If you really want to try them, look for the thorny cultivar Illini Hardy. Blueberries have very demanding needs. One is acidic soil, as blueberries need soils with a pH range of 4.8 to 5.2. Blueberries also need well-drained soils, mulching, and irrigation. Grapes can be grown in the backyard, but trellises will be needed to support them.
American varieties are hardier and more suited for table use than European types.
Among suggested cultivars for northern Illinois are Niagara, Fredonia, Concord, Delaware, Steuben, Swensen Red, and Reliance. Finally, currants and gooseberries are hardy and easy to grow. Both are alternate hosts of White Pine Blister Rust, currently not a major problem in Illinois. Suggested currant varieties include Red Lake, Cherry, White Imperial, Consort, and Crandall. Pixwell, Poorman, Captivator, and Welcome are suggested if you want to try gooseberries.