Best National Parks In Illinois To Visit In 2023!

Nov 19, 2021

Last Updated on: Sep 18, 2024

Travel Blog

These national parks Illinois will give you the ultimate experience of ‘Breathing within nature.’

Chicago, the windy city!

That is the first thought that comes to our mind when we think about the state Illinois located in the central estern region of the United States Of America.

Although Chicago is the perfect destination when it comes to relieving the American nostalgia with vintage buildings and dinners, all our nature’s enthusiasts will be leaning more towards the Mississippi river bay of Illinois.

One more thing that attracts travellers towards this town are the breathtaking national parks illinois. It is no short of windy roads and state parks giving you the serene experience that the city of Chicago can’t.

These national parks near Illinois will give you the ultimate experience of ‘Breathing within nature.’

Following the general US restrictions, travel to Illinois from other states and countries have been open.

National Parks In Illinois

National Parks In Illinois

Taking the famous route 66 which trails to the pacific west coast, then you will tumble across two of the most well known Illinois national parks which can be a jackpot for people who take a special interest in the history of the state.

It is known as the ‘Land of Lincoln’ afterall!

These national parks in Illinois also have excellent hiking trails.

Are There Any National Parks In Illinois?

Are There Any National Parks In Illinois

Yes, Illinois has two major national parks. These are

  • Pullman National Monument
  • Lincoln Home National Historic Site.

However, they are mostly national park services. Nevertheless, they don’t fall short of showing the mesmerizing beauty of nature. However, if hiking is more in your forte then here are the three more National historic trails of the national park Illinois which you can add to your itinerary.

Here Are The List Of National Park Illinois Trails

  • Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail
  • Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
  • Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Are Illinois National Parks Open?

Following every Covid Guideline, National parks Illinois have been opened for travel.

Pullman National Monument

Pullman National Monument 

This Illinois national park is located in the northern side of the state. It will take you less than thirty minutes to reach the location from Chicago. It is a small national park which is evidently surrounded by districts which have found their place in American history.

This district is known to be the first planned one in the whole country. Other than the short walks you can take throughout the community and fill your day with other attractive sightseeing then go for the Pullman park which is a must.

If you are nature’s prodigy and love camping then you might find a place right in this national park Illinois. However, on travelling a little west you will find the beautiful MacMahon Woods to have a night or two in the wilderness.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

This Illinois national park is located in the breathtaking state capital Springfield. It gets its name because of the fact that the former president resided here with his family before becoming the president of the United States.

The national park itself is not that big, but nevertheless sublime. Therefore, it won’t take you more than an hour or two to cover the entire ground. However, the main attraction here is not there woods, it is Lincoln house itself which has a visiting entry. There is also a show that airs regarding this subject.

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail

National park Illinois trails are the perfect blend which will give you a look at the locals and the mesmerizing nature that surrounds it.

Although, make sure you know your route and sites since there are certain private properties that do not allow the entrance of outside public. Since it is in the south of the Mississippi River, you can find hiking trails, scenic beauties, and camping ground.

If you have plans to travel a little towards the west, Shimek state forest among the national parks in Illinois.

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

The next on the list of the best national parks in Illinois is the Trail of Tears, also known as the “Journey of Injustice.” Most urban places may be reached by car in just one hour from one of these routes, which are dispersed all throughout the nation.

We can better appreciate Native Americans’ history and struggles by studying the Trail of Tears, a national historic trail.

The Indian Removal Act was established by Congress in 1830, which is when the trail’s history began.

The law signed by President Andrew Jackson permitted “for an exchange of lands with the Indians residing in any of the states or territories, and for their removal west of the river Mississippi”.

What Is The Most Beautiful National Park In Illinois?

What Is The Most Beautiful National Park In Illinois

Shawnee National Forest which is located in Harrisburg is known to be the most beautiful national park trail in Illinois.

Lewis And Clark National Historic Trail

Lewis And Clark National Historic Trail

This historic trail doesn’t restrict national park Illinois. The headquarters of this park is situated in the state of Omaha however, it stretches up to Hartford Illinois.

It is situated in the west of the Mississippi River from St.Louis. Other than the breathtaking landscape which you can explore, you can also squeeze some time for the historical attractions with old buildings and exhibits that are flourishing around this area.

The closest camping site for this trail is Granite City, or if the riverside camping is what you desire then you can drive to Sioux Passage Park.

What Is The Biggest National Park In Illinois?

