Welcome to I Like Illinois

Did you know? Pullman Strikes led to Labor Day!

On May 11, 1894, the Pullman Strike began near Chicago, Illinois, later leading to the creation of Labor Day.

During an economic recession, George Pullman laid-off hundreds of employees and cut wages for the remaining workers at the Pullman Sleeping Car Company, a railroad car manufacturer with a company town near Chicago.

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Six Illinois schools make list of ‘World’s Top Universities’

A recent report from Time Magazine lists the University of Chicago among the world's top universities, ranking above Ivy League schools like Harvard, Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania, with five other Illinois schools also appearing on the global list.

The University of Chicago came in at No. 5, followed by Northwestern University at No. 85, University of Illinois Chicago at No. 151, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign at No. 235, Illinois Institute of Technology at No. 266, and Southern Illinois University at No. 338.

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Aurora University among most beautiful colleges

The U.S. News and World Report recently recognized a university in Illinois for having one of the most beautiful campuses in the country.

Aurora University, located in Aurora, was among 35 colleges and universities named on the list. Aurora University’s 37-acre campus features historical architecture and beautiful greenery, making it captivating for students and visitors.

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Celebrating Earth Day: Illinois’ Natural Beauty

Each April, Earth Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the natural beauty that surrounds us and the steps we can take to preserve it. In Illinois, that beauty stretches from rolling prairies and winding rivers to dense forests and peaceful wetlands—each playing a vital role in the state’s environment and way of life.

Illinois is home to a diverse range of landscapes that support wildlife, recreation, and agriculture. Places like Starved Rock State Park and Shawnee National Forest offer breathtaking views and miles of trails, while restored areas like Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie help preserve the state’s native prairie ecosystem. These spaces not only provide a place to explore, but also serve as reminders of Illinois’ deep connection to the land.

Conservation efforts across the state continue to protect these natural resources for future generations. From prairie restoration and pollinator programs to improving water quality in Illinois rivers and lakes, organizations and communities are working together to maintain a healthy environment. These efforts support everything from local wildlife habitats to the agricultural systems that help feed the nation.

Earth Day is also a chance for Illinoisans to get involved. Whether it’s visiting a local park, participating in a community cleanup, planting native flowers, or simply spending time outdoors, small actions can make a meaningful difference. Across the state, communities come together each spring to celebrate and care for the places they call home.

As the seasons begin to change and Illinois comes back to life after winter, Earth Day reminds us of the importance of protecting the landscapes that define our state. By appreciating and caring for these natural spaces, we can ensure they remain a source of beauty, recreation, and pride for years to come.