Thrilling adventures await in Illinois, USA: Plan your summer vacay already

Summer in Illinois is all about the warmth of the Midwest sun, inviting everyone to explore the outdoor games at Chicago’s lakefront or taking scenic drives along the Great River Road.From urban escapes to family-friendly action, each experience is rich in history and culture showcasing Illinois’ summer thrills like no other.Chicago’s Lakefront and Museum CampusSummertime in Chicago showcases Lake Michigan in all its glory. The sprawling lakefront trail meanders along the shoreline offering an 18-mile bike trail and an 18.5-mile pedestrian trail with breathtaking views and hidden areas for walking, biking, skating, strolling, or picnicking. Sandwiched between downtown skyscrapers and the lake, the Museum Campus houses the famous Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum. While in the area: Catch a White Sox game at Guaranteed Rate Field, only a few minutes’ drive from the Museum Campus, making it easy to plan a trip to the ballpark to catch a Major League Baseball game live in action. Another short drive away is The Gage, offering elevated pub grub and an extensive drinks menu in a relaxing atmosphere. The Blackstone Hotel, located close to the Museum Campus, is a great option or you may also explore luxury at The Peninsula Chicago.The ForgeLemont Quarries Adventure Park, Lemont- The Forge: Lemont Quarries is a one-of-a-kind adventure park about 20 miles southwest of Chicago in suburban Lemont. A fun family-friendly destination, its highlights include a climbing tower with ziplines traversing a lake and incredible views of the Chicago skyline, a smaller, less challenging tower for kids, an outdoor track for BMX and mountain bikes, escape rooms and children’s scavenger games, and hiking and biking trails to explore.While in the area: Black Partridge Woods sits directly across the Fox River, and Waterfall Glen in nearby Darien offers miles of trails and striking bluffs. Grab a bite and a milkshake at Corner Stone Tavern, then wash it down with freshly brewed beer on the riverfront at Pollyanna Brewing. Take in a round of golf at any course between Cog Hill and Big Run. For those looking to stay over for the night, head down the road a few miles to Naperville, which offers an array of accommodations. Arts, Culture and Outdoor Fun in Bloomington-NormalIf performance arts are your interest, this Central Illinois destination provides ample opportunities at its numerous theatres, including the Bloomington Center for Performance Arts, the Community Players Theatre and the Historic Normal Theater. It is also a hub for agritourism; you can see first-hand how Epiphany Farms perfects its root-to-table journey with a tour of the farm, followed by dinner at one of its restaurants.Ropp Jersey Cheese Farm, which is owned and operated by sixth-generation McLean County dairy farmers, offers facility tours as well.While in the area: The Prairie Aviation Museum offers interactive displays, static aircraft, education programs, air shows, group tours, and special aviation events. Stop by DESTIHL Brewery for innovative craft brews and guided tours, or check out Anju Above for global favorites like Neapolitan pizza and fresh sushi. Adjacent to Uptown Station, the conveniently located Hyatt Place makes it easy to get around Central Illinois.Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Springfield Walk through immersive exhibits, see rare artefacts, and trace Abraham Lincoln’s journey from humble beginnings to national legacy; all in the city he called home. Whether you are a history buff or a curious traveler, the museum brings the 16th President's story to life in compelling and interactive ways. While in the area: For a quick escape into tranquility, stop by the Washington Park Botanical Garden, a sanctuary of greenery within an urban environment. Close to all the downtown destinations, the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, offers quality accommodation. Metropolis: Home of SupermanVisit Superman’s hometown of Metropolis, where fans can visit Superman Square and take your picture taken with the 15-foot-tall statue of the Man of Steel. A statue of Lois Lane is located nearby, plus across the street is the Super Museum, showcasing rare Superman memorabilia and selling superhero souvenirs.While in the area: Venture a bit north to take advantage of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, which is home to a myriad of wineries, breweries, and natural areas. Book a suite at the Riverview Mansion, a Victorian bed and breakfast located a block away from Harrah’s Casino.Lusk Creek CanyonNestled deep within the Shawnee National Forest, this vast wilderness area is an oasis within an oasis. Known for its exhilarating whitewater, the canyon includes 100-foot cliffs, rugged forest, and thrilling rapids to challenge even advanced rafters.While in the area: Enjoy an overnight experience outdoors by camping or renting a cabin at William Hill Pass in Harrisburg before exploring more of Shawnee Country.