Illinois Office of Tourism Releases Redesigned Enjoy Illinois Magazine

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Office of Tourism proudly announces the release of its spring/summer 2024 issue of Enjoy Illinois, the state’s free travel magazine celebrating its diverse, fun-filled attractions, outdoor activities, events and stays that make Illinois a must-visit destination. The latest edition of Enjoy Illinois magazine - now available in digital and print - positions itself as an inspiration guide, encouraging readers to explore the state's hidden gems for planning a spring getaway, from charming small towns to exhilarating summer festivals. The issue’s cover features a breathtaking image of backpackers hiking through the Garden of the Gods in Southern Illinois, showcasing one of many awe-inspiring natural wonders that await travelers all around the state.

"From the picturesque landscapes of family-owned farms like Rendleman Orchards in Alto Pass to the vibrant energy of unforgettable festivals such as the Crossroads Eclipse Festival in Carbondale, celebrating the upcoming Solar Eclipse on April 8th, the new issue of Enjoy Illinois highlights unique experiences around the state,” said Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director of DCEO, Office of Tourism. “As summer approaches, visitors and residents can use this magazine as a trip-planning resource for upcoming events like the NASCAR Street Race returning to Chicago and for finding picture-perfect stays in idyllic towns like Woodstock, Oak Park and Casey. There is so much to experience this spring and summer in Illinois, the Middle of Everything.”

The new magazine issue was created to inspire wanderlust and encourage travel to all areas of the state with a purposeful refresh. Upon opening the issue, readers will find pull-out maps of the state to begin plotting out their next Illinois getaway via planes, trains and automobiles while on the go - one of many enhancements to be found in the magazine.

“A shift in storytelling is one of many changes readers will notice in the spring/summer issue,” says Kylee Krizmanic, Editorial Director of Dotdash Meredith Travel. “Other redesign elements include refined typography, statement photography and a neutral color palette that allows the photographs to tell the story. “‘Explore the I&M Canal at Your Pace,’ one of the issue’s features, puts our new approach to work. Readers learn a bit of the canal’s 175-year-long history and discover all the ways to experience the 96-mile route, including by boat, bike and even zipline.”

Featuring comprehensive guides, stunning photography and insider tips, the spring/summer issue of Enjoy Illinois magazine promises to inspire travelers to embark on unforgettable adventures across the state.

Other featured trip ideas in the spring/summer issue include:

• Make a splash at Yorkville’s Raging Waves, Illinois’ largest outdoor water park, or kayak down the nearby Fox River for an afternoon to remember.

• Discover Bishop Hill’s fascinating history at any of its seven museums, all in buildings that are original to the town and packed with artifacts. The entire town is a National Historic Landmark.

• Discover what’s in bloom in the 385-acre Chicago Botanic Garden, nestled along the Skokie River.

• Sip wine in a Tuscan-style atmosphere at Willow Ridge Vineyards and Winery in Shelbyville, set on a 150-year-old family farm.

• Reconnect with nature at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Marion (Southern Illinois). It’s a haven for hiking, canoeing, camping, picnicking and bird-watching.

• Check into The St. Regis Chicago, the tallest building in the world designed by a woman – Jeanne Gang – at 101 stories.

• Soar between the bluffs near the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers at The Grafton Zipline at Aerie’s Resort.

As part of the issue’s exciting revamp, the print edition of the magazine also includes a 12-page insert highlighting the Illinois Office of Tourism’s Illinois Made program which promotes one-of-a-kind local businesses all around the state. To view/download the Illinois Made insert, click here.