Chicago is a city that, as the musical of the same name puts it, is sure to “razzle dazzle” you. A city so good, they made it twice!

America's “Second City” first made its mark on the world in 1893, when it became a destination for culture, architecture, and innovation by hosting the World’s Fair: Columbian Exposition, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World. This extravagant event took place just two decades after the Great Chicago Fire, which left a third of the population homeless. Over the years, architect and urban designer Daniel Burnham, who was also responsible for the famed Flatiron Building in NYC, reimagined this rough-and-tumble industrial town into the modern city it is today.

Ever since, Chicago has been renowned for its world-class architecture, museums, and, more recently, a thriving food scene. In the May 2017 issue of Condé Nast Traveler, Chicago was named the “Best Restaurant City in America.” This is for good reason, as it has become a foodie paradise boasting much more than deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. Speaking of accolades, culture vultures will be thrilled to know that in 2015, TripAdvisor named the Art Institute of Chicago the best museum in the world, beating out the Louvre, the Met, and the British Museum.

Chicago is not only a metropolis of food, culture, and architecture, but it also boasts a beach—18 miles (29 km) of lakefront, in fact. Within minutes, you can go from shopping designer brands on Michigan Avenue to enjoying some fun in the sun and sand. Between downtown and the lakefront, you’ll find Grant Park, which comprises 319 acres (1.3 sq km) of green space to enjoy. By now, you can see that a trip to the Second City is really second to none.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfers
3. Gay Hotels in Chicago
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Chicago
5. Gay Tours in Chicago
6. Restaurants and Cafes in Chicago
7. Chicago Gay Bars and Clubs
9. Chicago Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
10. Gay Events in Chicago
11. Day Trips from Chicago

General Tips

Without a doubt, any local will agree that the best time to visit is in the summer (June-September). Although Chicagoans will tout surviving blizzards and sub-zero cold snaps like a badge of honor, everyone lives for the season of rooftop happy hours, beach volleyball, and countless street and music festivals. For the LGBTQ+ community, this means spending those long summer days in Boystown, the aptly named gayborhood, and Andersonville, a Swedish-influenced neighborhood with plenty of LGBTQ+ haunts. Downtown, don’t miss the newly completed Riverwalk, where you can enjoy a glass of wine and a unique perspective of the Loop. It’s as if you’re in a canyon of skyscrapers alongside kayakers, yachts, and tour boats.

If you find yourself in the Windy City in the winter, don’t fear! The holidays are a magical time with the whole city decked out in the season’s finest, and annual traditions like the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza, ice skating in Millennium Park, and the Macy’s storefront windows. In the dead of winter, get excited for the annual Restaurant Week, which takes place in late January/early February for almost two weeks. Hundreds of restaurants in the Chicagoland area offer prix fixe meals at prices often less than one entrée on the regular dinner menu. No matter the time of year, Chicagoans will welcome you with Midwest charm and hospitality.

Chicago is a perfect place to explore by foot, boat, bicycle, and even Segway! Full of breathtaking architecture and compelling history, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of a tour or two to dive deeper into this city’s vibrant past, marvel at the present, and wonder about the future. Walk aboard an architecture boat cruise, follow a docent down the grid-like streets, or cycle on the lakeshore. Start your journey at the Chicago Architecture Center located at 111 E. Wacker Drive, where you’ll discover exhibits, programming, and tour options highlighting Chicago’s world-class architecture.

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Transportation & Airport Transfers

Chicago is home to the nation’s second-largest public transportation system, operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). Serving the Chicagoland area, including 35 suburbs and the city of Chicago, you can quickly get around town using the expansive train and bus system. Between the buses and trains, you can find a way to get from point A to point B with relative ease.

Fares for rides on both the ‘L' (trains) and buses are a fixed price per ride, regardless of the destination. A single ride CTA ticket costs $2.50 for the ‘L' and $2.25 for buses. Exact cash fares are accepted only on buses, but will cost a bit more at $2.50 per ride. CTA tickets and passes are managed by Ventra, and a single-ride CTA ticket can be purchased at most CTA stations, including up to two transfers (i.e., train to bus and/or bus to train) within 2 hours. Another option is to purchase a $5 Ventra Card, which you can load money onto or use to purchase a 1-Day, 3-Day, 7-Day, or 30-Day pass.

