Become a certified independent travel agent from home for free without experience in Illinois. Become a travel agent in Illinois online, a remote virtual vacation planner in Illinois. Travel agent jobs.
Best Travel Agency for Cruises in Illinois: Why Choose Vincent Vacations
Why Vincent Vacations Stands Out for Illinois Cruise Travelers
Award-Winning Cruise Travel Agents in Illinois
Certified Experts in Ocean, River, and Expedition Cruises
Local Illinois Travel Agents with National Reach
Comprehensive Cruise Planning Services
Custom Cruise Itineraries for Every Travel Style
Booking Flights, Transfers, and Pre/Post Cruise Stays
Exclusive Cruise Deals and Onboard Amenities
Types of Cruises Offered by Vincent Vacations
Ocean Cruises: Luxury Lines and Family-Friendly Options
River Cruises: European and Global Destinations
Expedition Cruises: Adventure and Discovery Voyages
Yacht and Sailing Vacations: Private and Boutique Experiences
Expertise and Experience of Vincent Vacations Cruise Agents
Travel Industry Experience Since 2002
Certifications and Specializations in Cruise Travel
Personalized Service and Ongoing Support
How Vincent Vacations Enhances Your Cruise Experience
Tailored Recommendations Based on Your Preferences
Side-by-Side Cruise Comparisons and Insider Tips
Exclusive Access to Cruise Line Incentives and Perks
Planning Your Cruise with Vincent Vacations: Step-by-Step Guide
Initial Consultation and Needs Assessment
Cruise Line and Itinerary Selection
Booking and Documentation Assistance
Pre-Cruise Preparation and Travel Tips
Specialized Cruise Services for Illinois Residents
Group Cruises and Corporate Incentive Travel
Destination Weddings and Honeymoon Cruises
Family and Multi-Generational Cruise Vacations
Why Illinois Travelers Trust Vincent Vacations for Cruise Bookings
Debt-Free, Established Agency Since 2013
Client Testimonials and Success Stories
Commitment to Customer Satisfaction and Peace of Mind
Best Travel Agency for Cruises in Illinois: Vincent Vacations
Planning your dream cruise vacation from Illinois? Look no further than Vincent Vacations, your trusted local travel business with cruise experts dedicated to making your journey unforgettable. 🌍✨
"We go so you know!" – Our motto reflects our commitment to firsthand experience and personalized service for every client.
As Illinois's best cruise travel agency for travelers seeking unforgettable voyages, our top-rated Illinois cruise agents specialize in curating luxury cruises, family cruise packages, and all-inclusive cruise vacations tailored to your unique style. Whether you are hunting for exclusive last-minute cruise offers from Illinois, need an expert cruise planner for a complex itinerary, or simply want the best cruise deals on the market, our dedicated team handles every detail to ensure a seamless experience. Stop searching for a 'cruise booking agent near me' and start planning with a trusted partner who unlocks VIP perks, custom shore excursions, and the ultimate vacation packages for your next adventure at sea.
Have Questions?
Contact us and reach out today to discover all our best perks and value about why we're the best cruise travel agency in Illinois.
With travel agents based all over the USA, Vincent Vacations is an award winning travel agency and independent travel agent company. We have a storefront location and virtual locations, with a great in-office staff and a team of over 300 independent travel advisors who work all across the country. Click here to learn more. #TravelWithUs #GlobalAdventures #ExploreEverywhere
Unlock VIP Perks You Can't Get by Booking Direct
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
With over two decades of industry expertise, our certified cruise agents have been helping travelers since 2002. Whether you're dreaming of a luxurious ocean cruise, a scenic river voyage, an adventurous expedition, or a private yacht escape, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
From the moment you reach out, our agents will work closely with you to understand your preferences, budget, and travel goals. We handle everything—flights, transfers, accommodations, excursions, and more—so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure.
Our motto, "We go so you know!", means we don't just book cruises—we live them. Our team has firsthand experience with nearly all cruise lines and itineraries, ensuring you get the best recommendations tailored to your needs.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group celebration, Vincent Vacations is your #1 source for cruise travel in Illinois. Let us help you create memories that last a lifetime. 🚢💖
As a Travel Agent, What Would I Sell?
