Illinois is located in the Midwest, bordering with Indiana, Missouri, Wisconsin, Kentucky and Iowa and of course Lake Michigan. Its name was given by the state's French explorers after the indigenous Illiniwek people and means simply "the people". The capital of Illinois is Springfield while its largest city is Chicago, along the waterfront of Lake Michigan.

The state's climate is continental, with extreme seasonal variations of temperature in parts of the state. Among Illinois's many tourist attractions are Shawnee National Forest, with recreational facilities; the Cahokia Mounds; and many state parks and historical sites, including New Salem and Lincoln's home and burial place in Springfield.

The Heartland Spa - Gilman, Illinois
Only 90 miles south of Chicago, this secluded health and fitness retreat, nestled in the heart of Illinois farm country, is isolated on a 32-acre estate with a private lake. Once a dairy farm, this experienced spa of 21 years, provides an unpretentious and nurturing environment that offers much more than meets the eye. The Heartland Spa's expert staff and sophisticated wellness program teach each guest how to make health-enriching changes through fitness, improved nutrition and stress management.