Illinois’ Most Popular Extreme Bucket List Activities, Ranked
Summer in Illinois isn’t just for backyard BBQs and complaining about roadwork. If you’ve been craving a jolt of adrenaline, you’re in the right place. A new study ranked all 50 states on how well they deliver extreme bucket-list experiences, and Illinois is holding its own.
Illinois' Most Popular Extreme Bucket List Activities, Ranked
A new study from Hard Rock Bet ranks the top U.S. states for extreme bucket-list activities The rankings are based on eight data points, from the number of skydiving and hot air balloon centers to how many people are Googling activities like bungee jumping, climbing, and triathlons. Basically, they crunched the numbers on where adventure is heating up… and we made the list.
#1 Rock Climbing
Whether you're scaling the cliffs at Jackson Falls or bouldering in an indoor gym, Illinois climbers are on the rise—literally. It’s the top-searched extreme activity in the state.
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#2 Skydiving
Courage meets altitude at spots like Chicagoland Skydiving Center in Rochelle. Nothing says “I’m alive!” like jumping out of a plane over Illinois farmland.
#3 Ziplining
You can find tree-top zips and rope courses all over the state, but places like Grafton Zipline really take it to new heights.
#4 Hot Air Ballooning
More peaceful than daring, sure, but drifting over Central Illinois at sunrise is still pretty unforgettable.
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#5 Triathlons
Yes, those people. From Ironman 70.3 in Rockford to local races around Chicago, triathletes are searching, training, and thriving.
What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in Illinois? Or what’s still on your bucket list? Let me know, I may not join you, but I’ll definitely cheer you on from the ground.
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