Illinois History

A 300-year-old church in Cahokia, Illinois, ties to Lewis and Clark and remains active today with tours, weddings, and weekly Latin Mass.

Imagine uncovering a piece of history while inspecting a distillery! Workers at Thornton Distilling Co. did just that with a vintage pistol from the Roaring Twenties.

Illinois invented the brownie in 1893, and today bakeries across the state still perfect the classic dessert with rich flavors and creative twists

Did you know the world’s oldest Dairy Queen is in Illinois? The historic Kankakee DQ has been serving soft-serve since 1947, with roots tied to Joliet.

Stay at Galena’s historic DeSoto House Hotel, where Abraham Lincoln spoke, Civil War generals dined, and visitors experience timeless Illinois charm.

Chicago’s Congress Plaza Hotel is among America’s most haunted spots, with a dark history of tragic deaths and eerie hauntings that send guests running into the streets.

Step into history at Long Grove’s Village Tavern, Illinois’ oldest restaurant serving locals since 1847 with comfort food, rustic vibes and good times.

HGTV ranks Alton, Illinois, among America’s most charming towns, thanks to its Route 66 history, haunted mansion, Lincoln duel, and rich heritage.

Step into history at Wilmington’s Mar Theatre, Illinois’ oldest movie theater still operating with original 1930s charm and showing today’s latest films.

A Chicago post office hides a horrifying secret—it sits on the site of H.H. Holmes’ infamous Murder Castle, where countless victims vanished during the 1893 World’s Fair.