Willis Tower in Chicago, Illinois, and the glass skydeck. Are you brave enough?

Illinois is the 21st state to enter into union in 1818. The land area is 55,605 sq. miles, the capital city is Springfield and the population is approx. 117,350. The state flower is the violet, the state tree is the white oak and the state bird is the cardinal. Illinois is best known for the Arts, historical sites, museums and amusement parks. Chicago is the most popular city in Illinois for tourism as well as business transactions. Chicago welcomes more than 2.8 million visitors per year.

More than one million visitors enjoy the spectacular view from the Willis Tower, (formerly Sears Tower) the highest observation deck is located on the 103rd story which is 1,353 feet from ground level. On a clear day, you can see Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan as well as lake Michigan. The new Skydeck holds no barriers, the ledge is a clear glass bottom box which extends out 4 Feet 3 inches from the tower. If you’re brave enough, don’t forget your camera. Tourists who visit downtown Chicago tend to have an appreciation for museums as well as the Arts. Another popular attraction is The Field Museum of Natural History and features African Art, western hemisphere native art, a dinosaur collection and Ancient Egyptian Art.

Navy Pier Park on Lake Michigan

If you’re looking for indoor/outdoor fun, Navy Pier Park attracts nearly nine million tourists per year. It is located on Lake Michigan and features a collection of restaurants, shops, recreational activities as well as exhibition facilities. If you and your family are thrill seekers, Six Flags Amusement Parks attract nearly three million visitors per year.

For lodging, the Romeoville Hotels are especially designed for guests that prefer extended stay lodging. The studios have a full kitchen and a separate work area, they also offer complimentary housekeeping services for visitors that stay for a minimum of seven days. The rates start at $74.99 per night. Romeoville is located within walking distance to many restaurants such as Red Lobster, China King Buffets and if you enjoy the cool air, there are plenty of out door Blues and Jazz music shows, or stroll down to Michael’s for a slice of Chicago’s authentic deep dish pizza. Taxi and cab services are available around the clock. If you would prefer to cook your own meals in your room, there are two grocery stores in the area, Dominicks and Miejer Grocery stores, which will work very well if you are staying at any of the many extended stay motels.

Staybridge Suites in Springfield Illinois near the Lincoln Library.

Springfield Illinois was home to Abraham Lincoln, and many historical sites are respectfully named after our 16th president. Upon arrival in Springfield, it is recommended that you stop at the Union station and Visitors Park for information about extended stay hotels, motels and coupons for local attractions such as Knights Action Park and Carribean water adventure, performing arts shows and plenty of outdoor recreational parks.

A very nice extended stay hotel is called the ‘Staybridge Suites’, which is located within two minutes of Downtown. The amenities in the suites include a full kitchen, a family area and a work area. The Hotel also has a tennis court, indoor pool and a hot tub. The rates start at $89.00 per night and are located just minutes from the famous Lincoln Library, Lincoln’s home and Lincoln’s Tomb. Nearby restaurants are Steak & Shake, Bakers Square, Red Lobster as well as numerous fast food restaurants.