Photo courtesy of White Pines Lodge. An amazing place to relax! Maybe you need to soak up some nature on a calm, beautiful hiking trail? The park sports 40 miles of hiking trails as well as options for bikers and horseback riders, and the trails are packed with interesting flora and faunayou might catch a glimpse of a deer, fox, beaver or muskrat. Carrie McGath. This site and app let me do all the planning for our 15 day trip in a little over 6 hours! I especially enjoyed the Monet collection. It has a beautiful collection of plants and trees, a pool, tennis courts, and fields for sports. I cant wait to go back. Due t his age, he rode in a stroller. Thank you Dr. B for taking good care of my Mia! Peaceful and lovely in a light rain. 12 Best Weekend Getaways From Chicago - Life Family Fun try coming on Sundays when parking is free there are many entrances along the 606. We rode two hours to get here, didn't even know it existed. Looking for gorgeous spots to go hiking near Chicago? It takes you for a short detour from the busy life with a great view. The Milwaukee Public Museum is a must-visit it's home to fossils, a European village, a full-size display recreating the streets of Milwaukee in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a butterfly garden, and more. It is amazing how Chicago finds a way to create tranquil, serene and beautiful spaces in even the most unlikely locations. Better bird watching in very early mornings in the spring and fall. Geneva National Resort & Club Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. 2 hours and 40 minutes from Chicago by car or 3 hours by train. Beautiful place!!! Set on more than 2,000 acres in nearby Wauconda, IL, the sprawling Lakewood Forest Preserve is home to several bogs and marshes, as well as a colony of bats that keep the mosquito population in check. There is limited parking inside the cemetery and some street parking as well. from $204 /night. If you have never experienced walking, jogging, running, baby stroller pushing, rollerblading, biking on the 606 Trail you are missing out on a true hidden gem of Chicago. Lincolnshire Marriott Resort 5. Dirt, bugs, wild animals and possible poisonous plants are just not for me. Travel time: 45 min drive, 90 min via Metra, Entry fee: $16 adults, $14 seniors, $11 ages 217. Campbellsport, Wisconsin. Although disappointed we couldn't see everything, it's great to see that the city is doing a great job to keep the facilities looking good. I wish I would have had more time to appreciate each piece but what I did see was amazing in every single way. Well cared for. If you're craving nature, nearby Potato Creek State Park offers plenty of hiking trails that take you along woodlands, prairies and wetlands. Have nice collections of animals. Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images, 6 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas for National Park Adventures, Luxury Resorts, and Small-town Charm. Spent hours there but could literally spend in entire day there if you wish, SO MUCH TO SEE!!! I had no idea what I was in for. I thought I would be taken by the lilies, but wheat piles just took me to another dimension, and i was sober, alright ;). Any information published by Cond Nast Traveler is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Definitely one of the least travel to gems in Chicago that need to be discovered by more people. Close to navy pier. No Braille signs are available either. Peaceful place for plant lovers and a great place to feel like you're in nature on a cold day. Our fifth and final foray into the Midwest takes us to Lake Geneva in southwest Wisconsin, one of the coolest weekend trips from Chicago, bringing inspiring views and picturesque nature right to the water's edge. 6000 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637, USA. Provides a repreve from the tourist noise and the mall of neighboring navy pier. OK, OK. Geneva is technically a suburb of Chicago, but it feels worlds away, thanks to its small-town charm. Poop bags available. There is an American Kestral that makes its home there. Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when youre feeling flush). The collection of eastern ceramics and wall paintings was also impressive. Perfect place to visit with your child. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, hike, bike, or go on a fun shopping trip, there is plenty to choose from. The yearly Tulip Time Festival is another great reason to visit Holland millions of tulips are planted across Holland, so visit in spring to see the beautiful flowers in bloom. Seems like they've been expanding into more 1st edition and/or signed books which cost a bit more, but you can still find some affordable gems in there too. Just be sure to hit up Mars Cheese Castle and stock up on dairy and New Glarus beer on your way there, and probably your way home, too. I really like Jackson Bark. The people and dogs are really friendly and the park is clean and stocked with bags and cardboard. In. This place was alright. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. Rustic Cabins near Chicago | Cozy Illinois Cabin Rentals For when the City of Big Shoulders is crowding you. Waldorf Astoria Chicago 3. Northerly Island Park offers scenic views of the skyline, fishing and hiking opportunities, as well as an amphitheater and museum. They also rent canoe and kayaks, but for the laziest and most affordable option, tubing is your best bet. Milton Lee Olive Park is a serene and tranquil spot on the water with stunning views of Chicago's skyline. (815) 667-4211. www.starvedrocklodge.com. And theres easy access to Alpine Valley for any concerts on your schedule as well as all that the quaint area of Lake Geneva offers. Just a three-hour drive from Chicago, Indianapolis, affectionately referred to as "Indy" by locals, offers plenty to do. I just live to come here for walks with my fur baby. Bike To Two Brothers Brewery However, I relished walking the quiet natural paths in the middle of our urban sprawl. I did not have cash to donate this first time, but next time Ill probably put in 5X the donation amount in because they deserve it. Photo: Kalamazoo Nature Center's Facebook, Kalamazoo Nature Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan Staying in one of these secluded rentals near Chicago, Illinois is a perfect way to escape the stress of everyday life and immerse yourself on a secluded getaway. 10 Best Road Trips From Chicago for a Weekend Getaway 1. It depends on when you visit! But we got to see lions, polar bear, monkeys and painted dogs My Fiancee Absolutely Loves cemeteries and while in Illinois this was a must see. West of the city in southern DuPage County, this nearly 2,500-acre preserve surrounding Argonne National Labs has 11 miles of mapped trails shared by hikers, cyclists, horseback riders and, when weather permits, cross-country skiers. So, hit the road and explore these 18 towns. I've been to better walking trails. The flower room smells incredible, the whole place is a an absolute gem. Our dog is a rescue and is very fearful and aggressive and therefore wears a muzzle. This month: The best weekend getaways. A short respite from noisy neighbors, hectic commutes and a downtown clogged with tourist, but still close enough to make it back to work on Monday. Tippecanoe River State Park is located in Winamac, Indiana. 9 Best Family Resorts Near Chicago, IL (2023) - All Ages Love! Getaway offers cabins with queen beds that sleep 1-2 guests, as well as cabins with queen bunk beds for 3-4 guests. Great prices, some super fun rare books. Sadly, many areas outside seem VERY neglected. Nestled just south of Starved Rock, this 1,700-acre tract boasts forest, prairie, canyons and other rock formations. Free admission (donations desired). Offers may be subject to change without notice. Grand Geneva Resort & Spa A true must stop - and I encourage you to donate as it runs on donations. Chicago Wildflower ForecastBest Chicago Nature Hikes & Outdoor Getaways What an awesome place. Pet parents are attentive and it is a comfortable environment. Good place to bring kids. That said, we could all use an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Windy City every so often, so we've rounded up the best weekend getaways from Chicago. Book now: Inquire for rates at genevanationalresort.com, Hillside Waterfront Hotel Door County, Wisconsin. Well secured. Located on the shore of the Chicago river, adjacent to an industrial area, it's a nice spot to enjoy quiet time alone, enjoy a picnic with friends from one of Chinatown's many wonderful restaurants, or take the kids to play in the colorful playground. Golfers looking to tee off can choose between three courses (designed by the likes of Gary Player and Arnold Palmer), while those foregoing the fairways will enjoy an array of onsite amenities, from a state-of-the-art Clubhouse wellness center to a full-service spa. Midewin has about 22 miles of mixed-use trails shared by hikers, cyclists and horseback riders, and another 12 for hikers only. I took my son on his first trip to the zoo and he had a blast. Fascinating art installation. Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool. Map. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. Great little gem right in the city. Better known as Busse Woods to residents of Elk Grove Village and Schaumburg, the trails that wind through this forest preserve offer views of the gigantic Busse Lake (a popular spot for licensed fishing). The park also borders the river, so you get some great shots. Five miles of easy-going hiking trails serve as the perfect vantage point for birds, wildflowers and even prickly pear cactus in the park's drier areas. Salmon in September. It does not go unappreciated! Though whenever I go here it doesn't end up being great news, I still love it here. Midwest Workers Association held our 25th Anniversary celebration across the bridge and it was a great central location. Went to take some blooms pics today. We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Chicago