Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. A trip to one of these Illinois destinations will uncover plenty of opportunities for romance and a zest for living well. A spa treatment is also ideal for feeling refreshed and reinvigorated for approaching life together. 1. 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. Best Things to Do in Illinois for Couples. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. With so many winter activities available, it is a great opportunity to experience many of the popular places without the crowds, as well as take part in winter-exclusive experiences. This festival caters to fans of various genres with over 160,000 attendees yearly. There are many great ski resorts and areas for skiing and snowboarding throughout Illinois. The experience doesnt stop at this, with The Ledge offering an even more exhilarating experience. A large portion of the city has been added to the historic register, meaning they are preserved as a piece of history. Some overnighters say the accommodations may feel a bit kitschy (you can sleep in a train) but they enjoyed walking along the trails during the day. 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. If youve already decided to visit Illinois, it might now be time to narrow down which areas of the state to visit. The Shawnee Wine Trail is located along a 40-mile stretch through the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Chicago River dyeing. 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. From big city fun to presidential experiences, find the perfect couples escape. (Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can also try Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in nearby Wheeling for walk-in wine tastings in addition to an extensive food menu. The village of Antioch, where the resort is located, also offers enough diversions to pass a few days. Lincoln Park Zoo is located inside the beautiful Lincoln Park and is a great addition to a day at the park. Indulge in a weekend that features gourmet tea and coffee and breakfast made-to-order. Attractions: Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, Becky Thatcher Home, Mark Twain Cave, Mississippi Riverboat, Molly Brown Birthplace, antique stores, craft stores, and much more! Bring your lover to Lover's Leap on a wooded trail with views of the river and the Starved Rock Dam. 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. Read Enjoy Illinois magazine online or download the PDF and start exploring trip ideas Typically held the Saturday before St. Patrick . Originally written by Erica Abdnour of Concierge Preferred. Starved Rock State Park is known for its sandstone canyons several of which have waterfalls. Situated on Lake Michigan, Chicago is ideally located for enjoying the beautiful surrounding nature as well as the highlights of city life. 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. Often belonging to important figures in the states history, these mansions are interesting from both architectural and historical standpoints. The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a unique museum covering the beginnings and development of the machinery company, Caterpillar. 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 are in On a trip to Bloomington, be sure to check in to the Vrooman Mansion, a former home brimming with legacy and life since the Scott family moved into the mansion in 1873. 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 Chicago Loop, the lavish London House Chicago is perfectly situated for a couples weekend getaway. For something more modern, you can try sampling the various wineries that surround the area. Explore the top ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with events and things to do in Chicago. 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. 2023 Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Weekend Plans: 14 Fun Options to Explore Across Illinois, Living History: African American Historical Exhibits and Events, Eco-Friendly Hotels and GreenGetaways in Illinois, Five Champaign Restaurants Perfect for a Romantic Outing, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. 11 Starved Rock State Park. 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. 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. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. The parks all have a range of activities available for visitors to enjoy. To see more unique historic mansions in northern Illinois, see our comprehensive list here. 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. Nestled in the Chain O'Lakes region of Illinois is Cypress Resort & Marine, a great escape for couples looking for a lakeside retreat. On the other end of the spectrum is Galena Oktoberfest and Oktoberfest Chicago, both of which celebrate the German event of Oktoberfest with beer, sausages, pretzels, and more aspects of German heritage. Most of the places mentioned have been larger cities but there are also many small towns throughout Illinois that are great for visiting. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. The London House boasts a tri-level rooftop bar, as well as a inhouse restaurant, with a terrace overlooking the river serving a fresh take on regional cuisine.. In Illinois, you can make such a journey along the Great River Road. For a unique winter activity, you can try the popular Midwest activity of snow tubing. Perhaps the most well-known is the now world-famous Lollapalooza 4-day music festival, held in Grant Park. While it may not seem like the most interesting topic, the center has gone above and beyond to make the experience interactive and exciting. The Lincoln Home can be viewed on a guided tour while other exhibits can be independently explored. 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. Julia Scott Vrooman lived there for more than a century, befriending the families of two presidents (the Wilsons and Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt) and baking bread that she sent to the Queen of England and other dignitaries. While not traditionally known as a wine-making area, Illinois actually has quite a lot of wineries throughout the state. This 150-year-old mansion will transport you back in time with its Roman decor throughout the property. ( https://www.visithannibal.com) Springfield, Illinois - Enjoy a day trip to the historic home town of Abraham Lincoln. Shuttle transportation is available to all of the local wineries, so exploring the area is easy and seamless. It is one of the largest cities in the US and draws millions of visitors every year. To see a full list of the best castles in Illinois, see our guide here. Davie School Inn is the perfect getaway for wine lovers as its right along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. The main building offers a choice of eleven guest rooms while the Bell House has two more suites. Customize your romantic stay with a romance package or a spa package as well. What is Seoul Known For? For fun in the water and entertaining the kids, the many water parks of Illinois are ideal for a fun summers day out. The perfect weekend getaway from Chicago. Not a hiking or biking fan? 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. It also houses 5 acres of botanical gardens to explore and the area surrounding the Cloud Gate becomes an ice-skating rink in winter. (Getty Images). cabins on the southern Illinois wine trail. The best part of the Shawnee Wine Trail is the customizability it can be as long or short as you like. