ABOUT ILLINOIS 

Illinois is a state of variety and contrast, where busy metropolitan areas sit alongside quiet farmland, historic river towns, and forested parks. Often called the “Prairie State,” Illinois built much of its early identity on agriculture, industry, and transportation. Today, it is just as well known for its modern cities, major sports teams, and rich cultural heritage.

The landscape of Illinois is shaped by wide plains, rolling countryside, and large waterways. The Mississippi River defines much of the western border, while the shores of Lake Michigan give northeastern Illinois a completely different character. State parks such as Starved Rock, Shawnee National Forest, and Matthiessen offer wooded trails, sandstone canyons, and scenic overlooks that attract hikers, families, and nature lovers throughout the year.

Illinois’s past is visible in many small towns that preserve 19th-century charm. Historic districts, riverfronts, and landmarks reflect the state’s roots in farming, railroads, and early American settlement. Local fairs, heritage festivals, and traditional crafts highlight the strong community traditions that continue across rural Illinois.

At the same time, modern Illinois thrives in its growing cities. Chicago – one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States – combines architecture, culture, and lakefront scenery. Springfield, the state capital, is closely tied to the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, while cities like Peoria, Rockford, and Champaign–Urbana support strong business, educational, and arts communities. Across the state, visitors will find a mix of museums, theaters, parks, and diverse dining scenes.

Sports play an important role in everyday life. Fans follow the Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Bulls (NBA), Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox (MLB), and the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL), giving Illinois year-round sporting excitement. College sports and major racing events also attract large crowds.

Illinois cuisine reflects its multicultural population. Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and classic Midwestern comfort food remain favourites, but global dining, modern gastropubs, and farm-to-table restaurants continue to grow. Local breweries, distilleries, and food markets highlight the state’s focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Quick Snapshot

• Population: About 12.5 million (2023), one of the most populous U.S. states
• Area: 57,915 square miles (150,000 km²)
• Capital: Springfield, located in the central part of the state

Entry into the USA

Illinois is part of the United States, so standard U.S. entry rules apply. The documentation you need depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

• Visitors from countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) may enter the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. Travellers from all other countries usually need a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
• If you qualify for the VWP, you must obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before boarding your flight.
• All international travellers must carry a valid passport that covers the entire duration of their stay.

Currency

Illinois uses the U.S. Dollar (USD), the official currency of the United States. One dollar is divided into 100 cents.

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90 – 0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.70 – 0.75 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 110 – 115 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.25 – 1.30 CAD

Electricity

Electricity in Illinois follows the standard U.S. system: 120 volts, 60 Hz. Power outlets are Type A/B, using two flat pins (Type A) or two flat pins with a round grounding pin (Type B). Travellers from areas with 220–240 V supply will need a plug adapter, and in some cases a voltage converter for older or non-dual-voltage devices.

Mobile services

Staying connected in Illinois is straightforward. All major U.S. mobile carriers provide strong coverage across the state, particularly in and around Chicago.

• AT&T – Reliable 4G and 5G service across urban and rural areas.
• Verizon – Known for excellent coverage statewide and consistently strong performance.
• T-Mobile – Competitive pricing and rapidly expanding 5G network, especially in major cities.

For short visits, eSIM providers like Airalo let you activate data plans instantly without a physical SIM card.

Key Contact Numbers

When calling from outside the U.S., dial the country code +1 first. Useful contacts for visitors:

• Emergency services (police, fire, medical): 911
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport: +1 800-832-6352
• Chicago Midway International Airport: +1 773-838-0600
• Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Chicago): +1 312-926-2000

Fun and fascinating facts about  Illinois

Illinois offers a mix of big-city energy, important history, and natural beauty.

• Land of Lincoln – Illinois is strongly connected to Abraham Lincoln, who spent much of his life here.
• Chicago – The state’s largest city is the birthplace of the skyscraper and home to world-class architecture, museums, and deep-dish pizza.
• Route 66 – The iconic highway begins in downtown Chicago before heading southwest across the state.
• Great Lakes – Illinois borders Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.
• Cultural diversity – The state’s population reflects a mix of cultures that shape local food, festivals, and neighbourhoods.
• Weather extremes – Illinois experiences all four seasons clearly, from warm summers to snowy winters.
• Historic innovation – The Ferris wheel, cellophane tape, and the first-ever McDonald’s franchise all have Illinois links.