13 Reasons Why Illinois Is The Best State

America has 50 great states, but there are several compelling reasons why Illinois is the best one of them all. Read on for 13 reasons why Illinois is the very best.

Let’s get it out of the way–it has Chicago, one of the best cities in the world.

Bert Kaufmann/Flickr

Our cuisine is delectable and often involves cheese and fried things.

ryan harvey/Flickr

We have had some of the greatest sports legends of all time playing here. Except Cutler.

Esparta Palma/Flickr

Views like this are a mainstay in Illinois, and not just the southern part of the state.

Tom/Flickr

There are miles of sandy, salt-free beaches with incredible views.

Roman Boed/Flickr

Natural beauty in the shape of forests surrounds us.

Meredith Bell/Flickr

The architecture here is just simply amazing.

Carl Wycoff/Flickr

We have an incredible amount of bald eagles who spend winters here.

CheepShot/Flickr

We have Portillos. ‘Nuff said.

Navin75/Flickr

We brought you the Twinkie.

Christian Cable/Flickr

It provides sunsets like this one.

Michael/Flickr

It has a river that is both green and flows backwards.

Alan Light/Flickr

Along with flat prairies, there are surprising places to climb, hike, and explore.

Eric Schmuttenmauer/Flickr

Why do you think Illinois is the best state?