TOUR ILLINOIS GUIDE

Welcome to Illinois

Dear Group Travel Planner,

Group travel continues to thrive in Illinois! Illinois is blessed with a network of group travel specialists located throughout the state waiting to help you create an incredible experience for your group. Our team of Convention and Visitor Bureaus and their sales staff that comprise Tour Illinois are ready to create remarkable experiences for your groups.

Plan your trips through the pages ahead for agricultural tours, historic tours, great rivers adventures and outdoor beauty trips that can all be complemented with Illinois wine and tremendous foodie options. The group travel attractions and opportunities are endless from all regions of the state of Illinois.

Here, you can discover fresh ideas for your next trip. Our teams of group travel experts are here to help make planning easy to ensure unforgettable trips for your groups. For additional trip ideas, check out our website enjoyillinois.com.

Your friend in Illinois tourism,

Cory M. JobeDirector Illinois Office of Tourism

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© 2015 Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity,

Office of Tourism, TTY: 1-800-785-6055 ® The Magnificent Mile is a

registered trademark of the Magnificent Mile Association.

Cover photo credits: Great Rivers Scenic Byway; Alton Regional

Convention & Visitors Bureau, Downtown Chicago; Choose Chicago,

Lincoln at Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum; BRC

Imagination Arts, Garden of the Gods Hiker; Carbondale Convention &

Visitors Bureau.

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All TRAILS LEAD TO ILLINOISA message from your Illinois Convention and Visitor Bureaus.

Let our Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureaus help plan the perfect Illinois getaway. We are only a phone call away. The 50+ members of Tour Illinois include destination marketing organizations throughout the state. We are dedicated tourism professionals who are ready to create exciting itineraries for you and your travelers. Our new Tour

Illinois Group Tour Planner is organized by regions. There are four in Illinois, Chicago & Beyond (Chicago and northern Illinois), Great Rivers Country (Mississippi River

and western Illinois), Land of Lincoln (central Illinois) and Trails to Adventure (southern Illinois).

We are here to answer all of your questions, assist you with trip planning and to create fascinating itineraries. Our Tour Illinois travel

4 For detailed information on more attractions and personalized itineraries, please contact the local CVB listed.

BRC

Imag

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professionals are a one-stop shop for creating memories your travelers will cherish forever. We can take the hassle out of planning; let us make your group outing to Illinois as carefree as possible.

Tour Illinois knows the meaning of teamwork and we stand ready to welcome your groups. Our members work together to showcase Illinois. If a destination can’t

accommodate your dates or times, let us know and we will contact another region for you to make your next group outing stress free.

Please contact CVBs directly or, for more information about Tour Illinois, visit our website www.tourillinois.org.

5For detailed information on more attractions and personalized itineraries, please contact the local CVB listed.

Welcome To Illinois 3

All Trails Lead to Illinois 4

ChICAGO & BEyOND 8

Calendar of Events - Chicago & Beyond 9

Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 10

Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau 1 1

Choose Chicago 12

Chicago’s north Shore Convention & Visitors Bureau 13

Meet Chicago northwest 14

Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau 15

Visit DeKalb County Convention & Visitors Bureau 16

DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau 17

Elgin Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 18

Freeport/Stephenson County Convention & Visitors Bureau 19

Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau 20

Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau 21

Visit Lake County 22

Lisle Convention and Visitors Bureau 23

Visit McHenry County 24

Visit Oak Park 25

Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 26

Rosemont Convention and Tourism Bureau 27

Greater St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau 28

Picture Yourself in Illinois 29

GREAT RIVERS COunTRYLAnD OF LInCOLnCHICAGO AnD BEYOnD TRAILS TO ADVEnTuRE

TABLE Of CONTENTS

6 For detailed information on more attractions and personalized itineraries, please contact the local CVB listed.

7For detailed information on more attractions and personalized itineraries, please contact the local CVB listed.

LAND Of LINCOLN 30

Calendar of Events - Land of Lincoln 31

Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County 32

Bloomington-normal Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 33

Visit Champaign County 34

Danville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 35

Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 36

Effingham Convention & Visitors Bureau 37

Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 38

Lake Shelbyville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 39

Pontiac Tourism Bureau 40

Springfield Illinois Convention & Visitors Bureau 41

GREAT RIvERS COUNTRy 42

Calendar of Events - Great Rivers Country 43

Alton Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau 44

Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau 45

Galesburg Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 46

Henry County Tourism Bureau 47

Macomb Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 48

Peoria Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 49

Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau 50

Quincy Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 51

TRAILS TO ADvENTURE 52

Calendar of Events - Trails to Adventure 53

Carbondale Convention & Tourism Bureau 54

The Tourism Bureau ILLInOISouth 55

Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau 56

Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau 57

Williamson County Tourism Bureau 58

Picture Yourself in Illinois 59

Presidential Trails 60

Scenic Byways 62

ChICAGO & BEyONDChicago has earned its reputation as a world-class destination, but beyond the city limits lies a variety of attractions, such as zoos, gardens, amusement parks, shopping, malls and outlet centers. The Chicago & Beyond region is a vital center of culture, rich with the best elements of big city life, small town hospitality and natural beauty.

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ChICAGO & BEyOND

CALENDAR of EvENTSJANUARyBald Eagle Trolley Tours at Starved Rock, utica

Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition, Rockford

fEBRUARyChicago Auto Show, Chicago

Chicago Restaurant Week, Chicago

Chinese new Year Celebration, Chicago

Groundhog Days, Woodstock

MARChChicago Flower & Garden Show, Chicago

Sock Monkey Madness, Rockford

MAy Gaelic Park Irish Festival, Oak Forest

Grape Vines & Wines, Glencoe

Lilac Time Festival, Lombard

Long Grove Chocolate Festival, Long Grove

JUNEHarvard Milk Days, Havard

Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago

Eyes to the Skies Balloon Festival, Lisle

Long Grove Strawberry Festival, Long Grove

Old Town Art Fair, Chicago

Ottawa 2 Rivers Wine Fest, Ottawa

JULyTaste of Chicago, Chicago

Wright in Kankakee Fine Art Show, Kankakee

AUGUST Lollapalooza, Chicago

Chicago Air & Water Show, Chicago

Lincolnshire Art Festival, Lincolnshire

northalsted Market Days, Chicago

Smallville Superfest, Plano

SEpTEMBERChicago Gourmet, Chicago

Long Grove Apple Fest, Long Grove

The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival, Chicago

nASCAR Sprint Cup Weekend at Chicagoland Speedway, Joliet

Vintage Illinois at Starved Rock, utica

OCTOBERAutumn on Parade, Oregon

Chicago Architecture Biennial, Chicago

Highwood Pumpkin Fest, Highwood

Six Flags Fright Fest, Gurnee

St. Charles Scarecrow Festival, St. Charles

NOvEMBERMagnificent Mile Lights Festival, Chicago

Tea and Trains, north Barrington

DECEMBERChicago Botanic Garden Wonderland Express, Glencoe

Christkindlmarket Chicago, Chicago

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield

Lincoln Park ZooLights, Chicago

Winter Wonderfest at navy Pier, Chicago

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Aurora Area Convention & visitors BureauWeb enjoyaurora.com

phone 630-256-3190 fax 630-256-3190

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find Us• The second largest city in Illinois, is conveniently located off I-88 and

just 37 miles from Chicago.

