Is Illinois the Worst State for Travelers in the U.S.?

With family travel season just kicking into gear, plans are being made, routes are being mapped and reservations are being made. However, one travel company believes Illinois should be avoided.

You're Going the Wrong Way?

Dunhill Travel compiled a list of states to get to for an affordable road trip, and after crunching the numbers…well Illinois gets negative superlatives.

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A lack of arts, a lack of rec areas and national parks per capita, combined with high prices for lodging and gas are a bad combo for a family (or anyone) traveling on a budget, which most Americans are doing this summer. Throw in the poor condition of the roads that travelers in Illinois will encounter and ta-da! The Land of Lincoln is lacking.

Idot's map of roadwork and closures - Summer 2025

Dunhill Travel's ranking for top states starts with Mississippi (??) Followed by Arkansas, North Carolina, Tennessee and Oklahoma, with all their data to back up their claim.

Illinois has been flirting with the notion of becoming more tourist friendly, especially with the new Pope coming from the south side of Chicago. Seems though the state has some work to do before travelers will look favorably upon The Prairie State and her amenities.