The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is situated in . A CityPASS, for example, bundles admission to several top Windy City attractions at a significant discount, whether you want to see the Art Institute of Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum, SkyDeck Chicago or select others. To see our full list of best museums in Illinois, click through to our post here. Customize your romantic stay with a romance package or a spa package as well. Deidre Peverill/Flickr 2. Illinois is ideal for family vacations with everything from theme parks and water parks to educational yet fun museums and tours. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. Just outside Peoria, the 1,800-acre Wildlife Prairie Park is home to more than 150 animals spanning 50 species native to the state. Located on the lakefront, Navy Pier overlooks the city skyline and beautiful Lake Michigan. Why You Should Go Looking for some place to spend the upcoming weekend? There are also many nature preserves, such as Sag Valley Forest Preserve which go almost untouched and show winter in its purest form. For more information on the Cahokia Mounds, see our post here. If youre planning a family vacation to Illinois, you may be looking for fun, kid-friendly activities to enjoy together. Getting around Chicago and Illinois is easy with our guide to ways to travel around the state. Camping and RV sites are plentiful if you plan to rough it together; otherwise, enjoy the modern conveniences and history at Pere Marquette Lodge in the state park, built by hand during the Great Depression. Activities. For more information on Rockford, see our previous post here. 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. 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. This is a great experience for older children and can be useful for keeping them interested in exploring nature and the forest. Chart a course for the Buffalo Rock, Matthiessen, Illini or namesake Starved Rock state parks. Guided hikes are offered June through November, or you can explore up to 13 miles of trails on your own. Other top sights here to check out are the Air Combat Museum, Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana Thomas House, and the Camp Butler National Cemetery. Come fall in love with Chicago. Find the best places to eat, drink and have fun. Make sure to sample the boutique wines of Starview Winery and experience the cozy cabin-like atmosphere of Honker Hill Winery. Head to Zion, on the border with Wisconsin, where Illinois Beach State Park extends for 6.5 miles along Lake Michigan. You could spend the 14 weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day exploring Ill Fresh Picks Chicago is well-known for its vast array of beautiful parks and green spaces. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Past Sybaris guests approve of the serene and private atmosphere, with some saying it brought their romantic getaway to another level. Yes, that means you can have a beach day in Illinois, which also comes with the opportunity to soak in the serenity of the untouched North Dunes and Illinois Beach nature preserves, located inside the state park. 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. Its also home to many local artists and artisanal businesses. 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. Get Inspired If summoning spirits isn't your thing, try to conjure some winnings at Argosy Casino Alton instead. 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. 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. Address: 200 North Main Street, Bloomington, Illinois. One of the most popular fall festivals in Illinois is the Apple n Pork Festival in Clifton. You can read our complete privacy policy here. Complete with five beautifully decorated suites, a parlor, library, music room, and dining room, The Vrooman Mansion offers a seasonal gourmet breakfast each morning and is conveniently located near wineries, breweries, the Miller Park Zoo, and several quaint restaurants. You can visit the Illinois State Capitol building, Lincoln's Tomb, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Bring your lover to Lover's Leap on a wooded trail with views of the river and the Starved Rock Dam. Another top pick is Matthiessen State Park, which is located close to the aforementioned Starved Rock. Foodies seeking an Illinois escape can head to Champaign, a great Midwestern food town that's home to a lively community from the University of Illinois campus. Most canopy tours last 2 3 hours and require a safety orientation before participation. Spread the trail out over multiple days and stay overnight in one of the wineries that offer accommodation or choose the wineries youre most interested in and make an afternoon of it. While not traditionally known as a wine-making area, Illinois actually has quite a lot of wineries throughout the state. An obvious choice for date night or date week is one of the most famous cities on the planet: Chicago. If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. Work your vocal chords at Pitch Karaoke Bar Head out to quaint downtown Alton to shop the boutiques, dine at the family-owned restaurants, or sip cocktails at the local bars. The Peoria Riverfront Museum spans art, history and science exhibits in addition to a planetarium for a comprehensive look at culture and humanity. While fall foliage can be beautiful anyway, something about the