Services Offered• 5 itineraries • FAM Tours• FREE Bus Parking • Most Hotels Have FREE Breakfast• All Attractions Within 20 Miles

Attractions• Paramount Theatre • Hollywood Casino • Chicago Premium Outlets • Farnsworth House • Raging Waves Water Park

The Aurora Area consists of ten

unique communities: Aurora, Batavia,

Big Rock, Hinckley, Montgomery,

north Aurora, Plano, Sandwich,

Sugar Grove and Yorkville. Whether

you plan to experience our holiday

celebrations, indulge in a Broadway

play, shop ‘til you drop, or discover

our world renowned museums,

please reach out to us with any

questions you have. We are more

than happy to assist with restaurant

recommendations, hotel RFPs for

your groups, attraction information,

or what is new in Chicago. We

can help you to create a unique

experience for your group.

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Blackhawk Waterways Convention & visitors BureauWeb visitnorthwestillinois.com

Toll-free 800-678-2108 fax 815-946-2277

Email Office@bwcvb.com

find Us• Located along Interstate 88 and 39, if you’re coming from the north take I-90.

Services Offered• Personalized Assistance • Site Visit Guides• FAM Opportunities • Group Rate Discount• Out of the Ordinary Experiences

Attractions• John Deere Historic Site • Barnacopia Farm Museum• De Immigrant Dutch Windmill • northwest Territory Historic Center• Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home & Visitor Center

The Blackhawk Waterways of

northwest Illinois is an extraordinary

escape destination for your groups.

Take a luncheon cruise on the Rock

River via an authentic paddle wheel

boat or experience live theater

while enjoying a luncheon buffet.

A treasure trove of museums and

historic stops, including the Reagan

Boyhood Home & John Deere

Historic Site which help re-tell

stories of our rich heritage. We will

customize individual itineraries for

an unforgettable tour.

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Choose ChicagoWeb choosechicago.com

phone 312-567-8500 fax 312-567-8472

find Us• Two international airports, O’Hare and Midway, with easy access to Downtown Chicago.

Reachable via several major interstates.

Services Offered• Hotel RFPs for Your Group • Resource for Trip Information• Motorcoach Parking Information • Collateral or Printed Brochures on• Contacts at Chicago Restaurants, Chicago Hotels and Attractions

Attractions• 360 CHICAGO • The Field Museum• Chicago Architecture Foundation • Museum of Science and Industry• Broadway in Chicago

Whether shopping along the

Magnificent Mile, dining at some of

the world’s greatest restaurants,

rooting for your favorite sports

teams or delving into an endless

array of culture and architecture,

there’s no place like Chicago. Please

reach out to us with any questions

you have for trips to Chicago. We

are more than happy to help with

restaurant recommendations,

sending out hotel RFPs for your

group, attraction information, or

what’s new in Chicago.

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Chicago’s North Shore Convention & visitors BureauWeb visitchicagonorthshore.com

phone 847-763-0011 ext. 25 fax 847-763-0022

find Us• Bordering the city of Chicago — 20 minutes from downtown Chicago

Services Offered• Guide and Drive Complimentary • FAM Trip Opportunities Hotel and Meals • Regional Planning With • Themed Itineraries With Marketing Other CVB Areas Support

Attractions• Baha’i House of Worship • Chicago Botanic Garden• northwestern university • Illinois Holocaust Museum• Charles Gates Dawes House

Bordering Chicago along Lake

Michigan, Chicago’s north Shore

features northwestern university,

Chicago Botanic Garden, Ravinia

Music Festival, the only Baha’i

House of Worship in the Western

Hemisphere, the Illinois Holocaust

Museum, the Charles Dawes Gates

House and Architectural Walking

Tours, and three premiere shopping

centers, Westfield Old Orchard,

northbrook Court and the Glen Town

Center. A quick 30 minute drive

transports you from Chicago’s north

Shore to Downtown Chicago.

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Meet Chicago NorthwestWeb ChicagoNorthwest.com

Toll-free 800-847-4849 phone 847-490-1010

fax 847-490-1212

find Us• On the edge of Chicago and O’Hare Airport – 30 minutes northwest of Downtown

Chicago.

Services Offered• Complimentary Hotel & Venue sourcing • Itinerary Planning• Visitor Guide • Area Map

Attractions• Woodfield Mall • Arlington International Racecourse• Medieval Times • Lynfred Winery• Laugh Out Loud

Chicago’s northwest Suburbs

offer a dazzling array of hotels,

unsurpassed shopping, nationally

known attractions, and exceptional

dining experiences at 400+

restaurants. The area features

gigantic Woodfield Mall, the

flagship IKEA store, outstanding

outlet stores, and hundreds of

unique boutiques just perfect

for exploring. Entertainment and

attraction options abound as well.

Experience wine tasting at Lynfred

Winery; jousting knights at Medieval

Times; gaming at GameWorks;

improvisation at Laugh Out Loud.

Meet Chicago northwest will help

you create unforgettable itineraries

for all groups!

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Chicago Southland Convention & visitors BureauWeb TourChicagoSouthland.com

Toll-free 888-895-8233 fax 708-895-8288

Email Sales@VisitChicagoSouthland.com

Just minutes from downtown

Chicago, the Chicago Southland

offers group tour planners

accessibility, affordability and

versatility, all with a full complement

of services. Conveniently accessible

throughout the Chicago-area via

Interstates 80, 90, 94, 294, 355,

55 and 57, the Chicago Southland

is an ideal group tour location. Our

region offers a variety of experiences

for group tours and is a great and

conveniently located stopover for

Chicago tours.

find Us• The Chicago Southland includes the 62 south and southwest suburbs of Chicago

and only 30 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Services Offered• Customized Itineraries • Group Incentives & Services• Complimentary Motorcoach Parking

Attractions• Balmoral Park Race Track • Frankfort Historic Shopping District• First Midwest Bank Amphitheater • Lake Katherine nature Center and• Chicago Fire Major League Soccer/ Botanic Gardens TOYOTA PARK

visit DeKalb County Convention & visitors BureauWeb dekalbcountycvb.com

Toll-free 877-335-2521 phone 815-756-1336

fax 815-756-5164

find Us• Easily accessible from either I-88 or I-90. Conveniently located just 60 miles west of

Chicago.

Services Offered• Venue Selection & Site Visit Assistance • Customized Itineraries• Hotel Group Accommodations Assistance • Event Planning: Entertainment, Local• Maps and Visitor Guides Provided Contact for Services

Attractions• Ellwood House Museum • Egyptian Theatre• Midwest Museum of natural History • Waterman Winery and Vineyard • Prairie State Winery

DeKalb County is an ideal destination

for a group tour day trip or overnight

stay. Our area is filled with historical

shopping districts, museums,

theaters, wineries, delicious eateries

and a wide variety of agriculture

attractions. We have a vibrant arts

and cultural scene that includes both

regional and national entertainment.

There’s nothing we like more than

opening our doors. We are ready to

help plan your visit and look forward

to welcoming you to DeKalb County!

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Dupage Convention & visitors BureauWeb DiscoverDuPage.com

Toll-free 800-232-0502 fax 630-575-8078

find Us• 20 miles west of downtown Chicago. Close to O’Hare and Midway international airports.

Accessible by Amtrak, Metra, Route 66 and major expressways I-55, I-80, I-88, I-90, I-94, I-290, I-294 & I-355.

