Illinois named one of the crucial enjoyable states in America

CHICAGO – Illinois has been ranked the fourth most enjoyable state within the nation, in accordance with WalletHub’s annual checklist launched Wednesday.

What we all know:

WalletHub evaluated all 50 states throughout two broad classes—Entertainment & Recreation and Nightlife—utilizing 26 weighted metrics, from points of interest and eating places to seashores and occasion choices.

Illinois got here in third for Entertainment & Recreation and second for Nightlife. Standout areas included:

• #1 in variety of points of interest
• #1 in nightlife choices per capita
• #5 in eating places per capita
• #4 in performing arts/theaters per capita
• #7 in film theaters per capita

Overall, Illinois moved up two spots from final yr’s rating, climbing from sixth to fourth.

What they’re saying:

“Living in one of the most fun states can boost your mental, physical and emotional health by giving you a wide range of activities to choose from, both indoor and outdoor,” WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo mentioned in a press release. “These states help residents stay active and socialize, and they’re also ideal for travelers who want to make the most out of the limited amount of time that they have to explore.”

Dig deeper:

Alongside the state rating, Chicago landed within the Top 10 of WalletHub’s “Most Fun Cities in America” for 2025, tying with Miami, Las Vegas, Orlando and San Francisco for essentially the most eating places per capita.

What you are able to do:

You can see the complete rankings and methodology for the “Most Fun States in America” HERE and the “Most Fun Cities in America” HERE.