Illinois isn’t just about Chicago skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza. It’s a state full of surprises, with a rich variety of tours that cater to every interest. Whether you’re into historic architecture, outdoor recreation, or gourmet eating, Illinois offers experiences that stand out. We love the Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour for its delightful tastings, and the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home & Studio Tour for architecture lovers eager to see Wright’s early work. These tours give visitors a chance to connect with Illinois’s unique local flavors and design heritage.
If you’re looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration, the Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour offers stunning scenery and wildlife. Or, for something more relaxed, the Private Indian-Mexican Fusion Cooking Class provides a taste of Chicago’s culinary creativity. No matter your style, Illinois’s tours promise memorable experiences—so let’s explore the top options.
1. Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour
Explore Galena’s exciting food scene on this small-group tour through Main Street, dedicated entirely to culinary delights. On this 2.5-hour experience, you’ll visit five carefully selected venues, with up to ten tastings ranging from flaky empanadas to international beers, wines, and desserts. The tour offers intimate interaction with passionate local store owners, giving you a true taste of Galena’s character. Tipping is included, which simplifies the experience.
This tour’s highlight is the chance to try five different stops: starting at the Galena Bakehouse for a flaky empanada, then onto Galena River Wine & Cheese for a secret menu item and wine tasting. Other stops include the soda-fueled fun at Root Beer Revelry, the beer sampling at Galena Brewing, and finishing with local craft beer and desserts at Galena Taphouse. Reviewers praise Devin for his personable knowledge and fun storytelling, making this a popular choice for foodies.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a bite-sized, in-depth taste of Galena’s culinary scene, with excellent value for its price of $86.
2. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home & Studio Tour Ticket
For architecture enthusiasts, the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home & Studio Tour is a must. Located in Oak Park, this 1-hour experience explores the first Wright-designed home where he exerted complete artistic control. It’s the birthplace of many of his innovative ideas that shaped the Prairie style. The tour provides insight into his early experimentation, with visiting his Ohio Street residence and seeing the flowing rooms and wooden textures that would influence future masterpieces.
Guests comment on how the guided tour makes Wright’s architecture approachable and inspiring. The building was a personal workshop for Wright, and walking through it gives a rare look into the creative process. Be sure to book tickets in advance as it’s a popular spot, and look for the walking tour of the neighborhood, which highlights several Wright-designed homes.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended experience for lovers of design and early 20th-century architecture, at an accessible price of $27.
3. Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour
If you’re craving outdoor adventure, the Starved Rock State Park Guided Kayaking Tour is a wonderful choice. During this 2-hour paddle, you’ll glide past towering St. Peters Sandstone cliffs and observe local wildlife, including bald eagles, pelicans, and turtles. The tour is suitable for beginners, family groups, and even dog owners who want to introduce their furry friends to kayaking.
The calm waters make for a relaxing, scenic experience, and the views of the dramatic cliffs from the water are unforgettable. It’s ideal for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and light physical activity. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the opportunity to see eagles in their natural habitat—highlighting the tour’s value at $74.
Bottom Line: An excellent outdoor activity for families or beginners, combining stunning scenery with wildlife sightings.
4. Skip the Line: Public Tour-Adult Admission Ticket (50 mins)
History buffs and literature fans will appreciate the Hemingway Birthplace Museum in Oak Park. This 50-minute guided tour of the childhood home of Ernest Hemingway offers a quick yet insightful look at his early life and family influences. The museum is filled with period artifacts and restored rooms, providing context to his later literary fame.
Tour guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the visit both educational and engaging. The ability to skip the line is helpful, especially during busy seasons. Reviewers note that learning about Hemingway’s family and early years added depth to their understanding of his novels.
Bottom Line: An affordable and informative visit for literature lovers, priced at $20, with the chance to deepen your appreciation for Hemingway’s roots.
5. Horseback Rides, Interactions, and Petting Zoo
This private horseback riding experience in Galena is perfect for families wanting hands-on animal fun. Over roughly an hour, you can walk among gentle horses, with beginner-friendly rides suitable for all ages. Afterward, enjoy feeding chickens, goats, and mini pigs at the petting zoo. The farm is well cared for, and reviews highlight the patience of hosts Roger and Sabine.