Services Offered• Step-On Guide Support • Free Visitors Guides & Welcome Bags• Hotel & Venue Sourcing Assistance • Site Visits & Familiarization Tours• Customized Itineraries

Attractions• Cantigny Park & Museums • Chicago Premium Outlets• Drury Lane Theatre • Oakbrook Center• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago

DuPage County is a favorite

destination among groups for

its variety, affordability and

convenience. Amazingly rich in

culture, heritage and landscape,

DuPage is known for its world-class

shopping, dining, recreation and

entertainment. It is home to several

popular attractions, like The Morton

Arboretum, Billy Graham Center

Museum, Lynfred Winery, Drury Lane

Theatre, Cantigny Park and naper

Settlement. DuPage also offers over

100 hotels, all with free parking.

Come and discover what awaits you

beyond Chicago’s skyline!

Elgin Area Convention & visitors BureauWeb northernfoxrivervalley.com

Toll-free 800-217-5362 fax 847-695-7668

find Us• We are 45 minutes northwest from downtown Chicago and 30 minutes from O’Hare

International Airport.

Services Offered• Guide and Driver Complimentary • Complimentary Step-on Guide Services Hotel and Meals • Site Visit Assistance • Itinerary Customization • FAM Opportunities

Attractions• Illinois Railway Museum • Santa’s Village Azoosment Park• The Grand Victoria Casino • Muirhead Farmhouse• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chicago

The Elgin Area is a must-see stop

for motor coach groups visiting

the Chicagoland area! Home of

the world-famous Elgin national

Watch Company Observatory,

the Elgin area also hosts such

amazing, group-friendly sites such

as the Frank Lloyd Wright Muirhead

Farmhouse, the Illinois Railway

Museum, the Fox River Trolley

Museum, the Grand Victoria Casino,

the Hemmens Cultural Centre and

over 40 miles of bike and walking

trails along the Fox River! We also

have many great affordable hotels

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freeport/Stephenson County Convention & visitors Bureau Web Stephenson-county-il.org

Toll-free 800-369-2955 phone 815-233-1357

fax 815-233-1358

find Us• Located 2 hours west of Chicago on u.S. Highway 20 in the gently rolling hills of

northwest Illinois.

Services Offered• Group Rates and Discounts • FAM Tours• Tour Planning - We’ll Do It ALL! • Step-on Guides Available at no Charge• Complimentary Escort Policy for

Accommodations, Admission, and Meals

Attractions• Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square • Stephenson County Historical Museum• Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad • Freeport Art Museum Antique Steam Train • Famous Fossil Vineyard and Winery

Freeport/Stephenson County, with

centuries of charm and hospitality,

offers quaint villages, scenic drives,

interesting museums, historic sites,

special events, unique shops and

restaurants, and welcoming hotels.

A sample of possible stops include

Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square, a

ride on an authentic antique steam

train, relaxing at a local winery and

vineyard, tours of an 1857 mansion,

or enjoying a cone at a 100 year old

ice cream parlor. We will customize

an itinerary just for you.

heritage Corridor Convention & visitors BureauWeb HeritageCorridorCVB.com

Toll-free 800-535-5682 phone 815-588-7940

fax 815-588-7945

find Us• 14 miles south of Chicago to 100 miles southwest, the Heritage Corridor is

accessible by 5 major interstates (including I-80 & I-55), Chicago airports, AMTRAK and Metra rail.

Services Offered• Receptive Services • Step-on Guides• Themed Tours • Marketing Materials• Customized Itineraries

Attractions• Route 66 • Joliet Area Historical Museum• Rialto Square Theatre • Starved Rock State Park• LaSalle Canal Boat

Bring your group to play in the

nation’s first Heritage Corridor!

Visit the quaint canal towns and

communities along the Illinois and

Michigan Canal filled with history,

casinos, nASCAR, museums,

minor league baseball, Route 66,

boutique stores and malls, diners

and fine cuisine restaurants and

outdoor recreation adventures. Your

group will have a fun, memorable

experience in Chicagoland’s Largest

Playground – the Illinois & Michigan

Canal national Heritage Corridor!

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Kankakee County Convention and visitors BureauWeb visitkankakeecounty.com

Toll-free 800-747-4837 fax 815-935-5169

find Us• Located on I-57 and south of I-80. We are 50 miles south of Chicago.

Services Offered• Customized itineraries • Hotel Leads for Rate Quotes• Site Visits and Familiarizations Tours • Personal “Meet and Greet” Service

Provided by CVB

Attractions• Barn Quilt Tour • Historical Church Tour• Bennett-Curtis House Mystery • Strickler Planetarium Dinner Theater• B. Harley Bradley House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright

Kankakee County is home to many

great attractions, festivals and

activities like the Chicago Bears

Training Camp, the Barn Quilt Tour,

the B. Harley Bradley House designed

by Frank Lloyd Wright and the

Historical Church Tour. Traditionally

traveled for leisure activities, recent

development in Kankakee County has

attracted numerous organized group

tours. Tour operators will appreciate

Kankakee County for its affordability,

accessibility and charm.

visit Lake CountyWeb visitlakecounty.org

Toll-free 800-Lake-Now fax 847-662-2702

find Us• Conveniently located on I-94 between Chicago and Milwaukee.

Services Offered• Itinerary Building Assistance • Personalized Site Visit • Annual FAM Opportunity • Digital Photo Library and Online Videos• Escort and Driver Welcome Gifts at Your Hotel

Attractions• Great Lakes naval Museum • Ravinia Festival• Six Flags Great America • Tempel Lipizzans• Volo Auto Museum

Home to Six Flags Great America,

Gurnee Mills, naval Station Great

Lakes, Ravinia Festival concerts,

world-famous Tempel Lipizzans,

the unusual Gold Pyramid House,

opulent Cuneo Mansion and Gardens,

Volo Auto Museum plus the quaint

Long Grove Historic Village. neaby

Sanfilippo Estate and Chicago Botanic

Garden are both popular for group

tours. Planners may choose from over

20-themed itineraries for adult and

student groups or create a unique

experience. We have many hidden

treasures just north of Chicago!

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Lisle Convention and visitors BureauWeb stayinlisle.com

Toll-free 800-733-9811 fax 630-769-1006

find Us• Only 25 miles from both O’Hare and Midway Airports and 25 miles west of

Chicago’s Loop, Lisle is located at the intersection of I-88 and I-355.

Services Offered• Welcome Bags • Complimentary Bus Parking• Customized Itinerary Assistance • Site Inspections for Lisle Hotels • Complimentary Hotel Room and Venues for Guide/Driver

Attractions• The Morton Arboretum • Cantigny Park• Billy Graham Center Museum • ClaySpaces Ceramic Arts Center • Eyes to the Skies Hot Air Balloon Festival

Home to outstanding hotels including,

Hilton, Hyatt and Sheraton Lisle,

specializing in group tour services.

Lisle promises extraordinary

experiences like exceptional shopping

and dining options, enriching

cultural activities and nature-

based outings. Discover Lisle’s

refreshing recreational amenities

including: the popular annual Eyes

to the Skies Hot Air Balloon Festival

and The Morton Arboretum, an

internationally recognized 1,700-

acre outdoor museum that provides

group workshops and educational

opportunities for unique group outings.

visit Mchenry CountyWeb visitmchenrycounty.com

Toll-free 888-363-6177 phone 815-893-6280

find Us• Located in the heart of the Chicago/Rockford/Milwaukee triangle, 50 miles

northwest of Chicago with easy access from I-90 and is traversed by Routes 20, 31, 47, 120, 173 and 176.

