You'd think a state having one of the biggest cities in America, while also being one of the most popular tourist destinations would have a few hidden gems.

Well, if you believe ParkSleepFly, The Land of Lincoln is devoid of off-the-beaten-path finds.

Now depending on who you ask that may or may not be correct, and to be honest, the only kind of things that qualify as a great "hidden gem" in Illinois is a restaurant or a diner so maybe they're right.

Anyway, ParkSleepFly published a massive list of their 30 best hidden gems in the US.

What's weird is not one of those "hidden gems" on the list is in Illinois.

Photo by MISSY STROH on Unsplash
Photo by MISSY STROH on Unsplash
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I mean, sheesh, Wisconsin barely made the list too but their entry is truly one of the greatest hidden gems in America.

Ranked right behind the Great Basin National Park in Nevada and right before Jekyll Island in Georgia is another group of islands called the Apostle Islands.

Lighthouse on Lake Superior
Getty Images/iStockphoto
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These islands are perfect for summer and winter vacations and yep, they're located in Wisconsin. Your level of fun depends on what you want to see and do while you're there.

Personally, I'll take the warm temps and boat cruises, instead of frozen waters and snowboots, but hey, that's just me.

Damon Panek, NPS./Apostle Islands National Lakeshore via Facebook
Damon Panek, NPS./Apostle Islands National Lakeshore via Facebook
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NPS.gov:

Imagine that moment, being in that perfect spot as the sun rises, and everything comes into focus. A rocky shoreline suddenly reflects the world around you. Waiting for you among the water, land, forests, and history is that moment.

Located on Lake Superior way up north, It doesn't get much more picturesque that the Apostle Islands. Have you ever been and is it worth the drive?

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