Spring is Illinois at its freshest, full of life, possibility, and excitement.
You'll feel the sense of renewal throughout the state, from the tulips creating rivers of color along Chicago's Michigan Avenue, to the wildflowers dotting downstate hiking trails with bursts of purple and yellow.
Farmers markets return with tender greens and early strawberries. Newly-thawed rivers bring a whole new world of kayaking opportunities. Waterfalls rush at Starved Rock, birds sing at Chautauqua, and forest floors carpet with bluebells at Kickapoo. St. Patrick's Day fills streets and pubs with green-clad revellers (and fills the Chicago River with a unique green shade). Communities open their doors, and open their hearts.
This is your time to get out and explore, before everyone else. This is your time to renew your sense of wonder. This is your time to discover Illinois in bloom.
Spring Break starts here
Celebrate Spring in Illinois
From thrilling waterparks to stunning waterfalls, discover your perfect spring break adventure. Pack up the family and head out on a road trip, plan a city adventure, or explore the natural wonders waiting right across the state. We've curated the ideas, so all you have to do is pick a destination and go.
Tiptoe Through Tulips in Illinois
Farms, festivals & more
Spring bursts onto the scene when thousands of bulbs bloom. Celebrate the colorful tulips at farm festivals, Chicago-area conservatories, gardens and arboretums, city parks and more!
Spring Festivals & Events
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2025 St. Charles St. Patrick's Parade
Main Street runs green as thousands gather for this annual tradition. Feel the beat of local marching bands, admire the colorful floats, be inspired by Celtic pipe music, and maybe even spot a leprechaun or two. This captures the unique spirit of St. Charles at its festive best.
2025 St. Charles St. Patrick's Parade -
Chicago River Dyeing
For six decades, this noble transformation has marked the unofficial start of spring in the city. Watch as crews dump 100 pounds of eco-friendly powder into the water, creating a brilliant emerald streak that gradually spreads from bank to bank. Claim your spot early along the bridges or riverwalk!
Chicago River Dyeing -
CarbondALE Brew Fest
Raise a glass to local craft beer at the 10th annual CarbondALE Brew Fest. Sample unique creations from regional brewmasters, chat with the folks who pour their spirit into your favorite ales, and maybe develop a taste for something new. It's science, craft, art, skill, and a whole lot of fun.
CarbondALE Brew Fest
Spring in Chicago
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Chicago Latino Film Festival
Immerse yourself in Latin American storytelling at one of the nation's most significant film celebrations. With more than 100 carefully selected films from Latin America, Spain, and Portugal, this festival will give you a fresh spring look into diverse cultures, voices, and perspectives.
Chicago Latino Film Festival -
Chicago Riverwalk
Follow the Chicago River's path from Lake Michigan to Franklin Street along this urban oasis. The Riverwalk offers peaceful spots to dine by the water, watch boats glide by, or simply sit and take in city views from a fresh angle. Plus, discover exciting, fascinating, and moving attractions.
Chicago Riverwalk -
Chicago Lakefront Bike Trail
Pedal along Chicago's famous shoreline on this 18-mile path, where the natural beauty of Lake Michigan's vast blue horizon meets the architectural marvels of the city's bustling streets. Stop for skyline pics, cool off with a quick spring dip at the beach, or take a breather in a tranquil garden.
Chicago Lakefront Bike Trail
Bikes Paths Not to Miss
On two wheels
There's nothing like experiencing all those small, fleeting moments of spring—the early morning mists, the calls of cardinals and bluebirds, the wildflowers dotting the paths—on two wheels.
Illinois has trails, tracks, and paths galore for amateur and professional cyclists alike. No wheels? No problem! You'll find plenty of rental options.
The first rides of spring often feel like reuniting with an old friend. Make it a reunion to remember on one of our Illinois cycling adventures.
Family Outdoor Adventures
Go outdoors
Now's not the time to hibernate. If your family's spent winter on the sofa, we've got what you need to get back into the Great Outdoors. Enjoy the fresh air, the sights, the sounds, and the wide open spaces as you revisit your favorite hiking, biking, or wildlife adventures, or as you try something new.
Enjoy Illinois Inspiration Guide
Find unexpected ways to enjoy Illinois in this biannual inspiration guide that explores every corner of the state. Each issue offers a mix of travel stories, stunning photography and timely trip ideas that'll help you make the most of each season.