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With the state open again, there are all kinds of great things to do this summer throughout the state. Check out some of our favorites!
The Leaning Tower of Niles
Erected in 1934, The Leaning Tower of Niles is a miniature version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Because of the tower, the village of Niles and the city of Pisa, Italy established a sister city pact in 1991.
The tower was created as part of a 22-acre amusement park, and it was originally intended to conceal the water tower that supplied two large pools with water. Admission to the site is free of charge, and visitors are welcome to take photos, enjoy a picnic on the landscaped grounds, or attend one of the open-air music concerts put on by the city.
Millennium Park in Chicago
This 25-acre gathering spot in the center of Chicago serves as a sort of a town square for the city. The landscaped grounds host hundreds of free cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and family activities.
Families can cool off in the summer by splashing around in Crown Fountain, and winter brings the opportunity to skate on the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. The park is also home to various pieces of impressive art and architecture, including Cloud Gate, a massive stainless steel structure that's become Chicago's signature landmark.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum in Springfield
Since opening in 2005, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has become one of the most visited presidential libraries in the United States. Highlights of the museum include two special effects theater shows and life-size dioramas of the key settings for important events in Lincoln's life.
The museum also rotates through temporary exhibits, which cover topics like the Civil War and past Illinois politicians. Walking tours of the museum are available throughout the summer. A research library is attached to the museum and open to the public, but rare books and manuscripts can only be read on-site.
More about the Lincoln Library & Museum
President U.S. Grant’s Home in Galena
Designed by William Dennison, the Ulysses S. Grant Home was built in 1860 and is the former home of Civil War general Ulysses S. Grant. Residents of the city of Galena gave the home to Grant in 1865 as thanks for his war service, but he moved out in 1969 when he became the 18th President of the United States.
The home has been maintained as a memorial to Grant since 1904, and today it's a historic museum with rooms furnished in typical 1860s fashion. The home is open to visitors five days a week, and guided tours are available for a small fee.
More about Ulysses S. Grant's Home
