The history of funerals and funerary customs.

A display of magnificent stained glass windows is the first exhibit of its kind.

Fragments of a massive unfinished sculpture sit near the main quad of the University of Illinois.

Even with its slightly risible name this colossal cross is still able to inspire awe.

The sign to a demolished amusement park now stands in front of a local library.

Now nearly abandoned, Kaskaskia was once the capital of Illinois and one of the most important towns on the upper Mississippi.

The lowest point in the state of Illinois, at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.

Known as the "Cross At The Crossroads," this massive metal cross is just short enough to avoid the FAA.

Built in 1869, this now-retired structure looks more like a medieval fortress than a county lock-up.

A mythical bird etched into the face of a rock doubles as the mascot for a nearby school.

This Mediterranean castle was built for a millionaire and his giant dog.

A historic beacon built in the aftermath of the worst maritime disaster on the Great Lakes.

Roses and other fascinating flora fill this garden built to commemorate Britain's immortal Bard.

The hometown of Popeye's creator is littered with a growing collection of granite cartoon characters.

This architectural stunner is one of the few surviving Egyptian Revival theaters in the U.S.

This urban drawbridge gained eternal pop culture fame when the Blues Brothers jumped it while it was raised.

In the loving memory of a tragically deceased role-player this Illinois park is decked out with both dungeons and dragons.

Buy a token from the liquor store and you can make this beast spew flames on command.

Quirky water tower advertises the long-gone Brooks Tomato Products Co.

Half-sized replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa built to honor Galileo.

You have to love a museum with a truly dedicated focus. A focus on Superman, for example.

The mysterious white squirrels of this Illinois city are treated like sacred cows.

The iconic Chicago sculpture hides a beautiful and easily overlooked plaque on the backside.

Home to a protest movement, a bombing, and a dramatic change in labor history.