3 of the Most Underrated Towns to Visit in Illinois

I will die on the hill saying that Illinois has many amazing small towns and cities to visit that aren't Chicago or Galena.

I love being on my feet and busy, which leads me to want to travel a lot haha. Experiencing the culture of what's around me is something that brings me a whole different level of joy.

Illinois deserves a lot more credit because I believe there are so many places in the state to visit and be entertained. These are all my personal opinions, and I certainly have more places that I need to check out.

Recently, these towns have made their way onto my 'Favorite Places To Visit' list. Again, these are all based on MY experience, and I welcome more recommendations for places to check out.

Best Towns To Visit in Illinois That Aren't Chicago or Galena

I'll start with one that people may disagree with or have opinions about...

#1 - Springfield, Illinois

Don't get me wrong I love Chicago, but, sadly, it overpowers the state capitol. I think Springfield is highly underrated, but maybe that's because I'm such a history nerd haha!

I recently visited the Lincoln Museum there and had one of the best days ever. Not to mention, the restaurant my mom and I ate at was phenomenal. The downtown area around the museum was also so cute and I wished I had the day to check out every local shop.

RELATED: Illinois' Most Underrated Museum Brings Groundbreaking History to Life

Cherry Valley, Illinois

Judge me all you want, I love towns like Cherry Valley. It reminds me of little towns we'd travel to when my brother played youth baseball.

It's so cute and has tons of amazing local restaurants and spots for people to hit up. This town is so overlooked in my opinion.

Gurnee, Illinois

Six Flags is such a fun time, but there is genuinely so much here to do!

Tons of shopping options, delicious restaurants and entertainment. I have so much fun whenever I get to take trips here, and I think it's highly underrated.

Like I said though, traveling is something I love to do whenever I can. So, if you have any other places in Illinois that are fun spots to check out, let me know!