cool, windy weather and ambient atmosphere of Illinois makes it ideal for really appreciating the stunning colors. Eight suites, plus three luxury suites each come with complimentary breakfast - some suites even feature spa Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. National Forests, hiking, ziplining, horseback riding, state parks and animal pa. Eagle watching? Today, couples can tour Peoria for its theaters but also for its shopping and natural attractions. Rich Harvest Farms is a more modern, but very unique course in that it has been designed purely to suit the whims of the billionaire owner, meaning it doesnt always fit regulation standards. Top 10 Things to do Good for Couples in Naperville, Illinois (IL) September 12, 2021 Vivienne Hutton. While it may not seem like the most interesting topic, the center has gone above and beyond to make the experience interactive and exciting. From big city fun to presidential experiences, find the perfect couples escape. Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: The lush interior, vibrant artwork and 1950's inspired Copacabana Club show whisks lovers from chilly Chicago to the heat of Latin America. It also houses 5 acres of botanical gardens to explore and the area surrounding the Cloud Gate becomes an ice-skating rink in winter. This boardwalk features a number of locally-owned artisanal shops run by members of the community. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. From beautiful state parks to intriguing museums, read on to find the best things to do in Illinois for you. Whether its lunch before relaxing on the greens or a nice dinner while watching the sunset, the Navy Pier restaurants simply add to the overall experience. This mansion stands as an example of Second Empire design and remains almost untouched since the time of its use by the prominent Hegeler family and the Open Court Publishing Company opened by Hegeler. 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. Airbnb in Clifton, Cape Town: 11 great places to stay in 2023, What are the best Airbnbs in Tokyo? Visitors are sometimes surprised to hear that Illinois has many stunning waterfalls, but with the range of well-preserved state parks and rock formations, it is really no surprise. 157. Grafton is often seen as a small, unassuming town in southern Illinois, but is actually a vibrant hub of culture surrounded by beautiful scenery. 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. Bring your partner to Belleville whose name means "beautiful city" in French for a romantic trip. Article Discover Local Meet the makers, the creators, and the artisans of Illinois. There is a quarter-mile observation trail, or hikers can go all in on the 5.5-mile trek along interconnecting trails; each boasts views of the forest's unique rock formations. Chicago Architecture Cruise. Many of the wineries along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail include on-site lodging so you don't have to wander far from your new favorite red. 2023 Guide, 12 Best Airbnbs in Sagres You Need To Stay At. is perfect for couples who can't decide where to eat. Featuring indie artists, Pitchfork Music Festival is a great way to support up-and-coming music talent and discover new artists. The riverfront is the place to look for a dinner reservation; try The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern. From the history of Lincoln to ancient Cahokia mounds, the history in Illinois is wide and varied and able to be interesting for anyone. The acclaimed Main Street's more than 100 storefronts showcase everything from clothing to collectibles. The trail is customizable to experience level and is a great way to explore the state. When visiting Illinois it only makes sense to spend some time in the capital of the state, Springfield. The Shawnee Wine Trail is located along a 40-mile stretch through the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Each issue offers a mix of travel stories, stunning photography and timely trip ideas that make the most of each season. Illinois has a long and rich history spanning a range of historic periods. 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. This 170-acre park and prairie's guided tours give context to Indigenous communities that lived here up to 11,000 years ago. However, hiking isnt limited to just the state parks. 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. Here is an overview of quaint cabins on the southern Illinois wine trail. Eat & Drink Regional Getaways Illinois Made Chicago Activities Family Fun Architecture Arts & Culture & History Outdoors & Regional Offbeat Illinois 4-5 Days 5+ Days From Local Experts 1-3 Days Top 10 Winter Events & Festivals in Illinois Skiing? For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. 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. 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. Canoe rentals and canal boats are available for floating and bird watching down the Fox River. Eat & Drink, The best part of the Shawnee Wine Trail is the customizability it can be as long or short as you like. For those more interested in the history of Lincoln, following the Lincoln and Civil War Legacy Trail in Alton could be a fun and informative activity. Check prices and availability: Northbrook's pedestrian-friendly downtown offers an ice cream parlor, chocolate shop and an array of eateries. There are rides, waterslides, pools, and carnival-style games, in addition to features like minigolf and go-karts. From here, the nearly 400-acre Chicago Botanic Garden is just 10 miles away in Glencoe and makes for a scenic way to pass an afternoon; look for special nighttime events like Lightscape, an after-dark illuminated trail ideal for hand-holding during the winter holiday season. The property hosts weekly events such as a barbecue and wine pairing dinner in the summer. Many of these breweries provide unique craft beers which are both locally produced and delicious. 