Illinois, located in the Midwestern region of the United States, is a state known for its rich history, vibrant cities, and diverse culture. With its picturesque countryside, towering skyscrapers, and bustling urban centers, Illinois offers a unique blend of culture and nature. To help visitors and residents navigate this beautiful state, we have created a detailed map of Illinois with cities and highways.
This map highlights Illinois’s major cities, including Chicago, Springfield, Peoria, and Rockford, as well as its primary highways and roads. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply want to explore Illinois’s unique landscape and culture, this map is an essential tool. So, grab your map and get ready to discover all that Illinois has to offer, from its world-renowned museums to its charming small towns and everything in between.
Printable Illinois Map With Cities and Highways
Cities
Belvidere
Belvidere is a charming city located in Boone County, settled on the Kishwaukee River in far northern Illinois, United States. Known as the ‘City of Murals’, Belvidere is home to several public art installations throughout the North and South State Street historic districts, which are on the national register of historic places. These historic districts are home to places like the Boone County Museum of History, The Funderburg Museum, several restaurants and bars, antique stores, and boutique stores.
Popular festivities like Heritage Days are held yearly, attracting visitors from all over the region. Belvidere is also the county seat of Boone County and part of the Rockford, Illinois Metropolitan Statistical Area. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, Belvidere is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to northern Illinois.
Bloomington
Bloomington is an energetic city located in McLean County, Illinois, United States. It is adjacent to the town of Normal and is the more populous of the two principal municipalities of the Bloomington-Normal metropolitan area. The city is conveniently located 135 miles southwest of Chicago and 162 miles northeast of St. Louis, making it easily accessible for visitors from both cities.
The 2020 census showed the city had a population of 78,680, making it the 13th-most populated city in Illinois and the fifth-most populous outside the Chicago Metropolitan Area. Combined with Normal, the twin cities have a population of roughly 130,000.
The Bloomington area is home to Illinois Wesleyan University and Illinois State University, making it a hub for education and research. It also serves as the headquarters for State Farm Insurance and Country Financial, adding to the city’s economic importance. With its exciting culture, electric nightlife, and natural beauty, Bloomington is an unmissable spot for anyone traveling to central Illinois.
Bolingbrook
Bolingbrook is a fascinating village located in Will and DuPage counties in the U.S. state of Illinois. It is a southwest suburb of Chicago, conveniently located on I-55 and Historic Route 66 (Frontage Road). The village was built on the Gateway Wetlands west of the Des Plaines River in the 1960s as a new town.
Bolingbrook experienced rapid growth in the 1980s and 1990s, eventually becoming the county’s second-largest town after Joliet. As of the 2020 census, the population was 73,922, making it a bustling and thriving community. As of 2010, it is the 17th largest incorporated place in Illinois and the state’s 2nd largest village.
Bolingbrook offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including parks, golf courses, and shopping centers. With its convenient location, rich culture, and gorgeous natural scenery, Bolingbrook is a great destination for anyone exploring the southwest suburbs of Chicago.
Centralia
Centralia is a unique city located in Clinton, Jefferson, Marion, and Washington counties in the U.S. state of Illinois, with the largest portion in Marion County. The city is the largest in three of the counties; Clinton, Marion, and Washington, but is not a county seat of any of them. The population was 12,182 as of the 2020 census, down from 13,032 in 2010.
Centralia is known for its history, culture, and natural landscapes. The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Shawnee National Forest, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and unique character, Centralia is a marvelous choice for anyone traveling to southern Illinois.
Champaign
Champaign is a bustling city located in Champaign County, Illinois, United States. The population was 88,302 at the 2020 census, making it the tenth-most populous municipality in Illinois and the fourth most populous city in Illinois outside the Chicago metropolitan area. Champaign shares the main campus of the University of Illinois with its twin city of Urbana, making it a hub for education and research.
The city is also home to Parkland College, which serves about 18,000 students during the academic year. Due to the university and a number of well-known technology startup companies, Champaign is often referred to as the hub, or a significant landmark, of the Silicon Prairie. Champaign houses offices for the Fortune 500 companies Abbott, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), Caterpillar, John Deere, Dow Chemical Company, IBM, and State Farm, adding to the city’s economic importance.
Champaign also serves as the headquarters for several companies, including Jimmy John’s. With its immersive cultural scene, exciting nightlife, and natural beauty, Champaign is a wonderful location for anyone traveling to central Illinois.
Chicago
The famous city of Chicago is located in the U.S. state of Illinois and is the most populous city in the state. With a population of 2,746,388 in the 2020 census, it is also the third-most populous city in the United States after New York City and Los Angeles.