For additional CTA fare and ticket prices click here. For information on the Ventra card and app to manage it, click here.

In addition to safe and reliable public transit, ridesharing apps like Lyft and Uber are very popular, and the service is widely available in the city and surrounding suburbs.

If you’re environmentally conscious or prefer pedal power, Chicago is equipped with over 200 miles (322 km) of on-street bicycle lanes. Although dedicated lanes cordoned off from downtown traffic are increasing, most bike lanes are shared with city buses. Even the most experienced city cyclists can run into trouble on the busy streets. For recreational riders, it’s recommended to stick to paths with foot traffic only, like the lakefront trail and the 606. Bike rentals are plentiful through Divvy Bike, with 580 stations and 5,800 bikes across Chicagoland.

Chicago is home to two major international airports, including one of the busiest in the world, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), and the smaller yet more conveniently located Midway International Airport (MDW). The airline and various other factors will determine which airport you fly into. Both, however, are easily accessible to downtown and the rest of the city.

The easiest, most cost-effective, and often the quickest way to get from O’Hare and Midway airports to downtown is via the ‘L' trains. The CTA Blue Line ‘L' train runs from Chicago O’Hare on the northwest side of Chicago to downtown, taking approximately 40-45 minutes and costing $5 for a single-ride Ventra ticket. The Blue Line runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and all trains from O’Hare pass through downtown. A taxi from O’Hare to downtown will cost between $40-$50 or $30-$40 from Midway, taking between 25 and 90 minutes depending on your exact destination and traffic.

The CTA Orange Line ‘L' train connects Midway Airport on the southwest side of Chicago to downtown, taking about 20-25 minutes and costing $2.25 for a single-ride Ventra ticket. Be aware of late-night arrivals and early morning departures, as the Orange Line runs all day, every day except from about 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. Monday – Saturday and after 11 p.m. on Sundays. During these overnight hours, alternate transportation is provided by the N62 Archer bus. A taxi from Midway to downtown will cost about $25 and take between 15 and 40 minutes depending on your exact destination and traffic.

Car rentals are available at both airports, but a car is not required to enjoy the Chicagoland area, and many residents rely exclusively on public transit. With that in mind, it may be wise to skip the rental car and take the CTA or other options like Uber, Lyft, and taxis. Additional transportation options to and from Chicago include regional and cross-country Amtrak trains that arrive conveniently downtown at Chicago’s Union Station. Greyhound and Megabus are also options if you’re traveling to or from other U.S. cities.

Gay Hotels in Chicago

There aren’t currently any gay hotels in Chicago, but there are many gay-friendly options. Stay in Boystown to be near the action.

Luxury

Guesthouse hotel – Named one of the best boutique hotels in Chicago by Time Out, this family-run establishment makes you feel like a local before you even arrive, thanks to their welcome email giving you the 411 on what to do and where to go. With 25 luxe and modern one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites boasting amenities like full kitchens and laundry, you’ll feel like you’re at home away from home. If in-house afternoon tea at a posh getaway from the tourist sites downtown sounds like your cup of tea, the Guesthouse Hotel in Andersonville will not disappoint.

The Majestic– Just steps away from Boystown, Lincoln Park, and Wrigley Field, this English-style boutique hotel has a fire-lit lobby and 52 rooms and suites with stately décor, perfect for guests with a more refined palate. Rest assured that this classic English manor style is paired flawlessly with modern amenities such as complimentary access to a neighboring fitness facility, continental breakfast, and a fully stocked minibar. Cheers!

Midrange

Villa Toscana – If you want to be in the center of the action, then this charming guesthouse in the heart of Boystown is second to none! Built in 1892, this Victorian structure boasts old-world European charm, with each room tastefully adorned in a different style, from French to Moroccan. At the same time, the inn has all the expected modern amenities, such as complimentary wireless internet and a continental self-service breakfast. The Villa can accommodate guests from couples to large groups. However, you must reserve well in advance, as it sells out quickly, especially during peak times like the Pride celebration and Market Days.

Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel – Leave any preconceived notions of a standard hotel chain at home and prepare to be impressed. You’ll be invited through the quaint courtyard to an ivy-covered brick building featuring over 80 well-appointed guest rooms and suites with boutique amenities, including granite bathroom counters, a Keurig coffee maker, and premium cable channels. The location can’t be beaten, as it’s steps away from all the bars, restaurants, and nightlife of Boystown, as well as Wrigley Field and the lake.

City suites Hotel – Just steps from the Belmont Red Line, connecting you to downtown, and a few blocks away from the nightlife of North Halsted, this modern hotel features art deco-inspired decor and colorful accents. Take a closer look at the fine details, such as custom-made wood headboards, wardrobes, and desks, as well as the fully stocked minibar and separate sitting rooms in the suites. From the fun and friendly rooms with ample amenities to the superb location, City Suites Hotel is an ideal pick for a weekend in the Windy City.

Budget

Chicago Getaway Hostel – Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Chicago Getaway Hostel claims to reinvent the hostel experience for the modern wanderlust. Imagine matching hotel-style service with great deals in an ideal location. Check out the amenities, such as free WiFi, a communal kitchen, daily breakfast and free coffee, and weekly social events and guest lockers. You have a choice of private rooms with shared baths, private rooms with ensuite baths, and bunkrooms for four to twelve people. For the budget traveler, this clean and modern hostel will fit the bill without breaking the bank.

Wrigley Hostel – Let your inner baseball fan out and stay in the heart of the action at this Wrigleyville hostel. There’s no better place to meet new people and take part in daily social events such as bar crawls, movie nights, and comedy nights. Choose accommodations from a private room to an eight-bed dorm-style room with bright colors and hardwood floors. Enjoy all the amenities, such as secure guest lockers, free WiFi, and complimentary breakfast. Whip up your favorite dish in the fully equipped kitchen, and lounge on the outdoor patio and grill. If the weather isn’t ideal, hang out in the game room or check out the latest happenings in the computer room and library.

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Sightseeing & Activities in Chicago

Chicago is one of those cities you keep coming back to because there’s always something new to see and do. This is especially true with its diverse neighborhoods that feature food and culture from around the world. A few of the must-see sights topping any guidebook are the Willis Tower Skydeck, Navy Pier, The Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and an architecture boat cruise. While you’ll encounter tourist crowds, these are rites of passage and won’t disappoint on a first-time trip to Chicago.

Art Institute of Chicago – Named the best museum in the world by TripAdvisor in 2015, the Art Institute's collection contains about 300,000 masterpieces, with temporary exhibitions opening several times throughout the year. Don’t miss iconic works such as The Bedroom by Vincent van Gogh, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat, American Gothic by Grant Wood, Nighthawks by Edward Hopper, and The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso.

Willis Tower Skydeck – Originally named the Sears Tower when it was built in 1973 (and still referred to by many locals), this skyscraper stood as the tallest building in the world for 25 years and is now the second tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. On the 103rd floor, the Skydeck features retractable glass balconies that allow you to stand on a four-foot glass ledge, looking down at the street 1,353 feet (412 m) below. Book tour →

Millennium Park – Built over the site of an old rail yard, Millennium Park is home to one of Chicago’s most popular sights, a 66-foot (20 m) tall stainless steel sculpture by Anish Kapoor called Cloud Gate. Lovingly nicknamed “The Bean” due to its resemblance to a giant kidney bean, it’s a must-see. In the summer, enjoy live music and performances on the lawn of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and in the winter, strap on a pair of skates at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, a holiday tradition for many. Book tour →

Chicago Riverwalk – If you’re looking to venture away from the crowds of Michigan Avenue and State Street, take a stroll along the newly renovated Riverwalk, where locals and tourists mix and mingle. Stretching from Lake and Wacker to Lake Michigan, the uninterrupted path is dotted with green spaces, public art, and offers a perspective of the city you can’t get anywhere else. Enjoy small bites and drinks at one of the many cafes, and people-watch as families, runners, and even yachts pass by. Book tour →

Broadway in Chicago – Don’t let the name fool you—Chicago’s theater scene is booming with talent and has much cheaper ticket prices than its Big Apple cousin. A peek inside some of these historic theaters is worth the ticket alone. A few noteworthy ones include Chicago Theater, Oriental Theater, and Auditorium Theater.

