera
Website: http://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org
Chicago Botanic Gardens
Photo credit: Cbgde08
Website: http://www.chicago-botanic.org
Chicago Loop
Photo credit: Vincent Desjardins
Website: loopchicago.com
Buckingham Fountain
Photo credit: Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar
Magnificent Mile
Photo credit: Bert Kaufmann
Website: http://www.themagnificentmile.com
Route 66 Sign
Photo credit: Anna Harris
Website: http://www.historic66.com
Chicago History Museum
Photo credit: Jeremy Atherton
Website: http://www.chicagohistory.org
Chicago Beaches
Photo credit: TonyTheTiger
Knights Action Park
Photo credit: Katherine Johnson
Website: http://www.knightsactionpark.com
News about Illinois
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A new Amtrak service will soon open more possibilities for travel within the Midwest. The rail company just announced plans to launch a train service starting May 21, called the Borealis line, which will connect Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota, and Chicago, Illinois. The service
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Illinois may not have the obvious natural wonders of, say, California, but our fair Prairie State still has its share of beauty. If you can endure the comically bad winters, this is a state that rewards its hearty denizens with forests to frolic in, canyons to explore, and
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The Virgin Hotels Chicago (formerly Old Dearborn Bank Building or 203 North Wabash Avenue) a historic building in the Loop community area of Chicago, Illinois, is the first of Richard Branson's Virgin Hotels brand boutique hotels geared toward the female business traveler; the 250-room hotel sets the world record for being the World's First Virgin Hotel
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Breeze Airways is continuing to expand with brand-new flights to Illinois, marking the first time the low-cost airline will fly to the state. The flights will connect Springfield, Illinois, with both Orlando and Tampa and be flown twice a week, the airline shared with Travel + Leisure
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The eclipse will pass over Mexico, the United States, and Canada on April 8, 2024. Here in the States, the eclipse will begin in Texas, traveling through cities within Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New
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The pre-history of the United States is as long as other parts of the Western Hemisphere, and there are impressive Native American archeological sites to explore. From the mounds at Cahokia in Illinois to the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde in Colorado, there is a
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- Abraham Lincoln Accepts Illinois Republican Nomination for Senate
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"A house divided against itself cannot stand." With these words, Abraham Lincoln accepted the Illinois Republican Party nomination for Senate. The now famous quote was a fitting beginning to
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Chicago, on Lake Michigan in Illinois, is one of the largest cities in the US (the third biggest, in fact!) and a major tourist hub offering a wealth of history, art, cuisine, shopping, and breathtaking urban architecture. Indeed, famed for its bold architecture, Chicago skyscrapers
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Hyatt just lapped the one-year anniversary of acquiring the all-inclusive resort company Apple Leisure Group in a $2.7 billion deal. The Chicago, Illinois-based hotel group is now looking to expand its hotel presence in European cities that could help feed its all-inclusives
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Chicago on Lake Michigan in Illinois is one of the largest cities in the US and is, in fact, the third-most populated in the country, just after New York City and Los Angeles. Characterized by its bold architecture, the Chicago skyline is awash with imposing skyscrapers, with iconic buildings
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Calling all scarecrow hunters! For its 37th year, Scarecrow Weekend is back in downtown St. Charles, Illinois. Celebrate the fall season while enjoying live entertainment, activities for the whole family, and of course, handmade scarecrows. This weekend of fun will get you into the
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'Where nature meets luxury' is the motto of Camp Aramoni, Illinois newest - and only - luxury campsite. Located only 90 minutes outside the bustling city of Chicago, visitors to Camp Aramoni are in for a camping experience that rivals any glampsite within a two-hour
- Abraham Lincoln Accepts Illinois Republican Nomination for Senate
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"A house divided against itself cannot stand." With these words, Abraham Lincoln accepted the Illinois Republican Party nomination for Senate. The now famous quote was a fitting beginning
- Abraham Lincoln Accepts Illinois Republican Nomination for Senate
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"A house divided against itself cannot stand." With these words, Abraham Lincoln accepted the Illinois Republican Party nomination for Senate. The now famous quote was a fitting beginning to the well-publicized and dramatic Lincoln-Douglas Debates between Lincoln and Democratic nominee Stephen Douglas. The debates often revolved around slavery, with Lincoln advocating an
- Exclusive: American Airlines' largest regional carrier gets FAA warning
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A commuter jet was seconds away from landing at a regional airport in Illinois last March when the pilots realized they'd made a potentially fatal mistake: They were aimed at the wrong runway
- Abraham Lincoln is born
-
On this day in 1809, the sixteenth President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, was born in a one-room log cabin on Sinking Spring Farm in Hardin County, Kentucky. His education consisted of little more than 18 months of formal schooling, but he was an avid reader and focused on the law as a course of study. Admitted to the bar in 1837, he moved to Springfield, Illinois and began a law practice. He was elected
- Hotel job losses will double without more federal help, operators warn
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Michael Jacobson, president of the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, is pleading for help from Congress and urging Illinois and Chicago to relax a 50-person ceiling on gatherings as a way to boost hotel room stays.