What Is The Biggest National Park In Illinois

Although, the measurement of national park Illinois cannot be given, in terms of state parks the biggest one which covers almost 8000 acres in Pere Marquette State Park.

These are some of the best national parks in Illinois. However, if Illinois is not your last stop and national parks aren’t the only trails you are looking for, then here is a list of other state parks or national parks in the driveaway neighbourhood that you can explore.

In just a three hour drive, you can reach Mark Twain National park in the neighbouring state of Missouri.

You can Visit Chicago and dive into the city life for a little while. 

Again in just a three hour ride, you can visit Indiana Dunes National Parks which has some of the most desirable camping grounds. A night of wild adventures and sweet smokey smores! 

Some Of The State Parks You Can Visit

Some Of The State Parks You Can Visit

If you have crossed all the national parks Illinois in the list then step towards some of the state parks. With gorgeous sites and fun activities like fishing, camping, and boating filled in these trips, you won’t be disappointed. 

  • Clinton Lake State Recreation Area 
  • Rock Cut State Park 
  • Fort Massac State Park 
  • Illinois Beach State Park 
  • Hennepin Canal State Trail 

The best part is, the government charges no extra penny for you to enter these paradises. 

Are Covid 19 Tests Required To Travel To National Park Illinois?

Travel To National Park Illinois

If you are an unvaccinated traveler then you have to get a Covid Test for travelling to Illinois. You don’t have to get quarantined though. 

Final Thoughts 

With big cities of the country getting all the limelight, we are forgetting the other smaller states where lies the sublime beauties of mother nature as well as the nostalgia of American history. 

So, this season let us rekindle the hidden beauties of national parks illinois that will tweek all your travel love metre again.

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Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

2 responses to “Best National Parks In Illinois To Visit In 2023!”

  1. Its like you read my mind! You seem to know so much about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you can do with a few pics to drive the message home a bit, but instead of that, this is excellent blog. A fantastic read. I will certainly be back.

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Carry cotton and linen clothing, athleisure, and sportswear. Try to avoid denim because it holds onto moisture! Carry lightweight, comfortable walking shoes. Drying towels are necessary, so carry them in packs!   Wrapping Up!   In conclusion, there are several places in Tokyo that you cannot miss when visiting! If you are visiting for one day in Tokyo, read the article to learn more about the places you can stay, the food you can eat and the things you can do.   Comment below to let us know which are the places you want to visit and why! Apart from deciding the places you want to go, what is more important is how you can enjoy your trip to Tokyo, be it for a day or a week.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

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8+ Best Cinnamon Rolls In Las Vegas You Must Try: Vegas Food Tourism

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 17, 2021

As a sweet and flavorful snack, cinnamon rolls are an all-time favorite. The moist and yummy sheet rolled layers of buns with cinnamon and sugar mixture. With every bite, this lovely, sweet snack melts in your mouth.  Are you on a culinary tour in Las Vegas? Do you want to try the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas? Here is a curated list for you. However, before that, let’s unfold the sweet mystery of cinnamon rolls. Why Cinnamon Rolls Are The Best? So, why are we crazy about cinnamon rolls? The pillowy dough is enriched with warm spices such as nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon. The best part is the frosting on the rolls, which looks like icing on the cake. The combination of savory and sweet components creates a perfect item for breakfast or lunch! Cinnamon is special, especially when added to the proprietary blend with freshly baked dough, cream cheese frosting, and icing. There is also the rich cream with cheese frosting along with Indonesian cinnamon that creates the signature taste of cinnamon rolls! Cinnamon rolls can sometimes be considered junk food because they are large and dense! It is rich in carbs and fat and comes with 880 calories (about 70 minutes of running) for every roll!  However, I would still not say it is very unhealthy, especially when there are other carb-based items! 8 Destination Of Best Cinnamon Rolls In Las Vegas Are you feeling happy or sad no matter what happens? But each time, whenever you start tasting this sweet snack, it can charge your mood with every single bite. Las Vegas is a prime tourist destination. From every corner of the world, the people are visiting here to explore the place and food. You should always keep a single day from your travel routine to hunt for the best cinnamon rolls in las Vegas. Las Vegas has multiple best cinnamon rolls counters which are serving this delicious snack. Check out the top eight picks from our best cinnamon roll destination in Las Vegas. 1. Homies Cinnamon Rolls When searching for the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas, the Homies instantly comes to mind. Undoubtedly, the Homies are the best destination for cinnamon roll lovers.  This is because the taste of the cinnamon roll is so delicious. Hence, from your first bite, the cinnamon flavor makes your mood fresh.  The soft texture of the cinnamon rolls and the taste of sugar is starting to melt in your mouth. Along with the cinnamon roll, every dish tastes good. And this place is the perfect hanging-out space for everyone. Address: Shop no.3035 Block E, Tropicana Avenue, Nevada, Las Vegas 89121 2. Mr. Mamas Breakfast And Lunch Mr. Mama’s breakfast and lunch serve almost every popular Vegas dish, like steaks, homemade gravy, and biscuits. The cinnamon rolls get the maximum points from pastry lovers among the long list of serving menus. Whenever you visit this place, always order some sweet, flavorful cinnamon rolls to satisfy your mouth and mind. Even the sweet dishes taste delicious, especially the pastry and biscuits. Address: Shop No.5693 S Jones Blvd #106, Nevada 89118, Las Vegas 3. The Henry View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Henry (@thehenryrestaurant) This place should be your top pick when you want to find some delicious breakfast in Las Vegas. This smart, cozy restaurant is serving one of the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas. So, making the plan to dine here is never going to be boring. Make a plan to dine here with a small group of friends. And do not forget to add the cinnamon roll to your food order list.  80% of breakfast finders order the delicate taste of French toast and the soft cinnamon rolls in their order. So visit there and enjoy the lovely tasting dishes and warm service. Address: Boulevard Tower, Las Vegas Blvd Street Level one, Las Vegas 4. Cinnaholic https://www.instagram.com/p/C95U64kxZ8L/ Cinnaholic of Las Vegas serves some of the top delicious sweet dishes and the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas. Among these dishes, most customers order cinnamon rolls for their friends and families.  You will get huge roll collection options from their menu list. And every roll and the pastry that is served here are gluten-free. So, when you are in Las Vegas, plan to visit this place with your friends to enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the best cinnamon rolls in Vegas. Address: Las Vegas,4165 Grand Canyon Dr., Suite 103 5. Cinnabon https://www.instagram.com/p/C8FRBiBRzOh/ Who does not love the refreshing smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls right from the oven? This place is one of the top picks for the cinnamon roll lovers.  