Check out our preferred suppliers list. From luxury to safaris to Hawaii, you can sell all our suppliers and their experiences to your clients in Illinois and anywhere in the US!
Why Vincent Vacations Stands Out for Illinois Cruise Travelers
Award-Winning Cruise Travel Agents in Illinois
Our award-winning team of cruise travel agents in Illinois brings exceptional expertise and personalized attention to each client. 🏆 We pride ourselves on delivering not just bookings, but memorable vacation experiences tailored to your unique desires. Whether planning a quiet getaway or a large group adventure, our agents have earned recognition for excellence in service and knowledge.
Certified Experts in Ocean, River, and Expedition Cruises
Our cruise specialists hold multiple certifications across the cruise spectrum, including ocean, river, and expedition cruises. This expertise allows us to offer insider knowledge on the best ships, itineraries, and shore excursions for every type of traveler.
Vincent Vacations Cruise Expertise
Cruise Type
Experience Highlights
Ocean Cruises
Luxury liners, family-friendly ships, popular destinations
River Cruises
European waterways, cultural immersion, boutique vessels
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
Our team stays current on industry trends and cruise line updates to ensure you receive the best recommendations and value.
Local Illinois Travel Agents with National Reach
While proudly serving the Illinois community, Vincent Vacations also offers the benefits of a nationwide network. Our local agents understand the unique needs of Illinois travelers and provide personalized, face-to-face service.
With offices and agents across the USA, we can coordinate complex travel plans that include flights, transfers, and pre- or post-cruise accommodations anywhere in the country.
Benefits of Choosing Local with National Support
Personalized attention and local knowledge
Access to exclusive nationwide deals and amenities
Seamless coordination of all travel components
Peace of mind with a trusted business
Let our Illinois-based cruise agents be your travel advocates, equipped with the resources to make your vacation effortless and extraordinary. 🚢💼
Lindsey Vera
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love!
I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures.
I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
Comprehensive Cruise Planning Services
Custom Cruise Itineraries for Every Travel Style
At Vincent Vacations, we believe every traveler is unique. Our cruise agents craft 100% custom itineraries tailored to your interests, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, or family fun. 🌟 From solo explorers to large groups, we design experiences that match your travel style and preferences.
"We go so you know!" — our motto means we use firsthand experience to create itineraries that truly fit your needs.
Booking Flights, Transfers, and Pre/Post Cruise Stays
We handle every detail of your journey, not just the cruise. Our agents coordinate flights, airport transfers, and pre- or post-cruise accommodations to ensure a seamless travel experience. 🛫 Whether you need a hotel near the port or a vacation rental for your family, we take care of it all.
Travel Components We Manage
Service
Details
Flights
Best fares, flexible schedules
Transfers
Airport to port, private or shared
Accommodations
Hotels, resorts, vacation rentals
Excursions
Shore tours, activities, local guides
Our owner is the president of an ASTA Chapter. The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is the largest association representing the travel industry in the world, accounting for over 80% of all travel sold. Click here to learn more. #TravelWithUs #GlobalAdventures #ExploreEverywhere
Let us simplify your travel plans so you can focus on enjoying your vacation.
Exclusive Cruise Deals and Onboard Amenities
As a top-rated cruise business, we negotiate exclusive offers and bonus amenities for our clients. 🎁 From onboard credits and complimentary gratuities to special perks and upgrades, we ensure you get the best value for your cruise.
Marla Finley
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
What You Can Expect
Onboard cruise credits
Complimentary gratuities
Free shore excursions
Room upgrades and welcome amenities
Special group rates and incentives
Our relationships with cruise lines mean you receive benefits you won’t find booking on your own.
Types of Cruises Offered by Vincent Vacations
Ocean Cruises: Luxury Lines and Family-Friendly Options
Explore the world’s most popular destinations with our ocean cruise options, featuring luxury lines and family-friendly ships. 🌊 Whether you dream of lounging on a private balcony or enjoying kids’ clubs and entertainment, we match you with the perfect cruise line for your style.