for each month of the year: see the links below for more information. Starved Rock is a 2,600-acre state park known for its gorgeous canyon-scape, hiking trails, historic archeological sites and prime camping grounds. Great prices, some super fun rare books, very cool art books, and the owner was great to talk to and super helpful! The Looking Glass is a great used bookstore with affordable prices and some fantastic rare books. They also had a special event so we could not see the penguins. Saw a 'different' looking rabbit and some squirrels. In fact, this notable amusement park and water park offers thrilling roller coasters like Orion, Diamondback, and The Beast, as well as family-friendly rides everyone will enjoy. The. Bring your children and browse 3 unique jungle gyms, tennis court, huge field for different exercises, 2 ball courts, simply a pleasant encounter. 06-17-2023. Immerse yourself in Dutch culture without flying all the way to Europe with a visit to Holland, MI. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. Such a lovely park. Many of the animals were not out and we assume it was due to the cold. 11559 S Stony Is Ave, Chicago, IL 60633, USA. Today, you can toast to the city's beer heritage by trying these classics or visiting one of the many local craft breweries. Wanderlog makes planning a trip so effortless. If youre able and willing to make the journey up north to Wisconsin, Devils Lake State Park is a great option for stunning views and paths suitable for all levels of hikers. A very nice respite for Hyde Park pooches. The Willow trees and beautifully kept greenery makes this a beautiful spot visit. It is open from dawn to dusk and has been named both a National Historic Landmark and a Chicago Historical Landmark. Facebook/Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool. Sharing just a few.. ), Chicago has a lot to offer tourists and residents alike. Once part of a Victorian garden, this magical place is located at 100 W Fullerton Parkway. I upped my star score because recent visits show lots of improvement. Sawyer/Three Oaks, Michigan Distance from Chicago: 80 miles east, 1.5-hour drive Why it made our list: The tree-lined, two-lane Red Arrow Highway is easily one of the best scenic drives in the. Beyond the boat tours and old-time confectionary is a place just on the outskirts called the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, which used to be one of the old Playboy Clubs until it was purchased and remodeledkind of. Just remember to bring snacks and a spare tire tube in case of a flat on the road. 10/10 will come back next time I visit Chicago! Meanwhile, outdoorsy types will love kayaking or taking a cruise around the lake during the summer and snowshoeing in the winter. If you're a pro they have some stuff that looks big enough to be on X-Games. When I think of the outdoors, my mind immediately goes to a beachand one of the best in the area is Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan. It gets crowded quickly, but do not get discouraged; just keep driving around and keep your eyes peeled. Millennium Park is an awe-inspiring public space in Chicago that features an impressive collection of world-class architecture and sculptures. The Getaways series showcases things to see and do in National Park Service sites across the United States. Thankfully, you don't need to go far to trek through nature, because there's no shortage of great spots for hiking near Chicago. Located near Rockford, Rock Cut State Park may be best known for its nearly 200 acres of lakes where visitors love to fish, swim and boat, but it's also a gem for hikers. If you're a Chicagoan and desperately in need of an escape, there are a host of resorts in Illinois and beyond ready to deliver that R&R. It's a nice place. Theres a reason rich people have summer homes in Lake Geneva and why Guns N Roses was inspired to write Paradise City about the Wisconsin destination just 90 minutes from Chicago: Its kind of a slice of heaven on earth. The park is named after Henry C. Palmisano, who was the Chairman and CEO of General Electric from 1986 to 2001. It's okay if you want a quick ,light workout. I found street parking but there is a parking lot if you're willing to pay for it. Spanning 4 acres of green space in downtown Kalamazoo, it runs along Portage Creek affording views of both nature and the eclectic downtown of this small but burgeoning city. 24 Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago - U.S. News Travel This place is free, but you do need to make online reservations to go in. With fascinating architecture, great museums, and plenty of delicious local eateries (deep dish pizza, anyone? 13 Stunning Places to Go Hiking In and Near Chicago 2023 Cond Nast. He seems to be very knowledgeable of his profession and I had read hes been doing it for a long time now. The 119-acre peninsula also has prairie grasslands, a pond and walking paths for wildlife viewing. Tons of different orchids. 35 Best Weekend Getaways From Chicago Quick Trips!