Quick Facts about Illinois

Flag

White field with the Illinois state seal centered. The seal shows an eagle holding a shield, olive branch, and banner reading “State Sovereignty, National Union.” Adopted 1970 (current design).

National / state symbols

• Nation: United States; national flag is the U.S. Stars and Stripes

• State nickname: The Prairie State; Land of Lincoln

• State motto: State Sovereignty, National Union

• State bird: Northern cardinal

• State flower: Violet

• State tree: White oak

• State animal: White-tailed deer

• State insect: Monarch butterfly

• State mineral: Fluorite

• State slogan: Land of Lincoln

Etiquette basics

Be polite, hold doors, and keep conversation modest rather than boastful. A smile, “please,” “thank you,” and a small “ope” when you bump someone go a long way.

Currency

U.S. dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful at fairs, small diners, and farm stands.

Time zone

Central Time (CT) — UTC−6 standard, UTC−5 during daylight saving time. The whole state observes daylight saving time.

Emergency numbers

• 911 — police, fire, ambulance

• 311 — non-emergency city services in Chicago and some other cities

  • 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline