Venture beyond the cornstalks to explore the charming towns and beautiful parks that fill the heart of our state as well as Lincoln's old stomping grounds and the opening stretch of Route 66.
John Kokoris has lived in Illinois his whole life. He grew up camping in Northern Illinois, went to school downstate, and travels across the state with his family whenever he can. A library employee in Chicago's western suburbs, John has also served on library boards in Forest Park and Elgin, and enjoys exploring our state's many wonderful libraries in his spare time.
John's areas of interest include Lincoln lore, Native American history, conservation, and infrastructure. He's fascinated by the varied and strange histories of the state's small and forgotten places. His favorite Illinois-related books include Herndon's Life of Lincoln, Spoon River Anthology, The People Yes, Cahokia Jazz, and The WPA Guide to Illinois.
His mission is to spread his enthusiasm for Illinois far and wide: We live in a beautiful state rich with history and opportunity. His programs offer history, culture, and travel plans alongside photos, maps, and humorous anecdotes.
Armchair Travels is generously funded with a gift from the Rutherford Family Trust.
From the south: Go north on Green Bay Road. Turn left on Wilmette Ave. Turn right on Park Ave. Library is located on the corner of Wilmette Ave. and Park Ave. Parking lot is on the north side of the building.
From the north: Go south on Green Bay Road. Turn right on Wilmette Ave. Turn right on Park Ave. Library is located on the corner of Wilmette Ave. and Park Ave. Parking lot is on the north side of the building.
From I-94 (Edens Expressway):from the South - exit at Lake Ave. East. Go east on Lake Ave. a little over 2 miles. Turn right on Park Ave. • from the North - exit at Rt. 41/Skokie Blvd. Turn left (east) on Lake Ave. Go east on Lake Ave. a little over 2 miles. Turn right on Park Ave.
Mass transit options include CTA, Metra, and Pace.