As the seat of Cook County, the second-most populous county in the U.S., Chicago is the center of the Chicago metropolitan area. The city is known for its rich cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, and stunning architecture. Chicago is home to several world-renowned museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum of Natural History.
The city is also famous for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. Visitors can explore the city’s many parks and beaches, including Grant Park and North Avenue Beach. With its diverse population, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes, Chicago is a rewarding destination for anyone traveling to the Midwest.
Cicero
Cicero is a charming suburb of Chicago and an incorporated town located in Cook County, Illinois, United States. Originally known as Hawthorne, the town was later named after Marcus Tullius Cicero, a Roman statesman and orator. As of the 2020 census, the population was 85,268, making it the 11th-largest municipality in Illinois.
Cicero is known for its deep history, thrilling cultural scene, and attractive natural scenery. The town is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Brookfield Zoo, which offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family. With its warm climate, community spirit, and distinctive character, Cicero is a fulfilling destination for anyone traveling to the Chicago area.
Danville
Danville is a beautiful city located in Vermilion County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, its population was 29,204, making it a bustling and thriving community. Danville is known for its fascinating history, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful landscapes. The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Kickapoo State Recreation Area, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. Danville is the principal city of the Danville metropolitan area, making it a hub for business, culture, and entertainment in the region. With its warm weather, friendly residents, and delightful character, Danville is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring central Illinois.
De Kalb
DeKalb is a charming city located in DeKalb County, Illinois, United States. The population was 40,290 at the 2020 census, down from 43,862 at the 2010 census. The city is named after decorated Franconian-French war hero Johann de Kalb, who died during the American Revolutionary War.
Founded in 1856, DeKalb became important in the development and manufacture of barbed wire, especially for agriculture and raising livestock. While agricultural-related industries remain a facet of the city, along with health and services, the city’s largest employer in the 21st century is Northern Illinois University, founded in 1895. The university has a significant impact on the city’s culture and economy, contributing to its vibrant and diverse community.
DeKalb is conveniently located about 65 miles from downtown Chicago, making it a great destination for visitors looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its deep history, natural beauty, and vivacious cultural scene, DeKalb is an essential spot for anyone traveling to northern Illinois.
Decatur
Decatur is a lively city located in Macon County, Illinois, United States, and is the largest city and the county seat of the county. With a population of 70,522 as of the 2020 Census, it is the seventeenth-most populous city in Illinois. The city was founded in 1829 and is situated along the Sangamon River and Lake Decatur in central Illinois.
Decatur is famous for its history, culture, and gorgeous scenery. The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Lake Decatur, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its agreeable climate, affable locals, and distinctive character, Decatur is a rewarding location for anyone traveling to central Illinois.
Edwardsville
Edwardsville is a delightful city located in Madison County, Illinois, United States, and is the county seat of the county. As of the 2020 census, the population was 26,808, making it a bustling and thriving community. The city was named in honor of Ninian Edwards, then Governor of the Illinois Territory.
Edwardsville is known for its rich history, immersive cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty. The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Madison County Trails, which offer a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With inviting weather, welcoming locals, and an inviting character, Edwardsville is a satisfying destination for people traveling to southern Illinois.
Effingham
Effingham is a pleasant city located in Effingham County, Illinois, United States, and is the county seat of the county. Its population was 12,252 at the 2020 census, making it a small but bustling community. The city is part of the Effingham, IL Micropolitan Statistical Area.
Effingham is known as “The Crossroads of Opportunity” because of its location at the intersection of two major Interstate highways: I-57 running from Chicago to Sikeston, Missouri, and I-70 running from Utah to Maryland. The city is also served by several other major routes, including U.S. Route 45, U.S. Route 40, and Illinois routes 32 and 33.
Effingham is also a major railroad junction, with the crossing of the Illinois Central main line from Chicago to Memphis with the Pennsylvania Railroad line from Indianapolis to St. Louis. For this reason, Effingham has a much broader range of restaurants and lodging facilities than typical towns of its size. With its pleasing climate, friendly locals, and unique ambiance, Effingham is a great choice for anyone looking to experience South Central Illinois.
Granite City
Granite City is an appealing city located in Madison County, Illinois, United States, within the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area. The population was 27,549 at the 2020 census, making it the third-largest city in the Metro East and Southern Illinois regions, behind Belleville and O’Fallon.
Officially founded in 1896, Granite City was named by the Niedringhaus brothers, William and Frederick, who established it as a steel-making company town for the manufacture of graniteware kitchen utensils. Today, Granite City is known for its history, cultural richness, and arresting beauty.
The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Horseshoe Lake State Park, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its mix of friendliness and pleasant weather, Granite City is a satisfying destination for people traveling to the Metro East and Southern Illinois regions.
Joliet
Joliet is an energetic city located in Will and Kendall counties in the U.S. state of Illinois, situated 35 miles southwest of Chicago. It is the county seat of Will County and a hub for business, culture, and entertainment in the region. At the 2020 census, the city was the third-largest in Illinois, with a population of 150,362.
Joliet is known for its intriguing history, lovely architecture, and thrilling cultural scene. The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Rialto Square Theatre, which offers a unique and exciting entertainment experience for the whole family. With its attractive climate and friendly locals, Joliet has to be on the travel list for anyone exploring the Chicago area.
Kankakee
Kankakee is a picturesque city located in Kankakee County, Illinois, United States, and is the county seat of the county. Located on the banks of the Kankakee River, the city’s population was 24,052 as of the 2020 census.
Kankakee is a principal city of the Kankakee-Bourbonnais-Bradley Metropolitan Statistical Area and serves as an anchor city in the rural plains outside Chicago, similar to Aurora and Joliet. Kankakee is known for its history, pretty landscapes, and rich cultural scene. The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Kankakee River State Park, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and unique character, Kankakee is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Chicago area.
Lincoln
Lincoln is a pleasant city located in Logan County, Illinois, United States. First settled in the 1830s, it is the only town in the United States that was named for Abraham Lincoln before he became president. Lincoln practiced law there from 1847 to 1859, making it an important location in the history of the United States.
Today, Lincoln is known for its history, culture, and natural scenery. The city is home to two prisons, as well as several other historical sites along the Route 66 corridor. Visitors can also explore the world’s largest covered wagon, which is a popular attraction in the city. With its lovely weather, community spirit, and distinctive character, Lincoln is an attractive spot for anyone interested in the history of the United States or traveling along the famous Route 66.
Macomb
Macomb is a lovely city located in McDonough County, Illinois, United States, and is the county seat of the county. Situated in western Illinois, about 75 miles southwest of Peoria, the city is known for its deep history, cultural energy, and beautiful landscapes. As of the 2020 census, the population of the city was 15,051, down from 19,288 in 2010.
Macomb is the home of Western Illinois University, which has a significant impact on the city’s culture and economy. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, as well as several museums, art galleries, and cultural events. Visitors can also explore the nearby Spring Lake Park, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its climate, welcoming locals, and attractive character, Macomb is an unmissable destination when traveling to western Illinois.
Morris
Morris is a picturesque city located in Grundy County, Illinois, United States, and is the county seat of the county. Part of the southwest Chicago metropolitan area, the city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The population was estimated at 15,053 in 2019, making it a small but bustling community.
Morris is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Gebhard Woods State Park, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and wonderful character, Morris is a must-visit location for anyone traveling to the southwest Chicago metropolitan area.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is a charming city located in Jefferson County, Illinois, United States, and is the county seat of the county. The population was 14,600 at the 2020 census, making it a small but bustling community. Mount Vernon is the principal city of the Mount Vernon Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Jefferson and Hamilton counties. The city is famous for its history, architecture, and cultural scene.
Mount Vernon is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Rend Lake, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its warm weather, affable community, and unique character, Mount Vernon simply has to be visited by anyone traveling to southern Illinois.
Naperville
Naperville is a thriving city located within the Chicago Metropolitan Area in DuPage and Will counties in the U.S. state of Illinois. It is a western suburb of Chicago, located 28 miles west of the city. The city was founded in 1831 by Joseph Naper along the banks of the DuPage River and was originally known as Naper’s Settlement.
By 1832, over 100 residents lived in Naper’s Settlement, and in 1839, after DuPage County was split from Cook County, Naperville became the county seat, which it remained until 1868. Beginning in the 1960s, Naperville experienced a significant population increase as a result of Chicago’s urban sprawl. Today, Naperville is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
The city is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Naperville Riverwalk, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and unique character, Naperville is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Chicago area.
Normal
Normal is a marvelous town located in McLean County, Illinois, United States, and is the smaller of two principal municipalities of the Bloomington-Normal metropolitan area. As of the 2020 census, the town’s population was 52,736, making it the seventh most populous community outside the Chicago metropolitan area. Normal is known for its intriguing history, wonderful architecture, and exciting cultural scene.
The town is home to the main campus of Illinois’ oldest public university, Illinois State University, a fully accredited four-year institution. It is also home to Heartland Community College, a fully accredited two-year institution. Visitors can also explore the nearby Constitution Trail, which offers a fun outdoor experience for the whole family.
