The small Illinois town of Galena boasts stunning 19th-century architecture preserved in time and historic accommodations. Trip Ideas Explore Things To Do PLACES TO EAT BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES WINERIES & VINEYARDS HISTORY Places to Stay Inn at Irish Hollow 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. Some of these include the ever-popular Giant City State Park, Dixon Spring State Park, and Cave in Rock State Park. The parks all have a range of activities available for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can explore the mounds, either with a guide or independently. For more information about this beach, click here. Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Nightlife Bars & Clubs Comedy Clubs Dance Clubs & Discos Bar, Club & Pub Tours Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Calumet Heights Clearing Canaryville Show all Good for There are also a number of nearby local wineries which also feature beautiful landscapes. This Depression-era eatery operated here from the 1930s to the 1960s. 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. Chicago is also a great place to explore a range of different museums. 157. The zoo is free and accessible to all with costs largely covered by donations and memberships. Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon might receive the brunt of the attention when it comes to USA's national parks, but there are a few hidden gems scattered across Illinois as well. Find out what's on in Illinois and Chicago with your guide to events, festivals, markets, music, theater, sports and more. 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. Lovers of vintage will find the antique shops of Antioch an appealing way to pass some time. Panoramic views of Chicago can be found from the top of the John Hancock Center or history can be explored in one of the many museums. If you are planning a romantic couples trip, Illinois is an ideal place with a variety of things to do. Originally written by Erica Abdnour of Concierge Preferred. Another popular park is Grant Park, which covers a few hundred acres of lakefront area. 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. 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. Close to Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton is blessed with amazing autumn foliage and stunning rock formations within easy reach. There are a range of trails available to suit all levels of hiker, from casual beginners right through to experienced hiking enthusiasts. One park that stands above the rest is the 2,630-acre Starved Rock State Park. Luckily, many buildings and sites have been preserved from this history and are now available to be observed and learned from in the modern day. You could spend the 14 weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day exploring Ill Fresh Picks The Magnificent Mile is an area of Michigan Avenue in Chicago that serves as one of the main retail areas in the city as well as home to a number of Chicago landmarks, upscale restaurants, museums, and more. For our full list of winter activities in Illinois, see our more detailed post here. World-class dining, museums and entertainment coexist with free public parks and cheap tickets to the historic Wrigley Field ballpark. Visiting Illinois at different times of the year can bring to life different aspects of the states nature, culture and attractions. 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. Head to Skydive Chicago for a thrilling skydiving experience. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is situated in . Indulge in a weekend that features gourmet tea and coffee and breakfast made-to-order. If youve already decided to visit Illinois, it might now be time to narrow down which areas of the state to visit. Downtown Galena is brimming with mom-and-pop shops and restaurants to sample. Venturing away from the largest mounds also allows for great unhindered views of nature. If you're looking to make it a full lakefront retreat, book a stay at the Illinois Beach Hotel, which reopened in July 2022 and features an indoor pool, sauna, health spa and Wi-Fi though being here might make you want to unplug. Nature & Parks Spas & Wellness Museums Classes & Workshops Boat Tours & Water Sports Casinos & Gambling Water & Amusement Parks Zoos & Aquariums Traveler rating & up & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Avondale Dunning Garfield Ridge Show all Good for Good for a Rainy Day Budget-friendly Free Entry Good for Kids With beautiful mild weather, stunning autumn foliage, and fun events galore, fall is often recommended as the ideal time to visit. Article Discover Local Meet the makers, the creators, and the artisans of Illinois. 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. If you are interested in abandoned places, history, or urban exploration, Cairo is an ideal place to visit. Established in 1969 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, Naper Settlement, located at 523 South Webster Street, is situated on land bequeathed to the City of Naperville in 1936 by Caroline Martin . 