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. To see our full list of the best waterfalls in Illinois and how to plan your visit to see them, check out our post here. Bask in pure luxury at this gorgeous bed and breakfast in Galena. Another popular park is Grant Park, which covers a few hundred acres of lakefront area. Head to Skydive Chicago for a thrilling skydiving experience. Illinois is blessed with many beautiful State Parks featuring a variety of different ecological phenomena. If you're looking for the best of quirky small-town America, spend some time in Alton, Illinois, especially if you're a pair of history buffs. 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. The giant silver bean is embedded in the public consciousness. These range from more luxury places like the Villa Olivia Resort to fast-paced adrenaline-rushing spots like Snowstar Winter Park or if youre looking for something more family-friendly. The Market Street Bed & Breakfast has a few beautiful buildings to customize your getaway. From the 'Galena Brick' in historic downtown to the Farmer's Guest House Bed and Breakfast. 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. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. 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. It is a unique experience and a great way to take in the amazing views of 4 different states. Venturing away from the largest mounds also allows for great unhindered views of nature. The Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, Chicago Water Tower, and more can all be found along this stretch of road. To see the best beaches in Illinois, check out our guide here. Whether youre looking for a lavish spa, great food and wine, or a beautiful suite, Illinois has plenty of places to relax and revitalize during a romantic couples' retreat. The museum features over 11,000 pieces of art dating from as far back as the 4th Century BCE. There are many unique fossils, bones, and more featured in the museum along with exhibits on geology, ancient human civilizations, and more. The period rooms are well appointed, and the property encourages guests to live out their "Bridgerton" fantasies over afternoon tea or time spent in the garden. For golf enthusiasts, or those simply looking for a different activity to try, exploring some of these golf courses is a great way to see the state at the same time. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. However, if youre looking for something a bit more niche, the Pitchfork Music Festival in Union Park is a great option. This allows the zoo to have a strong focus on conservation and animal care. 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. To see more unique historic sites across Illinois, you can see our full list here. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. Summer brings to mind heat, beaches, and fun in the water, but can be so much more. The parks all have a range of activities available for visitors to enjoy. Or, about 15 miles south of Galena, you can honor the area's rich Native American heritage with a visit to the Wapello Land & Water Reserve. Tandem bike along the Chicago lakefront trail. Many different areas in Illinois feature a zoo, ranging from large interactive zoos to small animal exhibits. Whether you prefer natural history, art, science, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone. Springfield is only 80 miles from the lodge. For golfing enthusiasts, it can be an interesting experience as there is a range of types of courses available throughout the state. Whether you are planning a romantic couples getaway or a fun family vacation, our guide to the best things to do in Illinois has you covered. You can also try Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in nearby Wheeling for walk-in wine tastings in addition to an extensive food menu. 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 are planning a romantic couples trip, Illinois is an ideal place with a variety of things to do. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Chicago is one of the most popular with over 100,000 skaters each year. 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. Here we have some of the best places to visit while in Illinois. By night, consider holding your loved one close for a walking ghost tour: Alton is considered one of the most haunted small towns in the U.S., and locations such as the McPike Mansion have been featured on paranormal TV series. To see some of the top scenic drives in Illinois, check out our post here. Additionally, The Beall Mansion offers massage packages and breakfast in bed is available to truly make your stay a memorable one. Located on the southern Illinois wine trail you make a purchase from our site, may... 2021 Vivienne Hutton near the Mississippi River basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you theme and! 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