With its warm climate, friendly locals, and distinctive character, Normal is a standout spot for anyone traveling to the Bloomington-Normal metropolitan area. Chris Koos has been Normal’s mayor since 2003, providing strong leadership and a vision for the town’s future.
Oak Lawn
Oak Lawn is a quaint village located in Cook County, Illinois, United States, and is a suburb of Chicago, located southwest of the city. The population was 58,362 at the 2020 census, making it a thriving community. Oak Lawn is known for its history, architecture, and culture. The village shares borders with the city in two areas but is surrounded mostly by other suburbs.
Oak Lawn is home to several parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. Visitors can also explore the nearby Stony Creek Golf Course, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its welcoming climate and friendly atmosphere, Oak Lawn is an essential place to visit in the Chicago area.
Oak Park
Oak Park is a charming village located in Cook County, Illinois, adjacent to Chicago. With a population of 54,583 as of the 2020 U.S. Census estimate, it is the 26th-most populous municipality in Illinois. Oak Park was first settled in 1835 and later incorporated in 1902, when it separated from Cicero. The village is closely tied to the smaller town of River Forest, sharing Oak Park and River Forest High School.
Oak Park is also known for its rich history, lovely architecture, and exciting cultural scene. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his wife settled in Oak Park in 1889, and his work heavily influenced local architecture and design, including the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.
Over the years, rapid development was spurred by railroads and streetcars connecting the village to jobs in nearby Chicago. In 1968, Oak Park passed the Open Housing Ordinance, which helped devise strategies to integrate the village rather than resegregate. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and unique character, Oak Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Chicago area.
Peoria
Peoria is a historic city located in and the county seat of Peoria County, Illinois, United States. Located on the Illinois River, the city had a population of 113,150 as of the 2020 census. It is the principal city of the Peoria metropolitan area in Central Illinois, consisting of the counties of Fulton, Marshall, Peoria, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford, which had a population of 402,391 in 2020.
Established in 1691 by the French explorer Henri de Tonti, Peoria is the oldest permanent European settlement in Illinois according to the Illinois State Archaeological Survey. Originally known as Fort Clark, it received its current name when the County of Peoria was organized in 1825. The city was named after the Peoria people, a member of the Illinois Confederation. On October 16, 1854, Abraham Lincoln made his Peoria speech against the Kansas-Nebraska Act.
Prior to prohibition, Peoria was the center of the whiskey industry in the United States. More than 12 distilleries operated in Peoria by the end of the 19th century, more than any other city in the U.S. With its historic richness, arresting architecture, and vibrant culture, Peoria is a must-visit area for anyone traveling to Central Illinois.
Quincy
Quincy, also known as Illinois’s “Gem City”, is a historic city located in and the county seat of Adams County, Illinois, United States, situated on the Mississippi River. The 2020 census counted a population of 39,463 in the city itself, down from 40,633 in 2010. As of July 1, 2015, the Quincy Micro Area had an estimated population of 77,220.
During the 19th century, Quincy was a thriving transportation center as riverboats and rail service linked the city to many destinations west and along the river. It was Illinois’ second-largest city, surpassing Peoria in 1870. The city has several historic districts, including the Downtown Quincy Historic District and the South Side German Historic District, which display the architecture of Quincy’s many German immigrants from the late 19th century.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Quincy Bay, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Quincy is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Western Illinois.
Rock Island
Rock Island is a vibrant city located in and the county seat of Rock Island County, Illinois, United States. The original Rock Island, from which the city name is derived, is now called Arsenal Island. The population was 37,108 at the 2020 census. Located on the Mississippi River, it is one of the Quad Cities, along with neighboring Moline, East Moline, and the Iowa cities of Davenport and Bettendorf.
The Quad Cities has a population of about 480,000. The city is home to Rock Island Arsenal, the largest government-owned weapons manufacturing arsenal in the US, which employs 6,000 people. Visitors can also explore the nearby Rock Island Trail, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. With its warm weather, welcoming locals, and unique character, Rock Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Quad Cities area.
Rockford
Rockford is a bustling city located in Winnebago County, Illinois, United States. Located in the far northern part of the state on the banks of the Rock River, Rockford is the county seat of Winnebago County, with a small portion of the city located in Ogle County.
The largest city in Illinois outside of the Chicago metropolitan area, Rockford is the fifth-largest city in the state and the 171st most populous in the United States. In the 2020 census, Rockford had a population of 148,655, anchoring the Greater Rockford Metropolitan Area with a population of 348,360.
The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the nearby Anderson Japanese Gardens, which offers a peaceful and serene outdoor experience. Rockford is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and absorbing character, Rockford is a rewarding destination for anyone traveling to Northern Illinois.
