Tourists to the Windy City will have an even more impressive view of Lake Michigan from the top of the planned 196-foot Ferris wheel that will replace the current 147-foot wheel, which was installed at Navy Pier in 1995.

From zip-lining in the Shawnee National Forest to amusement parks in Lake County, Illinois offers a number of ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Each year, more than 800,000 visitors come to Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, a gorgeous 3,000 acre site located on the west shore of Carlyle Lake. Main features include a swimming pool and opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, hunting, picnicking, bird watching and hiking.

Calling it the place where “all the strands of my life came together,” President Barack Obama announced today that the city where he declared his victory in the race to become the 44th president of the United States will also host his presidential library.