(State of Illinois)

General Information:

Location: Midwestern United States
Capital: Springfield
Language(s): English, Spanish, Native American languages
Population: 12,671,821
Total Area: 149,998 sq km
Curious Alcohol Fact: Illinois has almost 80 wineries
Most Popular Drink(s): Illinois wines – best enjoyed with our Illinois shot glass souvenirs
Nickname: The Prairie State, Land of Lincoln
What You Must Do in Illinois: Go for shopping in Chicago

Illinois Travel Video

Credits: FatChimpStudios

The State

Admitted as a constituent state of the Union in 1818, Illinois is located in the heart of the Midwest and is often seen as mini-America, incorporating all the values of the North and South.

Even in politics, Illinois is seen a game changer with no particular leanings and is best known as a ‘swing state’.

The Prairie State is one of the most populous in the United States and is very important to the nation’s economy because of its vast industrial and agricultural activities, and in fact, the nickname ‘Prairie State’ originated because of the large-scale cultivation of crops on its sprawling grasslands.

To the east of the state lies Indiana while Iowa and Missouri lie to the west. The state also shares its southeastern border with Kentucky and Wisconsin to the northeast. The name of the state stems from the name for one of the Native American tribes –the Illinois.

Although Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and one of the most popular, the capital city is Springfield.

The People

Illinois is one of the most populous states in the nation and more than 70% of the people are Whites. These are the descendants of migrants from various nations in Europe especially in the 19th century –Britain, Poland, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Norway, Russia and Finland.

It is also quite interesting to know that the state has one of the highest percentages of Blacks in the United States. African Americans in Illinois make up about 15% of the population.

Like the pattern observed in many other states in the country, Christians are in the majority in Illinois, and many are adherents of teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and the United Methodist Church.

Eating

Like other states in the Midwest, you will be dazzled with the cuisine of Illinois and I must say that as far as food is concerned, the state of Illinois is one of the most interesting. Being a multicultural settlement, one is able to enjoy the diversity of foods.

If you are interested in typical American dishes like the apple pie and cranberry sauce, Illinois has all. It is also important to emphasize that the food you take also depends on the community you visit in the state.

For example, the areas inhabited by German immigrants, you will be treated to a dish of potatoes and pork sausage while the Asians will welcome you with spicy dishes.

In many of the restaurants and eateries, one can also enjoy steak, roast beef, fried chicken and horseshoe sandwich. For lovers of food, you will have no problem whatsoever in Illinois.

Drinking

Drinking in Illinois is sheer fun and pleasure. The state is known for its fantastic wines and I will always remember the superb wine festivals of the state. In a state that has almost 80 wineries, one should not expect something less than that.

Sports in Illinois

The residents of the state are ardent followers of sports and the most popular games are those of football, basketball, racing and golf. As far as basketball in Illinois is concerned, your stay is not complete without watching one of the games involving the legendary Chicago Bulls.

Interesting Facts

Illinois is home to O’Hare International Airport, one of the busiest in the world.
With a population of over 13 million, Illinois is one of the most populous in the country.
Tornadoes are common in the state.
This is the 5th most populous state in the country.
Illinois has one of the most fertile lands on earth.
O’Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports on the planet.
It is also called the Land of Lincoln.

Illinois souvenirs

Moreover, Illinois, with its several iconic symbols and landmarks, has always been and remains one of the most popular places to purchase souvenirs. However, among the many options of Illinois -themed souvenirs, shot glasses are considered particularly and intriguing items for collecting or gifting.

Story By World By Shotglass
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Special thanks to our contributors:
Adebayo Ahmed Adebola (Ilorin, Nigeria).