Springfield
Springfield is a historic city and the capital of the U.S. state of Illinois, as well as the county seat of Sangamon County. The city’s population was 114,394 at the 2020 census, making it the state’s seventh most-populous city, the second largest outside of the Chicago metropolitan area (after Rockford), and the largest in central Illinois.
Approximately 208,000 residents live in the Springfield metropolitan area. Springfield was settled by European-Americans in the late 1810s, around the time Illinois became a state. The most famous historic resident was Abraham Lincoln, who lived in Springfield from 1837 until 1861 when he went to the White House as President of the United States.
Visitors can explore the many sites connected with Lincoln, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site, and the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Springfield is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Central Illinois.
Sterling
Sterling is a charming city located in Whiteside County, Illinois, United States. The population was 14,782 at the 2020 census, down from 15,370 in 2010. Formerly nicknamed the “Hardware Capital of the World”, the city has long been associated with manufacturing and the steel industry.
Visitors can explore the nearby Sinnissippi Dam, which offers a delightful and fascinating outdoor experience for the whole family. Sterling is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. With its warm weather and friendly community spirit, Sterling is a fulfilling destination for anyone traveling to Northern Illinois.
Streator
Streator is a charming city located in both LaSalle and Livingston counties in the U.S. state of Illinois. The city is situated on the Vermilion River approximately 81 miles (130 km) southwest of Chicago in the prairie and farmland of north-central Illinois. As of the 2020 census, the population of Streator was 12,500.
Visitors can explore the nearby Weber House and Garden, which offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Streator is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and unique character, Streator is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern Illinois.
Urbana
Urbana is a vibrant city located in and the county seat of Champaign County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2020 census, Urbana had a population of 38,336, making it the 38th-most populous municipality in Illinois. It is included in the Champaign–Urbana metropolitan area.
Visitors can explore the nearby Crystal Lake Park, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. Urbana is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. With its agreeable climate, friendly residents, and charming character, Urbana is a great choice for anyone traveling to Central Illinois.
Washington
Washington is a delightful city located in Tazewell County, Illinois, United States. Washington is situated on U.S. Route 24 and Illinois Route 8, northeast of East Peoria. The population was 15,134 at the 2010 census, a 39.6 percent increase over 2000. It is a suburb of Peoria and is part of the Peoria Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Visitors can explore the nearby Washington Park District, which offers a fun and exciting outdoor experience for the whole family. Washington is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars. With its pleasing climate, welcoming locals, and one-off character, Washington is a wonderful location for anyone traveling to Central Illinois.
Highways
Illinois Route 1
Illinois Route 1 (IL 1) is a major state highway in the U.S. state of Illinois. Running parallel to the Indiana border, the highway starts at the free ferry crossing to Kentucky at Cave-in-Rock on the Ohio River and runs north to the south side of Chicago as Halsted Street at an intersection with Interstate 57.
This is a distance of 325.59 miles (523.99 km). IL 1 passes through several cities and towns, including Danville, Hoopeston, Watseka, Kankakee, and Momence, and serves as a major transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic. With its scenic views and easy access to several major cities, Illinois Route 1 is a popular choice for both locals and tourists alike.
Illinois Route 17
Illinois Route 17 (IL 17) is a scenic east-west state highway that runs through the rural areas of Illinois. Starting from a former ferry crossing in New Boston along the banks of the Mississippi River, the highway stretches for 209.40 miles (337.00 km) before ending at State Road 2 west of Lowell, Indiana.
Along the way, IL 17 passes through several charming small towns and offers stunning views of the Illinois countryside. The highway is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state. With its peaceful surroundings and easy access to several major cities, Illinois Route 17 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through Illinois.
Illinois Route 19
Illinois Route 19 (IL-19) is a major east-west state highway in northeastern Illinois, United States. It runs from Illinois Route 25 (Liberty St.) in Elgin to Lake Shore Drive (U.S. Route 41) on the north side of Chicago. Illinois 19 is 33.64 miles (54.14 km) long and is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic. For much of its length, it is also known as Irving Park Road and Chicago-Elgin Road.
Along the way, IL-19 passes through several charming small towns and offers expansive views of the Illinois countryside. The highway is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Illinois Route 19 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through northeastern Illinois.
Illinois Route 23
Illinois Route 23 (IL 23) is a scenic north-south state highway in northern Illinois. It runs from Illinois Route 116 in Pontiac north to U.S. Route 14 south of Harvard, covering a distance of 122.77 miles (197.58 km). Established in 1918 as one of the original 46 SBI routes, the routing of Illinois 23 has remained unchanged since its establishment.