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? September is Illinois Wine Month if you're looking to take utmost advantage of the grape harvest and all its accompanying events. We take your privacy seriously and will never sell your data to anyone. 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. The beach is open from 6 am 11 pm, with swimming allowed while a lifeguard is present. As mentioned above, playing in the water is a great family activity. Activities However, winter can be an amazing time to visit Illinois. Fall is a great time to visit Illinois. The African American communitys legacy emerges through exhibits and events at t Find unexpected ways to enjoy Illinois in this biannual magazine that explores every corner of the state. Indulge in a weekend that features gourmet tea and coffee and breakfast made-to-order. 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. You can read our complete privacy policy here. With its plentiful hiking trails, flowing . 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. Dan was born April 18, 1946, in Galesburg, the son of Bernard Leonard and Mary Catherine (Frederick) Rice. A trip to one of these Illinois destinations will uncover plenty of opportunities for romance and a zest for living well. With a long history as the Peoples Pier, Navy Pier has always featured as a space for the public to gather and relax. Airbnb in Clifton, Cape Town: 11 great places to stay in 2023, What are the best Airbnbs in Tokyo? Many of the beautiful waterfalls are frozen, making exploring the state parks of Starved Rock and Matthiessen even more unique and interesting. Grafton is a great place to experience nature as there are also a number of wildlife sanctuaries and bird- and wildlife-watching enthusiasts regularly gather. Situated on Lake Michigan, Chicago is ideally located for enjoying the beautiful surrounding nature as well as the highlights of city life. Book your trip. There are rides, waterslides, pools, and carnival-style games, in addition to features like minigolf and go-karts. 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. 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. Explore all the great things to do in galena il. Other elements play a secondary role, such as pagodas, bridges, and lanterns. A number of elements are key to this style, such as water through waterfalls or ponds, stones either rock paths or sculptures, and of course plants. Starved Rock has many miles of hiking trails, as do many other state parks. This 170-acre park and prairie's guided tours give context to Indigenous communities that lived here up to 11,000 years ago. Enjoy some finger sandwiches and then take a look around to see what you can find; shoppers say Little Traveler sells lots of decorative items, especially for Christmas. The Peoria Riverfront Museum spans art, history and science exhibits in addition to a planetarium for a comprehensive look at culture and humanity. Most canopy tours last 2 3 hours and require a safety orientation before participation. Couples can also opt for more luxurious lodging with a romantic cabin from Shawnee Forest Cabins, complete with a hot tub and fireplace. 1. Whether you are wine connoisseurs and wish to sample the boutique wineries along the Shawnee Wine Trail or simply relax in a spa, there is something to suit every couple and make your trip romantic. When visiting Illinois it only makes sense to spend some time in the capital of the state, Springfield. Bring your lover to Lover's Leap on a wooded trail with views of the river and the Starved Rock Dam. in Romantic touches here include a spa, a rose garden and a variety of intimate accommodations, including freestanding cottages with their own fireplaces and soaking tubs. A fun schedule of events at the museum includes film series like the Richard Pryor Film Festival and activities like Yoga Under the Stars. This is also one of the best places to see fall colors in Chicago. Arts & Culture, Illinois prides itself on embracing visitors with a warm welcome, which you can experience at one of its many bed-and-breakfasts on your next couples retreat. Find out how to get to Illinois by plane, train, bus and driving. However, for a more extended relaxation and treatment, you can also stay at a spa resort. Eagle watching? Getting around Chicago and Illinois is easy with our guide to ways to travel around the state. National Forests, hiking, ziplining, horseback riding, state parks and animal pa. For more information on Rockford, see our previous post here. 