With so many to choose from, there is no better way to spend a nice sunny day than exploring some of the best parks on offer. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Family Fun, In the warmer months you can enjoy watersports, a caf, beach rentals, and activities on the shore. Look beyond the large chains to find boutique hotels, mom-and-pop shops and locally owned restaurants for a truly romantic getaway to small-town America. If you are interested in finding the most interesting haunted places in Illinois and the stories behind them, see our full guide here for a spooky read. To see some of the best spa resorts in Illinois, check out our post here. While shopping may seem like something you can do anywhere, there are often unique and interesting aspects to shopping in a new place and Illinois is no different. To see more of the top canyons to explore in Illinois, check out our previous post here. Illinois is The M. Arts & Culture & History Catch a seasonal floral show including a Spring Show, Orchid Show, Chrysanthemum Show, and Poinsettia Show. Allowing the both of you to enjoy some pampering together is a great way to connect without any stresses of daily life interfering. If you arent interested in hiking, biking is another option when looking for ways to explore nature. One park that stands above the rest is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock State Park. You could spend the 14 weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day exploring Ill Fresh Picks Fall is the ideal time to attend a festival and Illinois has you covered. Visit Millennium Park, the Palmer House Hotel and other city landmarks. About 4,400 miles separate Switzerland's Lake Geneva from Geneva, Illinois, but you can still enjoy serene waterfront views at Island Park, located along the Fox River. Refuel after a day of exploration at Ottawa's B.A.S.H. Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois. Many of these breweries provide unique craft beers which are both locally produced and delicious. Illinois has a great range of beaches available along both Lake Michigan and various other lakefronts in the state. The village of Antioch, where the resort is located, also offers enough diversions to pass a few days. While it may not seem like the most interesting topic, the center has gone above and beyond to make the experience interactive and exciting. On the other hand, escaping to a cabin in nature can be an amazing experience, a great way to clear ones head, connect with nature, enjoy the wildlife around you and make the best of your time with your partner. by Erica Abdnour Garfield Park, often known for its sporting facilities, is also well-renowned for having one of the largest conservatories in the world. cabins on the southern Illinois wine trail. Eleven of the state's best wineries, including some of the oldest vineyards in Illinois, are dotted along a 40-mile trail for you to discover at your own pace. There are a number of restaurants nearby offering a range of cuisines, making Navy Pier ideal for an extended stay. Illinois is ideal for family vacations with everything from theme parks and water parks to educational yet fun museums and tours. Willis Tower is the third tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and makes great use of the space with a range of facilities throughout the building, including cafes and restaurants. The cruise takes about 90 minutes and is now offered in the evening as well as during the day to provide a different view of the city. Spend the day soaking in the sun with a boat tour or beach day on Petite Lake at Cypress, then head into town for a tasting at the Vigneto del Bino vineyard and winery. Originally constructed as a permanent monument to the Worlds Columbian Exposition in 1893, the Field Museum still stands with 20 permanent exhibits featuring items from the Ice Age, Ancient Egypt, and even the time of dinosaurs. Chicago is also a great place to explore a range of different museums. There are a number of biking trails available in Illinois, with the Tunnel Hill State Trail as one of the most popular. For this reason, going to the beach is another good option for hot summer days in Illinois. Visitors can explore the mounds, either with a guide or independently. Daniel Lee Rice, 76, of Galesburg, Illinois died at 1:40 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at Allure of Knox County, Galesburg. Three of the rooms in this once-school are set up as romantic luxury suites, and you can treat yourself to extras like wine, roses or candle lighting in your room. Also potentially of interest in Herod is a roadside park on U.S. Route 34 that leads to a cave once home to the Fairy Cliff Caf. The Krannert Art Museum is located on the campus of the University of Illinois in central Illinois and is the second-largest fine art museum in the state. As well as the many award-winning wineries, Illinois is also home to a number of great breweries. Indulge in a weekend that features gourmet tea and coffee and breakfast made-to-order. Whether you prefer natural history, art, science, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone. The beautiful gardens on site make for a great backdrop to a romantic weekend, and the on-site library offers books, magazines, games, and DVDs as well as refreshments. Then head to Arts and Antique Row, which as the name suggests is the downtown antique shopping district. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library And Museum. Starved Rock has many miles of hiking trails, as do many other state parks. Make sure to sample the boutique wines of Starview Winery and experience the cozy cabin-like atmosphere of Honker Hill Winery. For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. Many different areas in Illinois feature a zoo, ranging from large interactive zoos to small animal exhibits. While not traditionally known as a wine-making area, Illinois actually has quite a lot of wineries throughout the state. Set just outside Chicago you'll find the affluent suburb of Northbrook, where filmmaker John Hughes once called home and which inspired the setting for many of his cult classics such as "Sixteen Candles," "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Breakfast Club." A sparkling, wine-colored gem of southern Illinois is the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail near Pomona. If you are planning a romantic couples trip, Illinois is an ideal place with a variety of things to do. Gail Borden Public Library 125 Libraries By jefflC6195OD Gail Borden Library is a treasure in Elgin. The beach is open from 6 am 11 pm, with swimming allowed while a lifeguard is present. The gardens have been officially recognized by the Japanese government as an effort toward international friendship. Some couples may prefer an upscale resort with a range of amenities and facilities. Any visiting duo is practically required to take a picture with "The Bean" (officially titled Cloud Gate), the iconic reflective sculpture in downtown's Millennium Park. These range from hiking to horse-riding to picnicking. Often featuring artists and local products, Makanda Boardwalk is a great way to explore and support the local community. No matter where in the state you are planning to go, what type of group youre traveling with, and what your budget is, we have something for you so you can enjoy the beautiful state of Illinois to its full potential. For those more interested in science and the natural world, the Field Museum may be a better fit. The Prairie St Brewing Co. started and has been thriving in Rockford for many years now, making it a great stop on any visit to Rockford. 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60603, Phone: 312-443-3600 Our experts' top picks for a long weekend getaway for couples: Berkeley, Tybee Island, Nantucket, NH resorts, MN resorts, Kona, Pasadena, ND, ME, From Boston, Salt Lake City 9. With the wide range available, there will be a museum to suit everyones interests. One example is the Hegeler Carus mansion, first designed in 1974 by renowned architect Boyington. Winter is often seen as a less desirable time to travel its cold and everyone wants to stay inside in the warmth. Situated on Lake Michigan, Chicago is ideally located for enjoying the beautiful surrounding nature as well as the highlights of city life. One of the more interesting gardens is the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which as the name suggests, have been designed in a traditional Japanese style. There are many other options of places to go hiking in Illinois. If you are open to venturing out, consider the Davie School Inn, an eclectic B&B in Anna just 10 to 20 miles from most of the wineries on the route. To see a full list of the best castles in Illinois, see our guide here. The center also offers visitors the chance to operate machinery simulators and learn about how real engineers work at the company. There are a range of trails available to suit all levels of hiker, from casual beginners right through to experienced hiking enthusiasts. Step back in time to the golden age of train travel and settle in for a peaceful ride to discover some of Illinois most charming towns and hidden treasures. Chicago, Illinois, is an amazing city to visit, offering a diverse selection of museums, tours, and Italian, and other restaurants.Enjoy a bird's eye view from 360 Chicago or the Skydeck, spend an afternoon at the Art Institute of Chicago, explore the famous Millennium Park, listen to an orchestra performance, and go for a romantic walk in one of the beautiful parks. Many of these bridges are located in picturesque spots, making visiting them a fun activity with many great landscapes to see and history to explore. Many of these wind through forests and along state parks, allowing you to enjoy some of the same scenery. To see our list of the top things to do in Grafton, see our post here. Additionally, The Beall Mansion offers massage packages and breakfast in bed is available to truly make your stay a memorable one. Hotel guests say the location on Lake Michigan can't be beat, and Zion sits conveniently halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee. Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, this region is lush with trees and vineyards. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. The name "Garden of the Gods" stirs images of a forbidden utopia but you and your special someone can easily access this celestial hike in the Shawnee National Forest, partially located in Herod, Illinois. For a getaway within a getaway, head to Galena's year-round Chestnut Mountain Resort, which offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter or zip lining and river cruising in the summer. Admire The Chicago Skyline From The Oak Street Beach. Choose your favorite accommodation such as a suite in the main house or a country cottage dispersed along the property. For more on Galena, see our previous post here. While exploring nature you may be interested in seeing a canyon and Illinois doesnt disappoint. Eat & Drink, With many museums surrounding different topics located in the same city, it is ideal for learning about a wide array of subjects and areas of interest. The town's Shiloh House is a 25-room mansion built in 1901 for the city's founder curious passersby can take a tour of the restored property on Sundays or by appointment. Past Sybaris guests approve of the serene and private atmosphere, with some saying it brought their romantic getaway to another level. With many interactive exhibits covering a wide range of topics including natural sciences, inventions, and discoveries as well as arts, the Science Center is a great day trip for the whole family. Getting around Chicago and Illinois is easy with our guide to ways to travel around the state. When visiting Illinois it only makes sense to spend some time in the capital of the state, Springfield. The institute is located in one of the most well-known buildings in Chicago with two impressive bronze lions flanking the entrance. With its plentiful hiking trails, flowing . Right in our state capital is a beautiful turn-of-the century inn that screams luxury. The Ledge is a glass balcony or glass box that extends 4.3 feet from the edge of the building. It is designed in a traditional Japanese walking garden style, meaning it is intended to for the visitor to stroll around the garden and enjoy the various landscapes, almost like changing scenes in a play. around Illinois. Some examples include Gradys Family Fun Park in Bloomington, a small park with rides, go-karts, and mini golf, or Enchanted Castle: Lombard which features laser tag, go-karts, bumper cars, and an arcade. There are many unique fossils, bones, and more featured in the museum along with exhibits on geology, ancient human civilizations, and more. Activities. It features 11 unique wineries, each with a different focus or main product. You won't taste quite the same bread there today, but your stay includes a full breakfast made with seasonal ingredients, which can be enjoyed on the patio or in the dining room. While you're browsing for something special, peek into bakery-meets-wine bar Bread & Vine or fuel up with a cup of joe from Galena Roasters. We've got all the big city glitz and glamour, plus candle-lit restaurants, cozy hotels, and one-of-a-kind date night activities. If you're visiting the Prairie State during the winter, you can't miss Belleville's Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German-style holiday market celebrating the season of Advent leading up to Christmas. 30 Things Seoul is Famous For, Driving in Sweden in Winter: All You Need To Know, Globetrotters in heart and soul. If you prefer to stick to the tried and true, Six Flags Great America is another great option among the amusement parks of Illinois. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. The best part? Are you planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Illinois to truly make your trip the best ever? I enjoy helping adult individuals of all ages and couples that still want to work things out, providing a safe place for you to find clarity, seek healing . Many of the state parks feature amazing waterfalls, such as Cascade Falls in Matthiessen State Park and St Louis Canyon in Starved Rock State Park. Arts & Culture, Illinois has a wide range of water parks, including both indoor and outdoor options as well as parks that are better for young children and others that are suitable for all ages. There are many buildings and places throughout the city that are important to the life and times of Abraham Lincoln and have been preserved as historic places. amateur photography by michel/Flickr 3. The architecture cruise winds along the Chicago river and teaches visitors about the buildings and figures who shaped Chicagos history. 8 Romantic Getaways in Illinois. Hawk Valley Retreat and Cottages screams romance, as it sits on a stunning 10 acre property with valley views, a gorgeous garden, walking trails, and a pond. The Underground Railroad passed through here, and visitors can explore Alton's abolitionist and Civil War history with nine self-guided stops through town following the Lincoln Legacy Trail. To see the best beaches in Illinois, check out our guide here. The charms of Geneva don't end there spend your morning strolling the Fabyan Japanese Garden, installed in 1910 and featuring a restored, 19th-century Dutch windmill. Venturing away from the largest mounds also allows for great unhindered views of nature. If you are interested in abandoned places, history, or urban exploration, Cairo is an ideal place to visit. The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center in conjunction with Chicagos First Lady cruise boat has designed a river cruise to feature some of Chicagos most beautiful, interesting, and historic architectural delights. The saying "Will it play in Peoria?" Trip Ideas Explore Things To Do PLACES TO EAT BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES WINERIES & VINEYARDS HISTORY Places to Stay Inn at Irish Hollow Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. Weekend Plans: 14 Fun Options to Explore Across Illinois With over 45 rides and attractions, Six Flags Great America is ideal for entertaining children of all ages. There are also many shops in this area, including a number of flagship stores, international designers, and boutiques. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.). The cabins are located less than 3 miles from the Garden of the Gods. All food tastings are included, and the tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) suitable for most fitness levels. Back in the 21st century, couples can stroll downtown Bloomington to browse the storefronts with a possible detour back in time at the Arcadia arcade, which charges just a quarter for more than half of its vintage games. Another must-visit Geneva establishment is the Little Traveler, a Victorian house that is part cafe and part sprawling store. The Arts and Crafts-style property features a quiet atmosphere and about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with balconies. Splurge at three Michelin-starred Alinea, routinely included on lists of the world's best restaurants, or try to snag a spot at one of the Lou Malnati's Pizzeria locations, beloved for its Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza. Recreate some iconic movie romance with a tour of the North Shore and keep an eye out for the many places used as filming locations. Eight suites, plus three luxury suites each come with complimentary breakfast - some suites even feature spa Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. Taylorville is home to delicious restaurants, great shopping, and even some Illinois history - Abraham Lincoln practiced law in one of the most historic buildings in the town. With Chicagos great location on the edge of Lake Michigan, it is ideal for going to the beach and soaking up some sun. The latter contains presidential artifacts found nowhere else and a theater that shows educational films and living history performances to immerse you in the time of Lincoln. It was once part of the famous Route 66 but is now a walking and biking-only bridge. The Art Institute of Chicago 24,409 Art Museums Grant Park By caront671 The first was major retrospective of the Chicago influenced works of John Singer Sargent, who had many patrons among 2022 2. There are many great beaches all throughout Illinois, many located along Lake Michigan as well as various other lakes in the state. This is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites without extra cost to you. 2. If youre looking for a gorgeous, historical getaway, look no further than The Vrooman Mansion. For more information on the best beaches in Illinois, see our previous post here. Stroll through Chicago Botanic Garden. Outdoor enthusiasts will embrace this scenic driving route for its proximity to hiking, mountain biking and fishing hot spots like Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton or Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. Bring your partner to Belleville whose name means "beautiful city" in French for a romantic trip. If you prefer a large shopping mall, Gurnee Mills might be the place for you as Illinois third-largest mall with over 189 shops and services. The zoo also expands beyond just animals with over 1200 different plant species and a dedicated arboretum. Today, couples can tour Peoria for its theaters but also for its shopping and natural attractions. This is necessary as some zip lines can reach up to 40mph and can be very high off the ground. Here we have some of the best places to visit while in Illinois. Attractions: Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, Becky Thatcher Home, Mark Twain Cave, Mississippi Riverboat, Molly Brown Birthplace, antique stores, craft stores, and much more! With beautiful mild weather, stunning autumn foliage, and fun events galore, fall is often recommended as the ideal time to visit. To see a full list of the best breweries in Illinois, see here. See all Things to Do Chicago Outdoor Adventures Events Arts & Culture Eat & Drink Road Trips If you prefer to stick to the tried and true, Six Flags Great America is another great option among the amusement parks of Illinois. The property hosts weekly events such as a barbecue and wine pairing dinner in the summer. It can also be a fun activity for adults, making it a great bonding experience. Some highlights include the 16th Century style Ravenstone Castle, Bettendorf Castle which was modeled after the original Vianden Castle in Luxembourg, and Old Main Castle, built in a traditional Gothic style. You and your partner may find yourselves hiking to the heavens at the Garden of the Gods, swimming the shores of Lake Michigan or barreling down the Great River Road scenic byway. Experience the best of main street shopping and more. At 1353 ft from the ground, this is the highest observation deck in the US and the glass box allows you to see straight through to the ground below. ( https://www.visithannibal.com) Springfield, Illinois - Enjoy a day trip to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln. Perhaps the most famous state park, Starved Rock State Park, is loved by many for its miles of trails, opportunities for hiking, boating, photography, and more. Tour Chicago by helicopter. Article Discover Local Meet the makers, the creators, and the artisans of Illinois. These are great for enjoying all the fun of the attractions with fewer crowds. Originally written by Erica Abdnour of Concierge Preferred. Some animals are part of interactive programs such as goat grooming and meeting penguins. Chicago River dyeing. in Here we have you covered. For more detail on the Krannert Art Museum, see our post here. Check prices and availability: Lovers of vintage will find the antique shops of Antioch an appealing way to pass some time. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. It also houses 5 acres of botanical gardens to explore and the area surrounding the Cloud Gate becomes an ice-skating rink in winter. You can also catch a first-run film at the charming Antioch Theatre on Lake Street. To see our full list of best museums in Illinois, click through to our post here. Here is an overview of quaint cabins on the southern Illinois wine trail. The acclaimed Main Street's more than 100 storefronts showcase everything from clothing to collectibles. Table games, more than 800 slot machines and dining options make this a potentially late night out. Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nightlife Sights & Landmarks Fun & Games Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. Dine on top of a skyscraper. In this travel magazine we share our best tips and adventures. Featuring indie artists, Pitchfork Music Festival is a great way to support up-and-coming music talent and discover new artists. Stroll through downtown Chicago on this walking food tour. If youve already decided to visit Illinois, it might now be time to narrow down which areas of the state to visit. For more detail on Springfield, see our post here. If youre in Illinois on a budget, taking advantage of free things to do is a great way to still get some great experiences without breaking the bank. Recent guests of the Davie School laud the unexpected modern hotel amenities in a nostalgic and authentic setting. For some of the best wineries in Galena, we have our top 5 list here. One of the most popular fall festivals in Illinois is the Apple n Pork Festival in Clifton. Water parks are another great option for entertaining the family, especially during the heat of summer. For a unique winter activity, you can try the popular Midwest activity of snow tubing. An obvious choice for date night or date week is one of the most famous cities on the planet: Chicago. You can start in Galena in the state's northwest corner and discover enchanting towns along the way, some of which might share a border with Iowa or Missouri, such as Nauvoo. (Burger and Sushi House). Friendly winemakers, innkeepers and shop owners are all eager to elevate your romantic getaway. Here you'll find both the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where the Lincoln family lived for 17 years, as well as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. If you are interested in small towns in southern Illinois, see our list here, or if you are interested in seeing the best small towns across all of Illinois, see here. Family Fun, The best part of the Shawnee Wine Trail is the customizability it can be as long or short as you like. 2023 Guide, 12 Best Airbnbs in Sagres You Need To Stay At. There are many places throughout the state that are amazing to enjoy the autumn colors. The Oak Street Beach is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Illinois. For a more unique theme park experience, you can check out Boo Castle Park, originally built as a memorial park for Jeremey Boo Rochman after a car accident but themed around a childhood love of dragons, wizards, and role-playing games. Living History: African American Historical Exhibits and Events Take your date to Navy Pier (Chicago)--even more stunning at night. Its also home to many local artists and artisanal businesses. Book your trip. From Wildcat Canyon, the deepest canyon in Starved Rock Park at 90 feet to LaSalle Canyon, where you can stand behind the waterfall, there are many canyons to explore in Illinois. There are many wineries in the area, and going on a winery tour while enjoying the beautiful scenery is a great way to support local businesses while also experiencing the area. Illinois has a range of scenic drives, including roads following rushing rivers, historic drives, cultural drives, and forest drives. If you prefer a day trip to the spa mixed in with other activities, visiting one of Illinois many day spas could be perfect for you. These include Lincolns house, the presidential library, and more. Taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, plus chocolates and pastry. is perfect for couples who can't decide where to eat. If youre planning a family vacation to Illinois, you may be looking for fun, kid-friendly activities to enjoy together. (Getty Images). However, for a more extended relaxation and treatment, you can also stay at a spa resort. 11 Starved Rock State Park. Regional Getaways, originated from an 1890 novel but later became popular on the vaudeville circuit the idea was that if your show was a hit in Peoria, it would be an overall success. What is Seoul Known For? 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