Services Offered• Full Itinerary Planning Assistance • One Stop for Housing Quotes• Consumer Brochures and Local Photos • Site Visit Assistance• FAM Tour Opportunities

Attractions• Sanfilippo’s Place de la Musique • Illinois Railway Museum• Historic Woodstock Square • Royal Oak Farm Orchard• Richardson Adventure Farm

Outstanding dining, quaint shopping

and unique attractions, along with

proximity to Chicago and Rockford,

make McHenry County an ideal

destination or base for hub-and-

spoke tours. Experience acoustical

perfection at Sanfilippo Estate’s

“Place de la Musique.” Explore a

one-room schoolhouse at McHenry

County Historical Museum or hop

aboard an historic train at the Illinois

Railway Museum. We offer group-

friendly attractions for history, arts,

entertainment and more.

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visit Oak parkWeb visitoakpark.com

Toll-free 888-OAK-PARK fax 708-524-7473

find Us• The Oak Park Area is just nine miles due west of downtown Chicago, easily accessible

by both CTA Green and Blue Lines and Metra rail.

Services Offered• FAM Opportunities • Visitor Guide Distribution• Site Visit Assistance • Informational Materials• Trip Planning Assistance

Attractions• Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio • Pleasant Home• Frank Lloyd Wright’s unity Temple • Berwyn Route 66 Museum • Ernest Hemingway Birthplace & Museum

Oak Park is home to the most Frank

Lloyd Wright designed buildings in

the world, including Wright’s Home

& Studio. Home to another great

mind, nobel Laureate & Pulitzer Prize

winning author, Ernest Hemingway’s

birth home and museum are also

located in Oak Park. Among the

attractions, you will also find great

shopping, from boutiques to antiques,

and a diverse selection of restaurants

for any taste. Visit Oak Park, Step Out

of Line!

Rockford Area Convention and visitors BureauWeb gorockford.com

Toll-free 800-521-0849 fax 815-963-4298

find Us• Centrally located at the intersection of I-90 and I-39. Easy access from major Midwest

hub, 90 miles from Chicago.

Services Offered• Hotel contract and rate negotiations • Marketing assistance• Event planning • FAM opportunities

Attractions• Discovery Center • Anderson Japanese Gardens• Midway Village and Museum • Laurent House• Alpine Hills Adventure Park

Bring that bus to Rockford, Illinois

– one of the most accessible,

affordable destinations in the

Midwest! Visit our seven Great

Gardens of Rockford; take a

historical tour of our theaters and

museums; and grab a bite to eat

at one of our many Real, Original,

Rockford restaurants. Call for

more information on bringing your

motorcoach to Rockford!

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Rosemont Convention and Tourism BureauWeb rosemont.com

phone 847-823-2100 fax 847-696-9700

find Us• Rosemont is located at the crossroads of I-294, I-90 and I-94, minutes from O’Hare Airport

and downtown Chicago, and has CTA and Metra train stops as well PACE bus service serving the suburbs.

Services Offered• Complimentary Hotel & Venue Sourcing • Itinerary Planning• Visitor Guide Distribution • Site Visit Assistance• Free Shuttle Bus From CTA Station to Stops at the Mall, MB Financial Park and Convention Center

Attractions• MB Financial Park’s Summer Concerts in the Park • MB Financial Park’s Winter • Fashion Outlets of Chicago Outlet Mall Skating Rink• Winter Lights Display Around the Village • Allstate Arena Year-Round Concerts and Family Events

When it comes to group

opportunities, Rosemont has it

all. Our tempting restaurants

and private event spaces cater

to any size group. Enjoy live

performances at the Allstate Arena

and Rosemont Theatre or shop

‘til you drop at Fashion Outlets of

Chicago’s 130+ designer outlets.

From indoor skydiving and comedy,

your group will find fun in our

vibrant entertainment venues.

Everything you love is wrapped up

in one exciting mini metropolis.

Visit Rosemont.com.

®

Greater St. Charles Convention & visitors BureauWeb visitstcharles.com

Toll-free 800-777-4373 fax 630-513-0566

find Us• Easily accessible to three interstates I-88; I-355 & I-90.

Services Offered• FAM Opportunities • Full Itinerary Planning Assistance• Step-on Welcome and Guide Services • Site Visit Assistance

Attractions• Paddlewheel River Boats • Annual Scarecrow Festival • Historic Hotel Baker • Fine Line Creative Arts Center • Theater & Entertainment including the Historic Arcada Theatre and Fox Valley Repertory at Pheasant Run Resort

Hop aboard your motor coach...

to charming St. Charles, Illinois! St.

Charles is the quintessential Midwest

Community and the PERFECT group

tour destination! Spend the day

exploring the wonders of the Fox

River Valley, with the sights of the

Windy City just an hour east of

here. Discover the many unique and

natural charms of St. Charles...and

see why we continue to be a favorite

among group tour planners.

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picture yourself in Illinois

“Caryn at Chicago’s north Shore Convention & Visitors

Bureau has a tremendous amount of knowledge about

her area and beyond. She is always available to help

you with new ideas and planning to make sure groups

have a fantastic time while in Chicago’s north Shore.

KrIS Hoff

I went on an Illinois Fam tour and even though I live

in the Chicago area, this tour gave me some great

ideas. I have already incorporated 2 of the places in

tours that I offer and am planning many more. One

phone call and email and my tours were set. What a

great experience.

LaVonne CamPBeLL

Burr rIdge ParK dISTrICT

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LAND Of LINCOLNThis is the region that President Abraham Lincoln made his home. Explore his legacy at Springfield’s Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Get your kicks along Route 66, cruise the Illinois stretch to see unique roadside attractions. The Land of Lincoln has it all.

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fEBRUARyMaple Sirup Time, Shirley

Central Illinois Jazz Festival, Decatur

MARCh Funks Grove Maple Syrup Experience, McLean

The Original American Passion Play, Bloomington

ApRIL Roger Ebert’s Film Festival, Champaign

MAyAnnual Music & Wine Festival, Hill Prairie Winery, Oakford

Chet Kingery Memorial Bluegrass Festival, Arcola

Homer Soda Festival, Homer

Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festival, Joliet to Towanda

Old Capitol Art Fair, Springfield

JUNE20th General Grierson Days & All Veterans Celebration, Jacksonville

International Carillon Festival, Springfield

Blues, Brews & BBQ, urbana

MidAmerica Funfest, Air-Cooled VWs, Effingham

JULy Cheeseburgers in Paradise with Wine Margaritas, Oakford

I & I Historic Farm Days, Penfield

Illinois Shakespeare Festival, Bloomington

Mattoon Bagelfest, Mattoon

Tour De Donut & Ribfest, Staunton

AUGUSTDecatur Celebration, Decatur

Illinois State Fair, Springfield

Lincoln Balloon Festival, Lincoln

Taste of Champaign-urbana, Champaign

urbana Sweetcorn Festival, urbana

SEpTEMBERArts in Central Park, Decatur

Broom Corn Festival, Arcola

Clinton’s Apple & Pork Festival, Clinton

International Route 66 Mother Road Festival, Springfield

Palestine Labor Day Festival & Rodeo, Palestine

Traditional Music Festival, new Salem, Petersburg

OCTOBER Ghost Train at Monticello Railway Museum, Monticello

Balloon Fest, Shelbyville

Wabash Valley Wine and Art Festival, Palestine

NOvEMBERFestival of Trees, Danville

DECEMBERChristmas at the Dana-Thomas House, Springfield

LAND Of LINCOLN

CALENDAR of EvENTS

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Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan CountyWeb abe66.com

phone 217-732-8687 fax 217-735-9205

find Us• Located off I-55; 30 minutes from Bloomington and Springfield, IL

Services Offered• Visitor Guides • Calendar of Events• Customized Itineraries

Attractions• Railsplitter Covered Wagon • Paul Bunyon Statue• Postville Courthouse • Lincoln Heritage Museum• Mt. Pulaski Courthouse

Welcome to the City of Lincoln and

Logan County, a rural area where

you can walk in the early footsteps

of Abraham Lincoln or hop in your

car and ride on historic Route 66,

America’s most talked-about road.