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. Edwards Place Historic Home 100 Historic Sites By 866TaylorB Edwards was brother-in-law of Mary Todd Lincoln's sister Elizabeth. Many of the wineries have a cozy, rustic yet gourmet feel and offer a wide selection of wines. Head out to quaint downtown Alton to shop the boutiques, dine at the family-owned restaurants, or sip cocktails at the local bars. Canoe rentals and canal boats are available for floating and bird watching down the Fox River. is perfect for couples who can't decide where to eat. For more information on Six Flags Great America, see here. Often belonging to important figures in the states history, these mansions are interesting from both architectural and historical standpoints. The center also offers visitors the chance to operate machinery simulators and learn about how real engineers work at the company. It is home to a range of free events, programs, celebrations, and more, held all throughout the year. Bunk with the bison and stay here in one of 13 unique lodging rooms or 20 tent campsites. Public art installations and gardens are strewn throughout, making exploring the park an exciting and enjoyable adventure. These include Bent River Brewing Companys coffee-infused oatmeal stout and Pig Minds Brewing Co.s vegan beers. Taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, plus chocolates and pastry. A full breakfast comes complimentary, and you dont want to miss an array of Belgian waffles, French toast, eggs, farm-fresh meats, and much more. Illinois' lakeshore offers couples the chance to unwind on the waterfront. Tandem bike along the Chicago lakefront trail. The Burpee Museum of Natural History is an amazing three-floor museum full of interactive exhibits and unique pieces of history. There are many beautiful parks and gardens throughout Illinois which feature a great range of plants and flowers in a range of different designs. Explore Illinois Architectural Oddities 27 Statues 25 Museums And Collections 25 Shops 25 History 23 Art 23 Sculptures 21 Monuments 20 Collections 20 Abandoned 17 Cemeteries 14 Illinois Obscura. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Chicago is one of the most popular with over 100,000 skaters each year. With Illinois long history and great record for preserving historic buildings, it should be no surprise that there are a number of historic mansions still intact and well-preserved throughout the state. With the wide range available, there will be a museum to suit everyones interests. Canopy Tours are an exciting and unique way to experience the forest from a different point of view. Whether it is through interactive exhibits or finding museums relevant to their interests, museums can be an ideal way to spend a day as a family. The riverfront is the place to look for a dinner reservation; try The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern. Sybaris Pool Suites are unusual themed rooms that all come with an en suite indoor pool. For more details on Ohio Street Beach, click here. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. Make sure to sample the boutique wines of Starview Winery and experience the cozy cabin-like atmosphere of Honker Hill Winery. Reserve a two-top for an intimate meal at Epiphany Farms, a farm-to-table restaurant on East Front Street. One of the best ways to truly connect with your partner is to book a stay in a romantic hotel or cabin where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and focus on each other and the relaxing environment youre in. This 150-year-old mansion will transport you back in time with its Roman decor throughout the property. For your overnight stay, check out the circa-1930s Starved Rock Lodge, which has an indoor pool and trails on the property. Illinois has a long and rich history spanning a range of historic periods. Open every day of the week, McLean County Museum of History offers free admission to its visitors every Tuesday. What is Seoul Known For? While the Lincoln Home is only one house, there are a number of other historic houses located on the site which show parts of history from the time of Lincoln. The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a unique museum covering the beginnings and development of the machinery company, Caterpillar. Whether you prefer natural history, art, science, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone. It is a beautiful, open, state-of-the-art facility. The adjacent Fabyan Villa was renovated by none other than Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907; the Fabyans were wealthy eccentrics who kept collections of natural history specimens and art, as well as mummies and other oddball curiosities. Not only is the beach a beautiful sandy lake shore, it also has some amazing views of the Chicago skyline. 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. Right in our state capital is a beautiful turn-of-the century inn that screams luxury. Lovebirds can also head to the country for a stay at a Victorian farmhouse operating as the Fox River Bed and Breakfast. Illinois, area. Chocolate lovers are in luck more than 20 varieties are available to nibble at all times of day for Beall Mansion guests at the complimentary chocolate buffet. However, if youre looking for something a bit more niche, the Pitchfork Music Festival in Union Park is a great option. Top 10 Things to do Good for Couples in Naperville, Illinois (IL) September 12, 2021 Vivienne Hutton. The Skydeck provides panoramic views of not just Chicago, but the surrounding states. Pheasant Lanes. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. There are a number of beaches located throughout the city, many of which allow swimming and other water activities. Back at Cypress, unwind in one of the many apartments or cottages available to rent including some dog-friendly accommodations, if your couples getaway isn't complete without your pup. Sybaris Northbrook offers couples reservations like the Chalet suite, which comes with a heated pool and hot tub, misting steam room, a waterfall, massage chairs, a fireplace and an additional whirlpool tub in the bedroom area. Here is an overview of the best fall festivals in Illinois. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Another top pick is Matthiessen State Park, which is located close to the aforementioned Starved Rock. The main building offers a choice of eleven guest rooms while the Bell House has two more suites. One popular example is Millennium park, located in downtown Chicago. 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. Best Things to Do in Illinois for Couples. For more information on the best beaches in Illinois, see our previous post here. 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. Here we have some of the best water parks in Illinois. It can also be a fun activity for adults, making it a great bonding experience. around Illinois. However, if you are going to be spending time in Grafton, you may prefer some of the following wineries. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. A day at the spa is generally considered an ideal form of self-care and relaxation, so why not share that with your partner? The cabins are located less than 3 miles from the Garden of the Gods. Ottawa calls itself "The Middle of Everywhere," a motto that rings true for this destination and for much of Illinois. Fall is the ideal time to attend a festival and Illinois has you covered. Many small cities and towns throughout Illinois feature local amusement parks. Located on the lakefront, Navy Pier overlooks the city skyline and beautiful Lake Michigan. The Oak Street Beach is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Illinois. 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. Hotel guests say the location on Lake Michigan can't be beat, and Zion sits conveniently halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. There are many unique fossils, bones, and more featured in the museum along with exhibits on geology, ancient human civilizations, and more. For golfing enthusiasts, it can be an interesting experience as there is a range of types of courses available throughout the state. Just trying to get away from the cold? To see our full list of best museums in Illinois, click through to our post here. There are many beaches and lakes in Illinois where kayaking is available as an activity, and many of these offer guides or lessons, making it accessible to all experience levels. Get inspired by top travel stories, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois. It is one of the largest cities in the US and draws millions of visitors every year. For couples looking for this experience, our post on romantic cabins with hot tubs is ideal for finding your ideal accommodation. If you prefer something a bit more local and community-based, Makanda Boardwalk may be a better option. Table games, more than 800 slot machines and dining options make this a potentially late night out. The list goes on with many interesting and quirky towns to be found all across Illinois. It features 11 unique wineries, each with a different focus or main product. They include private baths, plush towels, hand-milled French soap, cable TV, state-of-the-art telephones, Wi-Fi and high-speed wired internet. Modern comforts are combined with historic decor for a unique and romantic experience. Source: Henryk Sadura / shutterstock. There are many amazing museums to be found throughout Illinois. When you're done exploring for the day, retire to the Champaign Garden Inn, a bed-and-breakfast with six guest rooms inside a Victorian Queen Anne-style mansion. Perhaps the most well-known is the now world-famous Lollapalooza 4-day music festival, held in Grant Park. To see a full list of the best breweries in Illinois, see here. Chicago, From the history of Lincoln to ancient Cahokia mounds, the history in Illinois is wide and varied and able to be interesting for anyone. This luxury escape sits on Millionaires Row in Alton, where you can choose from Jacuzzi or fireplace rooms, HDTV with premium movie packages, and both a 24 hour hot beverage service and a 24 hour hot chocolate bar. Chicago is well-known for its vast array of beautiful parks and green spaces. If you take a peek, you can still see the ruins of the original chimney. 