The experience is priced per group (up to six people), making it flexible for small families or groups of friends. It’s a great way to introduce kids to farm animals and enjoy a relaxed outdoor activity regardless of weather, thanks to the sheltered environment.
Bottom Line: A charming, family-friendly activity that combines equestrian fun with interaction with farm animals, at $120.
6. Frank Lloyd Wright Tour in Oak Park
For a broader look at Wright’s architectural footprint, the Frank Lloyd Wright Tour in Oak Park covers several private homes and Wright’s studio. This hour-long walking tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who will point out the intricate details of Wright’s designs. Starting from the neighborhood’s historic heart, you’ll see the evolution of his style between 1892 and 1909.
While some buildings are only discussed from the outside, the tour provides plenty of visual and historical context. It’s ideal for those interested in architecture, history, and urban planning. Reviewers mention how this tour offers a deeper appreciation of Wright’s early work.
Bottom Line: An affordable, engaging way to explore Wright’s influence in Oak Park, costing just $35.
7. Cocktail Adventure Tour 21+
In Galena, the Cocktail Adventure Tour takes you through local bars and taverns, sampling inventive cocktails and learning about their history. Over 1 hour and 45 minutes, you’ll visit three venues, starting with bourbon or champagne-based drinks, then moving on to international delights and ending at the lively Grape Escape for a chocolate martini and meaty bites. It’s a fun way to explore Galena’s nightlife.
The guide shares stories behind the drinks, adding a layer of local flavor. Reviewers appreciate Devin’s knowledge and the relaxed pace. With a price of $80.99, this tour combines drinks, stories, and socializing in a casual setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls and cocktail lovers, offering a taste of Galena’s bar scene for a reasonable price.
8. Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Kancamagus Highway
If scenic drives are your thing, the Kancamagus Highway Self-Guided Audio Tour provides a flexible way to explore New Hampshire’s natural beauty at your own pace. Over about 8 hours, you’ll hear stories about the Albany Covered Bridge, Lincoln Woods, and Lower Falls—plus hidden gems along the way.
The audio guides provide interesting commentary based on your location, making it feel like a personal tour. Reviewers love how it enhances the drive without the need for a tour guide or group. The cost is just $16.99 per group, making it a budget-friendly option.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent travelers wanting to enjoy scenic views with informative narration.
9. Private Indian-Mexican Fusion Cooking Class
Food lovers can try their hand at Indian-Mexican fusion cooking in Chicago. Over three hours, you’ll learn to craft dishes like tandoori paneer quesadillas and other creative fusion recipes in a private setting. Your instructor, Ruby, guides you through each step, sharing her cultural background and culinary tips. After cooking, everyone sits down to enjoy the multi-course meal with drinks included.
Guests highlight the personalized approach and the delicious, innovative dishes. It’s a great way to pick up new skills and enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. At $84 per person, this experience offers a good balance of hands-on learning and fun.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies eager for a cooking adventure that blends Indian and Mexican flavors, especially for small groups.
10. Single Guided Kayaking Tour near Chicago
The Single Guided Kayaking Tour in Starved Rock combines paddling with wildlife watching. Over two hours, you’ll learn about the area’s sandstone bluffs, see bald eagles, herons, and turtles, and paddle through lily pad fields. The guide’s narration makes the outing both educational and entertaining.
It’s suitable for all skill levels and perfect for those who want a peaceful, scenic experience close to Chicago. Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude enhanced the trip. Price at $69 makes it a good value for the experience.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, wildlife-filled paddle suitable for beginners and nature lovers alike.
11. Skip the Line: Miller Park Zoo General Admission Ticket
For a family-friendly outing, the Miller Park Zoo is a wonderful choice. With animals from around the world, including tigers, flamingos, and red pandas, this zoo offers engaging exhibits for all ages. The Children’s Zoo makes it especially popular with families.
The skip-the-line entry simplifies planning, especially with kids in tow. Reviewers note the well-maintained facilities and the variety of animals as highlights. The ticket costs only about $7.57, making it a budget-friendly day trip.
Bottom Line: A fun, accessible zoo day for families, with a wide range of animals and convenient entry.
