Illinois is a true representation of the “Prairie State,” a dynamic blend of bustling cities, rich history, and scenic countryside. Whether you’re a long-time resident of Illinois or are considering moving to the state, you may be wondering: What is Illinois known for?
From hidden gems to iconic landmarks and beloved cuisine, there’s a lot to explore in Illinois. Read on to learn why living in Illinois is so appealing, whether you’re buying a home in Chicago, renting in Springfield, or just passing through.
Thriving economy and job opportunities
Illinois has a diverse and strong economy, excelling in finance, manufacturing, agriculture and technology. The state is a major economic center in the Midwest and nationally.
main economic sectors
- Finance and Business: Chicago is the state’s largest city and a global financial center, home to the Chicago Stock Exchange and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. The city is home to numerous multinational companies, including Boeing and McDonald’s.
- manufacturing: Illinois is a leader in manufacturing, machinery production, food and chemicals. Major manufacturing cities include Rockford and Peoria.
- agriculture: Illinois has large tracts of fertile farmland and is a top producer of corn and soybeans. Central Illinois, known as the “Corn Belt,” was the center of this agricultural activity.
- Technology and Innovation: Illinois is increasingly becoming a technology hub, with startups and established technology companies emerging in Chicago’s “Silicon Prairie.”
Top Five Employers in Illinois
- Walgreens Boots Alliance
- Caterpillar Corporation
- United Airlines
- state farm insurance
- Abbott Laboratories
Must-visit tourist attractions
Illinois is home to a variety of attractions, from architectural marvels to historical sites and cultural hotspots.
iconic landmark
- Willis Tower, Chicago: Willis Tower was once the tallest building in the world, offering stunning views from its observation deck.
- millennium park, chicago: Known for its iconic “Bean” sculpture, this park is a center for public art and outdoor activities.
- Navy Pier, Chicago: A welcoming destination with rides, shops, restaurants and stunning lake views.
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Springfield: Dedicated to the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States.
- Starved Rock State Park, Utica: Known for its beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic canyons.
Delicious food all over the state
Illinois’ cuisine is as diverse as its population, offering a rich culinary tradition.
chef’s special
- Chicago Deep Dish Pizza: A hearty, thick-crust pizza loaded with cheese and toppings, grilled to perfection.
- italian beef sandwich: Thinly sliced roast beef served on a long Italian roll, often marinated in sauce and topped with giardiniella.
- chicago style hot dog: Vienna beef hot dog with mustard, onions, relish, pickles, tomatoes and sport peppers all served in a poppy seed bun.
- Garrett Popcorn: Known for its Chicago blend of caramel and cheddar cheese popcorn.
- Horseshoe Sandwich: A unique open-faced sandwich originating from Springfield, featuring meat, fries and cheese sauce on a bun.
Five famous restaurants in Illinois
Rich cultural entertainment
Influenced by its diverse population and rich history, Illinois’ cultural landscape is vibrant and diverse.
Cultural Highlights
Five great places to catch a show in Illinois
- Chicago Theater, Chicago
- Ravinia Festival, Highland Park
- Lyric Opera of Chicago
- Chicago Civic Opera
- second city, chicago
Interesting facts: The first Ferris wheel debuted at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893.
First class higher education
Illinois is home to some of the top universities in the United States, known for its research excellence and diverse academic programs.
leading university
- University of Chicago: A prestigious institution known for its rigorous scholarship and impactful research.
- Northwest University: Known for its strong journalism, legal and business programs.
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: A leader in engineering and computer science.
- Illinois Institute of Technology: Recognized for its emphasis on technology and innovation.
- Loyola University Chicago: Known for its excellent medical and business schools.
- DePaul University: Offers a broad range of courses and has strong ties to the Chicago business community.
amazing natural resources
Illinois has beautiful scenery, from rolling farmland to scenic rivers and beautiful state parks, making it a state rich in natural beauty and resources.
Five Great State Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Mattison State Park
- Giant City State Park
- Caverns State Park
- Shawnee National Forest
did you know? The Illinois River is 273 miles long and is an important waterway for commerce and recreation.
Become a sports paradise
Illinois is a sports lover’s paradise with professional teams, college sports and a passion for the outdoors.
professional sports team
- Chicago Bulls(NBA)
- Chicago Bears(NFL)
- Chicago Cubs(MLB)
- Chicago White Sox(MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks(NHL)
Interesting facts: In 2016, the Chicago Cubs won their first World Series in 108 years, ending the longest championship drought in sports history.
Popular phrases in Illinois
- “Big Bear”: a Chicago phrase celebrating the city’s beloved football team, the Bears.
- “windy city”: Refers to Chicago, known for its breezy climate and political history.
- “Chicago style”: Indicates something that is uniquely or distinctly made in the Chicago way, such as pizza or hot dogs.
- “Midwest Nice”: Describes typical friendly and polite behavior of Midwesterners, including Illinoisans.
More things Illinois is famous for
- architecture: Chicago is known for its impressive skyline and architectural innovation, with landmarks such as Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center.
- historical meaning: From the days of Abraham Lincoln to the Civil Rights Movement, Illinois has played a crucial role in American history.
- health care: Illinois is home to leading medical institutions such as Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the University of Chicago Medical Center.
- Technology and Innovation: The country cultivates a culture of innovation, and the number of technological start-ups and research institutions continues to increase.
- Literature and Art: Illinois has been the home and inspiration of many great writers, including Ernest Hemingway and Gwendolyn Brooks.
