Think you know Illinois? Think again! Beyond Chicago’s skyline and Abraham Lincoln’s legacy, the Prairie State is packed with quirky landmarks, hidden gems, and historic oddities that stump even the savviest locals. We dare you to correctly identify all ten of these unique Illinois locations on your first try—spoiler alert: it’s harder than you think!
1. The Leaning Tower of Niles
No, you’re not in Pisa, Italy. This 94-foot replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa stands in suburban Niles, just outside Chicago. Originally built in 1934 as a water tower, it now serves as a quirky photo op for locals and tourists alike. Most people drive by and do a double-take—are you sure you’re still in Illinois?
2. The World’s Largest Rocking Chair (Casey, IL)
Casey, Illinois, is famous for its collection of “big things,” but the world’s largest rocking chair is the crown jewel. At 56 feet tall, it’s easy to see why people might mistake it for a roadside art installation or a giant playground. Don’t be surprised if you drive past it thinking it’s just a billboard gone wild.
3. Cloud Gate (“The Bean”)
An icon of Millennium Park in Chicago, Cloud Gate is better known as “The Bean.” Its shiny, reflective surface makes it a selfie magnet, but many out-of-towners have no idea what it’s called or where it is—some even mistake it for a futuristic art piece in another city!
4. Joliet Prison (Old State Prison)
This imposing, castle-like structure has a storied past and has appeared in movies like “The Blues Brothers.” But unless you’re a fan of prison history or Hollywood trivia, you might not recognize this historic site nestled in Joliet.
5. Cahokia Mounds
Just across the river from St. Louis, Cahokia Mounds is an ancient Native American city with massive earthen mounds. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but many Illinoisans have never visited and often confuse it with other archaeological sites.
6. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio (Oak Park)
Tucked away in a leafy Chicago suburb, this was the home and workspace of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Its unassuming exterior blends in with the neighborhood, making it easy to miss unless you’re an architecture buff.
7. Savanna Army Depot (Abandoned)
This sprawling, eerie former military site near the Mississippi River is now mostly abandoned. Its remote location and restricted access mean it’s largely unknown, even to locals—perfect for urban explorers, but not your average tourist.
8. Hull House Museum
Once the epicenter of social reform led by Jane Addams, Hull House is a National Historic Landmark. Despite its importance, it’s often overshadowed by Chicago’s flashier attractions and can be tricky to find if you’re not looking for it.
9. The Damen Silos
Rising above Chicago’s industrial landscape, these abandoned grain silos are a favorite among photographers and urban adventurers. They’re hidden in plain sight but rarely make it onto tourist itineraries.
10. Lincoln Home National Historic Site (Springfield)
You’d think Abraham Lincoln’s actual house would be easy to spot, but many visitors confuse it with other Lincoln sites or miss it entirely while searching for the next big monument in Springfield.
So, how many did you get right?
If you nailed all ten, you’re either a true Illinois native or a trivia champion! For everyone else, consider this your invitation to explore the Prairie State’s offbeat side—there’s a lot more to Illinois than meets the eye.
Sources:
- https://www.worldatlas.com/places/7-strangest-landmarks-in-illinois.html
- https://morethanjustparks.com/illinois-landmarks/
- https://www.wanderlustmagazine.com/inspiration/photo-gallery-abandoned-spaces-illinois/