Logan County is proud to offer

historic sites, attractions, unique

shops and delicious eateries.

Enjoy a casual stay, or come for

one of the many festivals, sports

tournaments or events throughout

the year. Logan County offers

something for everyone!

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Bloomington-Normal Area Convention & visitors Bureau Web visitbn.org

Toll-free 800-433-8226 fax 309-661-0743

find Us• Centrally located in the heart of Illinois at the crossroads of I-74, I-39, and I-55,

and Route 66 just a few hours from Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis.

Services Offered• Welcome Bags • FAM Tours• Customized Itineraries • Visitor Guides, Event Calendar,• Assistance With Hotel and Brochures, Coupons, Area Maps Restaurant Reservation and More

Attractions• David Davis Mansion • Ewing Cultural Center• McLean County Museum of History • u.S. Cellular Coliseum• Route 66

The Bloomington-normal Area has

something to offer everyone! Our

charming communities offer premier

entertainment, historical tours,

outstanding theatre performances,

agricultural tours, garden walks,

winery events, Abraham Lincoln

sites, Route 66 stops, unique

restaurants and much more! Our

newest attraction is the Cruisin’ with

Lincoln on 66 Visitor Center in the

McLean County Museum of History.

Our celebrated hospitality continues

to make our area a remarkable place

to visit.

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visit Champaign CountyWeb visitchampaigncounty.org

phone 217-351-4133

find Us• Located at the crossroads of I-57, I-74 and I-72. We are 135 miles south of Chicago,

linking Indianapolis, St. Louis and Peoria.

Services Offered• Personalized Itinerary Planning • Site Visit Assistance• Complimentary Policy for Guide • Motorcoach Servicing upon Request and Driver • Photograph & PowerPoint Presentation

Attractions• Japan House • Virginia Theatre• Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery • Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch• Curtis Orchard

In the mood for a thrilling mystery

trip or a two-day agricultural

adventure? How about a stop at our

group friendly hotels and locally-

owned restaurants? Our adult,

student and international groups can

attest to the many hidden wonders of

Champaign County—rich agriculture,

delectable cuisine, vibrant arts and

culture, cutting-edge technology and

much more. Get a taste of Midwest

hospitality when you visit our diverse

and entertaining community! We

guarantee you will be back!

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Danville Area Convention and visitors’ Bureau

find Us• Located in East Central Illinois.

Services Offered• Customized Itinerary Planning • Guide and Driver Complimentary Hotel and Meals• Step-on Guide • Welcome Bags

Attractions• Kickapoo State Park • Sleepy Creek Vineyards • Vermilion County War Museum • Vermilion County Museum • The Walldogs

Something for everyone! The

Danville Area Convention and

Visitors’ Bureau is here to assist

you in your planning process and

will help you design a tour each of

your travelers will enjoy. During

breaks, guests will be busy exploring

over 15,000 acres of park land in

Vermilion County or shopping at one

of the 50+ locally owned shops that

offer “Everything But Ordinary” to

ensure a trip they will never forget!

Web danvilleareainfo.com

Toll-free 800-383-4386 fax 217-442-2137

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Decatur Area Convention & visitors Bureau

find Us• At the crossroads of I-72 at uS 51 and uS 36. We are an easy 2 1/2 hour drive south

of the Chicago area or 2 hours from St. Louis.

Services Offered• Customized Coupons and Discounts • Complimentary Step-on Guide

Attractions• Macon County History Museum • Wabash Depot Antique Center • Rock Springs Conservation Area • Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum • Mari Mann Herb Co. & Farm

Decatur/Forsyth is the ideal hub

from which to explore all of central

Illinois. We offer attractions for all,

a quaint downtown, Looking for

Lincoln wayside exhibits, several

antique centers, and quality

restaurants which are distinctly

Decatur. Events like the Central

Illinois Jazz Festival, the renowned

Decatur Celebration and the hugely

attended Farm Progress Show™, are

hosted in Decatur. We invite you to

discover all there is to see and do,

and let us help you customize your

visit. Visit our website to discover

why we should be your next call for

tour planning.

Web decaturcvb.com

Toll-free 800-331-4479 fax 217-423-7455

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Effingham Convention & visitors Bureau Web visiteffinghamil.com

Toll-free 800-772-0750 phone 217-342-5310

fax 217-342-4939

find Us• Located in Central Illinois at the crossroads of I-57 and I-70. We are 210 miles south

of Chicago.

Services Offered• Site Visit Assistance • FAM Opportunities• Welcome Bags • Itinerary Building and/or Assistance• Customized Help as needed

Attractions• Firefly Grill • Tuscan Hills Winery• Effingham Performance Center • John Boos Co. Outlet Showroom• Cross at the Crossroads

Spend a few days exploring our

unique city. With 18 hotels, over

65 restaurants and wonderful

attractions, Effingham provides the

very best in service and hospitality.

Firefly Grill, Tuscan Hills Winery,

the Effingham Performance Center,

MY Garage Museum, Cross at the

Crossroads and John Boos & Co.

Outlet Showroom are just a few of

the many attractions that make

Effingham a tourism destination for

thousands of travelers each year.

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Jacksonville Area Convention & visitors Bureau

find Us• Centrally located between St. Louis and Chicago, near Springfield.

Services Offered• Customized Itineraries • Welcome Bags• Special Room Rates • Free Wine and Cheese Reception at • Visitor Discount Card Participating Hotels

Attractions• underground Railroad • Governor Duncan Mansion • Strawn Art Gallery • Looking For Lincoln Sites• Walldog Murals

To the first-time visitor, Jacksonville is

full of the unexpected. From our Civil

War and Abraham Lincoln sites, to

the modern businesses of today, the

area offers something for everyone.

Jacksonville is a community rich in

historical treasures, thriving arts,

education, and culture all wrapped up in

Midwest hospitality. Jacksonville is an

excellent place to live, work, and play!

Web jacksonvilleil.org

phone 217-243-5678 fax 217-243-5862

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Lake Shelbyville Area Convention & visitors Bureau

find Us• Located 3 hours south of Chicago, 35 minutes south of Decatur, 35 minutes north

of I-57 & I-70 junction, 2 hours from St. Louis.

Services Offered• Customized Itineraries • Welcome Bags

Attractions• Lake Shelbyville • Historical Chautauqua Auditorium• Lake Interpretive Center • 3 Wineries• Boarman’s Chevy Bel-Air Museum

Small town charm with a world

class landscape! Lake Shelbyville

offers 11,100 acres of water, 172

miles of shoreline, five federal

campgrounds, two state parks, 65

miles of trails, and beaches. The

lake also provides for plentiful

wildlife viewing, including Bald

Eagles. unique attractions include a

goat tower, covered bridge, Looking

for Lincoln exhibits and more

to entertain visitors. Our quaint

downtowns offer restaurants,

specialty and craft shops and

even a working potter. For more

information on recreational

opportunities and local attractions,

go to lakeshelbyville.com.

Web lakeshelbyville.com

Toll-free 800-874-3529

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pontiac Tourism Bureau Web Pontiac.org

Toll-free 800-835-2055 phone 815-844-5847

find Us• Located on Historic Route 66 and modern I-55 about 100 miles south of Chicago.

Services Offered• Welcome Bags • Guided Walking Tours • Trolley Tours • Site Visits • Friendly staff to assistant

Attractions• Route 66 Association of Illinois • Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum Hall of Fame and Museum • Historic Downtown Shopping District• Murals on Main Street Trolley Tours • Bob Waldmire’s Road Yacht

The City of Pontiac, located 100

miles south of Chicago along I-55

and Historic Route 66, offers the

traveler a variety of interesting

things to see and places to go. There

are four wonderful museums - all

within walking distance of each other,

- twenty-three colorful, outdoor

murals, three unique swinging

pedestrian bridges, nine Looking

for Lincoln sites, historic homes,

a vibrant, turn-of-the-century

downtown shopping district, great

restaurants, and more. Come see

Pontiac for yourself.

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Springfield Illinois Convention & visitors Bureau Web visitspringfieldillinois.com

Toll-free 800-545-7300 fax 217-544-8711

find Us• Located along I-55 and I-72. We are 200 miles from Chicago, IL and 100 miles from

St. Louis.

Services Offered• Complementary Customized Itinerary • FAM Tour Opportunities Planning Service • Group Tour Manual and a Resource Database

Attractions• Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library • Lincoln Home national Historic Site and Museum • Lincoln Tomb• Dana-Thomas House – A Frank Lloyd • Old State Capitol Wright Design

Each year, thousands of groups

travel to Springfield to visit our

legendary historic sites and

attractions – whether for a time

travel adventure in the city Lincoln

loved or to take part in any of

our hundreds of special events

happening all year long. Let us make

your job easy with our free group

planning services. We’ll plan your

group’s itinerary and make sure they

have a legendary time in Springfield!

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GREAT RIvERS COUNTRyAlong the western edge of Illinois lies Great Rivers Country, where the Mississippi and Illinois rivers run through this region of picturesque small towns, rural landscapes and scenic drives. Whether you’re looking for the simple charm of Main Street towns or stunning views along Great River Road, you’ll find this and more.

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JANUARy Bald Eagle Days at Pere Marquette, Grafton

Bald Eagle Days QCCA Expo Center, Rock Island

MARCh Central Illinois Auto Show, Peoria

Wine Lovers’ Weekend, Galena

ApRIL President Grant’s Birthday Celebration, Galena

Sandburg Days, Galesburg

MAyArt on the Square, Belleville

Fulton Dutch Days Festival, Fulton

JUNE Galesburg Railroad Days, Galesburg

International Horseradish Festival, Collinsville

Rendezvous at Fort De Chartres, Prairie du Rocher

Route 66 festival, Edwardsville

Steamboat Festival, Peoria

JULy Heart of Illinois Fair at Peoria Expo Gardens, Peoria

nauvoo Pageant, nauvoo

Worlds Largest Catsup Bottle Festival, Collinsville

AUGUSTGalesburg Heritage Days, Galesburg

SEpTEMBERMorton Pumpkin Festival, Morton

OCTOBERGalena Oktoberfest, Galena

Knox County Scenic Drive, Galesburg

NOvEMBER East Peoria Festival of Lights, East Peoria

nouveau Wine Weekend, Galena

Way of Lights at Our Lady of the Snows, Belleville

DECEMBER Julmarknad Christmas Market & Chocolate Walk, Bishop Hill

Festival of Lights, East Peoria

GREAT RIvERS COUNTRy

CALENDAR of EvENTS

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Alton Regional Convention and visitors BureauWeb visitalton.com

Toll-free 800-ALTON-IL fax 618-465-6151

find Us• Just 25 miles north of St. Louis, the Alton Region is accessible from six major

interstates, an international airport and an Amtrak station.

Services Offered• Group Rates/Discounts • Group Tour Planner• Sample Itineraries • Reservation Assistance• FAM Tours or Site Visit Opportunities

Attractions• Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center/Tower • Legendary nightlife & Wineries• Lincoln & Civil War Living History Tour • Mississippi River Cruises• national Great Rivers Museum/Melvin Price Locks & Dam

The Alton region is located along

a breathtaking portion of the

Great River Road. Here the Mighty

Mississippi River converges with

both the Illinois & Missouri Rivers.

It is a majestic place known for its

historic qualities, recreation and

miles of scenic beauty during every

season of the year. Your group will

enjoy historic sites, state-of-the-art

museums, shopping, dining, casino,

antiquing and watchable wildlife.

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Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention & visitors BureauWeb galena.org

Toll-free 877-464-2536 fax 815-777-3566

find Us• Galena/Jo Daviess County is located in the northwest corner of Illinois along u.S.

Highway 20. We are three hours west of Chicago.

Services Offered• Welcome Greeting, Promotional • Step-on Guide and Business Referral Images/Video, RFP Assistance • Welcome Bags with Brochures

Attractions• Galena’s historic Main Street • ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site• Four Vineyards, One Brewery • Chestnut Mountain Resort & One Distillery• Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

Tucked away in the unglaciated hills

of northwest Illinois, this area is

home to quintessential towns that

exude what America looked like in

the 1800s. notably, Galena’s Main

Street has been honored repeatedly

as one of the best in the country.

Discover more than 100 shops,

restaurants and attractions on this

landmark street alone. Destination

wide, motor coaches take the back

roads to offer a glimpse at the best

of what Illinois has to offer.

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Galesburg Area Convention & visitors BureauWeb visitgalesburg.com

phone 309-343-2485 fax 309-343-2521

find Us• Located on I-74 and uS-34 just 200 miles from Chicago in West Central Illinois

and just 45 miles from the Quad Cities and Peoria.

Services Offered• Complementary Planning • Free Welcome Bags• Free Step-on Guides

Attractions• The Orpheum Theatre • Discovery Depot Children’s Museum• Galesburg Railroad Museum • Carl Sandburg State Historic Site • Seminary Street Historic Shopping District

All roads lead to Galesburg.

Conveniently located on Interstate

74 & uS Highway 34, Galesburg is

a wonderful destination for leisure.

Whether you are a motorcoach trip

planner or a sightseeing group,

the Galesburg Area Convention &

Visitors Bureau offers complimentary

assistance in planning your group visit

to the Galesburg area. Our staff can

arrange tours of local sites, museums,

attractions and agricultural venues,

as well as schedule time for meals at

our distinctive restaurants.

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henry County Tourism Bureau Web visithenrycounty.com

Toll-free 877-436-7926 fax 847.763.0022

find Us• Located at the intersection of Interstate 74 and 80 in northwestern Illinois, just 16 miles

from the Mississippi River.

Services Offered• Single Point of Contact Tour Assistance • Local Flavor Step on Assistance Available• Group Accommodation Booking Assistance

Attractions• national Historic Landmark Bishop Hill • Lavender Crest Winery, Colona• Geneseo Historic State Street Shopping • Woodland Palace at Francis Park and History District, Geneseo in the Paint Public Art Tour, Kewanee• Country Corner Farmer Market, Alpha

Reconnect along our back roads!

Bright sunny days and cool, crisp

evenings beckon you to enjoy Henry

County’s countryside. We extend an

invitation for your next group escape

to northwest Illinois. Experience

our rural heritage; explore our

natural beauty, grand traditions and

surprises. Discover our restaurants

and specialty shops and our warm,

friendly hello! The welcome mat is

out; the back roads beckon you to

visit. www.VisitHenryCounty.com or

call 877-436-7926.

