From secret library corners to indie bookstores tucked within historic towns, Illinois is the state a perfect choice for book lovers…
Illinois is unassumingly abundant in a collection of charming reading retreats, from indie bookshops to literary landmarks and peaceful outdoor hideaways, offering the perfect escape for book lovers this World Book Day (5th March) and beyond. In Chicago, beloved neighbourhood bookstores like Myopic Books, invite visitors to browse towering shelves and settle into hidden corners overlooking the bustle of the city below. Meanwhile, The Poetry Foundation Library, home to more than 30,000 volumes, offers a serene architectural setting for literary discovery of historic artifacts.
Books Beyond the City
Beyond the city, Illinois’ small towns reveal their own bookish treasures. In Galena, Victorian reading rooms and cosy hotel archives invite travellers to unwind by the fire after exploring the town’s 19th-century streets. In Glen Ellyn, The Bookstore, a cherished independent shop offers an inviting retreat for readers exploring the town’s historic centre. In Oak Park, travellers can delve into the formative world of Ernest Hemingway at his childhood Home and Museum, exploring original artefacts and gaining insight into the environments that shaped the Nobel Laureate’s storytelling voice.
Outdoor Reading Spots in Illinois
When it comes to outdoor reading spots in Illinois, you’re spoilt for choice. Lakeside benches in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, shaded lawns across the Morton Arboretum and riverfront seating in St. Charles provide serene settings for reading in nature. Along Lake Michigan, quieter stretches of the shoreline, particularly around Evanston, offer romantic, windswept spaces to enjoy a book paired with panoramic water views.
Whether seeking independent bookshops, atmospheric libraries or relaxing hideaways, Illinois promises an inspiring escape into fictional worlds for travellers celebrating World Book Day and beyond.
