After spending most of your life working, retirement seems like the time to travel to your heart’s content. There are many places to discover in the United States, and there are good reasons why Illinois should be on your list. You also have the option to adventure through the Garden of the Gods or dive into historical knowledge in the town of Nauvoo.
With so much to discover, Illinois stands out as an ideal destination for retirees looking to enjoy memorable experiences while enjoying the beauty and charm of the Midwest. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a relaxing week, the best of Illinois awaits.
Shawnee National Forest
Shawnee National Forest Garden of the Gods
Spread over 289,000 acres in southern Illinois, the Shawnee National Forest is an ideal destination for retirees who enjoy outdoor activities. Home to its famous rock formations and fall foliage viewing points, Garden of the Gods is perfect for a leisurely hike or a relaxing picnic. There are many tranquil fishing spots for bluegill, largemouth bass, sunfish, and carp, including Lake Cedar and Lake Glendale.
Bird watching is also available in Shawnee. Bald eagles and migratory birds are especially common around lakes and wetlands. Retirees can also enjoy more secluded locations within the forest. Bell Smith Springs, for example, is less visited but promises beautiful sandstone cliffs, natural bridges, and crystal-clear swimming holes.
galena
Main Street in historic Galena Town, Illinois. Image credit Nejdet Duzen (via Shutterstock)
Galena represents history in its picturesque beauty. The town is home to several historic buildings, including the Ulysses S. Grant Home, built in the 1850s and home to former presidents. A guided tour of the mansion provides insight into Civil War-era life and Grant’s legacy. Another charming spot is Dowling House, the oldest building in town. Built in 1826, this small stone house tells the story of the early settlers’ lives through a 30-minute tour.
The Galena Center for the Arts is a nighttime spot to see local exhibits and musical and theatrical performances. Retirees can finally enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards like Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery.
cache river wetland
Cache River Cypress Wetland in Southern Illinois
Cypress’ Barkhausen Cache River Wetland satisfies your desire to spend time in nature near the southern tip of Illinois. The region is rich in biodiversity and features wetlands similar to the swamps of the Deep South. This wetland is home to many rare flora and fauna, including the 1,000-year-old Japanese crocodile. Bird lovers will love spotting rare species such as herons, woodpeckers, and even migratory waterfowl along the Heron Pond Trail.
Meanwhile, Cache Bayou Outfitters’ Lower Cache River Swamp boat tour is for those who want to learn about the area’s biodiversity without doing strenuous activities. Retirees can spend peaceful days birdwatching or exploring the visitor center. There, exhibits on local natural history provide deeper insight into the ecology of the wetlands.
woodstock
Downtown Woodstock, Illinois.
The town, known for starring in the movie “Groundhog Day,” is famous for its historic Woodstock Square, a hub of activity surrounded by locally owned shops and restaurants. The 1889 Opera House is a highlight, where stars like Orson Welles once performed. It’s a great place for retirees to see shows and attend local events. Retirees can also stroll around Emrickson Park, take shots on the nine-hole course, or relax in the shade of mature trees.
Just a short walk away, the Woodstock Farmers Market is one of the best in the state, featuring fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
millennium park, chicago
Bean sculpture in Chicago’s Millennium Park
Downtown Chicago attracts retirees with the 24-acre Millennium Park, a blend of art, architecture, and green space. The iconic attraction is the Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean,” where visitors can take selfies with its reflection against the Chicago skyline. The nearby Jay Pritzker Pavilion hosts free concerts and outdoor performances throughout the summer, making it the perfect place to enjoy music outdoors.
Crown Fountain is popular with locals and tourists alike, featuring interactive water exhibits and faces of Chicagoans. Additionally, art-loving seniors can visit the Art Institute of Chicago on nearby Michigan Avenue, which has been home to a renowned collection spanning centuries and continents since 1879.
nauvoo
Downtown Nauvoo, Illinois. Image credit: Ken Lund (via Flickr.com)
Nauvoo attracts retirees interested in the religious heritage along the Mississippi River. Visitors can take guided tours through the Nauvoo Historic District. There, volunteers dressed in period costume provide insight into pioneer life and the town’s role in American history. The Nauvoo Temple is a landmark of Greek Revival architecture and stands as a symbol of the town’s Mormon heritage.
You can also see demonstrations of frontier crafts such as candle making and blacksmithing in the Family Living Center. A quiet attraction that gives you an insight into daily life in the 1800s. At the same time, wine lovers will appreciate Baxter’s Vineyards, Illinois’ oldest winery. The vineyard offers wine tastings, winery tours, a gift shop, and outdoor seating, making it the perfect afternoon stop.
The Herrington Inn & Spa, Geneva
Geneva, IL: Herrington Inn and Spa, Jeff Krouldis / via Shutterstock.com
Described as a luxurious retreat along the Fox River with easy access to Naperville, Geneva’s Herrington Inn & Spa is a restored 19th-century creamery boutique hotel. Retirees have access to rooms with private balconies overlooking the river. The spa promises a variety of relaxing treatments, including massages and facials, making it a rejuvenating haven. The Fox River Trail is a beautiful walking trail that is easily accessible from the inn. Retirees can enjoy walks and bike rides along the river, or find a place to sit and take in the views.
Downtown Geneva is minutes away. Here, retirees can peek into places like The Little Traveler, a historic mansion that has been converted into a multi-room shopping experience filled with items ranging from decor to clothing.
galesburg
Main Street in Galesburg, Illinois. Image credit David Wilson (via Flickr.com)
A quiet yet attractive destination for retirees northwest of Springfield is Galesburg. The Galesburg Railroad Museum highlights exhibits that demonstrate the town’s importance as a railroad hub. Visitors can also walk among old railroad cars and see relics of Galesburg’s railroad past. Next, history buffs should head to Carl Sandburg State Historic Site. This modest house where the famous poet was born has been turned into a museum. The grounds also include a garden and a small visitor center with exhibits about Sandberg’s life and work.
Away from the typical tourist spotlight, the Orpheum Theater was built in 1916 and still hosts live performances and movies. Its vintage charm and intimate setting make it perfect for retirees to catch a show or enjoy a movie screening.
After visiting eight vacation spots, there’s no reason retirees shouldn’t choose Illinois as their travel destination. They can find relaxation, the rush of the outdoors, natural beauty, and a connection to the past in these Illinois towns and their charms. Home to many important gems and charming stops, Illinois has become a top destination for retirees looking to enrich their lives with new experiences while enjoying the comforts of a friendly community and beautiful landscape. It’s surfacing.
