The Passport to Illinois is a special, limited-edition travel and discovery guide created as part of the Illinois America 250 (IL250) celebration. It encourages residents and visitors to explore meaningful places across the state that help tell the story of Illinois and its role in the American experience

Illinois America 250 is a statewide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The effort highlights local stories, places, and programs while inviting Illinoisans to reflect on the nation’s founding ideals and how they continue to shape the nation today.

The passport is designed for everyone - Illinois residents, visitors, families, educators, students, and history or travel enthusiasts. Whether you explore one site or many, the passport offers a self-guided way to engage with Illinois’ history, culture, and communities.

Participants use the passport as a guide while visiting selected sites across Illinois. The passport is organized by region, making it easy to plan trips based on geography or interests. Many pages include space to record visits, reflections, or notes from your travels.

No. The passport is meant to be flexible and personal. You can visit as many or as few locations as you like, at your own pace. There is no required route or order.

The passport features a wide range of sites across Illinois, including:

• Historic landmarks and museums

• Cultural and community sites

• Natural and scenic locations

• Places connected to civic history, social movements, and underrepresented stories

Sites are grouped by regions such as Chicago, Beyond Chicago, Land of Lincoln, Great Rivers Country, Trails to Adventure, and Scenic Byways

The Passport to Illinois is designed as a physical keepsake booklet that is available in both print and digital forms. Availability and distribution details may vary, so participants are encouraged to check il250.org for the most up-to-date information.

Participation details, including any costs, may vary by location or activity. Many featured sites are free or low-cost, but visitors should always check individual locations for admission information.

Yes. The passport can be used as an educational resource or group activity, supporting learning about Illinois history, civics, geography, and cultural heritage. Educators and organizations are encouraged to adapt it to fit their needs.

Accessibility varies by location. Visitors should contact individual sites directly or review their websites for accessibility information before visiting. Links to all sites are available on the IL250.org website.

Sites were chosen to reflect Illinois’ diverse histories, landscapes, and communities, with an emphasis on uplifting both well-known landmarks and under-told stories that contribute to the broader American narrative.