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is located in Springfield, the hometown of Abraham Lincoln. If you arent interested in hiking, biking is another option when looking for ways to explore nature. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Reserve a two-top for an intimate meal at Epiphany Farms, a farm-to-table restaurant on East Front Street. The Ledge is a glass balcony or glass box that extends 4.3 feet from the edge of the building. Discover top travel stories and even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois with our free magazine. Another must-visit Geneva establishment is the Little Traveler, a Victorian house that is part cafe and part sprawling store. You can also visit the original State Capitol Hall, first built in 1837. Of course, these places can be visited year-round, but are especially atmospheric around fall. A night out along the Magnificent Mile or a day browsing the many retail options, and taking advantage of the amazing culinary offerings is a must-do for those visiting Chicago. Millennium Park 25,012 Points of Interest & Landmarks Parks Millennium Park Open now By LUchicago Work your vocal chords at Pitch Karaoke Bar Many of these waterfalls are seasonal, however, meaning you have to plan your visits carefully to see them at their best. While it may not be medieval Europe, Illinois still has its fair share of castles. 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. If you are interested in viewing some of the beautiful nature already mentioned but are looking to avoid the tired legs, or simply prefer observing from the car window, you are in luck as Illinois also has a number of scenic drives. However, hiking isnt limited to just the state parks. 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. amateur photography by michel/Flickr 3. The Arts and Crafts-style property features a quiet atmosphere and about a dozen flower-themed rooms, four of which come with balconies. With its many parks and gardens, it is great for wandering through natural landscapes and enjoying the scenery. The town is situated in the heart of Starved Rock Country and serves as a hub for four major state parks. Summer brings to mind heat, beaches, and fun in the water, but can be so much more. Choose your favorite accommodation such as a suite in the main house or a country cottage dispersed along the property. This is also one of the best places to see fall colors in Chicago. 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. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library And Museum. Illinois' lakeshore offers couples the chance to unwind on the waterfront. About 35 miles south of Belleville, cozy up at The Conner House Bed and Breakfast in nearby Prairie du Rocher; this B&B serves home-cooked breakfast specialties like crepes and locally made sausage. Less than 10 miles south of Cloran Mansion sits the grand Goldmoor Inn near the Mississippi River. This 45-mile trail follows a former rail line and passes through beautiful forests, and abandoned towns, and crosses stunning ravines. Some of these include the ever-popular Giant City State Park, Dixon Spring State Park, and Cave in Rock State Park. One of the more interesting gardens is the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which as the name suggests, have been designed in a traditional Japanese style. [Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago.]. 2. To see our guide to the best kayaking spots, check our post here. Even if you've never been there before, you've seen it in countless movies and TV shows. Autumn is an ideal time to visit when the leaves are at their peak fall colors. When visiting Illinois, the Science Center is perfect for children of all ages and offers both day camps as well as standard visiting hours. For our full list of winter activities in Illinois, see our more detailed post here. Taste quintessential Chicago foods such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, plus chocolates and pastry. Here we have you covered. There are also many breweries that are working towards a good cause, such as Black Horizons Brewing Company, the only black-owned brewing company in the state, which also donates a portion of the proceeds to various causes. Chart a course for the Buffalo Rock, Matthiessen, Illini or namesake Starved Rock state parks. There are over 200 different species, each living in an environment designed for them. It is actually a part of ancient history, putting it in a separate category from most other historic sites listed. Indulge in a weekend that features gourmet tea and coffee and breakfast made-to-order. Upgrade your tour to include three pours of local . Here is an overview of the best fall festivals in Illinois. Allowing the both of you to enjoy some pampering together is a great way to connect without any stresses of daily life interfering. While exploring nature you may be interested in seeing a canyon and Illinois doesnt disappoint. 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. 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. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.). Illinois is blessed with many beautiful State Parks featuring a variety of different ecological phenomena. 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. World-class dining, museums and entertainment coexist with free public parks and cheap tickets to the historic Wrigley Field ballpark. 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. Table games, more than 800 slot machines and dining options make this a potentially late night out. If youre looking for something a bit more adventurous than basic swimming and sunbathing, kayaking might be for you. One popular example is Millennium park, located in downtown Chicago. The gardens have been officially recognized by the Japanese government as an effort toward international friendship. Eagle watching? 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. 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. Experience Illinois with your significant other by exploring Chicago, driving the Great River Road, hiking in Ottawa and more. Weekend Plans: 14 Fun Options to Explore Across Illinois 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 McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Chicago is one of the most popular with over 100,000 skaters each year. 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. Whether you prefer natural history, art, science, or something a bit quirky, there is a museum for everyone. Winter is often seen as a less desirable time to travel its cold and everyone wants to stay inside in the warmth. To see our full list of best museums in Illinois, click through to our post here. 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. If you are interested in visiting a zoo while on holiday, Illinois has you covered with a number of zoos in different areas. You can also check out the Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery for farm-fresh goat cheese and goat's milk gelato tremendous additions to any picnic. For golfing enthusiasts, it can be an interesting experience as there is a range of types of courses available throughout the state. 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