ABOUT ILLINOIS

Illinois is a state known for its rich history, big-city energy, and scenic heartland beauty. Located in the Midwest, it’s home to world-class attractions, bustling cities, charming small towns, and plenty of outdoor adventure. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Chicago or relaxing by the shores of Lake Michigan, Illinois offers something for everyone.

Chicago alone is a global destination, with its iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, famous museums, and a legendary music and sports scene. From the Art Institute to Millennium Park and Wrigley Field, there’s always something to see and do. Beyond the big city, visitors can dive into Americana in places like Springfield, home of Abraham Lincoln, or Galena, a historic town full of 19th-century charm.

Illinois also shines when it comes to nature. Take a hike through Starved Rock State Park’s canyons and waterfalls, paddle the scenic rivers, or explore the Great River Road along the Mississippi. The state has four distinct seasons, with hot summers perfect for lake days and colorful autumns that make road trips unforgettable.

Sports lovers will feel right at home, with major league teams in baseball, football, basketball, hockey, and soccer. Foodies can dig into Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and more  –  all part of the state’s diverse culinary scene.

Whether you're here for the history, the food, the outdoors, or the culture, Illinois is full of surprises and unforgettable experiences.

Fast facts about Illinois

• Population: Illinois is home to approximately 12.5 million people (as of 2023), making it the sixth-most populous U.S. state.
• Size: It covers around 57,915 square miles (149,997 km²), ranking 25th in size among U.S. states.
• Capital: The capital is Springfield, famous for its Abraham Lincoln landmarks.

Entry into the USA

As a U.S. state, Illinois follows the country’s entry requirements, which depend on citizenship and the purpose of travel. Below are general guidelines:

• Visa Requirements: travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can enter for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business. Others may require a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
• ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization): VWP travelers must apply online for ESTA authorization before traveling. Visit the ESTA website.
• Valid Passport: All visitors need a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay.

Currency

The official currency of Illinois, like all other U.S. states, is the U.S. Dollar (USD), symbolized by "$" and divided into 100 cents. It is issued by the Federal Reserve and is one of the most widely used currencies in global trade and finance. While exchange rates can vary, they generally include:

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90 – 0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.70 – 0.75 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 110 – 115 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.25 – 1.30 CAD

Electricity

Illinois follows U.S. electrical standards, using NEMA 5-15 outlets (two vertical slots and a ground pin). The standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz.

Mobile services

Major mobile carriers in the U.S. offer extensive coverage across the country, including Illinois, making it easy to stay connected whether you're exploring Chicago, road-tripping through the countryside, or visiting historical sites. The top mobile providers in Illinois are:

AT&T
Known for its strong nationwide coverage, AT&T offers both prepaid and postpaid plans with excellent service across Illinois, from major cities like Chicago and Springfield to smaller towns and rural areas. Its fast-growing 5G network provides reliable, high-speed service in many parts of the state. Whether you're downtown in Chicago or hiking through Starved Rock State Park, AT&T helps keep you connected.

Verizon Wireless
Verizon is known for its dependable network and wide-reaching coverage, making it a top choice for both residents and visitors in Illinois. Its signal is strong in both metro areas and rural regions across the state. Verizon offers flexible plan options, including unlimited data, and its 5G Ultra Wideband network continues to expand in key Illinois cities like Chicago, Peoria, and Rockford.

T-Mobile
T-Mobile stands out with competitive pricing, strong 5G availability, and excellent international roaming  –  ideal for travelers from abroad. It provides solid coverage across most of Illinois, especially in cities like Chicago, Aurora, and Naperville. T-Mobile's affordable unlimited plans and growing high-speed network make it a reliable choice throughout the state.

For visitors, eSIM apps like Airalo can be an efficient way to access mobile data.

Important telephone numbers

First of all, keep in mind that you should dial +1 before any of the above numbers if calling internationally. Below you will find some important telephone numbers for the NASCAR event, as well as general emergency contacts in Chicago, Illinois:

• Emergency Services: 911 (police, fire, and medical).
• Chicago Police Department (non-emergency): +1 312 746-60​​00
• Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Downtown Chicago): +1 312 926-2000
• CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) Info Line: +1 888 968-7282

Interesting facts about Illinois

Here are several interesting facts about Illinois that highlight the state's unique features, culture, and history:

Birthplace of the skyscraper
The world’s first skyscraper was built in Chicago in 1885. It stood 10 stories tall and changed architecture forever.

Start of Route 66
The famous Route 66 begins in downtown Chicago. This legendary highway stretches all the way to Santa Monica, California.

Land of Lincoln
Illinois is nicknamed the “Land of Lincoln” because President Abraham Lincoln lived here for most of his adult life. You can visit his home and presidential museum in Springfield, the state capital.

The river that runs backward
In 1900, engineers reversed the flow of the Chicago River to help protect the city’s drinking water – a major engineering achievement at the time.

Home of deep-dish pizza
Chicago is known around the world for its deep-dish pizza. Thick, cheesy, and baked in a pan, it’s a must-try for any visitor.

A Leader in Agriculture
Illinois is one of the top producers of corn and soybeans in the U.S. 

Wrigley Field & sports legacy
Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the country. Illinois is also home to the Chicago Bulls (NBA), Bears (NFL), Blackhawks (NHL), and White Sox (MLB).

A State Full of Firsts

• The first McDonald’s opened in Des Plaines, Illinois, in 1955.The firstt Playboy magazine was published in Chicago in 1953.
• The first Ferris wheel was built for the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.