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. To see more about Boo Castle park, check our previous post here. If you make it all the way down to the southern tip of the state, the Cairo Custom House Museum is a historically significant stop along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, this region is lush with trees and vineyards. Illinois is The M. Arts & Culture & History 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. For some more hints on hiking in Illinois, see our previous post here. There are other things to do besides sightseeing, of course. You can also catch a first-run film at the charming Antioch Theatre on Lake Street. There are also a number of food and drink festivals held in Chicago, such as Ravenswood on Tap, a festival celebrating various craft beers, and the Lincoln Park Wine Festival, which is ideal for sampling a variety of wines from around the world. Chicago River dyeing. . To see more about the best way to enjoy the Shawnee Wine Trail, see our previous post here. 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. To see our guide to the best water parks in Illinois, check our post here. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. The experience doesnt stop at this, with The Ledge offering an even more exhilarating experience. 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. Millennium Park is one of the most iconic places to visit in 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. Described as landscape art under glass, the conservatory features 120,000 plants over hundreds of species and has flower shows seasonally. Refuel after a day of exploration at Ottawa's B.A.S.H. One of the best examples of juxtaposition between city and nature, skyscrapers and beach, is Ohio Street Beach. Here we have some of the best places to visit while in Illinois. If you don't want to camp out where the wolves roam, maybe you'll opt for the Mark Twain Hotel for a boutique stay or the fully restored Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette downtown. 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. Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Fun & Games Sights & Landmarks Nightlife Boat Tours & Water Sports Museums Spas & Wellness Classes & Workshops Zoos & Aquariums Water & Amusement Parks Casinos & Gambling Traveler rating & up & up Neighborhoods Belmont Cragin Canaryville Lower West Side Near West Side Show all Good for Good for Couples If youre looking for a gorgeous, historical getaway, look no further than The Vrooman Mansion. It is probably the most. The Shawnee Wine Trail is located along a 40-mile stretch through the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. With the great amount of nature present in Illinois, playing golf can be a very scenic and enjoyable activity. by Erica Abdnour Another unique fall festival is the Morton Pumpkin Festival, which started as a small festival and developed into Morton becoming well-known for pumpkins. Eight suites, plus three luxury suites each come with complimentary breakfast - some suites even feature spa Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. This Asian-fusion restaurant brings a modern twist to fusion cuisine with craft cocktails, nigiri, four different types of mac 'n' cheese, Thai doughnuts and burgers. Illinois State Museum 323 Speciality Museums Natural History Museums By SusanM893 The second floor included several art exhibits and the People of Illinois. Spanning the Mississippi River into St. Louis, the bridges most interesting feature is the 22-degree bend it makes towards the middle of the bridge. ( https://www.visithannibal.com) Springfield, Illinois - Enjoy a day trip to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln. Each reservation includes breakfast, beverages, and cookies, plus you can customize your stay with pizza, massages, desserts, and appetizers for an additional fee. Head to Zion, on the border with Wisconsin, where Illinois Beach State Park extends for 6.5 miles along Lake Michigan. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Eat your way through a long weekend in the Champaign-Urbana area with Zambian food at Stango Cuisine, a stop at the Black Dog Smoke and Ale House for local barbecue, and an all-natural milk tea at Bearology. Many of these waterfalls are seasonal, however, meaning you have to plan your visits carefully to see them at their best. 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. Many of these wind through forests and along state parks, allowing you to enjoy some of the same scenery. (photo credits: The Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour) It is top of the list for many who enjoy Illinois state parks. 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. Arts & Culture, 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. Watch the birds with a cup of coffee in hand or rent a canoe for a different view of the river. 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. Guided hikes are offered June through November, or you can explore up to 13 miles of trails on your own. We mentioned already a few museums above but here is a list of more interesting museums. There are actually a number of places that are open year-round, as well as seasonal spots. Take your date to Navy Pier (Chicago)--even more stunning at night. There are over 200 different species, each living in an environment designed for them. The Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in the U.S. Within the many state parks, there are a great many large and impressive canyons. 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