Popular Ocean Cruise Lines We Offer
Line
Highlights
Royal Caribbean
Family fun, adventure activities
Norwegian
Freestyle cruising, diverse itineraries
Celebrity
Luxury, fine dining, elegant ships
Our agents help you choose the best ship and itinerary for your ocean adventure.
River Cruises: European and Global Destinations
Experience the charm of river cruises as you glide through scenic waterways in Europe and beyond. 🌿 From the Danube to the Rhine, our itineraries offer immersive cultural experiences, gourmet dining, and access to smaller ports.
Kristin Williams
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality!
This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents!
I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
"We go so you know!" — our firsthand experience ensures you get the most authentic river cruise journey.
Unlock VIP Perks You Can't Get by Booking Direct
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
Expedition Cruises: Adventure and Discovery Voyages
For the adventurous traveler, our expedition cruises offer unique opportunities to explore remote destinations and encounter wildlife up close. 🐧 From the Arctic to the Galapagos, these voyages are designed for discovery and adventure.
Our agents have firsthand experience with leading expedition lines like Lindblad, ensuring you get the best recommendations for your next adventure.
Expedition Cruise Highlights
Small ship, intimate groups
Expert guides and naturalists
Unique wildlife encounters
Remote and pristine destinations
Yacht and Sailing Vacations: Private and Boutique Experiences
Enjoy the ultimate in privacy and luxury with our yacht and sailing vacations. 🛥️ Whether you prefer a crewed catamaran or a boutique sailing vessel, these experiences offer personalized service and access to secluded anchorages.
Yacht & Sailing Vacation Options
Type
Features
Crewed Catamaran
Private crew, luxury amenities
Boutique Sailing
Small groups, intimate experience
Charter Yacht
Custom itinerary, exclusive access
Let us help you design a private sailing adventure that matches your dream vacation.
Expertise and Experience of Vincent Vacations Cruise Agents
Travel Industry Experience Since 2002
Our cruise agents bring over two decades of travel industry experience to every client. 🌟 Since 2002, we’ve helped thousands of travelers plan unforgettable cruise vacations, building deep relationships with cruise lines and suppliers along the way.
"We go so you know!" — our motto reflects our commitment to firsthand knowledge and real-world expertise.
Certifications and Specializations in Cruise Travel
Our agents hold multiple industry certifications and specialize in all types of cruise travel, from ocean and river cruises to expedition and yacht charters. 🎓 This ensures you receive expert guidance tailored to your specific interests and needs.
Agent Certifications and Specializations
Certification
Specialization
Cruise Line Certifications
Ocean, river, expedition, yacht
Destination Weddings
Honeymoons, vow renewals, engagements
Group Travel
Corporate, family, friends, seniors
Our agents are passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping you choose the perfect cruise experience.
Personalized Service and Ongoing Support
At Vincent Vacations, we believe in personalized service from the first consultation to the end of your journey. 🤝 Our agents take the time to understand your preferences, answer your questions, and provide ongoing support throughout your cruise planning and travel.
How We Support You Every Step of the Way
One-on-one consultations and itinerary planning
Pre-cruise preparation and travel tips
On-trip assistance and emergency support
Post-cruise follow-up and feedback
Let us be your trusted travel partner, ensuring your cruise vacation is a success from start to finish.
How Vincent Vacations Enhances Your Cruise Experience
Tailored Recommendations Based on Your Preferences
At Vincent Vacations, we believe your cruise should reflect your unique style and interests. 🌟 Our agents take the time to understand your travel goals, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, or family fun. We use our firsthand experience and deep industry knowledge to recommend the perfect cruise line, ship, and itinerary for you.
"We go so you know!" — ensuring every recommendation is backed by real-world expertise.
Side-by-Side Cruise Comparisons and Insider Tips
Choosing the right cruise can be overwhelming, but our agents make it easy with side-by-side comparisons of cruise lines, ships, and itineraries. 📊 We highlight the pros and cons of each option, so you can make an informed decision.