Second City & Improv – Chicago is also home to many small theater spaces hosting improv comedy shows and the most famous is Second City. This Chicago institution produced the likes of Tina Fey, Steve Carell, and Joan Rivers to name a few. Comedy and improv shows are a plenty and can cost just a few dollars per ticket. The raw talent is truly impressive.

Museum Campus –So, how do people get those fab panoramic skyline views of the city without walking on water? Head over to the Adler Planetarium for some of the most Instagram-worthy cityscape snaps. While you’re there, explore Museum Campus, a giant pedestrian-friendly park consisting of the Adler Planetarium, the John G. Shedd Aquarium, and the Field Museum.

Navy Pier – One of the most visited sights in the Midwest and a former World War II training center, Navy Pier is home to some of Chicago’s most iconic seafaring craft, such as the tall ship “Windy,” entertainment cruise ships, and Shoreline Sightseeing cruises. Every Wednesday and Saturday night during the summer, enjoy a spectacular fireworks display. Hop on the newly constructed Centennial Wheel, which takes you up 200 feet with 360-degree views of the city. If heights aren’t your thing, take in a flick at the IMAX movie theater or enjoy a performance at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Book tour →

Architecture Boat Tour –One of the best ways to experience the rich architectural landscape of the city is by boat, cruising on the Chicago River. This is a must-do in Chicago, as tourists and locals alike can be found aboard these vessels, learning about the city and admiring the stunning views. Several tour companies offer different types of cruises, like sunset, fireworks, or focused on a specific geography or topic. Most tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will share history, fun trivia, and point out the best photo ops. Book tour →

Walking, Biking, Bus Tours – There are so many ways to explore while discovering hidden gems. Chicago is a very pedestrian-friendly city, so walking tours are common and sometimes the best way to sightsee at your own pace. If cruising on two wheels is more your style, bike tours are the way to go. Like many other cities, the big red double-decker buses are always an option. Pick your preference and get out there to learn some neat history and enjoy one of the country’s first modern cities. Book tour →

If you’re planning to visit many sights and attractions during your stay, it might be worth checking out a tourist card like the Chicago Explorer Pass, which allows you to enter several sights at a fixed price. Buy Pass →

Gay Tours in Chicago

North Side LGBTQ Stories Tour – Take a walk through the queer history of North Side Chicago—including Boystown (the first gayborhood recognized by its city government)—with Tours With Mike. You’ll hear the stories behind the area’s bars, restaurants, shops, art, and sculptures. The tour includes a guided walk of “The Legacy Walk,” a dynamic outdoor LGBTQ history exhibit. Tours With Mike also offers LGBTQ+ tours of Downtown and South Side Chicago. Book tour →

Restaurants and Cafes in Chicago

Chicago’s food scene is booming, and the variety of innovative cuisine is a reflection of the city’s diverse and culturally rich neighborhoods. First, go ahead and indulge in the obligatory deep-dish pizza, dipped Italian beef sandwich, and a hotdog “dragged through the garden.” Then, make your way to some of these trendy and LGBTQ+-friendly eateries. From food truck empanadas to diner vegan milkshakes, here’s a taste of our favorites:

The Chicago Diner – Having been graced by the presence of Lady Gaga, this Chicago eatery has been “Meat free since '83.” It’s an oasis for those with dietary restrictions, offering countless vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free plates. Even carnivores will be floored by the meat-free ‘Radical Reuben’ and the award-winning vegan milkshake to wash it down. The original location is in Lakeview on Halsted (Boystown), with the newest in Logan Square.

Big Chicks – A bar with a big personality to match its name, Big Chicks is one of the most iconic gay restaurants/bars in Chicago. It has been described as an “informal gay community center” in Uptown. Big Chicks is like a gallery (the walls are covered in art), a restaurant, and a cool bar rolled into one—with great service and an even greater atmosphere.

Tweet – The sister restaurant to Big Chicks is housed in a vintage art deco building, this snazzy eatery is another popular brunch (and lunch) spot with an artsy flair. American comfort food takes on gluten-free and plant-based variations at this cash-only gem.