Walking through the front street, you start to smell the aromatic smell of the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas. For the takeaways and sweet cravings, this place is the best choice. You do not have to wait for long. The staff is friendly. After placing your order for the cinnamon rolls, they will deliver you the freshly baked packed cinnamon rolls within a few minutes. Address: 4300 Meadows Mall, Las Vegas 6. The Bagel Cafe https://www.instagram.com/p/CRwfvCvtWfJ/?hl=en The bagel cafe is one of the best hangout spots for breakfast option finders. From varieties of smoked fish and meats, they are famous for their comprehensive collection of types of bagel and cinnamon rolls. If you love to explore the different cinnamon rolls and pastries, this will be your best option. So do not hesitate to start your day with these bursting, delicious-tasting cinnamon rolls and pies. Hence, every calorie is worth earning, especially for cinnamon rolls. Address: N Buffalo Dr, 301, Las Vegas 7. Pastry Palace Pastry Palace is not only a pastry shop. This is the place where you can experience the artistic side of the sweet dishes. This means along with the taste, they serving many unique-looking pastries. Moreover, they specialized in serving elegant gorgeous-looking cakes for different occasions. Along with the best wedding cakes, they are also serving the best cinnamon rolls in las Vegas. The pastry, varieties of different flavors, cookies, and soft, freshly baked cinnamon rolls are the best attractions of the place. Address: Las Vegas W Sahara Ave 4523 8. Humboldt Sweet https://www.instagram.com/p/Cw5n-WovKU1/ You will notice their cozy dining place when you first enter the restaurant. Humbolt serves one of the best sweet snacks in Las Vegas. So, if you are searching for various tasty, sweet snacks, this will be your best hangout place. All your requirements, especially for the sweet dishes, will be fulfilled from this single place.  The most favorite dish of the place is the chilly cinnamon roll. Based on my opinion, this specific type of Humboldt cinnamon roll is the best I’ve ever tasted. Address: Green Valley Pkwy #110, 670 S, Henderson 9. Cafe Cuto https://www.instagram.com/p/DBPQoSfgRM2/ Address: 2777 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States Cafe Cuto serves the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas. Further, while researching them, I found a lot of craze about their jasmine tea. In addition, people love having Italian coffee here.  Moreover, along with cinnamon rolls, they serve another dessert with a hint of this fragrant spice. The cinnamon crumble blueberry muffin here is just drool-worthy.  Foodie Corner “Nice place to stop by and grab a fresh coffee. Coffee was okay I've had better but the highlight of this place is their cinnamon crumble blueberry muffin it is out of this world. Try it do not bypass this item.” - GG M.  10. Capital One Café https://www.instagram.com/p/CWbqgH-LPzY/?img_index=1 Address: 3200 Las Vegas Blvd South 1110 Ste 1110 Las Vegas, NV 89109 Capital One Café stands out for its comfortable ambiance. Lavender latte and cinnamon ginger latter are the biggest crowd pullers here.  Further, having the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas feels better due to the 50% discount on Capital One credit or debit cards. The cafe ambassadors will help you use the card and find the best deals. Foodie Corner “This was my first time in any Capital One cafe, and they set the bar high. Bank employees greeted me at the door and helped me deposit my check. They comped me a latte since it was my first time in the branch. Customers must have been happy because everyone was smiling and networking. Great space to work remotely as well or plan a business meet-up.” Rain Bow T. Do You Know Many People Who Eat Their Cinnamon Rolls With Chili? Sounds confusing? But guys, it is quite a popular combination followed by a distinct Iowan tradition. However, the origins of eating cinnamon rolls and chili are a little murky.  The combination of sweet and salty pairing reminds me of other food items such as pineapple on pizza, apple pie, and cheddar cheese!  The combination of these items might be questioned. A lot of people divide tasters and incite chaos among food enthusiasts! However, several individuals love this combination.  Cinnamon rolls, a decadent pastry, are mostly eaten as breakfast, but how does it taste with the savory dish, chili? It goes back to the 1960s when an article was published by the Des Moines Register referring to this dish. The pairing started in school lunchrooms.  This is a product of budget food because it is not expensive! Another reason, such as ordering limitations, is also a factor, especially through Iowa historians who inform the theory of combining the two items, a cost-effective meal that appeals to the students.  The cinnamon roll was a crowd-pleaser, so it is prevalent in schools now. There was a mandated guideline of “one serving of a bread or gain product” and “two ounces daily of protein-rich foods,” which was easily followed with this combination.  This combination became such a huge hit that when the cinnamon roll and chili menu were offered, students' and teachers' attendance and participation went up. It became a staple for the Iowa school scene! Wrapping It Up: All of these eight places serve the best cinnamon rolls in Las Vegas. We are giving the whole idea about these places. The taste of cinnamon rolls and pastries is uncompromisable.  When you are in Vegas, you will get plenty of options. But investing in these places is worth every single penny of investment. So which one are you going to choose? Do not forget to share your Vegas tour experiences in the comment section. Read More: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) A Guide To National Parks In Wisconsin – Latest Guide Batista Restaurant Las Vegas – Restaurant Info, Ratings & Reviews

