Illinois Action & adventure, Beach, Flowers + Winter pictures

• USA
• North America
• World

Leave the skyscrapers of Chicago behind by escaping inland to tranquil gardens that feature model railroads, a vast array of trees and peaceful ponds.

The university campus of this lakeside city contains many of its cultural treasures, while a canal meanders through the adjoining green parks.

The university campus of this lakeside city contains many of its cultural treasures, while a canal meanders through the adjoining green parks.

A ferris wheel, shopping, restaurants and more can be found in this waterfront  entertainment district.

Take a tour of Evanston’s 19th-century lighthouse, which was once used to guide ships into Chicago Harbor and today stands as an eye-catching lakeside landmark.

A modern metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan that’s defined by a love for fine art, baseball and the blues.

Interact with animals and watch them feeding in this eclectic zoo with a rainforest section, a carousel and a Junior Zookeeper Program.

The heart of the Midwest’s glittering metropolis has many offerings, from shopping and dining to parks, museums and exciting contemporary public art.

Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.

Take a tour of Evanston’s 19th-century lighthouse, which was once used to guide ships into Chicago Harbor and today stands as an eye-catching lakeside landmark.

Learn about the fascinating Elihu Washburne, who helped shaped American politics during and after the Civil War, at his stately brick home in Galena.

This small zoo in the center of Chicago is perfect for small children and parents looking for a quiet, leisurely stroll — and some impressive animals!

Take a tour of Evanston’s 19th-century lighthouse, which was once used to guide ships into Chicago Harbor and today stands as an eye-catching lakeside landmark.

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities. 

Soak up the sun with views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan at this city beach known for its fun sports and extensive amenities.