Illinois - Landmarks and Points of Interest

A capital of industry, Chicago is the site of several impressive skyscrapers, including the 110-story Sears Tower, the tallest building in the United States and third-tallest in the world. On a clear day, the tower’s Skydeck, 1,353 feet up, offers views of four states.

On the shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago’s 25-acre Millennium Park features massive outdoor art installations, including the often-photographed "Cloud Gate," a bean-shaped reflective sculpture, and the Crown Fountain, which projects video of Chicago residents who spurt real water.

The Chicago area is also the site of several buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, who lived in the suburb of Oak Park from 1887 until 1925. Oak Park boasts the most Wright buildings anywhere, including his home and studio on Chicago Avenue, which offers guided tours. The Frederick C. Robie House, in Chicago, was one of Wright’s most influential buildings and one of the most important of modern architecture. Built in 1910, the Prairie-style Robie House is also open for daily tours.

Wright works outside the Chicago area include Springfield’s Dana-Thomas House, designed in 1902. One of the architect’s best-preserved early works, it contains the largest collection of original Wright art glass and furniture.