Au Cheval – Found on West Randolph—Chicago’s “restaurant row”—this spot is famous for serving some of the best burgers in the world. Try it yourself and decide, but it’s certainly worth waiting for a seat to find out. The restaurant takes no reservations, so be sure to arrive early for dinner.

The Aviary – Another great option on West Randolph for an upscale experience centered around swanky cocktails. Expect à la carte and tasting menus with creatively presented cuisine. There’s even a speakeasy bar in the basement.

Girl & The Goat – The brainchild of Top Chef Stephanie Izard, this restaurant serves delicious seasonally flavored food from around the globe. It was one of the very first restaurants on “restaurant row” and also has a reputation for being one of the best.

Wood – Located in Boystown and named after its bona fide wood-fired oven, Wood is the place to go for Sunday brunch and a craft cocktail for a little hair of the dog.

DS Tequila Co – A popular no-frills hangout serving up burgers, Tex-Mex, and of course, tequila drinks on the patio.

Pick Me Up Cafe – One of the first vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in the city, ideal for lunch or a late-night bite with a cozy and eclectic atmosphere. Located in Lakeview, just a short walk from the main Boystown strip.

Pork & Park Bistro – A tavern and lounge featuring global American plates with an extensive bar list.

M.henry – In Andersonville – another LGBTQ+ friendly community – you’ll find this homely restaurant, where traditional dishes get a farm-fresh twist – like the dandelion, shallot, and leek omelet. Additionally, the menu has tasty gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. 

FOOD TRUCKS

The food truck craze has finally made its way to Chicago. If you’re trying to pin down a specific eatery, many will share location updates on social media. Popular downtown hangouts for these kitchens on wheels include Clark/Monroe, Adams/Wacker, and Daley Plaza. If you miss one, remember that most have brick-and-mortar locations you can visit, too.

Beavers Coffee and Donuts – The name says it all. Mini donuts galore!

5411 Empanadas – Serves freshly baked Argentinian-style, gourmet empanadas.

Harold’s Chicken – The best hangover-absorbing chicken buckets in Chicago.

Chicago Gay Bars and Clubs

Sidetrack – Show tunes and adult slushies, what’s not to like? This spacious video bar has numerous areas and spots to chat and mingle. Themed nights often feature drag shows and music videos on enormous screens. You’ll find a diverse crowd here, and the rooftop bar and patio is a must-see in the summer.

Elixir – With locations in both Boystown and Andersonville, this fancy cocktail bar is perfect when you’re craving something more sophisticated than a vodka soda. Enjoy carefully crafted drinks like a signature martini and weekly specials at this trendy cocktail spot.

Roscoe’s – One of the best-known and most popular gay bars in Chicago, Roscoe’s Tavern has been a staple since 1987. It offers the best of both worlds: a neighborhood bar vibe in the front and a large dance floor in the back. Check their calendar for regular drag shows and special events, including appearances by RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni.

Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club – Embrace your inner diva at Kit Kat Lounge, where the Kit Kat Divas perform nightly shows every 20 minutes. Choose from a martini and cocktail list of over 200 items while savoring upscale contemporary cuisine at this entertainment hot spot.

Jeffery Pub – One of the oldest gay bars in the city, Jeffery Pub is also one of Chicago’s first Black-owned gay bars. Despite its history, it remains lively and modern with live entertainment, drag shows, karaoke nights, Silky Soul Sundays, and DJs spinning everything from pop to house music on a busy dance floor. Controversially, it has recently implemented a rule of no patrons under 30, so bring your ID!

The Closet – Get back in The Closet! This original bar in Boystown has been an institution since 1978. While it’s primarily known as a lesbian bar, it’s welcoming to all, attracting a diverse clientele. The Closet features an extensive drinks menu, and its pretty pink/purple lighting makes it an ideal date spot.

Second Story Bar – One of the few gay bars downtown, this unpretentious, old-school bar features a disco ball and divey digs that draw a mixed crowd of travelers and locals looking for a libation in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Just remember, it’s cash-only.

Scarlet – A vintage-inspired bar and lounge with a club atmosphere, themed nights, and special events. The DJs and drink specials attract a 20-something crowd ready to dance the night away.

