With fascinating architecture, great museums, and plenty of delicious local restaurants (deep plate pizza anyone?), Chicago has a lot to offer to tourists and locals alike. That said, we could all utilize a break from the hustle and bustle of the city from time to time. We’ve rounded up the best destinations near the Windy City, from lake resorts to state and national parks. Whether you’re looking for attractive scenery or compact town charm, these quick tours are sure to please every traveler. Here are our top 10 weekend getaways from Chicago.
Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
Hike among statuesque trees to find waterfalls and wildlife Starved Rock State Park, located on the Illinois River, about an hour and a half from Chicago. It’s the perfect choice if you want to replace skyscrapers with great outdoor recreation. In spring, massive rains make the waterfalls especially dynamic, and in autumn, the leaves turn attractive shades of orange, red and yellow. Stay inside the state park at your hotel Hungry Rock Lodgeor decide to stay overnight in nearby Ottawa, a charming town with eclectic restaurants, independent shops and more.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Just a three-hour drive from Chicago, “Indy,” as locals know it, offers plenty of attractions. Children will be delighted Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Zooand sports fans will want to check out the iconic ones Indianapolis highway. The trendy Broad Ripple neighborhood is home to nightclubs, restaurants, shops and more Massachusetts Avenue Arts District offers theaters, galleries and independent boutiques. History buffs can book an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s 1920s Pullman train cars Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown-Union Station.
Saugatuck, Michigan
Summer is the perfect time to visit this lakeside town, located less than two and a half hours from Chicago. Relax on the sandy shores of Oval Beach or Saugatuck Dunes State Park, rent a boat and explore Lake Michigan, browse art galleries, or visit local breweries. After a day spent enjoying some of the most pristine beaches on Lake Michigan, relax at one of the city’s charming inns or bed and breakfasts.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
For your next escape to the nearby waterfront, head an hour and a half from Chicago to the attractive Lake Geneva. In the summer, you can go to the lake, sunbathe on the beaches or go zip lining, and engage in other outdoor activities. In winter, check Ice castlesan awe-inspiring display of illuminated, man-made icicles that you can walk on.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
An hour and a half north of Chicago, on Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is full of great museums and even better beer. Pabst Brewing Company and Miller Brewing Company call this city home. Today you can raise a glass to the city’s beer heritage by sampling these classics or visiting one of the many local craft breweries. The Milwaukee Public Museum is a must-see attraction – you can see fossils, a European village, a full-scale exhibition depicting the streets of Milwaukee at the turn of the 20th century, a butterfly garden and much more. Other sites worth visiting include: Milwaukee Art Museum, Harley-Davidson Museumand the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, also known as Domes.
Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana
Less than an hour’s drive from the city, Indiana Dunes National Park it’s perfect for a quick getaway. If you’re brief on time, you can even take a day trip (accessible via the South Shore Line, so you don’t even have to drive). This national park includes 25 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, making it the perfect place for a relaxing weekend away from Chicago. Hike the dunes, fly a kite on the beach, go horse riding or see the sights 1933 World’s Fair of the Century of Progress. Homes.
Madison, Wisconsin
The capital of Wisconsin is just over two and a half hours from Chicago and offers something for every traveler. Food lovers will want to visit National Mustard Museum and try the fresh ice cream in Sassy Cow Dairy, located 20 miles from Madison. Meanwhile, those who enjoy spending time outdoors will love kayaking or cruising the lake in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter. Families can check Madison Children’s Museum and Madison Children’s Theater for child-friendly entertainment.
Holland, Michigan
The Netherlands is a unique travel destination, located about two and a half hours from Chicago. The city’s Dutch heritage is evident in its celebrated attractions such as Windmill Island Gardens, Klomp Wooden Shoe and Wooden Products Factory in DelftAND The Dutch village of Nelis. Vintage Tulip Time Festival another great reason to go to this quaint Michigan town – millions of tulips are planted throughout the Netherlands, so come in spring to see the attractive flowers blooming.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
If you’re looking for a family getaway, take a weekend trip to Wisconsin Dells, a three-hour drive from Chicago. Dubbed the “water park capital of the world,” this area is packed with attractions that kids will love. One of them, Noah’s Ark Water Park, is the largest water park in the United States. For ultimate relaxation, take a scenic boat ride through the Dells or visit one of the local wineries or breweries.
Geneva, Illinois
Just an hour’s drive from Chicago is Geneva, the perfect small-town getaway. Stroll through the charming city center, check out murals and outdoor sculptures, and browse independent shops selling antiques, jewelry, chocolate, ice cream and more. The Fabian Forest Reservewhere there is a mid-19th century windmill, it is just a brief drive away.