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Macomb Area Convention & visitors BureauWeb makeitmacomb.com

phone 309-833-1315 fax 309-833-3575

find Us• Located 45 miles from the Mississippi River and 240 miles from Chicago at the

intersection of Route 67 and Route 136.

Services Offered• Itinerary Planning • Customized Site Visit Assistance • Affordable Accommodations • Local on Board Guide • Complimentary Accommodations and Food for Guide and Driver

Attractions• McDonough County • WIu Sherman Hall Courthouse-Historic Downtown • The Old Bailey House• Western Illinois Museum • Agriculture-farms

Macomb, located in the west central

part of the state, is rich in cultural

history and home to Western Illinois

university. It’s a thriving town

surrounded by rich farmland creating

a strong agricultural center. There

is also an industrial/manufacturing

component with several factories

in the area. Macomb also features a

19th century courthouse and historic

downtown. Contact the MACVB for

more information about agritours,

manufacturing and history tours.

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peoria Area Convention & visitors BureauWeb enjoypeoria.com

Toll-free 800-747-0302 fax 309-676-0303

fax: 309-676-8470

find Us• Conveniently located in the heart of Illinois – Accessible by major highways or our

national Scenic Byway. 150 miles south of Chicago – 140 miles north of St. Louis.

Services Offered• Local & Regional Themed Itineraries • Group Rates• Photo, Brochures and Maps • Guide and Driver Complimentary • Personal FAM Options for Tour Planners Hotel and Meals

Attractions• Spirit of Peoria • East Peoria Festival of Lights• Wildlife Prairie Park • Caterpillar Visitors Center• Par-A-Dice Casino

Peoria, is rooted in industry, built on

Midwestern values and highlighted

by a spirit for adventure! Discover

a city that celebrates its ever-

expanding metropolitan hubs while

proudly preserving its breathtaking,

expansive landscapes. Experience

boutique shopping and award-

winning restaurants alongside world-

class art, museums, golf courses and

local attractions. Located between

Chicago and the Mississippi River,

nestled along the Illinois River,

the Peoria Area gives you big city

amenities with the flavor of small

town hospitality.

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Quad Cities Convention & visitors BureauWeb visitquadcities.com

Toll-free 800-747-7800 ext. 104 fax 309-764-9443

find Us• Located on I-74, I-80, I-88 & I-280, we are just 2 1/2 hours west of Chicago.

Services Offered• Itinerary Building Assistance • Step-on Guides• Professional/Leisure Agricultural Tours • Local & Regional Themed• Personal FAM Options for Tour Operator Itineraries

Attractions• Celebration Belle • John Deere Pavilion• Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse • Lagomarcino’s• Rock Island Arsenal

Discover marvels on the Mississippi

River! Fun-filled river cruises,

amazing John Deere attractions,

agricultural adventures and live

entertainment await you. And,

you’re sure to love our “Made in

the Quad Cities” tours! See mustard

being made and bottled and watch a

sculpture designed from beginning

to end. Learn about the process of

making gin and vodka, and watch

as delectable chocolates are made

right before your eyes. Discover your

marvel in the Quad Cities!

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Quincy Area Convention & visitors Bureau Web seequincy.com

Toll-free 800-978-4748 phone 217-214-3700

fax 217-214-2721

find Us• located on the national Great River Road (Highway 96) with crossroads of

I-72, and Hwy 24. Quincy is 110 miles west of Springfield.

Services Offered• Guide & Driver Complimentary • Site Visit Assistance• FAM opportunities • Tour Route Planning • And a Whole PIE! to Operators Booking a Tour.

Attractions• Historic nauvoo • Villa Kathrine• Governor John Wood Mansion • Siloam Springs State park • East End Historic District and Maine Street.

The Quincy Area is located on the

Mississippi River banks along the

Great River Road national Scenic

Byway. Quincy’s architecture

represents 3,664 buildings on the

national Register. Groups rave about

the custom Private Home Tours

available year-round in the East End

Historic District. Seventy chefs await

to compliment the harvest of the

Mississippi Valley Wine Trail cellars

with local cuisine. To the north,

Historic nauvoo brings over 45 free

historic sites to life year-round.

TRAILS TO ADvENTUREThrilling outdoor adventures in the southern region of Illinois include Shawnee national Forest and Cave-In-Rock State Park, providing the perfect natural setting. Taste your way along the winding roads of the wine trail, where you can sip renowned wines and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

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MARCh Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Vintage Arts Month, Carbondale

ApRILMid-America Morel Mushroom Fest & Hunt, Jonesboro

MAyChache River nature Fest, Cypress

Red, White & Blues Fest, Makanda

JUNESouthern Illinois Music Festival, Carbondale

Superman Celebration, Metropolis

AUGUST Centralia Balloon Fest, Centralia

Du Quoin State Fair, Du Quoin

SEpTEMBERArt and Wine Festival at Rend Lake, Whittington

Golconda Shrimp Fest, Golconda

Murphysboro Apple Festival, Murphysboro

OCTOBER Fall Fest, Mt. Vernon

Fort Massac Encampment, Metropolis

union County Colorfest, Anna

NOvEMBER Du Quoin Holiday Lights Fair, Du Quoin

DECEMBER Lights Fantastic Parade, Carbondale

TRAILS TO ADvENTURE

CALENDAR of EvENTS

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Carbondale Convention & Tourism BureauWeb carbondaletourism.org

Toll-free 800-526-1500 fax 618-529-5590

find Us• Carbondale is located just 15 miles east of scenic Illinois Rt. 3, part of the Illinois Great

River Road, and 25 miles west of Interstate 57. Interstate 24 and 64 can also be easily accessed from Carbondale.

Services Offered• Complimentary Meals for the Tour • Site Visit Assistant

Guide and Driver • FAM Opportunities• Complimentary Hotel for Guide or Driver • Assistance with Marketing

Attractions• Old Train Depot Museum • university Mall• Giant City State Park • Shawnee Hills Wine Trail• Varsity Center for the Arts

Located on the edge of Shawnee

national Forest and within close

proximity to major highways,

Carbondale has great opportunities

for any and all ages and is ideal for

any weekend getaway. With over

eight different lodging options,

50 plus dining options, and more

attractions than you can imagine,

Carbondale really is the perfect

destination.

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The Tourism Bureau ILLINOISouthWeb thetourismbureau.org

Toll-free 800-442-1488 fax 618-257-3403

find Us• Located east of downtown St. Louis, with easy access to five Interstates: I-55, I-64,

I-70, I-57 and I-255

Services Offered• Media Kits/Area Literature Assistance • Central Housing Registration• Group Tours • Transportation Services• Site Inspections

Attractions• Vandalia Statehouse • Popeye Character Trail• national Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows • White Squirrels, Olney, IL• Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site and Interpretive Center

Come experience our treasures,

historic sites, entertainment venues

and culture in ILLInOISouth! With

over 7,300 guest rooms throughout

the territory, you’re sure to find the

perfect location for your next visit.

ILLInOISouth has many nearby

unique attractions, wineries, golf

courses, museums and antique

shops…something for everyone. We

are just a short drive away so come

to experience a big-city fun, with a

small-town feel.

Mt. vernon Convention & visitors BureauWeb enjoymtvernon.com

Toll-free 800-252-5464 phone 618-242-3151

fax 618-242-6849

find Us• Known as the “Festival Arts City”, located at the intersection of 1-57 & I-64 in beautiful

Southern Illinois.