Splash – A modern-styled space with two side bars and a dance floor boasting yet another bar, all staffed by attractive bartenders. Enjoy EDM beats from the DJ, colorful lights, and reasonably priced drinks at this new Boystown hangout.

Hydrate – Located in the heart of Boystown, Hydrate has a contemporary vibe featuring a lineup of DJs and themed nights. It’s open until 4 or 5 a.m. on the weekends.

Berlin – A no-attitude nightclub featuring alternative electronic music that draws an eclectic crowd. It’s also open until 4 or 5 a.m. on the weekends, but try to head over earlier in the night to avoid long lines at the door.

Chicago Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

Steamworks Baths – A towels-optional private men’s gym, sauna, and bathhouse. Memberships start at $8, and the facility offers many amenities, including private rooms, slings, whirlpools, and showers for gay and bi men looking for a playful time.

Cellblock Chicago – dDescribed as “the kinky side of Boystown,” this bar lives up to that description, being especially popular with the leather crowd. The blacked-out windows and industrial look give it that kinky vibe, but it’s also just a lot of fun, even if you aren’t there for some sexy action. There’s a pool table and multiple dart boards to keep you entertained as you drink. They also hold themed kink nights for those looking to play in their own way, ranging from leather to neon nights.

Gay Events in Chicago

Midsommar Fest – Traditionally a celebration of the summer solstice, this LGBTQ+-friendly street festival is a tribute to Andersonville’s Swedish heritage. Usually held on the second weekend of June, enjoy two days and three nights of live music, delicious food, and activities for all ages. Festivities take place on Clark Street, stretching from Foster to Catalpa, with residents and local businesses creating a very inclusive and friendly atmosphere for all.

Chicago Pride – The main event is the Pride Parade, which usually takes place on the last Sunday of June, with a route stretching from Montrose to Diversey on the North Side. The Saturday morning before is the annual Proud to Run 10k run and 5k walk, benefiting several community organizations. However, festivities really begin the weekend before the parade, as the Pride Street Festival kicks off the week-long celebration. Pride-related events can be found throughout the city during the entire month of June. Even downtown and in the financial district, businesses and large institutions proudly fly the rainbow flag.

Lollapalooza Music Festival – Lollapalooza is an annual four-day music festival that draws fans eager to see almost 100 performing artists. It takes place in Grant Park during the first week of August, delighting throngs of music fanatics. Although there are countless smaller music festivals throughout the summer, Lollapalooza is by far the largest, featuring the best-known headliners. Tickets are tough to get, so your best bet is to buy through a reseller.

Northhalsted Market Days – This is the largest outdoor street festival in the Midwest, with attendance of over 200,000. It covers six blocks of North Halsted right in the center of Boystown, with five stages and a non-stop lineup of live music, food, and craft vendors. Think of it as an unofficial Pride Part II, taking place on one of the first weekends of August. Attendees aren’t afraid to express themselves with colorful outfits, and the drag queens are fierce.

Day Trips from Chicago

Lake Geneva, WI – About a two-hour drive northwest of the city, Lake Geneva is one of the most popular getaways for urban dwellers. Stroll up and down the quaint Main Street boutiques and stop for a bite at a restaurant or cafe. Relax on the beach or get out on the lake for boating and water sports. Take a cruise to marvel at the stunning lakefront mansions or check into a spa for some pampering. From spring to fall, this town offers all the vacation vibes without the jet lag.

Oak Park, IL – Not only is Chicago an architectural gem, but the nearby suburb of Oak Park has one of the largest concentrations of Frank Lloyd Wright homes in the country. In addition to being a picturesque town in its own right, Oak Park offers many walking and bicycle tours of these Prairie-style homes, just a short “L” ride from downtown.

Starved Rock State Park – Situated in Oglesby, IL, on the banks of the Illinois River, Starved Rock is about a two-hour drive southwest of Chicago. This state park is ideal for the outdoorsman who enjoys camping and hiking. Although most of the Midwest is flat grasslands, here you can explore waterfalls and unique rock formations. One of the best times to visit is in the autumn when the foliage lights up in colorful hues of yellow, orange, and red.

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