Illinois is teeming with nature and the great outdoors, from beautiful landscapes to various hiking trails. The Prairie State has many outdoor treasures to offer, from a peaceful escape among the trees to a thrilling bike ride or a hike. As the great outdoors fires up the trails this summer, why not get your gear ready and visit the following hiking, biking, and exploring spots? 

Planning a road trip this summer? In a study conducted by Gas Station TV (GSTV), over 80% of people will road trip this summer, with the 4th of July holiday being the most traveled over the summer. Of those choosing to go on a road trip this summer, 54% of people said it was due to the high cost of airfare and 60% of people plan to drive over 300 miles to get to their destination this summer.

The FY 2026 budget passed by Democrats gives Governor Pritzker unprecedented spending power, including a $100 million slush fund ‘just in case’ the federal government withholds funding from other programs. This means the Governor has the authority to declare a ‘state of emergency’ as he sees fit, with the power to sweep away $100 million from other funds at his discretion.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (INDR) is offering Illinois residents an opportunity to fish without a license during Father’s Day Weekend. From Friday, June 13, through Monday, June 16, all Illinois residents aged 16 and over can fish without a license during these four days. The 2025 Free Fishing Days allows anglers to fish without the need for a fishing license, salmon stamp, or inland trout stamp. Keep in mind that all other state fishing regulations remain in effect. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is celebrating 100 years of conservation and service to the people of Illinois throughout 2025 and encouraging non-anglers to discover or rediscover the fun of fishing and to introduce children to the activity.

Water activities bring joy and adventure, but they also come with risks, especially for young children. Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death for children, and even moments of inattention can lead to tragedy. To ensure every splash is safe, here are the top water safety tips for parents.

Summer is the perfect time to surround yourself with fresh, vibrant flowers. Illinois is home to incredible flower farms where you can pick your own blooms, take stunning photos, and enjoy peaceful countryside views. If you're looking for a fun weekend outing or a way to brighten up your home, these farms offer unforgettable experiences.

Why Visit a Flower Farm?
Walking through rows of colorful flowers, breathing in the fresh air, and handpicking your own bouquet is a simple joy that makes summer special. Many farms also host workshops, farm tours, and seasonal events, making them great spots for a relaxing day trip.

In the tiny village of Colleville-sur-Mer, in northwestern France there is a cemetery overlooking the English Channel.

Interred within its carefully manicured and landscaped grounds lie two sons of a President of the United States, three Medal of Honor recipients, and 9,383 more Americans who gave their lives for the cause of freedom in World War II. Many of them fell just downslope from the cemetery on a stretch of sand known as Omaha Beach.

BUDGET/TAXES
Democrats Pass $55.2 Billion Budget. Another year, another budget, and another near-record-breaking spending increase.

Just before midnight on the last day of the legislative session, Illinois House Democrats passed the FY26 budget that will cost taxpayers more than $55.2 billion, a $2 billion increase over last year.

As we enter the summer months, it is easy to get disoriented as we juggle extracurriculars, vacations, projects, and various other things activities. By spending more time trying to cram as much as possible into our days, our mental health can suffer. This summer, it is important to take time to foster good habits to avoid burning out, exhaustion, elevated stress levels, and overall poor health.

Below is a list of ways to mentally reset this summer.

On March 5, Illinois House Democrats launched into yet another round of floor speeches castigating President Trump and the federal government.

It was the latest episode in an ongoing saga of statehouse Democrats grandstanding on federal issues to avoid talking about Illinois’ challenges with corruption, crime or the state’s budget deficit.

Illinois, often referred to as the "Land of Lincoln," has been home to a remarkable array of individuals who have left their marks on history, culture, and society. From presidents to entertainers, athletes to innovators, the Prairie State has nurtured talent that has resonated across the globe.

Let’s explore some of Illinois' most famous residents and their enduring legacies.

Strawberries are a favorite fruit of the summer. Not only are they delicious, strawberries are also rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While you can buy them at your local grocery store, there are plenty of reasons to pick strawberries at your local U-pick farm. Here are just a few of the reasons: