Things to Do in Northern Illinois in 2025

Starved Rock State Park featuring forests

Northern Illinois which includes heritage architecture

Starved Rock State Park featuring interior views

Starved Rock State Park featuring forest scenes and a gorge or canyon

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What to do in Northern Illinois

Discover the most popular places to visit in Northern Illinois

Starved Rock State Park

The lodge provides a luxurious base from which to explore trails leading to bluffs and canyons of this riverside park. Try ice climbing and eagle spotting in winter.

Matthiessen State Park

Look down the chute of Cascade Falls from a rickety bridge and admire the brilliant hues decorating the canyon’s sandstone walls in this eclectic park.

John Deere Pavilion

At this large exhibit space in Moline, see the green machines that have plowed, dug and cut their way across America for over 175 years.

National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

Learn about the region’s history and its aquatic life in one location. The role of this important river becomes apparent through the many interactive exhibits.

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Rockford’s iconic gardens may be in the heartland of America, but you’ll feel transported to Japan as you explore the winding paths, ponds and waterfalls.

BMO Harris Bank Center

Catch an event at BMO Harris Bank Center during your trip to Rockford.

Raging Waves Waterpark

Take the family on an outing to Raging Waves Waterpark during your trip to Yorkville. While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Diamond Jo Casino

Why not try your luck with a visit to Diamond Jo Casino during your time in Dubuque? Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Northern Illinois University

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Northern Illinois University, during your travels in DeKalb. Experience the area's art scene and live music.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Northern Illinois

On certain cold winter days the bluebirds and waxwings will converge on certain juniper trees to feed on the small berries. On my days off I would drive around looking for the tree that appealed to the birds.

The Galena Territory

4.5/5(40 area reviews)

Though The Galena Territory might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Eagle Ridge Resort Golf and Horseshoe Mound.

Galena Historic District

Explore the "outdoor museum of the Victorian Midwest" with unique period architecture, art galleries, and various dining options. Don't miss the Ulysses S. Grant Home and Prospect Street mansions.

Downtown Dubuque

Take a trip through time as you stroll down the historic streets of this eastern Iowa city. Visit cafés, shops and galleries in revitalized heritage buildings.

Davenport which includes a city and a river or creek

Downtown Davenport

4/5(76 area reviews)

While visiting Downtown Davenport, you might make a stop by sights like Davenport Skybridge and Rhythm City Casino.

Rockford featuring a city and general coastal views

Downtown Rockford

While visiting Downtown Rockford, you might make a stop by sights like BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado Performing Arts Center.

Historic Millwork District

While Historic Millwork District isn't home to many top sights, Five Flags Center and National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium are some notable places to visit nearby.