- Abraham Lincoln Accepts Illinois Republican Nomination for Senate
-
"A house divided against itself cannot stand." With these words, Abraham Lincoln accepted the Illinois Republican Party nomination for Senate. The now famous quote was a fitting beginning to the well-publicized and dramatic Lincoln-Douglas Debates between Lincoln and Democratic nominee Stephen Douglas. The debates often revolved around slavery
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Bad news for people traveling to cannabis-friendly destinations in the U.S.: Just because it’s legal in your state, doesn’t mean you can fly with it. Now that recreational marijuana use is legal in Illinois, travelers are asking the question: Can a bring it with me if I buy it legally? The simple answer is no. Because the federal law states that it is still illegal, travelers cannot carry their cannabis
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In 2013, Milwaukee residents Phil Sklar and Brad Novak realized they had a problem. A 3,000-piece bobblehead collection problem, which was spilling out of their condo's kitchen. It started 10 years prior, when Novak was working for a minor league baseball team in Illinois, the
- Southwest Airlines finally gets FAA approval to fly to Hawaii
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A Southwest Airlines jet leaves Midway Airport on January 25, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. Southwest Airlines is finally on its way to Hawaii. The Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday approved the low-cost carrier to fly to the islands from the West Coast, Southwest said. The airline, which will service Hawaii from several cities in California, will announce when it will start
- City of New Orleans Paddlewheeler to Start Cruising This Month. See inside.
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A new paddlewheeler is set to start offering Mississippi River trips this month in New Orleans. The Associated Press was given the first look at the boat, called the City of New Orleans. The paddlewheeler is coming full circle, back to the state where it was built in 1991. For years it operated as a casino boat in Rock Island, Illinois, until the mid-1990s.
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More than 12 million OpenTable diners have named their top restaurants in the USA. They range from restaurants with celebrity chefs to small, hidden gems. The verified diners reviewed more than 28,000 restaurants in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. New York had the most honorees, with 24 restaurants on the list. California followed with 15. Illinois
- Hilton hosts Passport Pop-Up this Weekend at O'Hare
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The effort also includes a potential secondary benefit for Illinois residents, since passports are compliant with the Real ID Act, the program intended to tighten security standards for state-issued identification
- Carve out Some Time to visit Illinois' Mega Pumpkin Patch
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The Condills' Great Pumpkin Patch in Arthur is packed with 300-plus varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds from more than 30 countries
- Great Wolf Offers Sneak Peek of its First Water Park Resort in Illinois
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Great Wolf Resorts on Wednesday revealed new details and the first renderings of its water park lodge opening next year near Six Flags Great America in Gurnee. The $60 million-plus project calls for transforming the tropical-themed KeyLime Cove indoor water park resort into the Northwoods-style Great Wolf Lodge Illinois
- 'Amazing' Illinois tourism ads aimed at adventurous millennials, Gen Xers
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Illinois tourism chief Cory Jobe talks about shaking up the status quo with the state's new 'Up for Amazing' ads
- Pets on trains a hit for Amtrak and riders
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After the success of a 2014 pilot program in Illinois and a much larger pilot along the Northeast Corridor this past fall and winter, Amtrak announced in February that its pet program on the Northeast Regional and Downeaster routes. Jarrad Henderson, USA TODAY
- Passenger weighing 175 pounds removed from flight for being too heavy
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A man weighing 175 pounds says he was forcibly removed from a flight because he weighed too much. Illinois dentist Dan Nykaza was preparing for takeoff on an American Airlines Envoy regional flight departing from O'Hare to Salt Lake City when he and another passenger were booted from the aircraft to reduce the weight, reports ABC7 Chicago
- After 90 years, Route 66 still driving tourism, nostalgia
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Poor Kansas. While bands from the King Cole Trio to the Rolling Stones sang about the famous highway — name dropping Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California — the lyrics ignore Kansas. Maybe it's because just a few miles of Route 66 passed through the Sunflower State
- Tracing Frank Lloyd Wright in Oak Park, Illinois
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As an architecture buff, I had been drawn to the work of Frank Lloyd Wright for years before finally seeing his innovative Frederick C. Robie House on the South Side of Chicago last year.
- Wednesday: Chicago flight cancellations on downward trend
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Flights are still being canceled at a higher-than-average clip at Chicago’s O’Hare airport, but schedules have dramatically improved since a Friday fire at an Illinois Federal Aviation Administration facility wreaked havoc on flight schedules in Chicago and across the Midwest
- Chicago flight woes spill into Monday
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The fallout from Friday’s fire at a Federal Aviation Administration facility in Illinois is still creating headaches for air travelers headed through Chicago.
