Whether you’re looking to rent in Chicago or searching for an apartment in Springfield, Illinois has plenty to offer. Living in Illinois provides residents with a rich history, diverse culture, and plenty of standout experiences. From its famous architecture to its unique role in American history, Illinois is full of surprises. Here are 15 fun facts about Illinois that highlight why this state is so special.
1. Illinois was the first state to ratify the 13th Amendment
Illinois made history by being the first state to ratify the 13th Amendment on February 1, 1865. This amendment abolished slavery in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.
2. Chicago’s Willis Tower was once the tallest building in the world
Chicago’s iconic Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, held the title of the world’s tallest building for 25 years. Completed in 1973, it stands 1,450 feet tall, with 110 stories. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from its Skydeck. The tower continues to be one of Illinois’ most popular attractions.
3. The world’s first Ferris wheel debuted in Illinois
The world’s first Ferris wheel was introduced at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Engineer George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. designed this marvel to rival the Eiffel Tower. Standing at 264 feet, the Ferris wheel was a groundbreaking engineering feat.
4. Illinois is home to the largest collection of prehistoric earthworks in North America.
Cahokia Mounds, located in southern Illinois, is the site of the largest prehistoric earthworks in North America. These ancient mounds were constructed by the Mississippian culture around 1050 to 1200 AD. Cahokia was once a thriving city with a population larger than London at the time. The site includes Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthen construction in the Americas.
5. The state snack of Illinois is popcorn
In 2003, Illinois designated popcorn as its official state snack. The state’s rich agricultural history, particularly its corn production, made this choice fitting. Popcorn has been a popular snack in Illinois since the late 1800s. Chicago, in particular, is known for its unique mix of caramel and cheese popcorn, often called Chicago Mix.
6. The first McDonald’s restaurant opened in Illinois
The very first McDonald’s restaurant opened in Des Plaines, IL, in 1955. Ray Kroc, who founded the McDonald’s Corporation, established this location as a model for future franchises. The original building has since been replaced by a museum replicating the 1955 design. McDonald’s grew from this humble beginning to become a global fast-food giant.
7. Illinois was the birthplace of the ice cream sundae
Speaking of culinary innovation, the ice cream sundae is said to have been invented in Evanston, IL, in the late 19th century. Local soda fountains began serving ice cream with syrup on Sundays as a way to bypass laws prohibiting the sale of soda on the Sabbath. The treat became so popular that it was named the “sundae” in honor of the day it was originally served. This simple dessert has since become an American classic.
8. The first cell phone call was made in Illinois
The first cell phone call was made on April 3, 1973, by Martin Cooper, a Motorola executive, in Chicago, IL. Cooper called his rival at Bell Labs from a Motorola DynaTAC, the first handheld mobile phone. This historic moment marked the beginning of the mobile communication revolution.
9. Illinois is known as the “Land of Lincoln”
Illinois proudly bears the nickname “Land of Lincoln” in honor of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Although Lincoln was born in Kentucky, he spent much of his life in Illinois, where he began his political career. Springfield, IL, is home to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
10. The Chicago River is dyed green every St. Patrick’s Day
Every year, the Chicago River is dyed green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. This tradition began in 1962 when city workers used dye to trace illegal pollution sources and discovered it turned the river a vibrant green. The city embraced the idea, and it has since become a beloved annual event.
11. Illinois is the pumpkin capital of the world
Morton, IL, is known as the pumpkin capital of the world. The town is home to the Libby’s pumpkin plant, which produces over 80% of the world’s canned pumpkin. Every year, Morton hosts a Pumpkin Festival, drawing visitors from across the country. The festival includes parades, pumpkin-themed foods, and a pumpkin pie eating contest.
12. The Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is one of the oldest in the U.S.
Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, founded in 1868, is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. It began with just two swans and has since grown to house over 1,100 animals from around the world. The zoo is free to the public and offers educational programs and events year-round.
13. The phrase “mile-high city” originated in Illinois
The term “mile-high city” was first used to describe Chicago before it became associated with Denver. The phrase referred to the ambitious plans for skyscrapers in Chicago, which began with the Home Insurance Building in 1885. Although the building was only 10 stories high, it was the first to use a steel frame, making it the world’s first skyscraper. Chicago’s skyline has since grown to include some of the tallest buildings in the world.
14. Illinois is home to the world’s largest T. rex
The Field Museum in Chicago houses the largest and most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered. Named “Sue” after its discoverer, Sue Hendrickson, the skeleton measures 40 feet long and 13 feet tall at the hips. Sue has been a star attraction at the museum since her unveiling in 2000.
15. The first aquarium in the U.S. opened in Chicago
The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago was the first inland aquarium in the United States, opening its doors in 1930. It was the largest indoor aquarium in the world at the time, featuring over 5,000 fish and marine animals. The Shedd Aquarium continues to be a leader in marine education and conservation. It is home to more than 32,000 animals from all over the world.