10 Mistakes Tourists Make in Illinois 😬 (Especially Chicago!)

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00:00Traveling to Illinois can be an absolute highlight of any U.S. adventure.

00:04But there are several easy mistakes that can trip up even the most well-prepared visitors.

00:09In just a few minutes, you'll know exactly what to avoid so you can make the most of your time.

00:14Especially in Chicago, one of the most common mistakes tourists make

00:18is only visiting Chicago while missing out on the rest of this great state.

00:23Sure, Chicago's world-class skyline and vibrant neighborhoods are must-sees.

00:28But Illinois is so much more than its biggest city.

00:32Don't skip the charm of Galena, a beautifully preserved small town perfect for a weekend getaway.

00:38Get outside at Starved Rock State Park, famous for its stunning canyons and waterfalls.

00:44And of course, no Illinois trip is complete without exploring Springfield,

00:48where you can walk in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln.

00:51Mistake number two, underestimating Chicago traffic.

00:54Many visitors make the error of renting a car, thinking they'll zip around easily.

01:00But Chicago traffic is famously clogged, and downtown parking is both pricey and hard to find.

01:07Instead, take advantage of the Chicago Transit Authority.

01:11The city's L trains and buses are reliable, inexpensive,

01:15and take you nearly everywhere a visitor needs to go.

01:19Better yet, Chicago is one of the most walkable cities in the country.

01:23You'll likely discover hidden gems just by strolling through its neighborhoods.

01:28Now let's talk about Navy Pier.

01:30Visitors frequently set Navy Pier at the top of their must-see lists.

01:34But outside of the summer months, or traveling with young kids,

01:38it's often overcrowded and overrated.

01:41Instead, soak up the lively atmosphere on the Chicago Riverwalk,

01:45sample top-tier eateries in the West Loop,

01:47or breathe easy among the gardens and animals at Lincoln Park.

01:51Weather is another area where tourists slip up.

01:54Chicago's climate is notoriously unpredictable.

01:58People pack as if they're only visiting in summer sunshine or deep winter cold.

02:03But the reality?

02:05It can be muggy, windy, or even see snow within the same week,

02:09sometimes even the same day.

02:12Always check the forecast and pack layers.

02:14The Windy City lives up to its name, so don't forget a windbreaker.

02:19It's tempting to make deep-dish pizza your main culinary quest,

02:23but that's just the start.

02:25Don't fall into the mistake of thinking it's the only Chicago food worth trying.

02:30The city is equally famous for its Italian beef sandwiches,

02:33loaded Chicago-style hot dogs,

02:35and delicious Puerto Rican gibberrito sandwiches.

02:38Venture into local spots,

02:40and you'll discover a foodie paradise.

02:43When it comes to accommodations,

02:45another frequent misstep is booking the cheapest possible hotel out in the suburbs,

02:50thinking you'll easily commute in.

02:52You'll end up wasting precious hours in traffic or on long train rides.

02:57For convenience, stay in neighborhoods like River North or The Loop,

03:01or book close to L train lines.

03:03You'll be right in the heart of the action,

03:06with everything at your fingertips.

03:07Many tourists only have the Art Institute on their museum itinerary.

03:12But Chicago is packed with outstanding museums for all interests.

03:16Don't overlook the Museum of Science and Industry,

03:19which will wow both adults and kids,

03:21or discover the city's fascinating past at the Chicago History Museum.

03:25Lake Michigan is one of Chicago's crown jewels,

03:28but too many visitors miss it entirely.

03:31Take time to walk, or rent a bike, along the lakefront trail.

03:35Stretching 18 miles, it offers iconic views,

03:38sandy beaches, and a totally different vibe from the busy downtown.

03:43If Willis Tower Sky Deck, or 360 Chicago, is on your list,

03:47don't show up without a reservation.

03:49Wait times can stretch for hours.

03:52Booking tickets online in advance will let you maximize your trip

03:55and skip the long lines.

03:57Finally, don't stick to only the downtown core.

04:00Dive into Chicago's neighborhoods for a taste of real city life.

04:05Enjoy street art and tacos in Pilsen,

04:08laid-back coffee shops in Andersonville,

04:10or culture and history in Hyde Park.

04:12Whether you're here for stunning architecture,

04:15culinary adventures, or Midwestern history,

04:18Illinois, especially Chicago,

04:20has endless experiences to offer.

04:23Avoid these pitfalls,

04:24and you'll discover the very best of the Prairie State.

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