Following U.S. independence in 1783, which made the Mississippi River the national boundary, American settlers began arriving from Kentucky via the Ohio River. Illinois was soon part of the United States' oldest territory, the Northwest Territory, and in 1818, it achieved statehood.

Geographical and historical treatment of Illinois, including maps and a survey of its people, economy, and government. Its capital city is Springfield, and its largest city and most important cultural and economic center is Chicago.

Illinois, a state in the Midwestern United States, shares its borders with Wisconsin to the north, Indiana to the east, and the Mississippi River forms its western border with Iowa and Missouri.

Your guide to the best of Illinois. Places to go, things to do, the best places to eat and drink, must-see Chicago, trip ideas and inspiration for your Illinois vacation.

Welcome to Illinois.gov! Find places to go, things to see. Search through all the different services offered by the various Illinois agencies.

Illinois has a maximum north–south distance of 390 miles (630 km) and 210 miles (340 km) east-west. Total area is 57,918 square miles (150,010 km 2), ranked 25th in size of the 50 states.

Known for its magnificent rock formations of St. Peter sandstone, this scenic park offers many hiking and horseback riding trails plus fishing and boating along the banks of the Illinois River.

Blank Outline Maps: Find printable blank map of the State of Illinois , without names, so you can quiz yourself on important locations, abbreviations, or state capital.

Illinois Tourism: Tripadvisor has 2,197,872 reviews of Illinois Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Illinois resource.

Facts about Illinois, including the capital, number of electoral votes, state symbols, popular tourist attractions, iconic local foods, famous people, sports teams, fun facts, and more.