Services Offered• Site Visit Assistance • Trip Itineraries Tailored to Your Group• Welcome Bags with Brochures

Attractions• Cedarhurst Center for the Arts • Jefferson County Historical Village• Aquatic Zoo Water Park • Hall of Honor and Military Museum• Broadway Market

With over thirteen hotels in

every price range, and a bed and

breakfast, Mt. Vernon is built for

every kind of trip. You can explore

local art at Cedarhurst Center for

the Arts, treat yourself to fine dining

at RARE Chop House, or attend

one of our many festivals from the

Midwest Herb & Garden Show to the

Cedarhurst Craft Fair to our annual

Fall Fest! So, indulge and take time

to Enjoy Mt. Vernon!

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SouthernmostIllinois T O U R I S M

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SouthernmostIllinois T O U R I S M

B U R E A US e e i n g i s B e l i e v i n g

SouthernmostIllinois T O U R I S M

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SouthernmostIllinois T O U R I S M

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Southernmost Illinois Tourism BureauWeb southernmostillinois.com

Toll-free 800-248-4373 phone 618-833-9928

fax 618-833-9928

find Us• Located in the southern tip of Illinois and The Shawnee national Forest.

Services Offered• Customized Itinerary Planning • FAM Opportunities• Local Guides

Attractions• Shawnee Hills Wine Trail • Orchards & Farm Markets • Metropolis, Home of Superman • Harrah’s Metropolis Casino • Cave In Rock

We offer an abundance of outdoor

recreation. Enjoy the all new

Harrah’s Casino, historic sites,

wineries, orchards and farm markets.

Spectacular views from atop Bald

Knob Mountain and Garden of

the Gods. Enjoy mouth-watering

meals in park lodges surrounded by

picturesque scenery of the Shawnee

national Forest.

Explore. Discover. Unwind.

Williamson County Tourism Bureau Web VisitSI.com

Toll-free 800-433-7399 fax 618-997-1874

find Us• Located at the crossroads of I-57, I-24 and Illinois Route 13.

Services Offered• Site Visit Assistance • FAM Opportunities• Itinerary Assistance • Group Hotel Arrangements

Attractions• Crab Orchard national Wildlife Refuge • John A. Logan College Historical Village• Williamson County Historical Museum • Marion Cultural and Civic Center• Southern Illinois Miners Rent One Park

In the heart of Southern Illinois,

outdoor recreation enthusiasts can

enjoy a variety of activities centered

around sports, outdoor leisure

and family-oriented events. With

the largest collection of shopping,

lodging, wineries and dining

establishments in the region, we are

sure you will find that our destination

is the perfect fit for you.

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picture yourself in Illinois

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I have been in the travel and tourism business for

over 20 years and Tour Illinois is one of the Premier

State Group Tour Organizations I have ever worked

with. They have spirit and personality that is so

contagious that it makes planning a trip to Illinois

fun and exciting. They are always there for you as

a tour operator, and are working for you to make

the best itinerary for your clients. Tour Illinois has

an energy between its members that makes things

run so easy. If one Tour Illinois member does not

have what I need, they find another member that

does! When planning a trip to Illinois, I always go

to their CVBs in assisting with my planning. What a

marvelous group of people!!

anneTTe TroTTer, CTIS

Terre HauTe, IndIana

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presidential TrailsWalk in the footsteps of an American President! Illinois is affectionately known at the Land of Lincoln, but Abraham Lincoln’s legacy marks only the beginning of the presidential history you’ll find here. You can also explore the Land of Grant, Reagan, and Obama—three American presidents who also made their home in Illinois. Experience history first-hand through the well-preserved homes, offices, and town squares that helped shape their view of the world. It’s a rare chance to follow in the paths of four men who would go on to change the change the course of a nation.

ABRAhAM LINCOLN Meet one of America’s most cherished presidents. nowhere gets you closer to Abraham Lincoln than Springfield, Illinois. Touch a piece of history at Lincoln’s Tomb. See the spot where he hung his stovepipe hat. Walk through the reconstructed village of new Salem from his youth. And explore the complexities of his life at one of the largest presidential museums of its kind.

nobody embodies Illinois quite like Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln loved Illinois. And Illinois loved him. You’ll discover this in everything from the remarkable presidential library and hallowed halls of the Old State Capitol to the meticulously reconstructed log cabin and village that defined his humble upbringing.

ULySSES S. GRANT Take a historic journey to Galena. In August of 1865, the folks of Galena celebrated the return of its Civil War hero by presenting General ulysses S. Grant with a fully furnished house on Bouthillier Street. Today, you can tour this fully restored home and other notable Grant landmarks while taking in the charm and hospitality of this riverfront town. ulysses S. Grant emerged from the Civil War a hero, having led his union Army to victory under the leadership

of Abraham Lincoln. Before going on to become our nation’s 18th president, Grant made his home in the rolling hills of Galena. It’s just one of the sites here that offer a rare glimpse of 19th century America.

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RONALD REAGAN From small town America to the world’s stage, tour the towns where Ronald Reagan spent his youth before becoming a Hollywood leading man and an American president. Visit his birthplace in Tampico. See his childhood school and church in Dixon. Then reflect on his presidency and Hollywood career at the Ronald Reagan Museum & Peace Garden in Eureka. Few American presidents have left a more enduring legacy than Ronald Reagan. It’s a legacy perhaps most strongly felt in small town America—especially in the three Illinois towns he once called home.

BARACK OBAMA Experience the living history of a sitting

president. Journey from Chicago to Springfield,

exploring everything from President Obama’s favorite restaurants to where he taught law. In Springfield, visit the Old State Capitol where he announced his presidential candidacy, forever linking his destiny to the legacy of President Lincoln, who delivered his “House Divided” speech at the same historic Capitol. Witness the living history of President Barack Obama in the place he still calls home. Explore his favorite spots in Chicago. And discover the historic sites where he announced his candidacy for president and later gave his victory speech on election night.

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ScenicByways of Illinois

Take off on one of Illinois’ seven spectacular scenic byways, where sights

along the way include Route 66 roadside attractions, stunning state parks

and even a superhero.

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Great River RoadWorld-class heritage sites, noteworthy historic towns, the magnificent river and its wildlife, and secluded natural areas provide the traveler with a one-of-a-kind getaway.

Greatriverroad-illinois.org

Illinois Lincoln highwayIllinois Lincoln Highway invites you to enjoy the history, culture, charm, beauty, and, most of all, fun, as you travel through the communities that line the historic Lincoln Highway. Drivelincolnhighway.com

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historic Route 66Route 66 defined a remarkable era in the growth of our nation. no other road symbolizes optimism, freedom and the American Dream quite like Route 66.

Illinoisroute66.org

Meeting of theGreat RiversTravel 33 miles of historic, natural, cultural and down-right breathtaking treasures along this very special section of the Great River Road.

GreatRiversByway.com

7. Ohio River Scenic Byway

The Historic national Road is America’s first federal highway. Explore Victorian architecture, prehistoric mounds, friendly towns, festivals, and great shopping on the “Road That Built the nation.” nationalroad.org

The Ohio River Scenic Byway invites you to meander along its country roads and state highways, from the Wabash River, through the rolling hills of the Shawnee national Forest, dotted by quaint river towns chock full of Civil War history.

Ohioriverscenicbyway.net

Illinois River RoadExperience the seasonal colors and rhythms of the forests, wetlands, bluffs, and prairies on your own or follow one of 7 different nature activity guides.

Illinoisriverroad.org

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tourillinois.orgFor detailed information on group tours and personalized itineraries, please contact the local CVB listed within this guide.

tourillinois.org