The highway passes through several delightful small towns and offers great views of the Illinois countryside. It is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Illinois Route 23 is a marvelous choice for anyone traveling through northern Illinois.
Illinois Route 25
Illinois Route 25 (IL 25) is a scenic state highway in northeast Illinois. It runs north from U.S. Route 34 in Oswego to Illinois Route 62 (Algonquin Road) in Algonquin, covering a distance of 35.04 miles (56.39 km). The highway passes through several charming small towns and offers stunning views of the Fox River and the Illinois countryside.
It is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Illinois Route 25 is perfect for anyone traveling through northeast Illinois.
Illinois Route 29
Illinois Route 29 (IL 29) is a major state highway that runs through the heart of Illinois, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. The highway runs south from U.S. Route 6/Illinois Route 89 at Spring Valley to U.S. Route 51/Illinois Route 16 at Pana, passing through Pekin, Peoria, and Springfield along the way. Illinois 29 is 175.36 miles (282.21 km) long and is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic.
The nearest major north-south highway, Interstate 39, runs parallel to Illinois 29, but approximately fifty miles to the east. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Illinois Route 29 is an ideal option for anyone traveling through central Illinois.
Illinois Route 41
Illinois Route 41 (IL 41) is a scenic north-south highway that runs through the rural areas of west-central Illinois. The highway starts from U.S. Route 136 near Macomb and runs north to U.S. Route 34 and Illinois Route 164 in Galesburg, covering a distance of 37.53 miles (60.40 km). Illinois 41 is maintained by the Illinois Department of Transportation and offers stunning views of the Illinois countryside.
It is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state. With its easy access to several major cities and its placid surroundings, Illinois Route 41 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through west-central Illinois.
Illinois Route 76
Illinois Route 76 is a scenic north-south state highway in far north-central Illinois. The highway starts from the US 20 Bus. in Belvidere and runs north to the Wisconsin State Line at State Trunk Highway 140, covering a distance of 15.77 miles (25.38 km).
Illinois Route 76 offers astounding views of the Illinois countryside and is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state. With its easy access to several major cities and its surrounding landscape, Illinois Route 76 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through far north-central Illinois.
Illinois Route 78
Illinois Route 78 is a major north-south highway that runs through western Illinois. The highway starts from Illinois Route 104 northwest of Jacksonville and runs north to Highway 78 at the Wisconsin state line north of Warren, covering a distance of 215.51 miles (346.83 km).
Illinois Route 78 is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. The highway passes through several charming small towns and offers stunning views of the Illinois countryside. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Illinois Route 78 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through western Illinois.
Illinois Route 82
Illinois Route 82 (IL 82) is a scenic north-south state highway that runs through the rural areas of west-central Illinois. The highway starts from Illinois Route 17 in Nekoma and runs north to Illinois Route 92 near Joslin, covering a distance of 28.84 miles (46.41 km). Illinois Route 82 is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state.
The highway passes through several charming small towns and offers rewarding views of the Illinois countryside. With its easy access to several major cities and its peaceful surroundings, Illinois Route 82 is a great choice for anyone traveling through west-central Illinois.
Illinois Route 84
Illinois Route 84 (Route 84 or IL 84) is a scenic state highway that runs along the Mississippi River in northwestern Illinois. The highway starts from south of Green Rock (now Colona) at U.S. Route 6 and runs north to the Wisconsin state line at Highway 80 by Hazel Green, covering a distance of 93.93 miles (151.17 km). Illinois Route 84 is a popular choice for both locals and tourists who want to explore the natural beauty of the state.
The highway passes through several charming small towns and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Illinois countryside. With its easy access to several major cities and its peaceful surroundings, Illinois Route 84 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through northwestern Illinois.
Illinois Route 129
Illinois Route 129 (IL 129) is a short but important north-south state highway in northeastern Illinois. The highway starts from IL 113 in downtown Braidwood and runs north to Interstate 55 (I-55), covering a distance of 4.06 miles (6.53 km). Illinois Route 129 is a popular transportation route for both locals and commuters, connecting several major highways and providing easy access to several cities in the region.
The highway passes through several delightful small towns and offers wonderful views of the Illinois countryside. With its easy access to several major highways and its scenic surroundings, Illinois Route 129 is a brilliant opportunity for anyone traveling through northeastern Illinois.
Interstates
Interstate 39
Interstate 39 (I-39) is a major highway that runs through the Midwestern United States. The highway starts from Normal, Illinois, at I-55 and runs north to State Trunk Highway 29 (WIS 29) in the town of Rib Mountain, Wisconsin, which is approximately six miles (9.7 km) south of Wausau. I-39 was designed to replace U.S. Route 51 (US 51), which was one of the busiest two-lane highways in the United States in the early 1980s.