Cruise Comparison Highlights
Cruise Line
Best For
Insider Tip
Viking
Destination-focused, luxury
Complimentary shore excursions and open bars
Royal Caribbean
Family fun, adventure
Exciting onboard activities for all ages
Lindblad
Expedition, wildlife
Expert naturalists and unique itineraries
Unlock VIP Perks You Can't Get by Booking Direct
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
Our insider tips help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your cruise experience.
Exclusive Access to Cruise Line Incentives and Perks
As a top-rated cruise business, we negotiate exclusive incentives and perks for our clients. 🎁 From onboard credits and complimentary gratuities to special amenities and upgrades, we ensure you get the best value for your cruise.
What You Can Expect
Onboard cruise credits
Complimentary gratuities
Free shore excursions
Room upgrades and welcome amenities
Special group rates and incentives
Our relationships with cruise lines mean you receive benefits you won’t find booking on your own.
Planning Your Cruise with Vincent Vacations: Step-by-Step Guide
Initial Consultation and Needs Assessment
Your cruise journey begins with a personalized consultation where our Illinois-based agents listen to your travel dreams, preferences, and budget. 🌟 We’ll ask about your ideal destinations, travel companions, and any special requests to ensure your cruise is tailored just for you.
"We go so you know!" — our motto means we take the time to understand your needs before making any recommendations.
Cruise Line and Itinerary Selection
Based on your consultation, we’ll present side-by-side comparisons of cruise lines, ships, and itineraries that match your preferences. 📊 Our agents use their firsthand experience and industry expertise to highlight the best options for your style of travel.
Heather Huber
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
Cruise Selection Factors
Factor
Details
Destination
Popular ports, unique stops
Ship Features
Accommodations, amenities, activities
Itinerary
Duration, shore excursions, onboard experiences
We’ll help you choose the perfect cruise line and itinerary for your dream vacation.
Booking and Documentation Assistance
Once you’ve selected your cruise, our agents handle all the booking details and documentation for you. 📝 From securing your cabin to arranging flights, transfers, and travel insurance, we take care of every component of your trip.
What We Handle for You
Cabin selection and booking
Flight and transfer arrangements
Travel insurance and documentation
Special requests and upgrades
Let us simplify the booking process so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure.
Pre-Cruise Preparation and Travel Tips
In the weeks leading up to your cruise, we provide personalized pre-cruise preparation and travel tips to ensure you’re ready for a smooth and enjoyable journey. 🧳 From packing advice to destination insights, our agents are here to support you every step of the way.
Our ongoing support ensures your cruise vacation is a success from start to finish.
Specialized Cruise Services for Illinois Residents
Group Cruises and Corporate Incentive Travel
Vincent Vacations excels at organizing group cruises tailored to families, friends, clubs, and corporate teams. 🎉 Whether planning a reunion, celebration, or an incentive trip, our agents coordinate every detail to ensure your group’s experience is seamless and memorable.
"We go so you know!" — ensuring your group trip is a success every step of the way.
Destination Weddings and Honeymoon Cruises
Celebrate love with a destination wedding or honeymoon cruise crafted by our experienced agents. 💍 From intimate ceremonies on the ocean to romantic getaways in exotic ports, we handle all the logistics so you can focus on the magic of the moment.
Services for Weddings & Honeymoons
Service
Details
Planning & Coordination
Assistance with venues, officiants, and vendors
Personalized Itineraries
Romantic shore excursions and onboard experiences
Special Packages
Honeymoon perks, spa treatments, and celebrations
Let us create an unforgettable start to your new journey together. ❤️
Family and Multi-Generational Cruise Vacations
Our agents specialize in designing family and multi-generational cruises that cater to all ages and interests. 👨👩👧👦 From toddlers to grandparents, we find cruises with activities, accommodations, and dining options that keep everyone happy and engaged.
Features of Family-Focused Cruises
Kids’ clubs and teen programs
Family shore excursions and entertainment
Spacious family cabins and suites
Flexible dining and special dietary accommodations
Creating joyful vacations that bring families closer together, one cruise at a time. 🚢💖
Why Illinois Travelers Trust Vincent Vacations for Cruise Bookings
Debt-Free, Established Agency Since 2013
Vincent Vacations has proudly operated as a debt-free, independent travel business since 2013. 🛳️ This solid foundation allows us to focus entirely on delivering exceptional service without outside pressures. Our longevity in the industry reflects our commitment to integrity, reliability, and personalized attention for every traveler.
