Discover an entirely different world beyond the city lights of Chicago. Outside of the hustle and bustle of the city exists golfing, shopping and family-friendly attractions. Aurora, Chicago's North Shore, DuPage County, Lake County and Heritage Corridor are a quick day trip or peaceful overnight stay from the city.

Imagine luxury boutiques, flagship stores and local fashion that no one back home has discovered (yet). Now imagine all of them in one place. Illinois is home to a myriad of retail options starting on the Magnificent Mile in the heart of Chicago, but also within a quick drive, train or even shuttle out to the Woodfield Mall, Oakbrook Center, Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora and the Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont.

Route 66

The story of America reveals itself, mile by mile, along a stretch of asphalt known as the Mother Road. It's a tale of classic diners, drive-in theaters and quirky roadside attractions. Where weathered signs and friendly folks stir the echoes of a bygone era with stories they are eager to share.

This is America at its purest. Illinois' stretch of this mythic road boasts the highest density of kitschy, interesting things to do you'll find from here to California. A cruise on Route 66 is about the journey, from Chicago to Joliet, Pontiac to Atlanta, and Springfield to Alton, the route abounds with sometimes surprising but always exciting adventure.

FUN FACTS
• Illinois' section of Route 66 is home to nearly 90 communities along more than 400 miles of road.
• Near the start of Route 66, Lou Mitchell's Diner is an old favorite of travelers. Don't forget to grab the free Milk Duds!
• The Cozy Dog Drive In in Springfield claims the first ever 'corn dog on a stick,' that is now an American favorite.
• Illinois' section of Route 66 has several iconic 'muffler man' statues, including the Gemini Giant and Paul Bunyan with a Hot Dog.
• Route 66 claims the World's Largest Covered Wagon. The attraction welcomes visitors throughout the year and features Abe Lincoln himself as the driver.
• The Brook's Catsup Bottle Water Tower stands as the World's Largest Catsup Bottle at 170 feet!
• Illinois Route 66 is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cahokia Mounds in Collinsville is one of only 21 World Heritage Sites in the U.S.

Chicago

Every journey begins somewhere. The journey to discover America – the real America – begins in a place called Chicago. Chicago greets you with a sweeping skyline punctuated by some of the tallest buildings in America. Here, you can explore the Magnificent Mile—a veritable shopper's paradise.

There are miles of sandy beaches along ocean-like waters, Michelin-starred cuisine, and works of art that begin in museums and spill into city squares and lakeside parks. Live music creates a drumbeat, laughter overflows from comedy theatres, and cheering bellows from Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, the United Center, U.S. Cellular Field and beyond.

Renowned museums, plentiful shopping, fine dining, excitement and more—it's all in Chicago, along with unexpected surprises that reveal a side of this city you never knew existed.