Illinois is no stranger to deer crossings, but did you know that twice a year, one of the largest snake migrations in the United States takes place in Illinois as well?  For two months in spring and fall every year, Forest Road 345, more commonly known as ‘Snake Road’ is shut down for a nearly three mile stretch to allow up to 23 species of snakes to migrate between their winter habitat in the forest’s limestone bluffs and their summer base at LaRue Swamp.

Like many wildlife species, snakes face a dangerous obstacle when crossing trafficked roads. Snakes are particularly vulnerable because of their cold-blooded nature. Black asphalt is good at holding on to heat from the sun, and in the cooler early morning and twilight hours, snakes often like to lie out and bask in the warmth, rather than dart across the road quickly like other animals. This can have a deadly impact on snake populations; researchers estimate that up to 25% of all snakes are killed by drivers.

Located in Central Illinois, Morton is a small town with a big claim to fame: it is the Pumpkin Capital of the World. Known for its pumpkin patches, festivals and rich agricultural history, Morton has earned its title serving as the headquarters of the world’s largest pumpkin processing company – Libby’s.

Each year, Morton produces more pumpkins than any other place in the U.S. The town’s fields and surrounding areas yield millions of pumpkins, providing 95% of the canned pumpkin in the country and 85% of the canned pumpkin worldwide. Libby’s has been a major player in Morton’s identity since the 1970s when the factory began exclusively processing pumpkins.

In the heart of West‑Central Illinois, the town of Monmouth prides itself on being the “Prime Beef Center of the World,” and its annual Warren County Prime Beef Festival stands as a testament to that claim. This community celebration brings together generations of cattle producers, local families and visitors to recognize the foundational role of agriculture in the area’s past, present and future.

If you are looking to soak in the last days of summer, there is nothing quite like a trip to a sunflower field – and Illinois has some of the best spots in the Midwest to visit. Stretching across acres of farmland, these radiant blooms typically reach their peak between late July and early September, offering the perfect backdrop for family outings, photo sessions, or a peaceful day in nature.

One of the most popular destinations is Richardson Farm in Spring Grove. While known for its corn maze that spans nearly 10 miles of trail, the farm explodes in color come late summer with 13 acres worth of sunflowers in bloom. Guests are invited to walk the fields, take photos, and even cut a few stems to bring home.

From big cities and road side attractions to nature and rural vineyards, Illinois has attracted record breaking tourism in 2024. Illinois’ Office of Tourism has announced over 113 million domestic and international visitors entered the state, spending a record $48.5 billion. This data represents an increase of half a million visitors and $1.3 billion more in spending than 2023.

The record follows significant investment in the travel and tourism industry in Fiscal Year 2025. Over $7 million were invested into 47 entities in the state through Route 66 grants ahead of the Route 66 centennial in 2026. Other types of grants include Tourism Private Sector, International Tourism and Tourism Attractions –  each of these funding events, festivals and attractions in their respective setting.

Here are some popular tourist highlights you can check out from across the state: