Illinois: From Skyscrapers to Farmlands

Lesson Plan - Get It!

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A Bird’s-Eye View of Illinois

Imagine soaring high above Illinois, looking down as the state unfolds beneath you like a giant map.

To the west, the mighty Mississippi River carves a winding path, a natural highway that has carried people and goods for centuries. The Illinois River cuts through the heart of the state, connecting the farmland to the cities.

In the south, Springfield, the state capital, holds a special place in history. This is where Abraham Lincoln lived before becoming president. His voice once echoed through these streets, shaping a nation.

Now, zoom in on Chicago—one of the busiest cities in the country. Skyscrapers stretch toward the sky, boats glide across Lake Michigan, and millions of people hustle through the streets.

Beyond the city, the landscape transforms. Farmland stretches as far as the eye can see, rows of golden corn swaying in the breeze. To the south, forests and hills rise up, hiding secret trails and ancient landmarks.

Illinois is a mix of energy and calm, history and innovation.

An Important Chapter in America's Story

You've just landed in Illinois, the 21st state, also known as the Land of Lincoln—where history comes alive.

Long before Illinois became a state, Native American tribes like the Illiniwek lived here, hunting, farming, and building thriving communities. Their influence can still be seen today in place names, traditions, and ancient structures.

Fast forward to the 1800s, and Illinois became home to a leader who would change the nation—Abraham Lincoln. Imagine him standing outside his home in Springfield, deep in thought, preparing speeches that would help shape American history.

Illinois has also been a place of resilience. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed much of the city, but out of the ashes, something incredible rose—the world’s first skyscraper. This towering creation changed city skylines forever.

From its deep history to its groundbreaking innovations, Illinois plays a key role in America’s story.

Landmarks That Wow

On your visit to Illinois, you'll find landmarks that tell stories, spark curiosity, and sometimes even make your stomach flip!

Stand at the base of the Willis Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, stretching 1,450 feet into the sky. Ride an elevator 103 floors up to the Skydeck, where the city spreads out beneath you.

• Feeling brave?

Step onto The Ledge, a glass balcony that lets you look straight down—1,353 feet above the ground!

History buffs can explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield. Walk past artifacts from the Civil War, see letters Lincoln wrote, and step into rooms designed to feel like his actual home.

Not far away, Lincoln’s Tomb stands as a quiet tribute to his legacy.

For a journey even further back in time, head to the Cahokia Mounds, where the remains of an ancient Native American city still stand. Over 1,000 years ago, this was one of the largest and most advanced civilizations in North America.

Illinois is full of surprises—you just have to know where to look!

The Heart of Illinois

Illinois isn’t just about landmarks—it’s about the feeling of the place.

One moment, you’re standing in Chicago, surrounded by the buzz of music, the aroma of deep-dish pizza, and the glow of city lights reflecting off the river. The next, you’re in a small town, where friendly neighbors gather at local diners, and everyone waves hello.

Follow a hiking trail through Shawnee National Forest, where giant rock formations and quiet waterfalls make it feel like a hidden world. Or, visit a farm during harvest season and see how Illinois helps feed the country with crops like corn and soybeans.

No matter where you go, Illinois has something to explore!

Head to the Got It? section to continue your tour of the 21^ST state.