Chicago is home to one of the most famous cities in the world with some of the most legendary places to eat in the world, so it’s no shocker that there have been many of Illinois places and experiences that have gone viral over the years.
In this post, we’ll be sharing some of the most popular must-visit places from the state of Illinois, from viral restaurants and bars to unforgettable experiences perfect for your next adventure.
Psst… looking for more ideas on viral places to visit in Illinois? Check out our full spreadsheet here.
The Most Viral TikTok Places in Illinois
Looking for cool places to visit in Illinois, as seen on TikTok? Here are some of the most viral destinations in Illinois to add to your bucket list.
Chicago
Chicago, the Windy City, is famous for its stunning skyline, iconic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. From the historic Navy Pier to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, there’s no shortage of TikTok-worthy spots in this bustling metropolis. This iconic city continues to draw visitors in thanks, in part, to posts like this one by TikTok user @jaznomz.
Starved Rock State Park
Located along the Illinois River, Starved Rock State Park is a natural wonderland known for its majestic canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the beauty of Illinois’ wilderness. This place has gone viral thanks to posts like this one by TikTok user @lukekran.
Thunder Bay Falls
Thunder Bay Falls is a hidden gem in the Shawnee National Forest, offering a picturesque waterfall and serene surroundings. It’s the ideal spot for a tranquil escape into nature and capturing stunning TikTok videos. TikTokers like @g_r_e_t_c_h_e_n contribute to the popularity of this oasis with posts like this one.
Galena
Galena is a charming historic town known for its 19th-century architecture and small-town hospitality. Stroll along Main Street, visit antique shops, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere that has made this town a favorite among TikTok users. TikTok user @onlyinyourstate showcases the allure of Galena in this post.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park, located in the heart of Chicago, is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean.” This iconic landmark has become a must-visit spot for tourists and TikTok enthusiasts alike. The beauty of this Chicago landmark has gone viral thanks to posts like this one by TikTok user @andres_prince.
The Most Viral TikTok Experiences in Illinois
Whether it’s for your next date night, friends’ adventure, or solo getaway, there are tons of amazing experiences in Illinois that have gone viral on TikTok. Here are some of the most popular:
Chestnut Mountain
Chestnut Mountain is a premier ski resort in Illinois, offering thrilling slopes and stunning views of the Mississippi River. Whether you’re an experienced skier or a beginner, this resort has something for everyone. The thrill of the mountain coaster during the warmer seasons is shown in this post by @amna.saleemi.
GoApe
GoApe is an adventurous treetop adventure course that provides visitors with a unique way to explore the forest canopy. Swing through the trees and tackle various obstacles for an unforgettable experience. TikTok creators like @filmedbygrant love showcasing their experiences tackling this ropes course in posts like this one.
Morton Arboretum
Morton Arboretum is a botanical garden in Lisle, Illinois, known for its stunning displays of trees and plants. It’s a peaceful and educational destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The stunning fixtures have gone viral in posts like this one by @eriki322.
360Chicago
360Chicago, formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago from its 94th-floor observation deck. Capture the city’s skyline and Lake Michigan from a dizzying height. This hair-raising experience has gone viral in posts like this one by @magnicity.
Safari Lake Geneva
Safari Lake Geneva offers an immersive wildlife experience where you can get up close and personal with exotic animals. From giraffes to zebras, this safari adventure is sure to provide you with unique TikTok content. Users like @jdenchicago showcase what it’s like interacting with furry friends in this safari experience in this viral post.
The Most Viral TikTok Eats & Drinks in Illinois
Lastly, wondering where to find the most viral food and drink in Illinois? Here are some epic must-tries, as seen on TikTok.
Portillo’s Hot Dogs
Portillo’s is an iconic Chicago institution known for its delicious hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake shakes. Capture the mouthwatering flavors of Chicago cuisine for your TikTok audience. These dawgs continue to be iconic thanks to posts like this one by @annastaste.
Cindy’s Rooftop Restaurant
Cindy’s Rooftop Restaurant offers stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, making it the perfect spot for a meal with a view. Showcase the exquisite dishes and cocktails in a chic setting. This place has gone viral thanks to posts like this one by TikTok user @mellowyellowpay.
Eli’s Ark
Eli’s Ark is an ice cream spot known for its down right adorable ice cream creations. Not only do they taste great, they take the shape of cute animal friends. These charming cones have gone viral thanks to posts like this one by @coriinthecity.
Azul Mariscos
Azul Mariscos offers delectable seafood dishes and vibrant cocktails in a lively atmosphere. Capture the flavors of the sea and the festive ambiance for your TikTok audience. TikTok user @meesh.meesh captures the vibes in this viral post.
Starbucks Reserve
Starbucks Reserve is not your typical coffee shop. It offers unique coffee blends and a luxurious ambiance, perfect for showcasing your coffee adventures on TikTok. This coffee mecca has gone viral thanks to posts like this one by @mellowyellowpay.
Did We Miss Any of Your Favorite Illinois Viral Hotspots?
Let us know in the comments so we can add more recommendations to our list!