6 Illinois Travel Nursing Hot Spots

From buzzing cities to quaint small towns, Illinois travel nursing has something to offer every RN looking for that perfect Midwestern assignment. The team at Health Carousel Travel Nursing takes a look at six Illinois travel nursing hot spots you should consider for your next job.

CHICAGO, IL

For travelers needing an endless list of things to see and do, the Windy City is ideal. You could easily spend 13 weeks or longer in Chicago and not run out of new experiences. Sports fans can look forward to catching a game practically all year round with the NFL’s Bears, MLB’s Cubs and White Sox, NBA’s Bulls, and NHL’s Blackhawks all with home stadiums here. Architecture buffs won’t want to miss exploring the Oak Park neighborhood, which features the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings in the world. Art enthusiasts can take advantage of one of the country’s liveliest arts scenes.

Shop the legendary Magnificent Mile and countless other retail districts, then fuel up by sampling the many delights of one of America’s top food cities, including iconic deep-dish pizza, Italian beef and Chicago-style dogs. Simply put, Chicago has something for every travel nurse.

SPRINGFIELD, IL

While Springfield is the capital of Illinois, it offers more of a laid-back feel. That said, Springfield is still relatively close to large cities (like Chicago and St. Louis) that make for an easy day trips. You’ll find plenty to do right here as well, with over 40 Springfield parks that include everything from lakes to golf courses, a zoo, and more. Springfield is a haven for history buffs, with Abraham Lincoln once calling the city home. Here you can check out the 16th President’s tomb, explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, and tour the home where he and his wife Mary lived and raised their family at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.

DECATUR, IL

Decatur also has a connection to Abe Lincoln, who settled here in 1820 at the age of 21. The future President’s time in Decatur is celebrated through multiple statues and attractions, including the Lincoln Trail Homestead. The Macon County History Museum features “The Lincoln Connection Exhibit,” a library with extensive Lincoln papers and reference material, as well as historic buildings that include a replica of the courthouse where he practiced in the 1830s.

Nurses will find lots of opportunities for de-stressing in Decatur, too. Spend time at Lake Decatur fishing or just enjoying the view, or hike scenic trails in the 755-acre Sand Creek Conservation Area with open prairie, forested areas, and lots of wildlife.

PEORIA, IL

Set alongside the banks of the Illinois River, Peoria is a historic city that offers a wide range of things to do. Visit the Peoria Zoo and stroll through Luthy Botanical Garden, with its gorgeous conservatory filled with orchids and tropical plants. The revitalized Peoria riverfront is teeming with great local shops, eateries, and bike trails as well as being home to the Smithsonian-affiliated Peoria Riverfront Museum. The museum focuses on art, science, and history through a variety of exhibitions, collections, and programs. It also features a planetarium and giant screen theater.

DANVILLE, IL

Danville offers the chance to experience small-town living just 90-minutes away from Indianapolis. While Indiana’s major city is an easy drive away, right in town you’ll find world-class attractions like the Vermilion County Museum, located near a replica of the 1833 county courthouse where Abraham Lincoln once practiced law. The courthouse hosts Lincoln memorabilia as well as a re-creation of his law office. A host of activities can be enjoyed in Danville, as well, such as golfing, horseback riding, canoeing, biking, ice skating, and roller skating. And, from popular chains to local eats, travel nurses in Danville have lots of dining options, along with a wide variety of shopping opportunities, including unique boutiques in the downtown district.

QUINCY, IL

Located on the Mississippi River, Quincy is another outstanding Illinois travel nursing destination for those who want to enjoy more of a low-key lifestyle alongside big-city amenities. Just across the state line, relax or play at Waconda State Park, home to six Missouri lakes that draw thousands of migrating birds as a bird-watcher’s paradise, as well as offering outstanding fishing and a swimming beach. In Quincy, you’ll find a diverse array of shopping and dining venues and lots of museums to explore, while Quincy’s Washington Park hosts activities and events like live music throughout the year.