BringFido’s Ruff Guide to Illinois

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of cruising with your Corgi in Illinois? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in the Prairie State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code ILLINOIS.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in Illinois:

Float With Fido Through Chi-Town

Chicago, IL
“Land ahoy!” Photo by @leo_the_corgi2017

See the Windy City with your pooch on a Seadog Cruises speedboat tour. Departing from Chicago’s famous Navy Pier, the company offers four pet-friendly cruise options. If you’re short on time, opt for the half-hour Lakefront Speedboat Tour, which hits the highlights on a fast-paced cruise on Lake Michigan. With more time to spare, choose the 75-minute River & Lake Architecture Tour, which extends your trip through the Chicago River Locks. Cruises operate from April through October. If you’ll be in town from July through September, check out Mercury’s famous Canine Cruise.

Located just one mile from the Navy Pier, the Royal Sonesta Chicago River North will make your Chicago visit one to remember. Floor-to-ceiling windows in your luxurious guest room provide fantastic views of the Chicago skyline. Treat yourself to an in-room spa service or visit to the health club, while the concierge makes grooming arrangements for your canine companion. Dog treats, bowls, and bedding are provided for Fido during your stay.

Share a Unique Sculpture Walk

Monticello, IL
“We all know who the real work of art is." Photo by @larrydurangolab

Monticello’s Allerton Park & Retreat Center is a 1,500-acre oasis of forests, hiking trails, gardens, statuary, sculptures, grassy fields, rivers, and ponds. You and your four-legged companion will find plenty to love about this park as you hike its 14 miles of trails, visit the 30-acre demonstration prairie, join a public tour, and gaze at more than 100 outdoor sculptures and ornamental pieces. Twelve park gardens, including the Chinese Maze Garden and Fu Dog Garden, offer amazing views that change with the seasons. In the warmer months, you can bring a picnic lunch or dine on the patio with your pup at the on-site Greenhouse Café.

If your pup is ready for a snooze after his park visit, settle in at the Best Western Plus Champaign Urbana Inn. Property amenities include a complimentary hot breakfast, indoor heated pool, and a designated dog walking area. When you are ready for dinner, head over to the pet-friendly patio tables at Houlihan’s Restaurant, located only three blocks away.

Paddle With Your Pup Indoors

Naperville, IL
“Trying to keep my head above water!” Photo by Wag ‘N Paddle

Make a splash at Wag ‘N Paddle in Naperville. This indoor, climate-controlled park has three in-ground heated pools for pups to enjoy year-round. Dog owners are encouraged to join their furry companions for half-hour, individual swimming sessions, and cleanup is made easy thanks to a self-service dog wash and special drying room supplied with towels and a dryer. The facility also boasts an indoor dog park with lots of play equipment, as well as an outdoor fenced dog run. All new fur-guests are evaluated by staff to make sure they are ready to join the fun. Before visiting, be sure to upload your pup’s vaccination records to Wag ‘N Paddle’s website.

Check into the Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk before venturing out for an evening on the town. Start with a stroll down Naperville Riverwalk, where Fido can frolic on the covered bridges and brick paths dotted with sculptures, artwork, fountains, and memorials. Make your way to Two Bostons dog boutique for a quick treat before finishing the evening with a meal from the dog menu at Quigley’s Irish Pub. After you’ve had your fill, retire to the hotel for a well-deserved snooze.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to Illinois preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code ILLINOIS to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

Have you been to Illinois with your dog? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by @leo_the_corgi2017.