I-39 was built in the 1980s and 1990s, and is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. The highway offers stunning views of the Illinois countryside and is a must-drive for anyone traveling through the state.
Interstate 55
Interstate 55 (I-55) is a major cross-country, north-south route that connects the Gulf of Mexico to the Great Lakes in the central United States. The highway starts from LaPlace, Louisiana, at I-10 and runs north to Chicago, Illinois, at U.S. Route 41 (US 41, Lake Shore Drive), at McCormick Place. I-55 is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities.
The highway passes through several charming small towns and offers astonishing views of the Illinois countryside. The major cities that I-55 connects to are (from south to north) New Orleans, Louisiana; Jackson, Mississippi; Memphis, Tennessee; St. Louis, Missouri; and Chicago, Illinois. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Interstate 55 is a perfect option for anyone traveling through central Illinois.
Interstate 64
Interstate 64 (I-64) is an important east-west Interstate Highway that runs through several major metropolitan areas in the Eastern United States. The highway starts from I-70, US Route 40 (US 40), and US 61 in Wentzville, Missouri, and runs east to an interchange with I-264 and I-664 at Bower’s Hill in Chesapeake, Virginia. I-64 connects several major cities, including St. Louis, Missouri; Louisville and Lexington in Kentucky; Charleston, West Virginia; and Richmond and Hampton Roads in Virginia.
The highway is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Interstate 64 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through the Eastern United States.
Interstate 70
Interstate 70 (I-70) is a major east-west Interstate Highway that runs through several states in the United States. The highway starts from I-15 near Cove Fort, Utah, and runs east to a park-and-ride lot just east of I-695 in Baltimore, Maryland. I-70 approximately follows the path of U.S. Route 40 (US 40, the old National Road) east of the Rocky Mountains. The Interstate runs through or near many major cities, including St. Louis in Illinois, as well as Denver, Topeka, Kansas City, Indianapolis, Columbus, Pittsburgh, and Baltimore.
The construction of I-70 in Colorado and Utah is considered an engineering marvel, as the route passes through several challenging terrains, including the Eisenhower Tunnel, Glenwood Canyon, and the San Rafael Swell. The Eisenhower Tunnel is the highest point along the Interstate Highway System, with an elevation of 11,158 feet (3,401 m). With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Interstate 70 is an essential choice for anyone traveling through the United States.
Interstate 72
Interstate 72 (I-72) is an important Interstate Highway that runs through the midwestern United States. The highway starts from Hannibal, Missouri, at an intersection with U.S. Route 61 (US 61) and runs east to Country Fair Drive in Champaign, Illinois. The route connects several major cities, including Decatur and Springfield in Illinois.
In 2006, the Illinois General Assembly dedicated all of I-72 as Purple Heart Memorial Highway, honoring the sacrifices of the nation’s veterans. The stretch between Springfield and Decatur is also called Penny Severns Memorial Expressway, in honor of the late Illinois State Senator Penny Severns.
Additionally, the section between mile 35 and the Mississippi River is known as the Free Frank McWorter Historic Highway, commemorating the life and legacy of a former slave who purchased his own freedom and helped establish a free black community in Illinois. With its easy access to several major cities and its historical significance, Interstate 72 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through central Illinois.
Interstate 74
Interstate 74 (I-74) is an important Interstate Highway that runs through several states in the Midwestern and Southeastern United States. The highway starts from an interchange with I-80 in Davenport, Iowa (Quad Cities) and runs east to an interchange with I-75 in Cincinnati, Ohio. I-74 connects several major cities, including Davenport, Iowa; Peoria, Bloomington, and Champaign in Illinois; Indianapolis, Indiana; and Cincinnati, Ohio.
The highway is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. However, I-74 also exists as several disconnected sections of highways in North Carolina. With its easy access to several major cities and its important role in the transportation network of the United States, Interstate 74 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through the Midwest and Southeastern regions.
Interstate 80
Interstate 80 (I-80) is a major highway that runs through the state of Illinois as a part of the Interstate Highway System. The highway enters Illinois from Iowa in the west, southwest of Rapids City, and runs generally eastward through several cities, including East Moline, LaSalle, and Joliet, before entering Indiana in Lansing.
With a length of approximately 163.52 miles (263.16 km), I-80 is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. The highway offers satisfying views of the Illinois countryside and is a must-drive for anyone exploring the state.
Interstate 88
Interstate 88 (I-88) is a major Interstate Highway in the US state of Illinois that runs from an interchange with I-80 near Silvis and Moline to an interchange with I-290 and I-294 in Hillside, near Chicago. The highway covers a distance of 140.60 miles (226.27 km) and is an important transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several major cities in the state.
I-88 runs through the cities of Aurora, Naperville, DeKalb, and Dixon, offering stunning views of the Illinois countryside along the way. East of Rock Falls, the route is a part of the Illinois Tollway system, providing easy access to several major highways and cities in the region.
Since 2010, most of I-88 has been part of the Chicago-Kansas City Expressway, further enhancing its importance in the transportation network of the United States. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Interstate 88 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through northern Illinois.
Interstate 90
Interstate 90 (I-90) is an east-west transcontinental freeway and the longest Interstate Highway in the United States, covering a distance of 3,021 miles (4,862 km). The highway starts in Seattle, Washington, and travels through 13 states, including Illinois, before ending in Boston, Massachusetts.
I-90 serves several major cities, including Chicago, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Rochester, and has 15 auxiliary routes. In Illinois, the highway follows the southern shore of Lake Michigan, offering stunning views of the lake and the city skyline. I-90 is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities.
The highway also traverses several scenic routes, including the historic Erie Canal in New York. With its easy access to several major cities and its scenic surroundings, Interstate 90 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through the United States.
Interstate 94
Interstate 94 (I-94) is an important east-west Interstate Highway that connects the Great Lakes and northern Great Plains regions of the United States. The highway starts just east of Billings, Montana, at a junction with I-90, and runs east to Port Huron, Michigan, where it meets with I-69 and crosses the Blue Water Bridge into Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, where the route becomes Ontario Highway 402.
I-94 is the only east-west Interstate Highway to have a direct connection to Canada, providing an important transportation link between the two countries. The highway is a popular transportation route for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. With its easy access to several major cities and its important role in the transportation network of the United States and Canada, Interstate 94 is a marvelous choice for anyone traveling through the Great Lakes and northern Great Plains regions.
Interstate 57
Interstate 57 (I-57) is a crucial north-south Interstate Highway that runs through Missouri and Illinois, paralleling the old Illinois Central Railroad for much of its route. The highway starts from Sikeston, Missouri, at I-55 and runs north to Chicago, Illinois, at I-94. I-57 is a popular shortcut route for travelers headed between the South, including Memphis and New Orleans, and Chicago, bypassing St. Louis, Missouri, and Springfield, Illinois.
The combination of I-57 and I-94 is only 396 miles (637 km) long between the same two points, making it a shorter route than I-55, which travels for 436 miles (702 km) between the junction of I-55 and I-57 in Sikeston, and the junction of I-55 and I-90/I-94 in Chicago. The highway is an important transportation link for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities.
A southward extension of I-57 from its current southern terminus to Little Rock, Arkansas, is currently in various stages of development, further enhancing its importance in the transportation network of the United States. With its easy access to several major cities and its important role in connecting the South and Chicago, Interstate 57 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through the Midwest.
Interstate 24
Interstate 24 (I-24) is an important Interstate Highway that runs diagonally from I-57, 10 miles (16 km) south of Marion, Illinois, to Chattanooga, Tennessee, at I-75. The highway covers a distance of 316 miles, traveling through four states – Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Despite being an even-numbered Interstate, I-24 is signed as an east-west route, following a more southeast-northwest routing, passing through Nashville, Tennessee. The highway’s numbering deviates from the standard Interstate Highway System grid, lying further north than its number would indicate west of Nashville. The short segment within Georgia bears the unsigned designation State Route 409 (SR 409).
I-24 is an important transportation link for both commuters and commercial traffic, connecting several of the state’s largest cities. With its easy access to several major cities and its important role in the transportation network of the United States, Interstate 24 is a rewarding option for anyone traveling through the Midwest and Southeastern regions.
Interstate 294
Interstate 294 (I-294) is a tolled auxiliary Interstate Highway that serves the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Illinois. The highway forms the southern portion of the Tri-State Tollway in Illinois, running from South Holland at I-80/I-94 and Illinois Route 394 (IL 394) to Northbrook at I-94.
The highway is 53.42 miles (85.97 km) long, with 5.32 miles (8.56 km) shared with I-80. I-294 serves as a bypass around the city of Chicago, providing an important transportation link for both commuters and commercial traffic. It is the longest auxiliary route of I-94, at 10 miles (16 km) longer than I-494 in Minneapolis–Saint Paul.
The tollway is also the longest auxiliary Interstate Highway in Illinois, and it intersects the most primary Interstate Highways at six. With its easy access to several major cities and its important role in the transportation network of the United States, Interstate 294 is a must-drive for anyone traveling through the northeastern part of Illinois.
