View of Illinois State University in Bloomington - Normal Illinois

Illinois State University houses one of the best improve groups that you will find on your travels of the USA. The troupe is called The Improv Mafia and it offers ISU and Normal free weekly comedy shows every Tuesday night at 8pm in CVA 145. If you are a fan of Second City, I.O., or Whose Line is it Anyway ? will have a roaring good time at this laugh fest!

Laughter can get the tummy rumbling and everyone must eat when they travel the USA. I have a great spot for you to grab a true taste of Illinois. It's at the Garlic Press in downtown Normal. The Garlic Press has been serving residents of Normal and those travelling the USA for over 30 years now, and has a new addition called the Market-Cafe. The new deli reinforces the Garlic Presses fanaticism about supporting local business and many of their dishes are made from produce grown by organic Illinois farmers. Eating local produce is a must in order to garner the true flavor of a region when you are travelling the USA.

If you would like to get out and meet the locals that grow that tasty organic food, hit the Farmer's Market on Saturday morning. Farmer's Markets are a great way to understand the place you are visiting while you travel the USA.

Denny’s Donuts on Main Street is a great place to meet the late night locals. Denny’s is an independent, locally owned coffee and donut shop. They have exceptional donuts and free refills on their coffee. A visit to Denny's Donuts is also a great way to start your day as you travel the USA!