Client Testimonials and Success Stories
Our clients' satisfaction is our greatest achievement. 💬 Below are some heartfelt testimonials that showcase the difference Vincent Vacations makes in cruise travel planning:
"Vincent Vacations made our family cruise seamless and unforgettable. Their attention to detail and personal care exceeded all expectations!" — Sarah M., Chicago
"Thanks to Vincent Vacations, our honeymoon cruise was perfect. Their expert advice and exclusive perks truly enhanced our experience." — James & Emily R., Naperville
Read more client success stories
We take pride in turning travel dreams into lifelong memories with tailored itineraries and dedicated support.
Commitment to Customer Satisfaction and Peace of Mind
At Vincent Vacations, customer satisfaction is our top priority. 🤝 We provide ongoing support from your first inquiry through your return home, ensuring peace of mind throughout your cruise journey.
Our Commitment to You
Service Aspect
How We Deliver
Personalized Planning
Custom itineraries tailored to your preferences
24/7 Support
Assistance before, during, and after your cruise
Exclusive Benefits
Access to special offers, upgrades, and amenities
Trusted Expertise
Experienced agents with firsthand cruise knowledge
Our motto, "We go so you know!", means you travel with confidence backed by expert guidance and heartfelt care. 🚢💼
Conclusion: Trust Vincent Vacations for Your Illinois Cruise Adventures
Choosing Vincent Vacations means partnering with a travel business that has been dedicated to crafting exceptional cruise experiences since 2002. 🚢 Our certified and award-winning cruise agents in Illinois are passionate about guiding you through every stage of your journey, ensuring your vacation is tailored, seamless, and unforgettable.
"We go so you know!" — our commitment to firsthand knowledge and personalized service means you travel with confidence and peace of mind.
Whether you’re dreaming of an ocean cruise, river voyage, expedition adventure, or a luxurious yacht escape, our experts are ready to design your perfect itinerary. With comprehensive planning, exclusive perks, and unwavering support, Vincent Vacations remains the best travel business for cruises in Illinois.
Your next unforgettable cruise awaits — let Vincent Vacations be your trusted guide on this exciting adventure! 🌊✨
Get a FREE Quote Now!
Click below to contact us and get a FREE cruise quote coming from Illinois today.
Illinois provides an interesting slice of the Midwest, a combination of the urban, sophisticated delights of Chicago and the much more laid-back "downstate" (everywhere that is not Chicago), where Lincoln lore and other rural attractions recall the Illinois of the 1800s.
Illinois' dual identity is a blessing for vacationers. They can experience the urban glamour of Chicago's world-class museums, shopping, restaurants and nightlife and then unwind in the tranquil countryside's vintage architecture and historic sites.
Geography
In its central portion, Illinois is phenomenally flat—it's as though a giant iron had been applied to the state to get the wrinkles out. (Actually, it was Ice Age glaciers that did the job. They also left behind topsoil scraped from points north, making the land in central Illinois some of the most fertile in the U.S.) The few hilly areas in the state are found in the far northwest corner, in the far south and along the bluffs of the Mississippi River.
History
Chicago is not the first large city to dominate the Illinois area. Centuries before the Windy City was even a trading post, Native Americans of the Mississippian culture established Cahokia, the largest city north of Mexico. Built near the confluence of the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri Rivers, the city was first inhabited around AD 700 and reached its peak between 1000 and 1200. The people of Cahokia possessed a highly developed civilization that influenced societies throughout the eastern U.S.
Even after the Mississippian culture ended, what was left of Cahokia played a pivotal role in the development of modern Illinois: An early French settlement was established there in the late 1600s, following the initial explorations by Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet. By then, the Algonquian-speaking Illinois Confederacy (including the Kaskaskia, Peoria, Kankakee, Tamaroa, Michigamea, Cahokia, Sauk and Fox tribes) lived in villages along the state's major rivers.
Illinois became a U.S. territory in 1809, and just nine years later it became a state. Native Americans continued to battle the encroachment of white settlers, however. Those conflicts reached a climax in 1832 with the Black Hawk War, after which the tribes in the Illinois area were moved west of the Mississippi.
Prior to the Civil War, Illinois was divided over the question of slavery. Though the practice had been outlawed in the territory, the influx of settlers from Tennessee and other slave states gave Illinois a strong proslavery contingent, especially in the southern counties. In the northern part of Illinois, however, abolitionists held sway, and they gained strength as large numbers of immigrants moved into the area in the 1830s and 1840s. The ideological division over the issue was personified by two of the state's most famous politicians—Stephen A. Douglas, who favored states' rights and compromise between slave and free states, and Abraham Lincoln, who was opposed to slavery. When the two ran for a U.S. Senate seat in 1858, they engaged in a famous series of debates that focused national attention on the issue.
By the latter decades of the 1800s, Illinois was rapidly evolving into an industrial and commercial center. Chicago in particular swelled, both in size and stature, linking east and west and attracting immigrants from all over the world—Poland, Italy, Ireland, Sweden, China, Lithuania, Greece, Serbia, Hungary and Russia. Blacks from the South also migrated to the city in great numbers, though most were relegated to the low-paying jobs. Following riots in Springfield in 1908, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded. By World War I, a black metropolis was emerging on Chicago's South Side, and it grew even larger during and after World War II.
Snapshot
The main attractions in Illinois include Chicago, sites related to Abraham Lincoln, Native American history, some of the best U.S. architecture of the 1800s and 1900s, theater, art, museums, Cahokia and outdoor recreation.
Travelers interested in culture, history and big-city sights will love the state. Those who are after dramatic scenery may be a bit disappointed with much of Illinois. Everyone should realize that, outside Chicago, it's pretty low-key.
Potpourri
The name Illinois comes from an Algonquin Indian word meaning "tribe of superior men."
Mormon leader and prophet Joseph Smith and his brother were lynched by an angry mob in Carthage following Smith's arrest in nearby Nauvoo in 1844. (Shortly thereafter, many of the Illinois Mormons began their exodus to Utah.) The jail where the Smiths were held is open for tours.
Joliet was originally named Juliet, after the Shakespearean character. Most people assumed they meant "Joliet," however, in honor of the French explorer who came to Illinois in the 1600s. In the end, the town found it easier to change its name than to listen to complaints about its misspelling of the Frenchman's name.
Though Lincoln is the president most often associated with Illinois, Ronald Reagan is the only U.S. chief executive to have been born in the state. (Lincoln was born in Kentucky.) The President Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home is in Dixon.
Though you won't find Goofy Ridge on many maps, there's goofiness to be found there. The area, southwest of Peoria near Sand Ridge State Forest, is an odd collection of trailers, shacks and cabins that was once a retreat for Chicago gangsters. Goofy Ridge is now inhabited by some of the most individualistic, eccentric people we've ever encountered. There's nothing particular to see in this Dogpatch-like community (and the residents probably won't appreciate it if you snoop around in a too-determined manner), but if you're in the area, stop in the tavern, order a beer and start the bartender talking.
Buckminster Fuller's original geodesic dome is in Carbondale, where Bucky was a professor at Southern Illinois University, and is undergoing a $350,000 preservation project.
Vincent Vacations - Authorized Illinois Vacation Planner
Questions? Call us at
1 (888) 883-0460
No-Obligation Illinois Vacation Quote Request Form
Experience the nostalgia and elegance of the American Queen Steamboat Company
Luxury River Cruising on American Waters
The authentic paddlewheel boats, the sense of nostalgia, the culturally immersi...
Popular Locations & Brands - Experiences All Over The World!
Click on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
Our motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
Many of our travel agents have been in travel since 2002! With Vincent Vacations, all travel components are taken care of - this includes accommodations, air, transfers, tours, activities, insurance, contracts, EVERYTHING.
Romance Travel
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Group Travel
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
Family
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Disney
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
And SO Much More!
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own.
All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US!
Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team.
We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service.
We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group.
Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
Start Your Next Trip With Vincent Vacations Today!
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
6/17