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Badlands National Park: Into The Land Of Sunrise, Sunset, And Stars | Stargazing At Badlands National Park

BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

Guest speakers from Dark Ranger Telescope and NASA attended the “Astrofest Festival” at Badlands National Park this year (July 5 to 7, 2024). In this celebration of the night sky and astronomy, the guest speakers discussed various aspects of space. The 2024 fest included the following activities. Scale model of the solar system in the afternoon An early evening solar viewing program Guest speaker session “These are objects that have been important to our culture since we could probably talk. So, we think it’s important to maintain that connection and bring back that connection to these things that used to be so important to us for thousands of years.”Ed Welsh, the education specialist at Badlands National Park  The yearly Astrofest Festival at the park indeed has a role in making the park a favorite for star gazing and exploring the night sky. Also, the remote location of the park and minimal light pollution here make it a wonderful site in South Dakota for watching the celestial bodies in action.  Further, this park is a wonderful place to soak in the beauty of sunrise and sunset, making it the land of light and stones! Night Sky Viewings/ Stargazing At Badlands National Park View this post on Instagram A post shared by Badlands National Park (@badlandsnps) Everyone talks about the geology, wildlife, and fossils of Badlands National Park. However, if you are an introvert and always seek an immersive experience like me, night sky viewing will be your favorite activity at the park.  In fact, I feel that watching the night sky is the chef’s kiss in the park tour. The stargazing activity takes place near the park’s Cedar Pass area, which is close to the visitor center.  Further, the rangers inform you about the celestial bodies you will see. You just need to keep your eyes glued to the telescope to explore celestial bodies, such as the Milky Way, star clusters, planets, satellites, and nebulae.  The table below gives a quick excerpt of the stargazing and night sky viewing experience at Badlands National Park.  Stargazing And Night Sky Viewings At Badlands National Park LocationCedar Pass AmphitheaterSpecialtyMore than 7500 stars are exposed to each visitor. They especially enjoy the clarity of the Milky Way. Add-onsFly-overs by the International Space Station and many satellitesTelescopes Provided By Celestron and Badlands Natural History AssociationBest Season for StargazingSpring, Summer, and Fall In summer, the Night Sky Viewing Program starts after the evening star gazing session every day. The park rangers conduct this program. Further, its timing keeps changing based on the sunset hours.  Best Places For Stargazing At Badlands National Park  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cc1WjJfoGBB/ Badlands National Park has earned a name in astrotourism thanks to its pristine nature. With fewer pull-outs and roads, the north unit of the park especially has many amazing stargazing destinations. Let’s explore them! The Space Tourism Guide features the Badlands National Park and the Badlands National Park Observatory as some of the best places for stargazing in South Dakota. Badlands Observatory became accessible to visitors in May 2021. It is a privately owned facility in the Badlands National Park. Also, it works for astronomical education and research.  Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater has a Night Sky Viewing event every day. This experience is about gathering more information by stargazing in a structured setup.  You must visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center every day to learn about the program.     Badlands Loop Road Like many other parts of the Badlands National Park, the Badlands Loop Road also allows you to find your spot for stargazing. However, two of the best spots along the loop are: Burns Basin Overlook Yellow Munds Overlook These locations are especially great for taking photographs and indulging in tranquility.  Sage Creek Rim Road The Sage Creek Rim Road is one of the least crowded spaces in the park. You will also get to see very few cars passing through the area.  The Sage Creek Basin Overlook and Hay Butte Overlook are some of the best spots for stargazing on Sage Creek Rim Road. However, as very few people visit this area, you can find a stargazing spot of your own.  Big Badlands Overlook Big Badlands Overlook may appear last on my list of places to stargaze in Badlands National Park. However, it is the first overlook for someone accessing the park from the Northeast Entrance or the Sioux Falls.  Take a short walk and reach the best stargazing point in the Big Badlands Overlook. From here, enjoy a 360-degree view.  The Backcountry  The open backcountry of the Badlands National Park is a wonderland for camping and stargazing. So, just set your camp and enjoy stargazing for the entire night.  Watching Sunrise And Sunset At Badlands National Park The magic hours of Sunrise and Sunset paint the Badlands National Park with the most vibrant shade of red. The table below shows the best points for watching the sunrise and sunset and the accessibility points. ActivityBest Spots In The ParkAccessibility Points with Boardwalks and for Visitors with Wheelchairs SunriseDoor TrailNorbeck Pass AreaDillon Pass AreaBig Badlands OverlookPanorama PointCastle Trail WestBig Badlands OverlookDoor Trail Panorama PointSunsetPinnacles OverlookCastle Trail EastNorbeck Pass AreaBigfoot Pass Picnic AreaConata Basin OverlookPinnacles Overlook Conata Basin OverlookBigfoot Pass Picnic Area  As the Sun rises, its warm golden and red lights spread over the pinnacles that face the east. Further, the drama of light and shadow makes every frame mesmerizing. So, many photographers flock to Badlands National Park’s sunrise and sunset points for the best captures.  Stargazing At Badlands National Park: Plan Your Trip Well  There are two easy ways to reach the remoteness of the Badlands National Park.  Reach the Rapid City Regional Airport and ride for an hour to Badlands National Park.  Further, you can reach the Sioux Falls Regional Airport and take a road trip to Badlands National Park. This trip through South Dakota will take you around 4 hours. If you want to have the best stargazing experience at Badlands, you need to stay there overnight. You can reserve a room at the Cedar Pass Lodge in advance or stay at the Sage Creek Campground or Cedar Pass Campground.  However, if you are an adventurous soul and want the most immersive experience, put a camp in the backcountry or the north and south units of the park. Don’t forget to collect your permit for backcountry camping in the Badlands National Park.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.