12. Canoe/Kayak Day Tour of Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge
An excellent outdoor escape, this Canoe/Kayak Tour of Mississippi Refuge takes you into untouched wetlands full of birdlife, turtles, and flowers. Over 2-4 hours, you’ll paddle through peaceful waters, exploring islands and spotting wildlife such as herons and waterfowl. The tour is tailored to your pace and skill level, making it suitable for all.
Reviewers mention how the natural sounds and scenery make it a calming experience. The tour runs at $120 per person and includes all necessary equipment and guidance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude and wildlife encounters in Illinois’s remote wetlands.
13. Zipline Adventure in Galena, Illinois
For thrill-seekers, the Zipline Adventure offers a 2.5-hour adrenaline rush. Starting with an off-road UTV ride, you’ll reach six ziplines, including a 1,250-foot long line, plus exciting activities like rappelling and optional free-fall jumps. The course takes you through treetops and offers views of the surrounding landscape.
Reviewers praise the safety measures and the exhilarating experience. It’s suited for adventurous travelers looking for a high-energy outdoor activity, priced at $103.47.
Bottom Line: A top-choice for outdoor adventure enthusiasts wanting an adrenaline shot amidst scenic woodland.
14. Whispers from the Riverfront: Grafton with History and Grim Tales
If you like spooky stories and local legends, the Grafton Ghost Tour is a fun, one-hour walk along the riverfront. It covers Grafton’s mysterious past, including haunted buildings and dark tales from the past. A entertaining guide shares stories of ghostly sightings and historic events, adding a thrilling twist to your visit.
Reviewers find it a fun, easy walk that offers a different perspective on Illinois history. It’s a good pick for those interested in paranormal tales and local lore at $25.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and ghost story fans looking for a quick, atmospheric outing.
15. Chicago-Naperville Indoor Skydiving with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate
Experience the thrill of indoor skydiving without jumping out of a plane. In this 1-hour session, you’ll complete two guided flights in a vertical wind tunnel, floating at speeds of up to 175 mph. Beforehand, you receive brief training, and afterwards, you get a personalized certificate to remember your feat.
This activity is a safe, fun way to simulate skydiving, particularly appealing to those wanting a quick adrenaline rush. At $94, it’s a bit pricier, but the experience is undeniably memorable. Reviewers mention the professional staff and the “once-in-a-lifetime” feeling.
Bottom Line: Great for adventure lovers and first-time flyers, especially if you’re short on time but want an unforgettable thrill.
16. 2 Hours Starved Rock Tandem Kayak Rental
This tandem kayak rental offers a laid-back way to explore Starved Rock’s iconic sandstone bluffs. Over two hours, you and a companion can paddle at your own pace, enjoying views of Bald Eagles, white pelicans, and lotus flowers. It’s ideal for couples or small groups comfortable with a bit of physical activity.
Rental costs $76 and includes all necessary gear. Reviewers note how peaceful and scenic the experience is, perfect for a relaxing day on the water, away from crowds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or friends wanting a private, scenic paddle with a flexible schedule.
$76.00 per group (up to 2)
How to Choose the Right Tour in Illinois
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interests. Food lovers should look at the Galena Food and Drink Tour, while architecture fans will appreciate the Wright tours. Outdoor enthusiasts may prefer kayaking or ziplining, and families should consider the zoo or horseback rides. Booking early is wise, especially for popular spots like Wright’s Home or the Galena food tour. Think about whether a guided or self-guided experience suits your style—self-guided audio tours offer flexibility, while guided experiences provide rich storytelling.
For example, if you’re an architecture lover with only an afternoon, the Frank Lloyd Wright in Oak Park tour offers a deep dive into early Wright design. For outdoor adventure in a relaxed setting, the Starved Rock Kayaking options are unbeatable. And if you’re traveling with kids, the Miller Park Zoo makes a perfect, budget-friendly day.
Illinois is packed with diverse experiences that appeal to every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re savoring local foods, exploring historic homes, or paddling through scenic waterways, these tours unlock the most authentic and memorable aspects of the Prairie State. Book early to secure your preferred times, and prepare for a trip full of discovery and fun.