The most worthwhile Illinois tours focus on three main themes: architecture, nature, and food. The Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio tour in Oak Park stands out for its intimate look at America’s greatest architect’s early work. At Starved Rock State Park, guided hiking and paddling excursions let you experience the state’s most dramatic canyons and waterfalls. History buffs will appreciate walking tours of Hemingway’s birthplace, while wildlife enthusiasts should book the Mississippi Wildlife Refuge kayak tour for its excellent bird watching. In historic Galena, the downtown food tour offers generous tastings at family-run establishments. Let’s explore my favorite Illinois tours that deliver the best bang for your buck.
Key Points
- Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home & Studio Tour in Oak Park offers a guided exploration of the architect’s early works and Prairie school architecture.
- Starved Rock State Park’s guided kayaking tour provides a unique opportunity to observe wildlife while navigating the park’s scenic sandstone cliffs.
- The Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum Tour in Oak Park offers a 50-minute guided exploration of the author’s early life and restored rooms.
- The Canoe/Kayak Day Tour of Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge allows visitors to explore the refuge and spot wildlife, with an optional knowledgeable guide.
- The Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour offers a 5-stop tasting experience featuring local cuisine and beverages, with consistently high traveler recommendations.
Frank Lloyd Wrights Home & Studio Tour Ticket
One of the top tours in Illinois is the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio Tour in Oak Park. Travelers can discover the architect’s early masterpieces and the Prairie school of architecture on this guided tour.
With a maximum of 16 travelers per group, the English-speaking guides provide insightful commentary on the architecture and history. The tour operates daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, and admission costs $27 per person.
While the site isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour starts and ends at the meeting point of 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302.
With 93 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and unique architectural designs, though some have faced booking issues.
For guaranteed admission, it’s recommended to book directly through Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio.
Read our full review: Frank Lloyd Wrights Home & Studio Tour Ticket Review
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Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour
Travelers seeking to explore Starved Rock State Park from a unique vantage point can embark on a guided kayaking tour. The 2-hour excursion takes paddlers through the park’s stunning St. Peter’s Sandstone cliffs, allowing them to observe wildlife like bald eagles, white pelicans, turtles, egrets, and herons.
Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the tour is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and scout group-friendly. Priced at $74 per person, the tour provides kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, and the meeting point is the Kayak Starved Rock Campground check-in kiosk.
With limited space, early booking is recommended, and a “reserve now, pay later” option is available. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and private tours can be arranged for groups of 20 or more.
Rated 4.9/5 based on 11 reviews, the tour is highly recommended for an enjoyable and educational experience at the park.
Read our full review: Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour Review
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Skip the Line: Public Tour-Adult Admission Ticket (50 Mins)
This 50-minute tour provides visitors with a chance to explore the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum in Oak Park, Illinois. Literature lovers and history enthusiasts can explore the Nobel Prize-winning author’s early life through a guided tour with narration on Hemingway’s life and times.
The tour includes admission to the museum, where guests can examine the restored rooms and mementos from Hemingway’s formative years. Conveniently located and wheelchair accessible, the museum is near public transportation, making it easily accessible.
Priced at $20 per person, the tour offers excellent value, with 8 reviews awarding it a perfect 5-star rating. Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience and the reserve now, pay later option.
Positive feedback highlights the tour guides’ expertise and the well-preserved historical house, providing insights into Hemingway’s family influence and mental health.
Read our full review: Skip the Line: Public Tour-Adult Admission Ticket (50 Mins) Review
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Canoe/Kayak Day Tour of Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge
Embark on an exhilarating canoe or kayak adventure through the Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge in Illinois. Operated by Riverview Ranch and Resort, this 5-star rated tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Priced from $120 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment like boats, paddles, life jackets, and maps.
Conveniently located near Galena, Illinois, the tour’s meeting point is easy to find. The scenic route takes you through the refuge, allowing you to spot a variety of birds, fish, and other local fauna.
For an additional $50, you can opt for a knowledgeable guide to provide fascinating insights about the area’s ecology and history.
The tour is available daily from June 18, 2024, to January 22, 2026, with a start time between 9 AM and 2 PM.
Booking is easy, with a confirmation provided within 48 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Don’t miss this chance to learn about the tranquil waters and vibrant wildlife of the Mississippi Refuge.
Read our full review: Canoe/Kayak Day Tour of Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge Review
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Tandem Guided Kayak Tour Near Chicago
Nestled within the picturesque Starved Rock Campground, just over an hour from the bustling city of Chicago, the Tandem Guided Kayak Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s stunning natural beauty.
With a maximum of 30 travelers, this tour provides a personalized experience as you paddle through the serene waters in a tandem kayak. The tour includes all necessary equipment, including life jackets and paddles, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
The tour’s accessibility features make it suitable for a wide range of travelers, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as the allowance of service animals. Infants can even join the adventure, seated comfortably on laps.
According to the reviews, the tour guides, Rich and Dave, have received praise for their engagement and safety measures, contributing to the overall positive experiences noted by travelers.
Whether you’re seeking an “awesome Sunday afternoon” or an “awesome family experience,” the Tandem Guided Kayak Tour near Chicago promises an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors.
Read our full review: Tandem Guided Kayak Tour Near Chicago Review
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Single Guided Kayaking Tour Near Chicago
Situated just over an hour from the bustling city of Chicago, the Single Guided Kayaking Tour in Ottawa, Illinois, offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s serene waterways.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 3 reviews, this tour accommodates up to 20 travelers and provides all the necessary equipment, including single kayaks, personal flotation devices, and paddles.
The tour’s accessibility is impressive, with options for wheelchair users, stroller access, and service animals.
The tour begins at the designated meeting point, where travelers check in at the picnic table and get ready for their adventure.
Throughout the journey, a knowledgeable guide, Turtle Rick, shares insights about the local area, enhancing the overall experience.
Reviewers praise Turtle Rick’s personable nature and the beautiful weather they encountered during their tour.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water or a chance to connect with nature, the Single Guided Kayaking Tour near Chicago is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour
Travelers seeking a delectable exploration of Galena’s historic downtown will find the Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour an appetizing experience.
This popular 5-stop tour offers up to 12 tastings of local food and drinks, showcasing the town’s vibrant culinary scene. Priced at $98.95 per person, the non-refundable tour has a maximum of 12 participants and consistently earns a 100% recommendation from previous travelers.
Guests meet at the Galena Bakehouse before embarking on a guided journey through diverse foodie stops, including the Galena Taphouse at the end.
Along the way, they’ll sample a variety of alcoholic beverages, snacks, and water, all while learning about the area’s history and culinary heritage from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with vegetarian options available, though other dietary restrictions can’t be accommodated.
Positive reviews highlight the tour’s blend of flavors and exploration, making it a must-try for any food lover visiting Illinois.
Read our full review: Downtown Galena Food and Drink Tour Review
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Sum Up
Illinois offers a diverse range of tours, from exploring Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces to adventuring through Starved Rock State Park and the Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge. Whether you prefer guided kayaking, culinary explorations, or historic site visits, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy in the Land of Lincoln.