Change the color of a tree when you hug it…or sing to it…or press a button near it. These are some of the fun interactive features of Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois. Other lights dance to music, and trees light up in a rotating array of colors.
Illinois
Love Roadside Attractions? Visit Casey, Illinois
If you’ve ever pulled over for a photo op of a Muffler Man or detoured to get a glimpse of the world’s largest steer, then you must plan a visit to Casey, Illinois. Fair warning: You won’t get away with just a quick stop in Casey. You’ll want to spend several hours there, maybe even all day. You see, Casey is home to the world’s largest wind chime, rocking chair, mailbox, and nine more sculptures that have made it into the Guinness Book of World Records.
Two-Story Outhouse in Gays, Illinois
We see a lot of outhouses in our travels—and even use them occasionally when we’re desperate. We’ve seen two-hole outhouses in living history museums (the family that poops together….?) But never before had we seen a two-story outhouse like the one in the central Illinois town of Gays.
The Original Burger King — No Whoppers Here
You can’t order a Whopper® at this Burger King. In fact, you won’t find a Whopper within 25 miles of the Mattoon, Illinois, restaurant. You see, the original Burger King is not related to the chain of the same name. So, while you won’t get that fake charcoal flavor the chain is known for, you can enjoy a tasty, diner-type burger with all the toppings.
Chicago Travel and Adventure Show 2020
As Midwest winter winds blow and temperatures drop, we dream about warm weather and sunshine. Turn those dreams into reality by starting your planning at the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show. The popular travel show returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on February 8 and 9, 2020.
Warm Up to Winter at Midwest Ice Festivals
Last winter we discovered Midwest ice festivals. The Meltdown Winter Ice Festival in Richmond, Indiana, and the Argenta IceFest in Illinois are unlike any festivals we’d been to before. Sure, we’ve seen ice carving demonstrations in the past and plenty of completed ice sculptures on display during events, but during these two festivals, ice carving is the star.